Building your own board?

[mszy52]

Recently I've wanted to buy a 60% since I moved from my first membrane which was a 100% to an 80% and now back to a 100%.
I loved how much room I had with the 80% and since I am going to college next year I feel a 60% would be really helpful for notes in class.
I was wondering if anyone has built their own board from scratch, buying your own circuits and switches and everything.
I like building things and I feel it would be a fun project since I would be using this board for the next couple years.

If anyone has built their own how hard is it to do?
Also is there any cost variation from buying all the gear individually or buying say just a pok3r instead?

[neverused]

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=69582.0

[mszy52]

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=69582.0

Thanks!

[phruitpie]

Here's an example list of things you'll need:

• Switches - All preference. Personally, I'd stick to Cherry or Gateron if you're looking for MX.
• PCB - Here's a pretty common 60% PCB: SPRiT FaceW
• Plate - You could opt to use PCB mounted switches, but a plate will provide better support. LeandreN makes some top quality ones is all sort of colors.
• Case - Many options here, AliExpress has some decent 60% plastic keyboard cases on the cheap. If you're looking for higher quality cases, look at TEX aluminum or acrylic cases. Some users also sell 3D printed cases, see here, these are made by Ziptyze. If you get in contact with him, the prices are cheaper.
• Stabilizers - Depending on your layout, you'll need different sizes. With a standard layout you'll need four 2u stabs and one 6.25u stab.
• LEDs - Only if you want back lighting. If you do get LEDs you might want to do a SIP socket mod.
• Keycaps - Whatever your heart desires. Too many sets and profiles to pick from. Again, it all depends on preference (do you prefer DSA, SA, OEM, Cherry, etc...)

To build you'll only need basic soldering skills. Compared to the price of a Pok3r you'll probably end up spending around the same, if not more. If you proxy parts from TaoBao, you'll spend significantly less. Let me know if you have any questions.