Mechanical Keyboard PCB Board | How to Select?

Choosing the right Printed Circuit Board (PCB) for your mechanical keyboard is crucial, impacting functionality, customization, and typing experience significantly. When selecting a PCB, several essential factors come into play:

Compatibility with Keyboard Layout

• Size and Form Factor: The PCB must align with your desired keyboard size (full-size, tenkeyless, 60%, etc.) and layout (ANSI, ISO, etc.).
• Case and Plate Compatibility: Verify that the PCB fits your keyboard’s case and plate, ensuring dimensions and mounting points match.

Switch Compatibility

• Switch Type: Confirm the PCB supports your chosen switches (Cherry MX, Alps, Topre, etc.), with some offering switch agnosticism for added flexibility.
• Hot-Swappable vs. Soldered: Decide between a hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement or a soldered PCB for a wider switch selection.

Key Rollover

• NKRO: N-Key Rollover is essential for gaming and fast typing, allowing multiple keystrokes simultaneously without ghosting.

Programmability and Firmware

• Customizability: Choose a PCB with customizable firmware like QMK or VIA for in-depth key remapping and macro programming.
• Ease of Programming: The simplicity of the programming interface is vital for those planning to personalize their keyboard’s layout or functions.

Connectivity

• Wired vs. Wireless: Select between a wired (USB) or wireless (Bluetooth) PCB, taking into account latency, battery life, and ease of use.
• USB Port Type: Check the USB connection type (USB-C, Micro-USB) and its placement for compatibility with your cable and desk setup.

Lighting Options

• Backlighting: If backlighting is a priority, ensure the PCB supports single-color or RGB lighting.
• Underglow: Consider PCBs with RGB underglow for enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Build Quality and Durability

• Material and Construction: Opt for PCBs known for their durability and longevity, based on reviews or technical specs.
• Manufacturer Reputation: Buying from reputable manufacturers ensures quality and reliability.

Budget

• Cost Considerations: PCB prices can range significantly. It’s important to balance your budget with the necessary features and quality.

In conclusion, selecting a PCB for a mechanical keyboard requires a detailed evaluation of technical specifications, personal needs, and preferences. From ensuring compatibility with your setup to weighing features like programmability, switch compatibility, connectivity, and budget, each factor is key. A carefully chosen PCB can greatly improve your keyboard’s performance, enhancing your typing or gaming experience.