Keyboard Terms and Definitions

The mechanical keyboard hobby has its own rich and expansive terminology, which can be daunting for newcomers. Whether you’re just getting started or need a quick refresher, this section provides clear and concise explanations of the essential terms, all tailored to help you navigate the world of mechanical keyboards with ease.

ABS

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene

Keycaps

A type of plastic used for keycap production, valued for its sound quality but prone to wear and developing a shiny finish over time. Commonly found in GMK keycaps and premium keyboards.

Actuation Force

Switches

The force required to actuate the switch and close the circuit, measured in grams, which affects typing speed and comfort.

Actuation Point

Switches

The point during a key press where the electrical circuit closes, sending the command to the computer. This determines the typing speed and overall feel of the switch.

Alice

Case Keyboards Layouts

An ergonomic layout where the keyboard is split into two sections angled towards each other, designed to reduce strain on the wrists during typing.

Alpha Keys

Keycaps

The primary keys in the center of the keyboard, consisting of letters, numbers, and punctuation marks.

ANSI Layout

Case Keyboards Layouts PCB

A keyboard layout commonly used in the U.S. and other parts of the world, featuring a wide, single-row Enter key.

Artisan Keycaps

Keycaps

Keycaps with unique shapes and designs, intended primarily as aesthetic additions to the keyboard rather than for frequent use.

Ball-catch mechanism

Case Keyboards

A quick-release mechanism based on magnets, allowing easy opening and closing of the case for upgrades or internal adjustments to the keyboard.

Barebone

Case Keyboards

Custom keyboards that come without switches or keycaps, and in some cases, even without a PCB—requiring you to purchase all these components separately based on your preferences.

Box Stem

Switches

A version of the stem with a square frame around it, providing protection against water and dust intrusion. Common in some advanced switches.

Clack

Sound Test Switches

The opposite of Thock — a high-pitched, sharp sound profile. A clacky sound is achieved by building a keyboard with a metal case, no foam, and switches that produce higher-frequency sounds.

Clicky Switches

Switches

Switches that combine tactile feedback with a loud, distinctive click sound when pressed, typically noisier than other types of switches.

Clip-in Stabilizers

Stabilizers

Stabilizers attached to the PCB using clips. This method provides good stability, similar to screw-in stabilizers, and is considered superior to plate-mounted stabilizers.

Coiled Cable

Modding

A coiled USB cable used to connect the keyboard, available in various colors and designs, serving as an aesthetic addition to the setup.

Double Shot

Keycaps

A keycap manufacturing method where the legend (letter or symbol) is molded as a separate piece in a different color. This technique ensures high sharpness and long-lasting durability.

Dye Sublimation

Dye Sub

Keycaps

A keycap printing method where dye is infused into the plastic using heat and pressure, making the legends an integral part of the material. This method is generally less sharp than Double Shot.

Ergo Split Keyboard

Layouts

A keyboard split into two separate parts that can be positioned at different angles and distances for user comfort. Split keyboards are designed to reduce strain on the joints and can help those suffering from joint pain.

Filming

Switches

The addition of a thin film between the top and bottom housing of the switch to improve stem stability, prevent wobbling, and enhance the sound.

Flex Cuts

PCB

Grooves or cuts in the PCB or plate that add extra flexibility and affect the typing feel. These cuts can also influence the keyboard’s sound profile.

Force Break Mod

Modding

A mod designed for metal keyboards, where layers of insulating tape are added between the case parts to eliminate the unpleasant metallic “ping” sound during typing.