When assembling or customizing a mechanical keyboard, several fundamental components are integral to its functionality and feel. Each part plays a distinct role in the overall mechanism and user experience.
Switches
Mechanical keyboards are distinguished by their individual key switches, which come in various types such as linear, tactile, and clicky.
These switches affect the actuation force, sound, and tactile feedback when a key is pressed. The choice of switch is crucial as it defines the keyboard’s typing experience.
Keycaps
The keycaps are the visible, removable caps atop each switch. They can be made from different materials like ABS or PBT and are available in various profiles and legends.
Keycaps are selected based on user preference for feel, aesthetics, and longevity.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers are used to provide support and balance to larger keys, such as the spacebar, enter, and shift keys, ensuring smooth and even keystrokes.
Properly installed stabilizers prevent key wobble and minimize noise during actuation.
Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
The PCB is the electronic circuitry within a keyboard that registers each keypress and sends the signal to the computer.
It’s the backbone of a mechanical keyboard, often featuring diodes, resistors, and sometimes programmable elements for custom key functions.
Mounting Plate
A mounting plate, or simply the plate, is a rigid framework that aligns the switches and provides a mounting point to secure them to the PCB.
It can affect the keyboard’s acoustics and typing feel, depending on the material used, such as steel, aluminum, or polycarbonate.
Switch Mechanisms
The switch mechanisms in a mechanical keyboard define the key actuation method, response time, and overall tactile feedback. Each type of switch offers distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences and applications.
Mechanical
Mechanical switches operate by completing an electrical circuit when a key is pressed.
They’re comprised of several components including a base, spring, stem, and contacts.
Their construction allows for a variety of switch behaviors including linear, tactile, and clicky feedback, providing options for every user whether they are typing or gaming.
Membrane
Membrane switches are not mechanical; instead, they use pressure pads and feature a layer of rubber or silicone that acts as both the spring and the contact.
When a key is pressed, it pushes through a conductive trace underneath to complete the circuit.
They tend to be quieter and are generally found in more budget-friendly keyboards.
Optical
Optical switches use light-based actuation. When the key is pressed, a stem moves to interrupt a laser or infrared light beam, which sends a signal to register the keypress.
They often offer a faster response and are more durable than mechanical switches due to fewer moving parts and lack of physical contact in actuation.
Keycap Materials
In mechanical keyboards, the material of keycaps affects both the durability and the feel of typing. Manufacturers primarily use plastics like ABS and PBT, but other materials such as POM and rubber are also employed for specific purposes.
ABS Plastic
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is commonly utilized for keycaps due to its lower cost and ease of manufacturing.
ABS keycaps are lightweight and have a smooth texture, but they can develop a shiny patina over time from oils on the user’s fingers.
PBT Plastic
Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) is known for its sturdiness and resistance to wear.
It has a slightly textured surface which helps in maintaining the keycaps’ quality without developing shine as quickly as ABS.
POM Material
Polyoxymethylene (POM) material is less common but valued for its hardness and resilience.
Keycaps made from POM offer a unique feel with a slight slippery surface, and they are known for their durability.
Rubber
Rubber keycaps are primarily used for gaming keyboards for their grip and comfort. They often cover only the most frequently used keys.
These provide a tactile feel which prevents fingers from slipping off during intense gaming sessions.
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I hear all this hype about PBT plastic vs ABS for keycaps. Does it really matter that much? Feels like overkill for just typing.