If you work online or frequently use computers, you know that finding a keyboard to fit your needs can be difficult. Knowing how to build your own keyboard is an incredibly useful skill.
Custom keyboards are often expensive and time-consuming to order, not to mention the gamble of whether or not you will find one that meets all your needs and wants. But why waste all that money and effort when you can follow these tips and make your own keyboard exactly how you want it?
Designing your dream keyboard starts with research. Learn about the different sizing, textures, and builds to figure out what works best for you. You should also decide which type of keyboard you want--mechanical or rubber dome/membrane. The best way to make this decision is by going to stores and test typing on a variety of keyboards. Once you're confident that you've done enough research, go ahead and start designing!
As with any other at-home project, you must assemble all materials before beginning the task. Some of these items are:
There are many options for choosing a case, such as plastic, aluminum, acrylic, or even wood. If you love the sound of keys clacking as you type, aluminum is one of the best choices to make; however, it can be a bit pricey. If you're working on a budget, plastic is the way to go! If aesthetic and style are a priority for you , look into wood or polycarbonate cases .
Possibly the most essential feature on a keyboard is a PCB. This will enable input from your keyboard to enter the PC you're connecting it to. Prefer backlit keyboards? You can get a PCB with RGB lights preinstalled, or with an option to add in your own lights too.
The switches you choose will ultimately affect your typing experience. You can pick from tactile, linear, or clicky switches depending on what you like. Some people might find that the sensation of pressing keys is important to them, in which case they should order multiple testers before choosing just one switch type.
The great thing about keyboards is that you can really make them your own with different keycaps. You can find them in all sorts of colors, designs, and materials - so feel free to go wild! If you want to put a personal twist on things, you could even buy some basic keycaps and paint over them yourself. It'll take more time, but it's also less expensive.
If you don't have something stabilizing larger keys, such as the spacebar, they tend to wobble around and make typing more difficult. Although they aren't necessary, stabilizers improve your typing experience significantly.
Now that you have all the pieces, it's time to attach them so you can start using your own keyboard as soon as possible. Take care in each step and check your progress periodically.
Soldering supplies are necessary for this process, but having additional items like tweezers or keycap pullers will make the task much more manageable. Have a screwdriver with changeable sizes on hand, and if needed, use magnets to keep track of screws!
The last step is to admire your work and start typing! A new keyboard can be a great addition, but making one yourself makes it that much more personal. Soon enough you'll be teaching others how to build their own keyboards like yours!
