Are you tired of mass‑produced keyboards that all look the same? Do you want an input tool that is unique in both feel and appearance? Welcome to the world of DIY keyboard! Building your own keyboard and pairing it with personalized DIY keycaps not only brings great satisfaction but also significantly improves your daily typing experience. This article will walk you through the popular keyboard layouts (including 100% and 87%), and show you how to build a custom keyboard from scratch that truly belongs to you.

Why Choose a DIY Keyboard?

The charm of a DIY keyboard lies in “freedom”. You are free to choose the switches (linear, tactile, clicky), case material, plate, and – most visibly – DIY keycaps. Whether you pursue the ultimate typing feel or a one‑of‑a‑kind aesthetic, custom keyboards can satisfy you. Moreover, the process gives you a deep understanding of each component, making future maintenance and upgrades effortless.

Mainstream Keyboard Layouts: 100% vs. 87% and Beyond

Before starting your DIY keyboard project, you need to decide on a layout. Different layouts directly affect your usage habits and desk space. Below are the two most common choices:

100% Layout (Full Size)

The 100% layout is the standard full‑size keyboard. It includes the main alphanumeric area, the navigation cluster (Insert, Delete, etc.), arrow keys, and a dedicated numeric keypad – 104 or 108 keys in total. This is the most traditional and feature‑complete layout.

• Pros: Ideal for users who frequently enter numbers (e.g., accounting, data entry). All function keys are directly accessible without layer switching.
• Cons: Takes up more desk space and restricts mouse movement on the right.
• Best for: Users who prioritize productivity, don’t mind the size, and need a separate numpad.

87% Layout (TenKeyLess, TKL)

The 87% layout removes the numeric keypad found on full‑size keyboards, keeping only the main alphanumeric area, navigation cluster, and arrow keys – 87 keys in total. This is currently the top choice for gamers and fans of minimal desk setups.

• Pros: Leaves more room for your mouse, looks more compact, and is easier to carry.
• Cons: No dedicated number pad, making number entry slightly less efficient (can be solved with an external pad or function layers).
• Best for: Gamers, users with limited desk space, and those who love symmetrical aesthetics.

Other Common Layouts (60%, 75%, etc.)

Besides 100% and 87%, there are even smaller layouts like 75% (keeps the F‑row but in a compact arrangement) and 60% (removes the F‑row and arrow keys). These further reduce footprint but usually require multi‑layer key combinations to access missing functions – suitable for enthusiasts and mobile workers. If you are new to DIY keyboard, it is advisable to start with 87% or 100% – they are more aligned with most people’s habits.

How to Start Your First DIY Keyboard Project?

Step 1: Choose a Kit or Separate Parts

You can buy a kit that includes the case, PCB, and plate, or you can source everything individually. For beginners, a hot‑swappable PCB is highly recommended – you can change switches without soldering, greatly lowering the barrier to entry.

Step 2: Select Your Switches

Switches define the typing feel. Common brands include Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh. According to feel, they are divided into:

• Linear switches: Smooth up‑and‑down travel, great for gaming.
• Tactile switches: A slight bump during travel, good for typing.
• Clicky switches: A crisp “click” sound, delivering the classic mechanical feel.

Step 3: Customize Your DIY Keycaps – The Finishing Touch

DIY keycaps are the most eye‑catching part of your keyboard. You can approach customization from the following aspects:

• Material: ABS (smooth feel but prone to shining) vs. PBT (wear‑resistant, textured feel). PBT is better for long‑term use.
• Profile: Common profiles include OEM, Cherry, SA (tall spherical), and XDA (flat). Different profiles affect typing angle and sound.
• Personalization: You can buy ready‑made themed keycaps (e.g., retro typewriter, anime, minimal solid colors), or go truly DIY – use blank keycaps with dye‑sublimation stickers, or even cast your own resin keycaps. Some players customize a single artisan keycap (e.g., a cartoon pattern for the Esc key), instantly making the keyboard the centerpiece of their desk.

Tip: If you choose a 100% layout keyboard, make sure your keycap set includes numpad extras (such as the 1U “0”, Plus, Enter). For an 87% layout, you only need the main alphanumeric area plus TKL modifiers. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.

Step 4: Assembly and Testing

1. Insert the switches into the plate and PCB (for hot‑swap, just press firmly; for soldered, you will need a soldering iron).
2. Install the DIY keycaps, pressing from the outer edges toward the center to ensure a secure fit.
3. Connect the keyboard to your computer and use an online key tester to check that every key registers correctly.
4. (Optional) Flash the firmware to customize key mappings and RGB lighting.

Common DIY Questions

Q: Is a DIY keyboard much more expensive than a mass‑produced one?
Not necessarily. An entry‑level kit with basic switches and keycaps can be priced around $40‑70 USD – comparable to a mid‑range pre‑built. However, high‑end rare parts (metal cases, custom keycaps) do cost more.

Q: I have no soldering experience. Can I still build a DIY keyboard?
Absolutely. Choose a hot‑swappable PCB – no soldering is required at all, making it as easy as building with LEGO. Only a few older or special kits require soldering.

Q: Is there a service that prints my own design onto DIY keycaps?
Yes. Gimsun custom offer UV printing or dye‑sublimation customization. You can upload your own design to create a keycap set that is truly unique in the world.

Summary: Create Your Own Personalized Typing Tool

Whether you prefer the productivity‑oriented 100% full‑size keyboard or the space‑saving 87% TKL keyboard, a DIY keyboard allows you to enjoy an experience that mass‑produced boards cannot match. And DIY keycaps offer you unlimited creative space – from colors and fonts to patterns, every single key can become an extension of your personality.

Start planning your first custom keyboard now! From choosing a layout, to picking a kit, to finally installing a set of keycaps you love – the process itself is as enjoyable as the typing. If you are already intrigued, begin with a hot‑swappable 87% kit and a set of PBT DIY keycaps to take your first step into custom keyboards.

Your keyboard, your rules.