When building or customizing a mechanical keyboard, one of the most common questions is: How many keyboard switches do I need? The answer depends on your keyboard’s size, layout, and any additional customization you plan to implement. Understanding the required number of switches ensures a smooth building process and helps avoid delays caused by insufficient components.
Understanding Keyboard Sizes and Layouts
Mechanical keyboards come in various sizes, each with a specific number of keys:
- 100% (Full-Size): Includes all keys, including the number pad, totaling approximately 104–105 keys.
- Tenkeyless (TKL or 80%): Excludes the number pad, resulting in about 87–88 keys.
- 75%: A compact layout with around 83–84 keys, retaining function keys and arrow keys.
- 65%: Further compacted, typically with 66–68 keys, including arrow keys but omitting the function row.
- 60%: Minimalist design with approximately 61 keys, excluding function and arrow keys.
- 40%: Ultra-compact, often with 40–47 keys, requiring extensive use of function layers.
Each layout affects the number of switches needed, so it’s crucial to know your keyboard’s specific configuration.
Switch Count by Keyboard Size
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the estimated number of switches required for each keyboard size:
- 100% (Full-Size): 104–105 switches
- Tenkeyless (TKL or 80%): 87–88 switches
- 75%: 83–84 switches
- 65%: 66–68 switches
- 60%: 61 switches
- 40%: 40–47 switches
It’s advisable to purchase a few extra switches beyond the exact count to account for potential defects or future replacements. For instance, if your keyboard requires 87 switches, consider buying 90 or 100 to be safe.
Factors Influencing Switch Quantity
Several factors can affect the number of switches you need:
- Hot-Swappable vs. Soldered Keyboards: Hot-swappable keyboards allow easy switch replacement, so having extra switches on hand is beneficial.
- Custom Layouts and Additional Keys: If you’re adding macro keys or customizing your layout, you’ll need additional switches accordingly.
- Mixing Switch Types: Some enthusiasts prefer different switch types for specific keys (e.g., tactile switches for typing keys and linear switches for gaming keys), which may require purchasing multiple switch sets.
Tips for Purchasing Keyboard Switches
When buying switches, consider the following:
- Buying in Bulk: Switches are often sold in packs (e.g., 10, 70, 90, 100). Buying in bulk can be more cost-effective.
- Trusted Brands and Retailers: Purchase from reputable brands and retailers to ensure quality and compatibility.
- Compatibility: Ensure the switches are compatible with your keyboard’s PCB and keycaps.
Conclusion
Determining how many keyboard switches you need depends on your keyboard’s size, layout, and customization plans. By understanding these factors and planning accordingly, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable keyboard building experience. Always consider purchasing extra switches to accommodate any unforeseen issues or future modifications.
