Why This Guide Matters

You've probably heard keyboard enthusiasts say, "You'll pick up the lingo eventually." While that's true for hardcore hobbyists, most people get overwhelmed by terms like "gasket-mounted" or "hot-swappable PCB." We've designed this guide to cut through the jargon – think of it as your GPS for navigating the mechanical keyboard world.  

 

Mechanical Keyboard Basics  

What Makes Them Special?  

Unlike regular keyboards that use rubber domes, mechanical keyboards have individual switches under each key. These spring-loaded mechanisms provide:  

- Clear tactile feedback (you can literally feel when a key activates)  

- Longer lifespan (rated for 50-100 million keystrokes vs. 5 million on membrane keyboards)  

- Customizable typing experience through different switch types  

 

The Big Three Components  

1. Switches 101  

Type	Feel	Best For	Pro Tip
Red/Black (Linear)	Smooth press like a pen spring	Gaming & fast typing	Lube these for buttery smoothness
Blue (Clicky)	Tactile bump with audible click	Typing enthusiasts	Not office-friendly!
Brown (Tactile)	Subtle bump without click	Balanced use	Great first switch
Magnetic	Instant activation (0.1ms response)	Competitive gaming	Requires careful calibration

 

2. Keycap Materials  

- ABS Plastic: Budget-friendly but develops shiny spots  

- PBT Plastic: Textured finish, resistant to oil/wear (typists' choice)  

- PC Blend: Translucent for RGB lighting effects  

 

3. Keyboard Kits  

Think of these as "keyboard skeletons" – includes:  

- Case (aluminum/plastic/acrylic)  

- PCB (the brain)  

- Plate (switch stabilizer)  

 

Build Analogy:  

Buying a keyboard kit = Getting a house frame  

Adding switches = Installing plumbing/electric  

Choosing keycaps = Selecting furniture  

 

Key Specs Decoded  

Layout Options  

Size	Keys	Ideal For	Space Required
Full	104	Number-crunchers	17" desk space
TKL	87	Minimalist gamers	14"
Compact	68	Travel/streaming	11"

Must-Know Features  

- Hot-Swappable: Change switches like LEGO pieces (no soldering)  

- RGB Lighting: 16.8 million color options with programmable effects  

- QMK/VIA Support: Advanced programming for macros & shortcuts  

 

Enthusiast Terminology  

Sound Profiles  

- Thock: Deep, bass-heavy typing sound  

- Clack: Crisp, high-pitched acoustics  

- Mahjong-like: Satisfying tile-shuffling sound (achieved through modding)  

 

Technical Terms  

- Actuation Point: Distance to trigger key (1.2mm-2.0mm typical)  

- Bottom-Out: Feeling when key hits the base (some love it, others hate it)  

- Lubing 101:  

  - Factory-Lubed: Pre-greased switches (good enough for most)  

  - Hand-Lubed: Custom-tuned switches (audiophile-level smoothness)  

 

DIY Essentials  

- Switch Puller: $5 tool for safe switch removal  

- Stabilizers: Prevent large keys (like Spacebar) from wobbling  

- Mod Kits: Foam pads, silicone dampeners, etc.