From Keycaps to Switches: The Essential Components of a Mechanical Keyboard Set

When it comes to building or buying a mechanical keyboard, understanding the key components that make up the keyboard is crucial. From keycaps to switches, each element plays a role in how the keyboard feels and performs. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential components of a mechanical keyboard set, helping you make informed decisions when choosing your next keyboard.

1. Keycaps: The First Touch Keycaps are the top part of the key you press, and they play a significant role in both the feel and appearance of a keyboard. The material and shape of keycaps affect how they feel under your fingers and their durability.

Materials:

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Commonly used for keycaps, ABS is lightweight and inexpensive but tends to shine over time due to wear.

PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate): Known for its durability, PBT keycaps resist shine and last longer than ABS. They are the preferred choice for premium keyboards.

POM (Polyoxymethylene): This is a highly durable and smooth material, offering a higher-end feel to keycaps.

Shape:

OEM Profile: A popular keycap profile with a comfortable and ergonomic shape, commonly used in gaming and typing keyboards.

Cherry Profile: A shorter keycap profile that provides a lower actuation distance, often favored by typing enthusiasts.

SA Profile: Known for its spherical design and high-profile keycaps, providing a distinct and retro feel.

1. Switches: The Heart of the Keyboard Mechanical switches are the core component of a mechanical keyboard. They determine how each key feels when pressed, providing either tactile feedback, audible noise, or a smooth linear response. The type of switch you choose can make a big difference in your overall experience.

Tactile Switches:

These switches provide a bump at the actuation point, giving you tactile feedback without needing to press the key all the way down. Tactile switches are excellent for typists who need to know when a key is actuated. Cherry MX Brown is a classic tactile switch.

Clicky Switches:

Clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click. This distinctive sound can be satisfying for those who enjoy the classic mechanical keyboard experience. Cherry MX Blue is a popular clicky switch for typing.

Linear Switches:

These switches offer a smooth, uninterrupted keypress, with no tactile bump or click. Linear switches are ideal for gamers who need fast and precise key actuation without distractions. Cherry MX Red is one of the most common linear switches used in gaming.

Optical Switches:

Optical switches use light to register key presses, offering faster response times and greater durability than traditional mechanical switches. These switches are a great choice for competitive gamers who need ultra-fast actuation speeds.

1. Stabilizers: Keeping Larger Keys Steady Stabilizers are the components found beneath larger keys like the spacebar, enter, and shift. Their primary function is to keep the key balanced and stable when pressed. High-quality stabilizers reduce wobble and improve the typing experience.

Clip-in Stabilizers: These are easy to install and are commonly found in budget keyboards.

Screw-in Stabilizers: Considered the highest quality, screw-in stabilizers are often used in high-end keyboards and provide a more stable keypress.

1. PCB (Printed Circuit Board): The Brain of the Keyboard The PCB is the circuit board that connects all the switches and components to the keyboard’s microcontroller. It is the central hub that ensures each keypress is registered accurately.

Hot-swappable PCB: A feature that allows you to change the switches without soldering. This is ideal for those who want to customize their keyboard without any technical skills.

Soldered PCB: Traditional PCBs require soldering, which makes them more permanent but allows for more customization options in terms of switch selection.

1. Case and Plate: The Structure of the Keyboard The case houses all the internal components and provides the keyboard’s structural integrity. The material and design of the case can affect the sound and feel of your keyboard.

Plastic Cases: These are the most common and affordable type. They can have a lighter feel but may not provide the most premium sound.

Aluminum Cases: More durable and premium-feeling, aluminum cases can improve the acoustics and make the keyboard feel more substantial.

The plate sits between the PCB and switches, providing additional support and rigidity. Plates can be made from various materials like aluminum, steel, or brass, each offering different levels of flex and sound.

1. Key Switch Mounting Style: How It Feels Under Your Fingers The way switches are mounted in the keyboard can influence its feel. There are two common mounting styles:

Top Mount: In this setup, the plate is mounted directly to the top of the case. This provides a more flexible feel and is often used in premium keyboards.

Bottom Mount: The plate is mounted at the bottom of the keyboard, providing a firmer feel, and it’s commonly used in budget-friendly options.

1. Sound Dampening: Fine-tuning the Noise
   For many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, the sound is just as important as the feel. Some keyboards include sound dampening materials like foam, silicone, or rubber to reduce vibrations and noise. These materials can be placed between the PCB and the case, or underneath the keycaps to absorb excess sound.

2. Backlighting: Aesthetic and Practical
   Backlighting isn’t just for aesthetics; it can also improve typing visibility, especially in low-light environments. RGB backlighting allows for full customization, giving users the ability to adjust the lighting effects and colors to suit their style.

Single-color Backlighting: A simple, straightforward option that offers a clean, minimal look.

RGB Backlighting: This allows for a full spectrum of colors and customizable effects, making it ideal for gamers and enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Building Your Ideal Mechanical Keyboard
When you understand the essential components of a mechanical keyboard set, you can tailor your build to suit your typing needs and preferences. Whether you’re after a smooth and quiet typing experience, a loud and tactile feel, or something in between, each part of a mechanical keyboard plays a vital role. By selecting the right keycaps, switches, stabilizers, and other components, you can create a personalized and high-performance keyboard that enhances your typing or gaming experience.