Exploring PCB Features and Options

A modern keyboard PCB can do so much more than just register keystrokes. As the custom keyboard hobby has evolved, so have the features packed onto these circuit boards. From the convenience of hot-swap sockets to the satisfying click of a rotary encoder, the options available can transform your keyboard from a simple typing tool into a personalized productivity powerhouse. These features are what elevate a custom keyboard from a mere peripheral to a bespoke instrument tailored to your workflow.

But with so many choices, it's easy to get overwhelmed. This guide will break down the most popular PCB features, explaining what they do, why you might want them, and the trade-offs involved. By the end, you'll have a clear idea of which features are essential for your build and which are just nice-to-haves.

More Than Just the Basics

The Great Debate: Hot-Swap vs. Soldered

This is one of the biggest decisions you'll make, and it fundamentally changes your relationship with your keyboard. It's the choice between ultimate flexibility and ultimate reliability.

Hot-Swap PCBs: The Freedom to Experiment

A hot-swap PCB is equipped with special sockets (most commonly from manufacturers like Kailh or Gateron) that allow you to install and remove switches simply by pushing them in or pulling them out—no soldering required.

Why Choose Hot-Swap?
- Beginner-Friendly: It's the easiest and most forgiving way to build your first custom keyboard. The risk of permanently damaging the board is significantly lower.
- Flexibility: You can try out new switches whenever you want. Found a new tactile switch you love? You can swap it in for an afternoon and see if it's for you.
- Easy Maintenance: If a switch fails or starts chattering, you can replace it in seconds without having to break out the soldering iron.
- Higher Resale Value: The ability to easily change switches makes hot-swap boards more attractive on the secondhand market.
The Downsides:
- Cost: Hot-swap PCBs are generally more expensive due to the cost of the sockets and the more complex manufacturing process.
- Durability: The sockets have a limited lifespan, typically rated for hundreds of swaps. While this is more than enough for most users, it's a consideration for those who like to change switches constantly.
- Layout Rigidity: You are locked into the specific layout the PCB supports. There's no option for a split backspace or a 7U bottom row unless the PCB was explicitly designed for it.

Soldered PCBs: The Traditionalist's Choice

A soldered PCB requires you to solder each switch to the board, creating a permanent and robust electrical and physical connection.

Why Choose Soldered?
- Ultimate Reliability: A good solder joint is one of the most durable electrical connections you can make. It's the gold standard for a "buy it for life" build.
- Layout Flexibility: Soldered PCBs often support multiple layouts on the same board. A single PCB might have holes to accommodate ANSI, ISO, a split backspace, and various bottom rows, giving you far more customization options.
- Cost-Effective: They are typically cheaper than their hot-swap counterparts.
The Downsides:
- Requires Skill and Equipment: You'll need a decent soldering iron, solder, and the knowledge to use them correctly. A bad soldering job can permanently damage the PCB.
- Permanence: Changing your mind about your switches is a significant undertaking, requiring you to desolder every single switch.

The Hybrid Approach: Mill-Max Sockets

For those who want the best of both worlds, there's a third option: installing Mill-Max sockets into a soldered PCB. These are small metal cylinders that you solder into the PCB's holes, effectively turning a soldered board into a hot-swap one. It's a time-consuming process but offers the layout flexibility of a soldered board with the convenience of hot-swap.

Beyond the Basics: Popular PCB Features

Once you've decided on your build style, it's time to think about the fun stuff.

Rotary Encoders: More Than Just a Volume Knob

A rotary encoder is a knob that you can turn infinitely in either direction and often press like a button. While commonly used for volume control, you can program it to do almost anything: scroll through web pages, undo/redo actions, adjust brush size in Photoshop, or scrub through a video timeline. If you want one, your PCB must have a designated, specially-wired spot for it.

OLED Screens: Information at a Glance

A small OLED screen on your keyboard can display all sorts of useful information, such as your current layer, words-per-minute (WPM) typing speed, Caps Lock status, or even custom animations. This feature requires specific hardware support and a compatible controller on the PCB.

Firmware and Software: The Soul of the Machine

The firmware is the software that runs on your keyboard's microcontroller, telling it what to do. Most modern custom keyboards run on powerful, open-source firmware projects.

QMK (Quantum Mechanical Keyboard): This is the powerhouse of keyboard firmware. It's incredibly powerful and customizable, allowing for complex layers, macros, and unique behaviors. However, it traditionally requires a bit of a learning curve to configure, involving setting up a local development environment and compiling the firmware yourself.
VIA: A game-changer for many, VIA is a piece of software that works with QMK. If your PCB's firmware is VIA-compatible, you can remap keys, create macros, and control lighting on-the-fly using a simple desktop application—no coding required. For many builders, VIA support is a non-negotiable feature for its ease of use.

Choosing the right features is all about matching the keyboard's capabilities to your needs. Think about how you work and play, and choose the options that will genuinely enhance your experience.

Now that you know what's possible, where do you find a PCB with all the features you want? Our guide to Where to Find Your Perfect PCB has you covered.