It’s a world of choices when you’re building your own mechanical keyboard. From picking out the right switch to selecting the perfect keycap set – you’re going to need some proficiency and some appropriate tools to get your hands dirty. Hence, this list of the best tools that can help transform your mechanical keyboard dreams into a reality.
First on the list is a wire keycap puller such as the WASD Keycap Puller. These must-haves assist you in removing keycaps without scratching the surface or damaging the stems. The wire grip design is safer for keycap removal, the sleek metal wire engineered specifically to tug at the underside of keycaps with precision and care.
Next is a switch puller or remover, which is crucial for hot-swappable keyboards. Purchasing a standalone switch puller like the YMDK Stainless Steel MX Switch Puller allows you to swap your switches easily without risking any damage. Its reversed-vertical design ensures accuracy, and the rubber-coated grips offer convenience and sturdiness during operation.
A perfect companion for soldering tasks is a high-quality soldering station. The Hakko FX888D-23BY Soldering Station comes highly recommended due to its advanced features. With its digital temperature controls, adjustable preset temperatures, and thermal recovery functionality, this soldering station is highly efficient for both professional and DIY purposes.
For desoldering tasks, a vacuum desoldering pump like the Engineer SS-02 Solder Sucker is invaluable. This high-powered, compact tool makes desoldering a breeze for keyboard enthusiasts. Its silicone nozzles resist high temperatures, and its high pressure vacuum can easily suck up molten solder away from your PCB.
When handling tiny screws, a set of precision screwdrivers can come in handy. Sets like the iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit offer a wide selection of specialized bits to accommodate all types of screws. They are magnetic for easy handling, and the sturdy case and organization makes it a great choice for all your small hardware needs.
For lubricating, a brush is essential. The Da Vinci Series 10 Size 0 Brush offers incredible precision for applying lubricants to your switches. Manufactured in Germany, the high quality natural Kolinsky Sable hair ensures perfect shape retention and is ideal for intricate tasks such as applying lube to your stabilizers.
The Tribosys 3204 Switch Lubricant is a fantastic choice for lubing linear switches. This lubricant offers a superior typing experience by reducing friction between the moving parts of your switches. Non-thickened and non-flowing, it adds smoothness without inhibiting the distinct mechanical sounds.
For your soldering tasks, using the Kester 63/37 No-Clean Flux Solder is a wise choice. Its lower melting point, superior joint strength, and no-clean properties have made it popular among electronic hobbyists and professionals.
A PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is the vital component of your keyboard build. The DZ60RGB-ANSI V2 Hot Swap PCB is a user-friendly and versatile choice for its standard ANSI layout, hot-swap sockets, and onboard RGB lighting.
For those seeking to customize their stabilizers, Band-Aid mod is a frequent choice. Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid, Clear Tape is excellent for this purpose. The clear material blends nicely with your PCB, and the strong adhesion improves stability and reduces rattling sounds.
When you’re putting together a mechanical keyboard, it’s also wise to own an ESD-safe tweezers like the Vetus ESD-15. They’re great for handling small components, applying switch films, or manipulating tiny wires without risking electrostatic discharge.
Similarly, owning an ESD mat like the Bertech ESD High-Temp Mat Kit is essential when working on electronics. This provides a safe and static-free work environment that minimizes the risk of killing your components with static electricity.
Finally, for handling the cables, heat shrink tubing is a must-have. The Ginsco 580 pcs 2:1 Heat Shrink Tube 6 Colors assortment offers a wide range of sizes and colors for you to manage your cabling needs. These tubes are flame-retardant, which adds an extra level of safety.
These tools provide a sturdy backbone for any mechanical keyboard enthusiast’s workshop, offering a solid foundation for building and customizing keyboards. Whether you’re dealing with soldering, switch pulling, keycap removal, or cabling, these tools have your back. So, get these best tools for keyboard building, and immerse yourself in the satisfying journey of DIY keyboard construction.
