Mechanical Keyboard Build Projects
Overview
This project started from a desire to improve the quality and feel of my daily typing experience, both at home and at work. After discovering the world of custom mechanical keyboards, I began building and customising my own boards to better understand how components like switches, keycaps, and stabilisers affect performance and sound. What started as a single build quickly became an ongoing interest, combining technical curiosity with design and user experience.
Skills Learned
Through these builds, I developed a practical understanding of hot-swappable PCBs, switch types, stabiliser tuning, and sound dampening techniques. I also explored the customisation of layouts and firmware through tools like VIA and QMK, and refined my knowledge of keyboard ergonomics, keycap profiles, and case acoustics. Each build required research and attention to detail, particularly in sourcing compatible components and optimising them for both form and function.
Tools and Tech Stack
The builds made use of hot-swappable mechanical keyboards including the GMMK PRO and the Keychron Q1 Pro, both in UK ISO layout. Akko Matcha Latte tactile switches were selected for their smooth actuation and sound profile, paired with lubed and clipped stabilisers for improved key feel. Keycap O-rings were used to dampen bottom-out noise, while various artisan keycaps added a personal aesthetic touch.
Project Log
Phase 1: First Custom Keyboard – GMMK PRO
September 2023
The first build was focused on enhancing my home workstation. I chose the GMMK PRO for its hot-swappable PCB and solid aluminium build. For switches, I used Akko Matcha Latte tactiles, which offered a satisfying sound profile and smooth actuation. I tuned the stabilisers using standard clipping and lubing techniques, and added keycap O-rings to reduce bottom-out noise. Throughout this phase, I gained a working knowledge of mechanical keyboard assembly, sound tuning, and switch handling. I also explored different keycap profiles and materials, and began collecting artisan keycaps for visual and tactile variety.
Phase 2: Second Build – Keychron Q1 Pro
August 2024
The second build was focused on improving my daily workflow in a professional environment. I selected the Keychron Q1 Pro for its wireless capabilities, robust build quality, and full QMK and VIA support. Like the first build, it uses Akko Matcha Latte switches, paired with tuned stabilisers and a refined keycap selection. This build will allow for deeper customisation through VIA, enabling real-time key remapping, macro support, and layout flexibility. The aim of this phase is to apply everything learned from the first build in a work-focused context, while gaining further experience with firmware-level configuration and the practical benefits of a custom mechanical keyboard in a professional setting.
Future Updates Planned
Looking ahead, I plan to expand this project by exploring a wider range of tactile switch types. While the Akko Matcha Latte switches have served as a consistent and satisfying choice for both builds, I’m interested in comparing other tactile options to better understand differences in actuation force, travel feel, and sound profiles. This exploration will help refine future builds and deepen my understanding of mechanical switch design and customisation.
