Glossary

Alphanumeric block only, no arrows or function row — about 61 keys. Maximum compactness; navigation moves to a function (Fn) layer.

See also: 65%, Layer (Fn layer)

Drops the function row but keeps dedicated arrow keys and a few nav keys — about 68 keys. A popular balance of compactness and usability.

See also: 75%, 60%

A compact layout that keeps the function row and arrows but tightens spacing and merges the nav cluster into a column. Near-TKL function in a much smaller footprint.

See also: Tenkeyless (TKL / 80%), 65%

A common keycap plastic — smoother and often thinner than PBT, and prone to developing a shine where fingers contact it. Inexpensive and capable of vivid colors and doubleshot legends.

See also: PBT, Keycaps

The force, in grams-force (gf), needed to register a keypress. Lighter switches (~35–45 gf) reduce finger fatigue; heavier ones (~60–70 gf) resist accidental presses. A preference, not a quality measure.

See also: Linear switch, Tactile switch

A tactile switch that also produces a distinct click sound at actuation, usually via a click jacket or click bar. Cherry MX Blue is the classic example. Loud — a poor choice for shared spaces.

See also: Tactile switch, Linear switch

A layout with the alphanumeric block, function row, navigation cluster, and a dedicated numpad — roughly 104 keys. Maximum functionality, maximum desk footprint.

See also: Tenkeyless (TKL / 80%), 75%, 65%, 60%

A mounting style where the plate/PCB assembly is suspended between gasket strips rather than screwed to the case, giving a softer, more cushioned typing feel. Popular in enthusiast boards.

See also: Tray mount, PCB

A PCB with sockets that let you change switches by hand, no soldering. Makes experimentation and repair easy at a small cost premium and, on some boards, slightly less rigidity than a soldered build.

See also: Soldered, PCB

The removable caps you press, defined by material (PBT, ABS), profile (Cherry, OEM, SA, etc.), and legend method. They change a board's sound, feel, and longevity more than most buyers expect.

See also: PBT, ABS, Stabilizers

A secondary set of key functions accessed by holding a modifier (usually Fn). Compact boards rely on layers to provide arrows, F-keys, and media controls.

See also: 60%, QMK / VIA

A switch with smooth, consistent travel and no tactile bump or click. Favored for fast typing and gaming. Cherry MX Red and Gateron Red are common examples.

See also: Tactile switch, Clicky switch, Actuation force

Applying lubricant to switch housings, stems, springs, and stabilizers to reduce scratch and rattle and smooth the keypress. The single most common enthusiast mod.

See also: Stabilizers, Linear switch

A dense, durable keycap plastic with a slightly textured surface that resists shine. Generally preferred over ABS for longevity, at a higher cost.

See also: ABS, Keycaps

The printed circuit board that registers keypresses. Determines hot-swap support, layout options, RGB, and wireless capability.

See also: Hot-swap, Soldered

How often the keyboard reports its state to the computer, in Hz. 1000 Hz (1 ms) is standard; higher rates exist but offer diminishing real-world benefit for typing.

See also: Wireless (2.4 GHz vs Bluetooth)

Open-source keyboard firmware (QMK) and its companion GUI configurator (VIA) for remapping keys, building layers, and creating macros without recompiling. Strong support is a real buying differentiator.

See also: Layer (Fn layer)

A PCB where switches are permanently soldered in place. More work to change switches, but typically cheaper and very secure. Fine if you already know which switch you want.

See also: Hot-swap, PCB

Mechanisms under wide keys (spacebar, Enter, Shift, Backspace) that keep them level. Untuned stabilizers rattle; lubing and tuning them is one of the highest-impact mods for sound and feel.

See also: Keycaps, Lubing

A switch with a noticeable bump partway through the keypress signalling actuation, without an audible click. Cherry MX Brown is the archetype; many enthusiast tactiles have a sharper bump.

See also: Linear switch, Clicky switch

Full-size minus the numpad — about 87 keys. Keeps the function row and nav cluster while freeing desk and mouse space. A common ergonomic compromise.

See also: Full-size (100%), 75%

The most common budget mounting style: the PCB screws into posts in the case bottom. Simple and cheap, but can feel uneven across the board depending on post placement.

See also: Gasket mount

2.4 GHz dongles offer near-wired latency and are best for gaming; Bluetooth is more convenient for multi-device use with slightly higher latency. Many boards support both plus wired.

See also: Polling rate