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Keyboard Flashcards

2 min read

Mechanical keyboard flashcards

Master switches, layouts, and terminology you should know cold.

Linear Switch

A switch with smooth, consistent force throughout the keypress. No tactile bump or click.

Hint: Think Cherry MX Red.
Hot-Swap

Keyboard design that allows switch removal and installation without soldering.

Hint: Beginner-friendly.
PBT

Polybutylene Terephthalate - durable keycap material that resists shine.

Hint: Better than ABS for longevity.
TKL

TenKeyLess - an 87-key keyboard layout without the numpad.

Hint: 80% of a full-size keyboard.
Actuation Point

The distance a key must travel before the switch registers (typically 2mm).

Hint: Not the same as bottom-out.
Stabilizers

Mechanisms under large keys (spacebar, shift) that prevent wobble and ensure even keypress.

Hint: Often abbreviated as stabs.
QMK

Open-source keyboard firmware that allows complete customization of key mappings and behaviors.

Hint: Quantum Mechanical Keyboard.
Cherry Profile

Low-height sculpted keycap profile. Most popular keycap shape in the enthusiast community.

Hint: Named after Cherry Corp.
Thocky

Deep, muted, satisfying typing sound that keyboard enthusiasts chase.

Hint: Opposite of clacky.
Lubing

Applying lubricant to switch components for smoother feel and quieter operation.

Hint: Time-consuming but rewarding mod.