The world of mechanical keyboards is incredibly diverse, providing just the right ting for different users. Among the myriad of customization possibilities, the sound that the keyboard creates – often referred to as ‘thock’ – forms a crucial aspect. Keycap selection plays a significant role in shaping this thock sound. This article will provide a detailed analysis of how to find the right keycaps for your desired thock sound. Let’s delve into this fascinating world of mechanical keyboard acoustics.
The sound that your mechanical keyboard generates upon actuation is a combination of various factors. These include the switches used, the materials and design of the keyboard case, the plate material, the stabilizers and, importantly, the keycaps.
The term ‘thock’ refers to the low-pitched resonance produced upon pressing a key. A thock sound is not clicky nor clacky. It has a deep, relatively muted sound signature, which many keyboard enthusiasts find incredibly satisfying.
Understanding the Keycap’s Role
While the case, plate, and switches play a critical role in the overall sound signature, the role of the keycap is unique. This is because the keycap is the point of contact for the user. It captures the full force of the keystroke, influences the force distribution, and changes the vibration pattern that ultimately generates the sound. So keycap selection is critical in finding that perfect thock sound.
Keycap Materials and Thock Sound
On the market, there are primarily two dominating keycap materials – ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). Understanding how each material affects sound is a step towards achieving your desired thock sound.
ABS Keycaps
ABS Keycaps are generally smoother to the touch and lighter. High-quality ABS keycaps, especially double-shot ones, provide a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to PBT. Although this does not significantly cater to the thock sound, the ABS keycaps are still used widely due to other factors, such as their distinct feel, better legend visibility, and often more exciting colorways.
PBT Keycaps
On the other hand, PBT keycaps are recognized for their durability, rough texture and resistance to shine over long-term use. They’re also denser, which gives a lower-pitched, deeper sound – much closer to the thock sound that some users value.
Additionally, two forms of PBT keycaps exist – doubleshot PBT and dye-sublimated PBT. Both are durable and long-lasting, but they produce slightly different sound profiles. The dye-sublimated PBT provides a slightly deeper sound, more in line with the thock effect.
Keycap Profile and Thock
After material, the keycap’s profile impacts the thock sound as well. Cherry and OEM profiles, despite being lower in height, produce a cleaner, more distinct thock sound compared to taller profiles like SA or DSA. The reason lies in the resonance chamber – shorter profiles provide less room for sound to resonate and thus give a deeper, thockier sound.
Selecting Thickness of the Keycap
Keycap thickness is another factor worth considering. Simply put, the thicker the keycap, the deeper the sound it will produce. Thicker keycaps have less seismic energy and create more thock. For instance, PBT Cherry profile keycaps of about 1.5mm thickness are often advised for an ideal thock experience. Keep note that too thick a keycap can cause trouble with certain switches, so ensure compatibility.
Keycap Surface Finish
Lastly, the surface finish of keycaps also impacts thock. Matte surface keycaps produce a slightly deeper sound due to minimised reflections compared to glossy keycaps. Matte PBT keycaps are thus an excellent choice for those seeking a pronounced thock effect.
In summary, while looking for perfect keycaps for that perfect thock sound, consider the following:
1. Opt for PBT over ABS for a thockier sound, particularly dye-sub PBT.
2. A shorter profile, like OEM or Cherry, will be more beneficial for achieving a thock sound.
3. Thicker keycaps, usually 1.5mm or more, help enhance the thock.
4. A Matte finish will also contribute.
The final choice would always rely on personal preference. Different people will have different definitions for the “perfect thock sound”. It’s also important to note that sound is only one among the many variables that you should consider when customizing your keyboard. The feel, typing experience, aesthetic appeal all play significant roles. Experiment, iterate and enjoy because the journey in the mechanical keyboard world is as much enticing as the destination itself.
