Finding and Buying Your Perfect PCB

You've figured out your ideal layout, you know which features you want, and you're ready to take the plunge. Now comes the big question: where do you actually get a PCB? The world of custom keyboard components can seem like a maze of in-stock items, pre-orders, mysterious "group buys," and a bustling aftermarket. It can be intimidating, but it's also a landscape rich with options for every budget and skill level.

Don't worry—it's easier than it looks. This guide will break down the main ways to acquire a PCB, from the instant gratification of an in-stock purchase to the long-term reward of a group buy. We'll also highlight some trusted vendors and resources to get you started on your search.

Your Quest for the Perfect PCB

The Four Paths to Acquiring a PCB

1. In-Stock Retailers: The Fast and Easy Route

This is the most straightforward way to buy a PCB. A number of online vendors keep a regular stock of popular PCBs, often designed to be compatible with the cases and plates they also sell.

How it Works: You browse their website, add a PCB to your cart, and they ship it to you within a few days. It's a standard e-commerce experience.
Pros: It's fast, reliable, and you know exactly what you're getting. This is the best option for first-time builders or anyone on a tight timeline.
Cons: The selection can be limited to the most popular layouts (like 60%, 65%, TKL) and designs. You might not find the most unique or high-end options here.
Key Vendors:
- KBDfans: One of the largest selections of in-stock PCBs, from budget-friendly to mid-range.
- NovelKeys: Known for their own popular designs like the NK series of keyboards and PCBs.
- CannonKeys: Offers a curated selection of quality PCBs and often runs its own in-stock sales of popular keyboard kits.

2. Group Buys: For the Unique and High-End

A group buy (GB) is a pre-order system run by a designer or vendor for a limited-run, custom product. This is how most high-end, unique, and experimental keyboards are sold.

How it Works: A designer announces a product and opens a pre-order window (usually 2-4 weeks). Everyone pays upfront. Once the window closes, the designer places a bulk order with the manufacturer. The products are then made and shipped, which can take anywhere from a few months to over a year.
Pros: You get access to exclusive, high-quality, and often innovative designs that you can't find anywhere else. It's a way to be part of a product's creation story.
Cons: The wait times are long and there can be unforeseen delays. There's also a small element of risk, though established vendors are very reliable. You are paying for a product that won't exist for many months.
Where to Find Them:
- Geekhack: The original and most active forum for group buy announcements and interest checks.
- MechGroupBuys.com: A helpful site that aggregates and tracks active group buys from various vendors.

3. Open-Source Projects: The DIY Path

For the truly adventurous, there's the world of open-source keyboards. Many designers generously release the complete design files for their PCBs for free, allowing anyone to manufacture them.

How it Works: You find a project on a platform like GitHub. You download the design files (called Gerber files) and upload them to a PCB manufacturer like JLCPCB or PCBWay. They will print the bare board for you (usually in a minimum quantity of 5). You'll then need to source all the electronic components (like diodes, resistors, and the controller) and solder them yourself.
Pros: It's the ultimate in customization and can be very cost-effective, especially if you split the cost of the 5 PCBs with friends. It's also an incredible learning experience in electronics.
Cons: This is the most difficult and time-consuming path. It requires soldering skills (often including delicate surface-mount components) and a good understanding of electronics.
Where to Find Them:
- GitHub: Search for "keyboard pcb" or specific projects like "Corne keyboard" or "Discipline keyboard" to find a huge number of open-source projects.

4. The Aftermarket: Instant Access at a Price

What if the group buy for your dream keyboard ended a year ago? The aftermarket is where you'll find it. This refers to community-driven marketplaces where users sell new and used keyboard components.

How it Works: Users post items for sale, trade, or auction. You contact the seller, agree on a price, and handle payment (usually via PayPal).
Pros: You can find almost anything here, from rare group buy items to out-of-stock components. It's a way to bypass the long group buy waits.
Cons: Expect to pay a premium. Items on the aftermarket often sell for significantly more than their original group buy price. You also need to be cautious and deal with reputable users to avoid scams.
Key Marketplaces:
- r/mechmarket: The largest and most active marketplace for keyboard components.
- Discord Servers: Many keyboard-focused Discord servers have dedicated marketplace channels.

Our Recommendation for Your First Build

If you're just starting out, we strongly recommend buying an in-stock, hot-swap PCB from a reputable vendor. Look for a board in a popular layout (like 60%, 65%, or 75%) that has VIA support. This will give you the best and easiest introduction to the hobby, minimizing frustration and maximizing your chances of a successful first build. Once you have a build or two under your belt, you can venture into the exciting worlds of group buys, open-source projects, and the aftermarket.

Ready to start building? Head over to our Assembling Your Keyboard guide to see how all the pieces come together.

External Resources

Keyboard Vendor List: A comprehensive list of vendors around the world.
MechDB: A database of keyboards and components, great for research.