A custom mechanical keyboard can be the difference between a good typing experience and a great one. In this tech-forward era, a custom mechanical keyboard is the pinnacle of this self-expression. By choosing the right switches, lubing them, adding custom keycaps, and changing the spring weights, you can create a keyboard that is uniquely yours--a keyboard that improves your typing experience in a way that no off the shelf keyboard can.
Switches
There are three main types of switches: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches are smooth and require little force to press down. Tactile switches provide a small bump when they are pressed down halfway. Clicky switches make a loud clicking noise when they are pressed all the way down.
There are pros and cons to each type of switch. Linear switches are good for fast typing because there is no need to pause at the halfway point. Tactile switches provide feedback that can help you know when a key has been pressed all the way down without being too loud or disruptive. Clicky switches are fun to type on but can be loud and disruptive in a quiet environment.
Lubing Switches
Lubing switches is an optional customization that can improve the feel of your keyswitches by making them smoother and more responsive. It involves applying a thin layer of lubricant to the inside of each keyswitch so that the moving parts move more easily. This results in a more satisfying typing experience with less effort required to press each key.
Custom Keycaps
Custom keycaps are another optional customization that allows you to add personality to your keyboard with different colors and materials. Keycaps come in a variety of colors, including clear, white, black, pink, blue, green, and red. They also come in many different materials, such as ABS plastic, PBT plastic, POM plastic, aluminum, or brass.
Different Spring Weights
The final customization option we'll discuss is different spring weights. This refers to the amount of force required to press each key down. Different spring weights allow you to tailor the feel of your keyboard to your specific needs. For example, if you want a lighter feel, you would choose a lighter spring weight. If you want a heavier feel, you would choose a heavier spring weight.
A custom mechanical keyboard is the perfect way to improve your typing experience by choosing the right switches, lubing them, adding custom keycaps, and changing the spring weights. By taking the time to customize your keyboard, you'll create an extension of yourself that perfectly suits your needs. It can be a lot of fun and very satisfying to experiment with different combinations of these factors until you find the perfect setup for you.