
Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among gamers and typists alike due to their durability, tactile feedback, and customizability. A mechanical keyboard is a keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches for each key instead of rubber domes or silicone membranes. These switches are more durable and provide a tactile and audible feedback when pressed.
Customization allows you to personalize your mechanical keyboard to your liking, making it not only a tool but also a reflection of your personality. In this article, we'll dive into some tips and tricks to help you customize your mechanical keyboard like a pro.
Trying Different Layouts
While most mechanical keyboards use the standard QWERTY layout, there are other layouts that you can try to improve your typing speed and accuracy. Some popular options include the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard, the Colemak Keyboard, and the Workman Keyboard. These layouts are designed to reduce finger fatigue, minimize hand movement, and improve typing efficiency.
Switching to a new layout can take time and practice, but it can be worth it in the long run. You can find online resources and software to help you learn and practice these new layouts.
Experimenting with Different Stabilizers
Stabilizers are the mechanical components that keep your larger keys, such as the spacebar and shift keys, stable and level when pressed. Different stabilizers can affect the feel and sound of your keyboard. Some popular options include plate-mounted and PCB-mounted stabilizers.
Plate-mounted stabilizers are attached to the plate that holds the switches and provide a firmer and more consistent feel. PCB-mounted stabilizers are attached to the printed circuit board and provide a softer and smoother feel. Some keyboards also come with screw-in stabilizers, which are more secure and less likely to rattle.
Experimenting with different stabilizers can help you find the right balance between stability and smoothness for your typing or gaming needs.
Choosing Your Keycaps
The keycaps are the most noticeable part of your mechanical keyboard and can significantly change its appearance. They come in a variety of materials, colors, and designs to suit your preferences. Some popular options include ABS, PBT, and double-shot keycaps, each with its own benefits.
ABS keycaps are made of a thermoplastic polymer and are cheaper than other options. They have a smooth texture, but they tend to wear out and shine over time. PBT keycaps, on the other hand, are made of a more durable thermoplastic polymer and are resistant to wear, fading, and shine. They are more expensive than ABS keycaps, but they are worth the investment if you're looking for longevity. Double-shot keycaps have two layers of plastic, making the legends (letters and symbols) more durable and less likely to fade. They can be more expensive than other keycaps, but they are worth the investment if you want your keyboard to last.
You can also choose keycaps with different profiles, such as sculpted or flat. Sculpted keycaps have different shapes for different rows of keys, providing a more ergonomic typing experience. Flat keycaps, on the other hand, have a uniform shape and are preferred by some typists for their simplicity.
Another option for keycap customization is to choose a keycap set that matches your favorite color scheme or design. These sets often include keycaps for the entire keyboard and can be a great way to give your keyboard a cohesive look.
Customizing Your Switches
The switches are the heart of your mechanical keyboard and determine how it feels and sounds. Different switches have different characteristics, such as the amount of force required to actuate, the tactile feedback, and the noise level. Some popular switch brands include Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh.
Cherry MX switches are known for their tactile feedback and come in different colors that represent different characteristics. For example, Cherry MX Red switches are linear and require less force to actuate, while Cherry MX Blue switches are tactile and clicky and require more force to actuate. Gateron switches are similar to Cherry MX switches but are generally cheaper and smoother. Kailh switches are known for their RGB lighting compatibility and come in different colors and characteristics.
Once you have chosen your switches, you can customize them further by adding O-rings to reduce noise and travel distance or by lubricating them to make them smoother and more tactile. Adding O-rings can also help reduce finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions.
Adding LED Lighting
LED lighting can add an extra layer of customization to your mechanical keyboard by allowing you to choose the color and brightness of your backlighting. Some keyboards come with built-in lighting, while others require you to install LED strips or individual LEDs.
You can also choose between static, breathing, or reactive lighting effects to suit your mood and preferences. Some keyboards even allow you to program your own lighting effects using software. To take your LED lighting to the next level, you can also install custom keycaps that are translucent, allowing the backlighting to shine through.
Adding Sound Dampeners
One downside of mechanical keyboard is that they can be quite loud. If you're sharing a workspace or have sensitive ears, this can be a problem. Luckily, there are sound dampeners that you can install to reduce the noise level of your keyboard.
One popular option is to add O-rings to your switches, which not only reduces travel distance but also dampens the sound of the switch bottoming out. Another option is to install silencing clips, which attach to the bottom of the switch and reduce noise by up to 50%.
Adding Wrist Rests
Typing for long periods can cause strain on your wrists, leading to discomfort or even injury. Adding a wrist rest can help alleviate this by providing support and reducing pressure on your wrists. Wrist rests come in different materials, such as gel, foam, or wood, and can be attached or detached from your keyboard.
Creating Your Own Custom Keycaps
If you're feeling creative, you can also create your own custom keycaps using a 3D printer. This allows you to design and print your own unique keycaps that no one else has. There are online communities and marketplaces where you can share or sell your designs, such as Thingiverse or Shapeways.
Using Keyboard Software
Many mechanical keyboards come with software that allows you to customize your keyboard even further. This software can allow you to reprogram keys, create macros, and adjust lighting effects. Some popular keyboard software includes Logitech G HUB, Corsair iCUE, and Razer Synapse.
Conclusion
Customizing your mechanical keyboard is a fun and rewarding experience that can enhance your typing and gaming experience. By choosing the right keycaps, switches, lighting, wrist rests, and sound dampeners, you can create a keyboard that is not only functional but also unique and personalized. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, these tips will help you get started on your customization journey.