Keyboard Glossary
Your guide to mechanical keyboard terminology. Click on terms to learn more.
Actuation
The point at which a keystroke is registered. Measured in force (grams) and distance (millimeters).
Actuation Point
The physical distance the switch stem must travel before the keystroke registers.
Bottom Out
Pressing a key all the way down until it hits the bottom of the switch housing.
Case
The outer housing that holds all keyboard components together. Can be plastic, aluminum, or other materials.
Clicky
A switch type that produces an audible click sound when actuated. Example: Cherry MX Blue.
Debouncing
The electrical process that prevents a single key press from registering multiple times.
Double Shot
A keycap manufacturing method where the legend is molded from a different plastic. Very durable.
Firmware
The software that runs on the keyboard's microcontroller. QMK and VIA are popular options.
Group Buy
A pre-order system where products are manufactured after enough people commit to buying.
Hot-Swappable
A keyboard that allows switches to be removed and replaced without soldering.
Keycap
The plastic cap that sits on top of a switch. Comes in various profiles and materials.
Keycap Profile
The shape/sculpt of keycaps. Common profiles: Cherry, OEM, SA, DSA, XDA, MT3.
Linear
A switch type with a smooth keystroke and no tactile bump. Example: Cherry MX Red.
Lubing
Applying lubricant to switches to make them smoother and reduce noise.
Macro
A programmed sequence of keystrokes triggered by a single key press.
N-Key Rollover (NKRO)
The ability to press any number of keys simultaneously and have all register.
PCB
Printed Circuit Board. The electronics that connect switches to the computer.
Plate
A rigid layer (usually metal or plastic) that holds switches in position above the PCB.
PBT
Polybutylene Terephthalate. A durable, textured plastic used for high-quality keycaps.
Polling Rate
How often the keyboard reports its state to the computer. Measured in Hz (1000Hz = 1ms).
QMK
Quantum Mechanical Keyboard. Open-source firmware for custom keyboards.
Soldering
Permanently attaching switches to the PCB using melted metal (solder).
Stabilizers
Mechanisms under larger keys (Space, Enter, Shift) to prevent wobbling.
Stem
The part of the switch that the keycap attaches to. (+ for Cherry MX compatible)
Switch
The component under each keycap that registers keystrokes and provides feedback.
Tactile
A switch type with a noticeable bump at the actuation point. Example: Cherry MX Brown.
Travel Distance
The total distance a switch can be depressed, typically 3-4mm.