For many enthusiasts, keyboards are more than just input devices – they're creative outlets. Whether you game professionally or just enjoy personalizing your gear, many tools exist for customizing keyboards to your exact preferences. This guide covers 15 top programs and accessories for taking your keyboard to the next level.
Keycap Sets
Custom keycap sets let you completely change the look, texture and even sound profile of your keyboard. Popular options include PBT and ABS plastic, customized legends, novelty artisans, and dual-shot profiles. Sites like Amazon, mechanicalkeyboards.com offer endless choices.
Lube Station
Lubricating switches dramatically improves both feel and sound. A lube station holds all necessary supplies from brushes to films to lubes adjacent during the meticulous process to prevent mess. Models include the Mark’s Lube Station or 1UP RGB Hotswap Lube Station.
Switch Remover
Pulling stock switches requires patience to avoid bend pins or damaged PCB traces. Switch pullers precision-engineered for specific keyboards fasten under switches to gingerly yet firmly leverage them free one by one. Models include the Toolkit Switch Remover or Switch Couture Puller.
Soldering Iron
Modifying boards requires proper soldering skills and equipment. A temperature-controlled iron like the TS100/80 or Weller WLC100 produces solder joints quicker at lower heat to avoid PCB damage. Solder sucker bulbs remove excess solder neatly.
Silicone Case Dampener
Dampening materials curb excess frequencies within hollow plastic cases for a deepened sound profile. Options span shelf-liner material, copious layers of fabric tape, or pre-cut silicone pads customized precisely for specific boards from MKUltra, DES, or TX Keyboards.
Foam Sheets
Internal foam sheets absorb chamber vibrations within keyboards similar to speaker box lining. Sheets sold by MKUltra or KBDFans interlayer between PCB and case internals to refine acoustics.
Plate Foam PCB Foam
Adding insulating foams improves comfort, acoustics and stabilizes PCB flex. Adhesive-backed sheets protect electronics while lining up beautifully inside cases. Dielectric Grease Guards PCB traces from shorts too.
Switch Films
Polycarbonate or PTFE films lubricate and stiffen leaf contact points for crisper actuations. Swapping stock films elevates stock switch feel even before lubing too.
Custom Cables
Coiled, colored, patterns or specific connectors allow your board to truly shine. Artisan cables from Space Cables, Zap Cables and others ship meticulously crafted with paracord, techflex and hardware for perfect match.
Carrying Case
Hard cases by mkultra.click and others feature foam cutouts shielding boards during transport and storage. Soft bags store accessories neatly alongside.
Artisan Keycaps
Unique handcrafted artisan caps from singles, to bundle packs inject personality. Quality artisans from ETF, Glyco, HWS etc. often fetch collector appeal too.
Plate Mount and PCB Mount Stabilizers
Well-lubricated and band-aid modded stabs eliminate rattle for smooth long presses. Durock or Everglide stabs shine stock or modify lightly with tools like the Staede Mod.
Hotswap PCB
Solder-free boards allow easy component swapping via hotswap sockets. Popular options include the DZ60, NK65 or upcoming GMMK Pro.
Switch Tester
Trying different switch types precludes buyer's remorse. Testers let you experience over 100 precise switches to confidently choose your favorites.
LED Strips
Underglow LED strips add flair and customization. Strips attach magnetically beneath boards or within cases for customizable lighting shows.
With the right tools, the possibilities are endless. Find your style by experimenting – your board reflects your unique personality and skills.