If you’re a DIYer and don’t want to spend too much money on a professional gaming keyboard, you can build a custom keyboard on your own. There are two main types of PCBs, one of which is hot-swappable and the other is through-hole. A hot-swappable custom gaming keyboard PCB is solder-free, which is perfect for beginners. A through-hole PCB, on the other hand, requires soldering every single component together, and is not beginner-friendly.
Build a custom gaming keyboard
The first step in building your own gaming keyboard is to decide on the style and size. It’s important to note that if you’re looking for a specific size, it might take a bit of time to order the parts you need. Choosing the style of lighting is also an important consideration. If you want RGB lighting, you’ll have a lot of options, including RGB lighting on each key, under-glow lighting, and side lighting. You’ll also want to decide how bright you want the lighting to be.
Next, install the PCB. The PCB is the computer-like motherboard that’s inside the keyboard. The USB cable connects to the PCB, which also has the switches attached to it. Before screwing the PCB into the case, make sure the keycaps are aligned correctly and that the keyboard won’t move.
Materials
When it comes to building a custom gaming keyboard, one of the first considerations should be the material used to make the case. You may use plastic, wood, or metal for the case, and you can choose between aluminum, brass, steel, or FR4 for the mounting plate. Aside from the case itself, you should also consider the switches used to build the keyboard. Many manufacturers offer different switches to choose from, but it’s important to choose the ones that best match your preferences.
When it comes to the switches, the material you choose will impact their sound and appearance. For example, different types of plastic and metal can make different sounds when typing.
Testers
There are many benefits to custom testing gaming keyboards, including the ability to obtain specific insights. For example, a keyboard can be tested to determine its Rockwell hardness, which indicates its impact resistance. A keyboard tester can also be creative and use a variety of different methods to determine how the keyboard will perform in a variety of different situations, such as on a kiosk, cellphone, or computer. Other options include environmental testing and ingress protection testing.
Switches
If you want to change the switches on your custom gaming keyboard, you have several options. One option is to use hot-swappable switches. This allows you to skip the soldering step and simply snap the new switches into place. Alternatively, you can buy a keyboard plate and insert the switches with the switch pins into the PCB. Either way, make sure all components are aligned and pressed properly.
Switches are rated for force and weight. They should be heavy and have an operating force of 75cN or higher. You should choose a switch with higher force to reduce misclicks and maximize the tactile experience.
Cases
Custom gaming keyboards are not just about the RGB. They also need to be durable. That’s why it’s important to choose the right case for your keyboard. There are different types of cases for different purposes. A case for RGB gaming keyboards can be made of a variety of materials. For example, you can choose an acrylic case if you want the RGB to show off. There are two types of acrylic cases: stacked acrylic and uni-layer acrylic. Stacking acrylic cases are popular because they allow you to have an unorthodox layout.
Aluminum is another popular material for cases. It is a better conductor of heat than plastic cases. Additionally, aluminum cases can be anodized for a unique look. However, these cases are a bit heavier than their plastic counterparts. If you choose a metal case, make sure it is of good quality. A stainless-steel case will have an improved typing experience and tactile feedback. They also last longer than plastic cases.
