Building a gamepad with Cherry switches

[joeykenoy]

Hi folks,

I played the last years with this gamepad:
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41Q4j2c0VML._AC_.jpg

Unfortunately it can not be bought in Europe anymore AND it is outdated in times of mechanical switches.

So I decided to build one my own.

I read tutorials, watched youtubevideos.. BUT I think I am not talented enough. I upset myself too much.

So I decided to ask guys on Fiverr, but here is the problem I am not sure if they really can help me in a way the finished product will function in the way I want it.

So I am looking for help.
Is here somebody that can design a pcb with my needs?
Of course I will pay for the work. The only thing I want is that the one helping me know what he does.

The specifications:
48 Cherry switches
RGB light (every key can be set in an other color if I want to)

What would be nice but do not be needed:
12 F key (switches does not matter)
A little display showing the keyboard stats

Thanks in advance

[Rayndalf]

This site shows a lot of different split keyboards that might do the trick
https://keebfol.io

DIY split keyboards can typically be built so that only the left half is plugged in. Not everything is in stock right now, but there are some solid options.
https://keeb.io/collections/split-keyboard-parts
https://spacecat.design/collections/pcbs-cases-kits
https://www.diykeyboards.com
https://www.clawboards.xyz/shop
https://keyhive.xyz/shop/lily58

The vendor section of mechmarket lists other sellers as well

My advice is to use half of an ergodox or a similar keyboard. Some feature an LCD or two. Keyboards like the Dactyl might be a little more ergonomic (and is parametric so you could build one that is just the right size), but you'd have to handwire them unless you purchased an assembled one off mechmarket (they do show up, probably cheaper or at least easier than commissioning a PCB).

Or build one of these. It's really good looking
https://www.billiam.org/2019/05/29/sherbet-an-ergonomic-keypad

[joeykenoy]

Thx for all the informations.

That was my third idea (build case first, build pcb first, find a ready to buy product). So I looked around the internet and found a lot of nice boards. I also found one that nearly fits my needs...

The problem I have with these splitkeyboards is that there are some gamepads to buy with layouts similar to these or similar to "normal" keyboards.

I want exactly one layout of wasd and the "bigger keys" to their left.


But I found a solution now:
I build a sandwich case with KLE and swillkb' plate builder and handwire the whole thing.

If that works fine I will try to build the pcb myself... or I find somebody here.