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Mechanical Keyboard Basics

Once you step in to the world of custom mechanical keyboards, there’s no going back. Experiencing their responsive tactility, satisfying acoustics, and customizable aesthetic is a game-changer for both work and play. Learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a custom keyboard.

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

What are Mechanical Keyboards?

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

What are Mechanical Keyboards?

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

What are Mechanical Keyboards?

Mechanical Keyboards

A mechanical keyboard uses individual switches beneath the keycaps to register each press. Switches make keystrokes more precise, deliver premium acoustics, and feel satisfyingly tactile, which is why gamers, writers, and developers often prefer them. With a wide variety of switch types available, you can customize the sound and feel to suit your style perfectly.

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Membrane Keyboards

A membrane keyboard uses a large silicone rubber pad underneath the keys to register each press. They’re more affordable and easy to produce, which is why they’re commonly found in schools and offices. However, they lack the tactility, acoustics, and aesthetics mechanical keyboards are known for. Because there’s just rubber underneath the keycaps, keystrokes feel "mushy" and lack any key travel. 

*This image is not a Glorious keyboard and only intended to be representative of membrane keyboards.

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

Anatomy of a Mechanical Keyboard

Discover the essential components that bring a mechanical keyboard to life, from switches to keycaps and everything in between.

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

Anatomy of a Mechanical Keyboard

Discover the essential components that bring a mechanical keyboard to life,
from switches to keycaps and everything in between.

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD BASICS

Anatomy of a Mechanical Keyboard

Discover the essential components that bring a mechanical keyboard to life,
from switches to keycaps and everything in between.

Keycaps

Keycaps are the face of your mechanical keyboard, sitting atop switches to display each key’s function. Unlike membrane or laptop keyboards, they’re fully customizable and easy to replace, offering endless styles, colors, and materials to perfect your aesthetic or swap out damaged keys effortlessly.

Switches

Switches are the heart of a mechanical keyboard, registering each keystroke and shaping the feel and sound of your typing. From smooth and quiet to tactile and clicky, they offer a wide range of feedback styles. Curious about the types? Explore more in our dedicated guide.

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Stabilizers

Stabilizers are key for larger keys like the spacebar, shift, and enter, preventing wobble and ensuring smooth, even keystrokes. . They can be tuned, modded, or swapped to enhance your typing experience, reducing any unwanted rattle and improving key feel.

Switch Plate

The backbone of a premium mechanical keyboard, a switch plate secures the switches, protects the PCB, and delivers a firmer, more consistent typing feel. Some keyboards offer swappable plates, letting you fine-tune the sound and feel to your liking.

PCB (Printed Circuit Board)

Essentially the brain of the keyboard. The PCB connects the switches and translates every keystroke, sending it to your computer via wired or wireless connection—making it the essential hub for everything you type.

Foam Layers

For those seeking premium acoustics, foam layers are your secret weapon. High-end mechanical keyboards often have two foam layers: one between the plate and PCB, and another at the bottom of the case. These layers dampen higher-pitched noises, delivering a quieter, more satisfying sound profile with every keypress.

What is a Hotswap Mechanical Keyboard

Switches attach to a keyboard’s PCB in two ways: soldered or hot-swapped.Hot-swapping lets users experiment with different switches or quickly replace faulty ones, making it a favorite for gamers and typists alike. No soldering required!

Hall Effect Keyboards

Hall Effect keyboards may look like traditional mechanical keyboards, but they use magnetism to deliver a whole new level of speed and precision that standard switches can’t match. Perfect for gamers seeking faster response times and enhanced control.

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