Custom Mechanical Keyboard Building Guide: Step-by-Step DIY Instructions (2025)

Custom Mechanical Keyboard Building Guide

Building a custom mechanical keyboard offers a level of personalization, quality, and satisfaction that pre-built options simply can’t match. While the process may seem intimidating at first, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything from selecting components to final assembly and customization.

Whether you’re looking to create your perfect typing experience, express your aesthetic preferences, or simply enjoy a rewarding DIY project, custom keyboard building is a hobby that combines technical skills with creative expression.

Why Build a Custom Mechanical Keyboard?

Keychron Q3 Pro QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kit

www.amazon.com — $169.99

Fully customizable 75% keyboard kit with gasket mount design, hot-swappable PCB, and premium CNC aluminum case for the perfect starter custom keyboard

Before diving into the building process, it’s worth understanding the advantages of custom keyboards:

• Superior typing experience: Tailor every aspect of feel and sound to your preferences
• Build quality: Higher-quality materials and construction than most mass-produced keyboards
• Customizability: Choose your preferred layout, switches, keycaps, and features
• Repairability: Individual components can be replaced or upgraded
• Aesthetics: Create a unique keyboard that reflects your personal style
• Community: Join a passionate group of enthusiasts sharing knowledge and creations
• Programming flexibility: Create custom layouts and macros with advanced firmware

Essential Components Overview

A mechanical keyboard consists of several key components:

1. PCB (Printed Circuit Board): The electronic brain of your keyboard
2. Case: The housing that holds all components together
3. Plate: Provides structural support for switches (optional but recommended)
4. Switches: The mechanical components under each key
5. Stabilizers: Support larger keys (spacebar, shift, enter, etc.)
6. Keycaps: The physical interface you type on
7. Firmware: Software that controls the keyboard’s functions

Additional components may include:

• Foam/dampening materials: For sound and vibration control
• Custom cables: For aesthetics and durability
• Backlighting/RGB: Illumination systems (if desired)
• Rotary encoders/knobs: Additional input methods

Understanding Keyboard Layouts and Sizes

	100% (Full-size) Complete with numpad	TKL (Tenkeyless) No numpad	75% Compact with F-row	65% Compact with arrow keys	60% Ultra compact
Price	$129.99	$89.99	$169.99	$109.99	$99.99
Description	Traditional layout with numpad, F-row, and navigation	Full-size without numpad	Compact layout retaining F-row and nav cluster	Compact layout with arrow keys and some nav keys	Alphas and modifiers only, no F-row or arrows
Keys	104-108	87-88	81-84	65-68	60-61
Best For	Data entry, accounting, full functionality	Gaming, general use with more desk space	Productivity in smaller form factor	Balance of compactness and functionality	Minimal desk footprint, portability
Popular Examples	GMMK Pro, Keychron Q6	Drop CTRL, Keychron Q3	GMMK Pro, Keychron Q1	Tofu65, Keychron Q2	Tofu60, Bakeneko60

Beyond these standard sizes, specialty layouts include:

• 40%: Ultra-compact layouts requiring heavy use of layers
• Split keyboards: Separated halves for ergonomic positioning
• Ortholinear: Keys arranged in a grid rather than staggered rows
• Ergonomic: Various non-standard designs focused on typing comfort
• Macropads: Small auxiliary keypads for specific functions

Step 1: Planning Your Build

Setting a Budget

Custom keyboards can range from under $100 to well over $1,000. Consider allocating your budget across these components:

• PCB + Case + Plate: 40-50% of budget
• Switches: 15-20% of budget
• Keycaps: 20-30% of budget
• Stabilizers and accessories: 10-15% of budget

Determining Your Preferences

Before purchasing components, consider:

1. Size and layout: What form factor best suits your needs?
2. Switch type: Linear, tactile, or clicky? (See our Mechanical Keyboard Switch Types guide for detailed information)
3. Sound profile: Do you prefer deeper “thock,” higher-pitched “clack,” or silent operation?
4. Aesthetics: Color scheme, materials, lighting preferences
5. Features: Hot-swap capability, RGB lighting, wireless connectivity
6. Typing feel: Soft and bouncy, firm and solid, or something in between

Compatibility Considerations

Ensure all your components work together:

• PCB and case must share the same layout and mounting style
• Stabilizers must match PCB mounting type (PCB-mount vs. plate-mount)
• Switches must be compatible with your PCB (3-pin vs. 5-pin, hot-swap vs. soldered)
• Keycap profile should complement your preferred typing angle
• Plate cutouts must accommodate your chosen switches

Step 2: Selecting Components

PCB (Printed Circuit Board)

DZ60RGB V2 Hot Swap PCB

www.amazon.com — $59.99

60% layout hot-swappable PCB with RGB backlighting, USB-C connection, and QMK/VIA compatibility for easy programming and customization

The PCB determines many aspects of your keyboard’s functionality:

Key considerations:

• Layout compatibility: Ensures support for your desired key arrangement
• Hot-swap sockets: Allow switch changes without soldering
• Connection type: USB-C is now standard, with some wireless options
• RGB support: If lighting is important to you
• Firmware compatibility: QMK/VIA support makes customization easier
• Mounting style: Impacts case compatibility

Popular PCB options by layout:

Layout	Beginner-Friendly Options	Advanced Options
60%	DZ60RGB-ANSI V2, BM60	Wilba Thermal PCB, Instant60
65%	KBD67 Rev2, DZ65RGB V3	Wilba WT65, Bakeneko65
75%	KBD75 V3, GMMK Pro PCB	Satisfaction75 PCB, Evolv PCB
TKL	KBD8X MKII, GMMK TKL	Frog TKL PCB, Phantom PCB
Full-size	GMMK Full-size PCB	Fullsize options are limited in custom space

Cases and Mounting Styles

KBD67 Lite R4 Keyboard DIY Kit Complete keyboard kit with gasket mount case, hot-swap PCB, and all necessary parts for a premium typing experience at an affordable price point

The case and mounting style significantly impact your keyboard’s feel and sound:

Case materials:

• Aluminum: Durable, premium feel, excellent sound properties
• Plastic/ABS: More affordable, lighter weight
• Polycarbonate: Allows RGB to shine through, unique sound profile
• Acrylic: Often used for stacked cases, good RGB diffusion
• Wood: Warm aesthetics and sound, typically custom-made
• Carbon fiber: Premium option, lightweight and rigid

Common mounting styles:

• Tray mount: Most budget-friendly, firmest typing feel
• Top mount: Slightly more flexible than tray mount
• Gasket mount: Popular for its balanced, slightly bouncy feel
• O-ring mount: DIY approach to gasket-like feel
• Sandwich mount: Simple construction with even firmness
• Plateless: Unique soft typing feel (requires PCB-mount switches)

Plates

60% Keyboard Brass Plate

www.amazon.com — $39.99

Universal 60% layout brass plate for mechanical keyboards, providing a firm typing feel and enhanced sound profile for a premium typing experience

Plates sit between the PCB and switches, affecting both feel and sound:

Common plate materials:

• Aluminum: Balanced firmness and sound, most versatile
• Brass: Firm feel, higher-pitched sound, premium weight
• Polycarbonate: Flexible with deeper sound profile
• FR4 (PCB material): Middle ground between aluminum and polycarbonate
• Carbon fiber: Firm but with unique sound characteristics
• POM: Softer feel with muted sound profile

Plate design considerations:

• Fixed vs. half plates: Full coverage or strategic flexibility
• ANSI vs. ISO: Regional layout differences
• Special cutouts: Some plates offer flex cuts for softer typing feel
• Switch compatibility: Universal vs. switch-specific cutouts

Switches

For a comprehensive guide to switch options, see our Mechanical Keyboard Switch Types article.

Key considerations when selecting switches:

• Sound profile: Clacky, thocky, muted, or silent
• Tactility: Linear, tactile, or clicky
• Spring weight: Affecting keystroke force required
• 3-pin vs. 5-pin: Matching your PCB requirements
• Factory lubed vs. stock: Affecting smoothness and sound
• Special variants: Silent, speed, RGB-compatible

Stabilizers

Durock V2 Screw-in Stabilizers

www.amazon.com — $24.99

Premium screw-in stabilizers with improved housing design to reduce rattle, pre-clipped stems, and included stabilizer wires for larger keyboard keys

Stabilizers support larger keys and significantly impact sound quality:

Types of stabilizers:

• Screw-in: Most secure, best performance (if PCB supports them)
• Snap-in (PCB mount): Good middle ground
• Plate mount: Less stable but work with more PCBs

Popular stabilizer brands:

• Durock/Everglide: Considered among the best, minimal rattle
• C³ Equalz: Excellent performance, pre-lubed
• Cherry: Standard option, requires more modification
• GMK: Decent quality, widely available
• ZealPC: Premium option with good stock performance

Keycaps

GMK Red Samurai Doubleshot ABS Keycap Set Premium doubleshot ABS keycaps with crisp legends, Cherry profile, and a stunning red and gold colorway inspired by samurai armor

Keycaps impact both aesthetics and typing experience:

Keycap materials:

• ABS: Smooth texture, prone to shine but allows vibrant colors and doubleshot legends
• PBT: More textured, resistant to shine, slightly deeper sound
• POM: Unique smooth feel, limited color options
• Resin: Used for artisan keycaps, decorative

Keycap profiles:

• Cherry: Standard slightly sculpted profile
• OEM: Taller than Cherry, common on pre-built boards
• SA: Tall, spherical top, retro appearance
• DSA: Uniform height, spherical top
• XDA/NP: Uniform height, slightly wider top
• MT3: Tall with deep dish tops, inspired by old terminals
• KAT/KAM: Medium height with wider tops

Manufacturing methods:

• Doubleshot: Most durable legends, two-color plastic injection
• Dye-sublimated: Legends infused into plastic, can’t fade but limited to darker legends on lighter caps
• Laser-etched: Less durable, legends can wear off
• Printed: Least durable, legends sit on top of keycaps

Step 3: Gathering Tools and Supplies

AIVOK Keyboard Toolkit with Lube Station

www.amazon.com — $49.99

Complete mechanical keyboard toolkit with switch opener, keycap puller, switch puller, brushes, lubricants, and lube station for comprehensive keyboard maintenance

Before assembly, gather these essential tools and supplies:

Essential tools:

• Screwdriver set: Phillips and flathead in various sizes
• Switch puller: For hot-swap boards
• Keycap puller: Wire-style preferred to avoid keycap damage
• Tweezers: For handling small parts and stabilizer wires
• Flush cutters: For trimming switch pins if needed

For modifying stabilizers:

• Dielectric grease: For stabilizer wires
• Krytox 205g0: For stabilizer housings
• Small brush: For applying lubricant
• Band-aids/fabric tape: For “band-aid mod” (optional)

For modifying switches (optional):

• Switch opener: Makes opening switches much easier
• Switch lube (Krytox/Tribosys): For smoother operation
• Switch films: Reduces housing wobble
• Lube station: Organizes switch parts during lubing

Other useful supplies:

• Heat shrink tubing: For custom cables
• Foam material: For sound dampening
• Multimeter: For troubleshooting electrical issues
• Soldering equipment: If using a non-hot-swap PCB

Step 4: Preparing Your Components

Modifying Stabilizers

Properly prepared stabilizers dramatically improve keyboard sound and feel:

1. Clip the stabilizer stems (if not pre-clipped):

   • Remove the extra legs that can cause rattling

2. “Band-aid mod” (optional):

   • Place small pieces of fabric tape or actual band-aids on the PCB under where stabilizer stems hit

3. Lubricate the stabilizers:

   • Apply dielectric grease to the stabilizer wires
   • Apply Krytox 205g0 to stabilizer housings
   • Avoid overlubricating which can make keys feel sluggish

4. Holee mod (optional):

   • Insert small strips of band-aid material inside stabilizer stems
   • Reduces rattling but increases friction

Lubing Switches (Optional)

Krytox GPL 205g0 Switch Lubricant

www.amazon.com — $18.99

Premium keyboard switch lubricant for smoother operation and improved sound, ideal for linear switches and stabilizers

For the ultimate typing experience, consider lubricating your switches:

1. Open the switches using a switch opener
2. Separate the components (top housing, bottom housing, stem, and spring)
3. Lubricate the springs with Krytox 105 or GPL 205g0
4. Lubricate the housing and stem:
   • For linear switches: Krytox 205g0 on rails, stem sides
   • For tactile switches: Tribosys 3203 (avoid lubing the tactile legs)
5. Install switch films if desired
6. Reassemble the switches carefully

This process is time-consuming but dramatically improves switch feel and sound.

Flashing Firmware (If Required)

Some PCBs need firmware flashed before building:

1. Download QMK Toolbox or relevant flashing software
2. Connect your PCB via USB
3. Put the PCB in bootloader mode (usually via button or key combination)
4. Flash the appropriate firmware for your PCB
5. Test the PCB to ensure all keys register

Step 5: Assembly Process

Installing Stabilizers

1. Orient stabilizers correctly (stems to the top of the keyboard)
2. Insert stabilizers into PCB or plate depending on stabilizer type
3. Secure screw-in stabilizers with provided screws (if applicable)
4. Test each stabilizer for smooth operation before proceeding

Mounting Switches

For hot-swap PCBs:

1. Place the plate on top of the PCB (if using a plate)
2. Align switch pins with hot-swap sockets
3. Press switches firmly into place, starting with corners
4. Ensure switches are fully seated against the plate

For solder PCBs:

1. Position the plate over the PCB
2. Insert switches through plate into PCB at corners first
3. Solder one pin per switch initially
4. Check alignment before soldering second pins
5. Complete soldering all pins

Case Assembly

1. Install any sound dampening foam if using
2. Place the PCB/plate assembly into the case
3. Secure with screws according to mounting style
4. Test all keys and stabilizers before continuing

Installing Keycaps

1. Identify the homing keys (F and J) which often have different textures
2. Place keycaps on corresponding switches
3. Press firmly until seated
4. Pay special attention to stabilized keys ensuring they’re properly aligned

Step 6: Testing and Troubleshooting

Functionality Testing

1. Connect the keyboard to your computer
2. Test every key using a keyboard tester website
3. Check stabilized keys for proper operation
4. Test any special features (RGB, encoders, etc.)

Common Issues and Solutions

Stabilizer Rattle

• Cause: Insufficient lubrication or loose stabilizer wire
• Solution: Add more dielectric grease to wire or try the Holee mod

Non-Functioning Keys

• Cause: Bent pins, cold solder joint, or PCB damage
• Solution: Reseat the switch, check/repair solder joints, or test PCB traces

Inconsistent Switch Feel

• Cause: Uneven lubrication or switch manufacturing variance
• Solution: Re-lube affected switches or replace them

Case Ping/Resonance

• Cause: Sound reflecting within the case
• Solution: Add case foam, silicone pour, or Polyfill material

Step 7: Firmware Customization

Introduction to QMK/VIA

Glorious GMMK Pro 75% Barebone Keyboard Premium 75% keyboard with QMK/VIA support, gasket-mounted plate, rotary encoder, and RGB lighting in a durable aluminum case

Most custom keyboards use QMK firmware, often configurable through VIA:

• QMK (Quantum Mechanical Keyboard): Open-source firmware allowing complete customization
• VIA: User-friendly interface for QMK that allows real-time changes

Basic Customization

Using VIA or QMK Configurator, you can:

1. Remap keys to your preferred layout
2. Create layers for additional functionality
3. Program macros for complex key sequences
4. Customize RGB lighting if supported
5. Adjust encoders and other special features

Advanced QMK Features

For power users, QMK offers more advanced capabilities:

• Tap dance: Different actions based on number of taps
• Leader key: Key sequences similar to Vim commands
• Auto Shift: Type symbols by holding letters
• Custom RGB effects: Programmed lighting patterns
• OLED displays: Information and status screens

Step 8: Fine-Tuning and Customization

Sound Tuning

KBDfans Module Foam Kit

www.amazon.com — $19.99

Multiple density foam sheets for keyboard sound customization, including case foam, plate foam, and PCB foam for optimal acoustic tuning

Several modifications can alter your keyboard’s sound profile:

• Case foam: Reduces hollow sounds and case ping
• PCB foam: Dampens sound between PCB and plate
• Plate materials: Different materials produce different sounds
• Tape mod: Applying masking tape to the back of the PCB for deeper sounds
• PE foam mod: Adding thin foam between switches and PCB for a “poppy” sound
• Force break mod: Adding tape between case pieces to reduce resonance

Aesthetics and Add-ons

Personalize your keyboard further with:

• Custom cables: Coiled and aviator connectors for a premium look
• Artisan keycaps: Specialty keycaps as accent pieces
• Desk mats: Complement your keyboard’s aesthetics and improve sound
• Wrist rests: Wooden or resin rests for comfort and style
• LED diffusers: Custom light patterns and effects

Recommended Starter Builds by Budget

Budget Build (~$150-200)

AKKO 5075B Plus 75% Wireless Keyboard DIY Kit Affordable 75% keyboard kit with Bluetooth, hot-swappable sockets, south-facing RGB, and gasket mount design - just add switches and keycaps

Components:

• PCB/Case/Plate: Keychron V1 Kit or AKKO 5075B Kit
• Switches: Gateron Yellow/Akko CS switches
• Stabilizers: Included with kit (lube them yourself)
• Keycaps: AKKO profile PBT keycaps or XDA/OEM clone sets

Recommended Mods:

• Lubricate stabilizers
• Tape mod for improved sound
• Add basic foam if not included with kit

Mid-range Build (~$250-350)

Components:

• PCB/Case/Plate: KBD67 Lite R4 or GMMK Pro kit
• Switches: Gateron Ink Black, JWK Alpacas, or Durock T1
• Stabilizers: Durock V2 or C³ Equalz
• Keycaps: ePBT, Akko ASA, or Domikey sets

Recommended Mods:

• Full switch lubrication
• PE foam and tape mods
• Stabilizer tuning (Holee mod)
• Force break mod

Premium Build ($400+)

Components:

• PCB/Case/Plate: Mode Eighty, Satisfaction75, or high-end group buy boards
• Switches: Zealios, Holy Pandas, Zeal Sakurios, or boutique switches
• Stabilizers: Zeal stabilizers or TX stabilizers
• Keycaps: GMK, ePBT, or high-end PBT sets

Recommended Mods:

• Full switch lubrication and filming
• Custom gaskets and advanced foam configuration
• Specialized stabilizer modifications
• Custom-tuned sound profile

Building Resources and Community

Online Communities

Connect with other keyboard enthusiasts through:

• Reddit: r/MechanicalKeyboards, r/CustomKeyboards
• Discord: MechKeys, KeyboardAtelier, vendor-specific servers
• GeekHack: Forum with group buys and discussions
• Keyboard Discographics: Visual keyboard database

Useful Build Videos

Some excellent video tutorials include:

• Taeha Types’ keyboard build streams
• :3ildcat’s silent build videos
• TaeKeyboards’ budget build guides
• Alexotos’ switch lubing guides
• Hamaji Neo’s modification showcases

Reliable Vendors

KBDfans 65% Tofu Keyboard DIY Kit Premium 65% keyboard kit with aluminum case, hot-swap or solder PCB options, brass plate, and stabilizers for a high-quality custom keyboard

Some trusted keyboard component suppliers include:

• KBDfans: Wide selection of components at various price points
• NovelKeys: Switches, keycaps, and keyboard kits
• CannonKeys: Unique in-house designs and group buys
• Divinikey: Excellent US-based vendor with fast shipping
• Omnitype: Premium components and exclusive collaborations
• KineticLabs: Innovative switches and accessories
• Drop: Collaborations and continuous stock of popular items

Conclusion

Building a custom mechanical keyboard is a rewarding journey that results in a truly personalized typing experience. While it requires some initial investment in time and money, the result is a keyboard tailored precisely to your preferences that will likely outperform pre-built options at similar price points.

Start with a budget-friendly hot-swap kit to learn the basics, then gradually explore more advanced modifications and premium components as your interest grows. The keyboard community is welcoming and supportive, with countless resources to help you create your perfect keyboard.

Remember that there’s no single “best” keyboard—only the one that feels and sounds perfect to you. Embrace the experimentation process and enjoy creating a keyboard that enhances your daily typing experience.

Mechanical Keyboard Switch Types Explained Dive deep into the world of mechanical keyboard switches to find the perfect match for your custom keyboard build.