Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
https://kineticlabs.com/blog
The latest guides, tutorials, and resources to learn how to get started with custom mechanical keyboards. Learn build guides and tutorials from community experts.
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Vintage Switch Mods for Modern Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover creative DIY switch mods from the early keyboard hobby days. Learn dyeing, Copre mods, and O-ring techniques for your modern switches.
3ヶ月前

Why "Less Than Perfect" Switches Are Perfect For Your Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Budget keyboard switches can save you money, offer unique character, and are highly modifiable. Here's why imperfect switches may be the perfect choice for you.
6ヶ月前

Can You Build a Mechanical Keyboard With Mixed Switches?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Yes, you can use different switches in one mechanical keyboard! Learn about mixed switch builds, historical precedent, and creative ways to customize your board.
7ヶ月前

Keyboard Sound is Basically Impossible to Get Right…
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover why targeting a specific mechanical keyboard sound is harder than you think. Learn about the hidden factors affecting your mechanical keyboard's audio.
8ヶ月前

Are Blue Switches Always Clicky? Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Switch Colors
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover why blue switches aren't always clicky. Learn about linear and tactile blue switches from HMX, Durock, and Tbcats that break traditional color rules.
8ヶ月前

What Switch Films Can Actually Do For Your Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover what keyboard switch films really do: from fixing housing wobble to sound tuning. Learn when to use them and avoid common misconceptions. Written by Theremingoat.
8ヶ月前

5 Essential Tips for Lubing Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Learn expert tips for lubing mechanical keyboard switches from proper technique to essential tools. Includes best practices for consistent results from ThereminGoat.
10ヶ月前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Better for Typing? A Complete Guide for 2025
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover why mechanical keyboards offer a superior typing experience with customizable switches, better ergonomics, and longer durability compared to membrane keyboards.
1年前

What it Takes to Get Custom Keyboard Switches Made
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover the complex journey of custom mechanical switch manufacturing, from factory selection to production, with insights from ThereminGoat and Kinetic Labs
1年前

Will These Keyboard Switches Work With Hotswap Sockets? A Comprehensive Guide
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Confused about switch compatibility with hotswap keyboards? Learn which switch types work with hotswap sockets, how to modify 5-pin switches, and more in this complete guide.
1年前

Why Mechanical Keyboards Feel Better Than Membrane
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover why mechanical keyboards feel better than membrane with tactile feedback, durability, customization options, and improved performance. Your fingers will thank you!
1年前

How Mechanical Keyboard Switches Are Made
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover the fascinating manufacturing process behind mechanical keyboard switches, from injection molding to quality control and assembly, with insights from ThereminGoat.
1年前

Tools to Mod Your Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Essential tools for modifying and customizing mechanical keyboard switches: perfect for beginners and experts alike. Upgrade your build with ease!
1年前

Why Are There So Many Mechanical Keyboard Switch Brands?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
You've probably come across dozens of mechanical keyboard switch brands by now. Have you ever wondered how we ended up with so many?
1年前

Keyboard Switch Testers Are Underrated
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Mechanical keyboard switch testers are a great way to get started with keyboards. Here are Theremingoat's thoughts on switch testers.
1年前

Keyboard Switches Are Not Going to Crack Your Keycaps
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Switches won’t crack your keycaps in most cases, so check out this blog post to learn more about what to watch out for when using new switches for your build!
1年前

The Four Common Types of MX Switch Mechanisms
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This blog post by Theremingoat details the origin and history of the most commonly used switch mechanisms and how they function when typing on your keyboard!
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Ergonomic?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This blog post by Preston questions whether mechanical keyboards are ergonomic, highlights the benefits of using a keyboard and provides options to try and buy!
2年前

Best Mechanical Keyboards with Numpads
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This blog post by Preston discusses the best full-size mechanical keyboards with numpads from well-known brands, comparing their included features and more!
2年前

Dispelling a Few Keyboard Switch Myths
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post by Theremingoat will clarify some switch lore and provide key details for topics about Kailh, Hall Effect and the 'best' general switch!
2年前

How to Describe Any Tactile Switch
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This blog post by Thermingoat describes tactile switches in detail and introduces a size and strength spectrum for discussions about these kinds of switches.
2年前

What Some Switch Marketing Terms Really Mean
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Switch marketing terms can be confusing. This short blog post by Theremingoat goes over some of the terms commonly used when describing switches in the niche.
2年前

Magnets? In My Switches??
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
What are Hall Effect Switches? Theremingoat's latest blog post will go into depth about this type of switch and how they work in a mechanical keyboard!
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Harder to Press?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Could mechanical keyboards be harder to press? Preston's blog post goes into depth about what contributes to a keyboard's weight and overall feel when typing!
2年前

Do Switch Testers Help?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do switch tester packs actually help with your next purchase? This blog post discusses this type of product and its benefits for researching your next switch!
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Worth It?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Are you curious if mechanical keyboards are actually helpful? This blog post by Preston details their benefits and why you should use this type of keyboard.
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Better for Gaming?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Could mechanical keyboards make you better at gaming? This short blog post outlines the benefits of using a keyboard and how they can be useful when gaming.
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Really Loud?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post by Preston, questions if mechanical keyboards are too loud. Read more to go over the best switch type for your next office keyboard build!
2年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Too Loud for Work?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Ever wonder if your keyboard would be too loud for office work? This blog post by Preston will provide switch recommendations for your office typing sessions!
2年前

Linear Switches Aren't All the Same!
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post by Theremingoat discusses the differences between linear switches and provides research to highlight what to look for in each of them!
2年前

TG67 V3 Review
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post goes over Preston's review of the TG67 V3 Mechanical Keyboard kit and his overview of the updates and specifications of this keyboard.
2年前

Favorite Keyboard Switches of 2024
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This blog post talks about Preston's favorite mechanical switches for 2024! Each switch has its specifications and a personal review by Preston as a summary.
2年前

Switch Materials Are a Bit Complicated
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Ever wonder what switch materials are made up of? This blog post will go into detail about the main types of switch materials used in most switches!
2年前

What Are “Long Pole” Keyboard Switches?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Have you heard of Long Pole Switches? This short blog post will talk about this type of switch and provide a deeper look into how they function for your build.
2年前

Best Gateron Linear Switches Overview
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do you like linear switches? This blog post goes into depth about our listings of Gateron's switches and will help you learn more about their linear lineup.
2年前

Keyboard Build Ideas for Every Budget
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
From frugal to fancy: This blog post will discuss keyboard purchases across every budget, helping you find the perfect fit for your next mechanical keyboard.
3年前

Gateron Tactile Switches Overview
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do you like tactile switches? This blog post goes into depth about our listings of Gateron's switches and will help you learn more about their tactile lineup.
3年前

TG67 V3 Mechanical Keyboard Assembly Guide
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this post, we review how to assemble your TG67 V3 mechanical keyboard, configure it with VIA, and debug common issues.
3年前

Should I Get A Budget Keyboard From Temu?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Is a budget Temu mechanical keyboard worth it? Come check out our short blog post to weigh the pros and cons of these affordable mechanical keyboard options.
3年前

The Pros and Cons of an Ergonomic Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post breaks down all of the pros and cons of ergonomic keyboards and will help you decide if this type of board is fit for your typing needs.
3年前

3 Tiers to Keyboard Switch Modding
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Interested in modding your switches? In this short blog post, we find out what's possible when modifying switches in three easy tiers that you can learn today!
3年前

What Makes a Keyboard Silent Switch Silent?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Ever wonder what makes a switch "silent"? This blog post will provide some examples of silent switches and provide a brief overview of how these switches work.
3年前

An Overview of Wuque Studio Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Let's learn more about Wuque Studio switches! This blog post overviews their current switch lineup and discusses each switch and its features.
3年前

Top 5 Best Selling Gateron Switches (2024)
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Gateron switches are among the most popular switches in the mechanical keyboard space. In this post, we explore the top 5 best-selling Gateron switches.
3年前

Tips for Recording A Good Keyboard Typing Sound Test
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do you want to make a keyboard sound test? This blog post will tell you everything you need to know to create an excellent typing sound test for your keyboard!
3年前

Does Your Mechanical Keyboard Need Arrow Keys?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do you really need arrow keys for your keyboard? This blog post talks about the history of arrow keys and provides some alternatives to use for your keyboard.
3年前

Ideas for a Monochrome (Black & White) Desk Setup
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Do you want to make a keyboard sound test? This blog post will tell you everything you need to know to create an excellent typing sound test for your keyboard!
3年前

An Introduction to Clicky Switch Mechanisms
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Are you curious about how clicky switches work? This article will talk about the mechanics of these switches and provide clarity on what makes a switch clicky.
3年前

An Overview of Keychron's Q-Series Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post explores the Keychron Q-Series lineup and provides an overview of each variant's core features and similarities for your next big purchase.
3年前

What to Expect at Your First Mechanical Keyboard Meetup
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post explores the Keychron Q-Series lineup and provides an overview of each variant's core features and similarities for your next big purchase.
3年前

VIA (QMK) Mappings for VS Code Programmers
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Boost your productivity with keyboard shortcuts for the VSCode IDE! This short blog post covers common keyboard shortcuts to save time and excel in your tasks.
3年前

2024 Keyboard Layout Trends You Should Check Out
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Stay ahead with 2024's hottest keyboard trends! This blog post highlights must-see innovations and features to heighten and redefine your typing experience.
3年前

What are Alice Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Curious about Alice keyboards? This short blog post will talk about the Alice keyboard layout and how its unique design will impact your daily typing routine!
3年前

Mechanical Keyboard Forums Explained
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Want to learn about more relevant forums for keebs? This blog post will introduce you to the most commonly used forums so you can learn more from the community!
3年前

How to Know If A Keycap Set Fits Your Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Ensure a perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard! This blog post will guide you through the process of verifying keycap compatibility for your next build.
3年前

Keyboard VIA Mappings for Photoshop Editing
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Elevate your Photoshop skills! This blog post goes into detail about essential keyboard shortcuts to map in VIA to boost your editing speed and efficiency.
3年前

QMK / VIA Keyboard Shortcuts for Designers (Adobe Suite)
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Boost your productivity with keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac! This short blog post covers common keyboard shortcuts to save time and excel in your tasks.
3年前

An Introduction to Chosfox Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
What are Chosfox Switches? Dive into our blog post to learn more about this brand and the different options available for each type of switch for your keyboard.
3年前

Top 5 Things You Need for Your Gaming Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Get ready to level up your gaming experience! Check out our latest guide on the must-have features and factors to look out for with your next gaming keyboard.
3年前

What Stabilizers To Buy for Your Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Choosing some new stabilizers for your mechanical keyboard? Don't miss our blog post! Discover the best choices so you can enhance your typing experience today!
3年前

Keyboard Switch Leaves Explained
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short blog post talks about keyboard switch leaves and the significant role they play in determining a switch's tactility and general feel when in use.
3年前

Are Mechanical Keyboards Better for Productivity?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Can you really boost productivity with mechanical keyboards? This post explores if they live up to the hype so let's find out if they're the key to efficiency!
3年前

How Mechanical Keyboard PCBs Work (Technical Dive)
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this blog post, we go over all of the components that formulate a mechanical keyboard PCB and delve deeper into what each element of the PCB means for you.
3年前

Understanding Switch Springs and Switch Swapping
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
What are switch springs and switch swapping? This blog post talks about these key aspects to further your understanding of your next set of mechanical switches.
3年前

Beginner Mechanical Keyboard Questions Answered
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
New to mechanical keyboards? Find answers to beginner questions and discover everything you need to know to find the perfect keyboard build for your setup!
3年前

What are VIA and QMK for Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Unraveling the mystery: VIA and QMK explained! This blog post dives into these essential keyboard firmware platforms and unlock new customization possibilities.
3年前

4 Things To Consider Before Buying a Wireless Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this guide you will learn about the most important considerations you should have in mind when purchasing a wireless keyboard and its pros and cons as well.
3年前

You’re Not Trying Enough Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Are you missing out on the next best set of switches? This post reveals why trying new brands is essential and talks about how you can find your ideal switches!
3年前

A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Let's face it. We all eat and drink when we're using our keyboards, which is fine and all, but when you dare look at the cracks between your keycaps you might get a little disgusted.
3年前

Overview of Popular Keyboard Switch Housing Materials
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this short and concise guide, you will discover the different types of mechanical switch housing materials that you need to know for your upcoming build.
3年前

What Are Mechanical Keyboard PCBs?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Discover the inner workings of mechanical keyboard PCBs in our latest guide. Find out more about how these crucial components support your keyboard layout!
3年前

N-key Rollover in Mechanical Keyboards Explained
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This is a short guide on N-key rollover (NKRO) and how this feature prevents "ghosting" or missed keystrokes when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.
3年前

How to Test Your Mechanical Keyboard PCB
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
This short guide describes testing mechanical keyboard PCB with concise instructions, tools needed, and methods to check for defective switches or connections.
3年前

How to Properly Silence Your Keyboard Stabilizers
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Tuning your stabilizers can be daunting and in this short guide you will learn everything you need to properly and easily modify and fine-tune your stabilizers.
3年前

Can Wrist Rests Be Good for Your Health?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Ever wonder what wrist rests can do for you? Learn more about the functions and benefits of wrist rests and the factors you should consider when buying one.
3年前

Comparing Mechanical Keyboard Plate Materials
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Mechanical keyboards use a variety of different plate materials, including PC, FR4, and Aluminum. In this guide, I review several options to help you choose.
3年前

Anti-ghosting in Keyboards Explained: Why Does It Matter?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
If you've ever wondered what anti-ghosting is, then this article is for you: in a few words I explain what it is and why it's important for your keyboard.
3年前

An Introductory Guide to Keyboard Switch Springs
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, have you stopped to consider the type of spring used? In this guide, I cover common spring types.
3年前

Are Large Desk Mats (XXL Mouse Pads) Better?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Desk mats (aka XXL mouse pads) come in various different sizes, and in this guide I help you decide which desk mat size is right for you and your desk.
3年前

Dye-Sub vs Double-Shot Legends in Keyboard Keycaps
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Mechanical keyboard keycap legends come in two forms: dye-sublimated and double-shot (aka injection molded). Here I explore the pros and cons of both methods.
3年前

An Overview of Essential Mechanical Keyboard Tools
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this guide, I cover some essential tools and accessories for building and modding mechanical keyboards including keycap pullers, soldering irons, & more!
3年前

What Does "Thock" Mean?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
We hear the word "thock" and "thocky" thrown around a lot in the mechanical keyboard community, but what does it really mean? Simply put, thock is a sound.
3年前

Overview of Mechanical Keyboard Mods
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
With so many mechanical keyboard mods out there to make your keyboard feel and sound great, it can get a little overwhelming. In this post I break it all down.
3年前

Choosing Between Linear, Tactile, and Clicky Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
There are 3 main types of switches: linear, tactile, and clicky. In this post, I go over some tips to help you decide which switch type is right for you.
3年前

Mechanical vs Membrane Keyboards: Which Is Best?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
When it comes to choosing a keyboard for your computer, you have to choose between mechanical keyboards and membrane keyboards. Which one is right for you?
3年前

Moon V2 Hand-Lubed 205g0 Linear Switch Review
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
A review of the new Moon V2 linear switches from Agile and Kinetic Labs with factory pre-lubrication by hand with Krytox 205g0 for a smooth stock switch.
3年前

Plastic vs. Metal Mechanical Keyboards: Pros & Cons
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Plastic mechanical keyboards versus metal keyboards: which is better? Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, but here's some pros & cons.
3年前

An Intro to Frankenswitches for Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
An introduction to frankenswitches: like all things mechanical keyboard related, customization is the name of the game when combining switches together.
3年前

An Overview of Mechanical Keyboard Layouts
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In this blog post, I go over the most popular mechanical keyboard layout options, from 40% up to 100% layouts to help you choose the one that's best for you.
3年前

Mechanical Keyboard Suggestions For The Office
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
You spend just as much time typing on your mechanical keyboard as you do sleeping, so why not invest in improving your workspace to be as efficient as possible?
3年前

How to Build a Silent Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Silent mechanical keyboards are ideal for group settings, offices, and libraries. In this post, I give you some tips to help you build a silent keyboard.
3年前

Can using a Mechanical Keyboard make you a better programmer?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
I conducted an impromptu survey on the NJIT campus to see what students and faculty think about using mechanical keyboards for programming.
3年前

Mechanical Keyboards and Female Gamers: An Interview
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
In an interview with Alannah, a project manager and content creator by day and cosplayer and streamer by hobby, we talk mechanical keyboards and female gamers.
3年前

Gateron Yellow Switches: KS-3, KS-X, What's It All Mean?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Gateron yellow switches come in all shapes and sizes, from KS-3 to KS-8 to G Pro. In this article we explore some of the key differences between these switches.
3年前

Hot-Swap Keyboard vs Soldered PCB: Does it Matter?
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Mechanical keyboards are typically offered as hot-swap or solderable, but which option is best for your keyboard build? In this post we list some pros and cons.
3年前

Wuque Studios WS Silent Tactile Keyboard Switch Review
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Wuque Studios recently launched their silent tactile switches at a great price. In this article, I explore some things that make this silent switch unique.
3年前

How to Install Switches On Hot-Swap Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Installing mechanical keyboard switches on hot-swappable keyboards is an easy process. In this post we cover how to install hot-swap switches on your keyboard.
3年前
What to Look for When Buying Mechanical Keyboard Keycaps
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Buying keycaps for your mechanical keyboard is important for tuning the sound and feel of your keyboard. We cover PBT and ABS as well as key considerations.
3年前

What to Look for When Buying Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Here are some key factors to consider when buying mechanical keyboard switches, which are one of the most important components of your mechanical keyboard.
3年前

5 Ways to Deepen the Sound of Your Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard Blog by Kinetic Labs
Mechanical keyboards are all about customization. Though some prefer clacky sounds, in this article we cover how to deepen the sound of your mechanical keyboard.
3年前