Learn more about Custom Keyboards
Welcome! You've discovered the exciting and deeply rewarding hobby of custom mechanical keyboards. This is a world where you are in complete control, able to build a high-performance typing tool that is perfectly tailored to your needs, aesthetics, and personality.
Forget the mushy, generic keyboards that come with most computers. We're here to explore the craft of building a superior typing instrument from the ground up.
Whether you’re here to build your very first keyboard or to refine your fifth, this guide is designed to help you make confident choices. You’ll learn what each part does, how pieces fit together, and how to avoid common pitfalls that waste time and money.
What is a Custom Keyboard?
A custom keyboard is one you assemble yourself, choosing each component individually to create a unique final product. This process gives you granular control over:
- Feel: The type of switch determines the tactile feedback of every key press.
- Sound: The combination of switches, plate, case, and keycaps creates a unique acoustic signature.
- Look: You choose the case color, keycap design, and lighting to match your style.
- Function: With programmable firmware, you can control the layout, add layers, and create powerful macros to optimize your workflow.
Unlike mass-produced boards, customs are intentionally modular. You pick a PCB for features, a case for style and sound, switches for feel, and keycaps for texture and aesthetics. You can tune stabilizers, add foam or tape for acoustics, and even choose lighting that makes your setup glow or stay understated. The result is a tool that’s uniquely yours.
How to Use This Guide
This site is designed to be a comprehensive resource for your journey. We'll walk you through every step of the process, from understanding the core components to assembling your first board.
- New to the hobby? Start from the beginning with Circuit Boards and work your way through.
- Looking for specific information? Use the navigation to jump directly to the topic you're interested in.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find:
- Circuit Boards (PCBs): Learn what a PCB is, how a key matrix works, and which features to look for (hotswap sockets vs. solder, per-key RGB vs. underglow, USB-C vs. daughterboards).
- Switches: Explore types (linear, tactile, clicky), what characteristics matter (spring weight, travel, stem materials), and how to choose the right switch for your typing style.
- Controllers: Understand the microcontroller that powers your board, from classic ATmega32U4 to modern ARM and RP2040 choices, and why memory and performance matter.
- Backlighting: Compare per-key vs. underglow, plan power budgets, and learn how to enable RGB in firmware responsibly without flicker or disconnects.
- Assembling: Follow step-by-step build guides for both hotswap and soldered builds, with practical checklists, safety notes, and final QA tests to catch issues early.
- Keycaps: See how materials and profiles change feel, sound, and typing ergonomics; understand legends and printing methods, and where to buy with confidence.
- Layouts: Navigate physical sizes (100%, TKL, 75/65/60/40), try ortholinear and ergonomic splits, and explore modern alternative logical layouts like Colemak variants, Dvorak, and RSTHD/APTv3.
Who This Guide Is For
- Builders who want a clear, end-to-end path from parts list to first successful boot.
- Tinkerers who enjoy modding stabs, tuning foam, and experimenting with layouts.
- Power users who need layers, macros, and lighting profiles tailored to work or play.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need a full workshop. A minimal kit—screwdrivers, keycap/switch pullers, a soldering iron if doing a solder build, and patience—goes a long way. We call out specialized tools when they add real value, and offer alternatives when possible.
Common Pitfalls We’ll Help You Avoid
- Buying a case that blocks underglow or a PCB without the lighting features you want.
- Choosing switches that don’t support SMD LEDs when your PCB relies on them.
- Forgetting stabilizer tuning, leading to rattle on long keys.
- Overfilling firmware features on small MCUs and running out of flash.
Each section includes checklists and decision points to make sure you stay on track.
This guide is a living document, constantly being updated with the latest information and community trends.
Ready to start? Let's dive into the foundation of every keyboard: the Circuit Board (PCB).
If you prefer to explore by topic, jump straight to:
Wherever you begin, you’ll find practical advice, plain-language explanations, and links to trusted resources. Let’s build something great.