Keyboard Mounting Styles are more than just tools for typing. They’re about the feel, the sound, and the customization options that make every keystroke enjoyable.
One critical aspect of mechanical keyboard design is the keyboard mounting style, which determines how the plate and PCB are fixed to the keyboard case.
This small detail impacts the typing feel, the sound, and even the durability of your keyboard. Whether you’re building a DIY mechanical keyboard or upgrading to a high-end design, understanding these styles is essential.
What is the keyboard mounting style?
The keyboard mounting style refers to how the internal components of a keyboard, like the plate and PCB, are attached to the case. This structure directly affects the keyboard’s stability, typing feel, and sound profile. It’s not just a technical detail—it’s the foundation of what makes each keyboard unique.
There are various mounting styles, each designed to meet specific needs. For instance, tray mount keyboards are known for being simple and cost-effective, while gasket mount keyboards provide a soft typing experience and excellent sound dampening.
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Choosing the right mounting style depends on your priorities, whether it’s affordability, comfort, or customization. Let’s dive into the different styles to see how they compare.
Tray mount
The tray mount is one of the most common keyboard assembly techniques, especially in entry-level and DIY mechanical keyboards. In this style, screws pass through the keyboard case, plate, and PCB to secure the entire assembly. This simplicity makes it a go-to choice for beginners.
Pros
Tray mount keyboards are popular because they’re both affordable and versatile. The standardized design allows you to easily find compatible parts, making it ideal for DIY mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the lack of complex assembly requirements keeps manufacturing costs low, resulting in budget-friendly keyboards.
Cons
While cost-effective, tray mount keyboards often lack consistency in typing feel. This is because the screws directly connect all components, which may lead to vibrations and uneven support. High-quality switches and keycaps may not perform at their best due to the structure’s limitations.
TOP mount
The top mount keyboard case structure secures the plate to the top part of the case, creating a solid and stable build. This mounting style is widely used in mid-range and high-end keyboard designs because of its reliable performance and tactile feel.
Pros
Top mount keyboards offer a consistent typing feel, as the plate is firmly attached to the top case. This design is preferred by enthusiasts for its durability and ergonomic keyboard mounting benefits. It’s also relatively easy to manufacture, making it a favorite among premium keyboard brands.
Cons
Despite its advantages, top mounts can be challenging for DIY enthusiasts. The non-standardized hole alignments often require CAD engineering for custom builds, limiting their accessibility for those new to keyboard customization.
Bottom mount
In the bottom mount structure, the internal components are attached to the bottom case, creating a robust and elegant design. This style is particularly favored in high-end keyboard designs because of its enhanced stability and sleek appearance.
Pros
The bottom mount provides a soft typing experience, as the plate rests on the bottom case. This design supports a suspended appearance, allowing for greater flexibility in aesthetic customization. It’s a popular choice for gamers seeking gaming keyboard mounting styles with responsiveness and comfort.
Cons
Customization can be tricky, as this style often requires precision-engineered parts. DIY enthusiasts may need original designs or custom materials to achieve precise keyboard alignment.
| Feature | Top Mount | Bottom Mount |
| Attachment Point | Plate to top case | Plate to bottom case |
| Typing Feel | Firm and consistent | Soft and cushioned |
| Customization | Easy with pre-made parts | Requires precision alignment |
Sandwich mount
The sandwich mount gets its name from its structure, where the plate is fixed between the top and bottom cases. This setup creates a sturdy and vibration-dampened assembly, making it a standout for those who prioritize sound quality.
Pros
This style delivers a balanced sound profile and excellent vibration control. The pleasant keystroke sound is ideal for those who love quieter keyboards. The overall structure is also highly durable, offering a premium typing experience.
Cons
The precision required during assembly can be a challenge. Each component must align perfectly, which can make the process time-consuming and complex.
Integrated mount
In an integrated mount, the plate and top case are made from a single material, often CNC milled. This seamless integration results in a sleek, unified design that’s both functional and visually appealing.
Pros
Integrated mount keyboards are known for their aesthetic integration and sturdy construction. The unified design reduces vibrations, delivering a stable and enjoyable typing feel.
Cons
However, the manufacturing process for integrated mounts involves more time and resources, making them a costly option. The lack of modularity can also limit customization options for DIY enthusiasts.
Gasket mount
The gasket mount style uses soft rubber gaskets to secure the plate and PCB, eliminating rigid connections. This mounting style is praised for its elastic typing feel and sound-dampening properties.
Pros
Gasket mount keyboards provide a uniform typing experience thanks to the cushioning effect of the gaskets. They’re also excellent at reducing keystroke noise, making them a favorite among enthusiasts who value sound-dampened keyboards.
Cons
Their precision assembly and high-quality components increase costs. Manufacturing gaskets to exact specifications can also be challenging.
Spring mount
The spring mount keyboard employs springs to support the plate and PCB, creating a flexible and cushioned typing feel. This innovative design is less common but offers unique advantages for sound and comfort.
Pros
The springs provide excellent cushioning, resulting in a quieter and more responsive typing experience. This mounting style is also effective at reducing impact noise.
Cons
Spring mounts are rare and often expensive due to their intricate design. The added complexity can make assembly and maintenance more difficult.
Plateless mount
A plateless mount keyboard eliminates the use of a plate altogether, allowing the switches to rest directly on the PCB. This design emphasizes simplicity and an elastic typing feel.
Pros
Without a plate, the design delivers a unique and direct tactile experience. It’s compatible with various mounting styles, including gasket and tray mounts.
Cons
This style requires precise PCB openings to ensure proper switch alignment. Additionally, it usually doesn’t support hot-swappable switches, limiting its versatility.
What mounting style is the best?
Choosing the best keyboard mounting style depends on your priorities. For a cost-effective and reliable build, tray mounts are a great choice. If you prefer a quiet, premium experience, gasket mounts stand out for their soft typing experience and sound dampening. Enthusiasts looking for customization often gravitate towards top or bottom mounts.
For gaming, stability and responsiveness matter most. Both top and bottom mounts offer excellent gaming keyboard mounting styles, combining durability with a responsive typing feel.
Read 📖 More: Magnetic Keyboard: Features, Benefits, and Comparisons
What is the difference between a top-mount and a bottom-mount keyboard?
The Keyboard Mounting Styles differs significantly between top and bottom mounts. In a top mount, the plate attaches to the top case, offering a consistent and firm feel. In contrast, bottom mounts secure the plate to the bottom case, resulting in a softer, more cushioned typing experience.
Both designs have their strengths. While top mounts are easier to manufacture, bottom mounts are more commonly found in high-end keyboard designs, offering better flexibility and aesthetic appeal.
| Feature | Top Mount | Bottom Mount |
| Sound Quality | Moderate | Softer, dampened |
| Cost | Mid-range | High-end |
Conclusion
Choosing the right keyboard mounting style depends on your needs and preferences. Whether you’re after a cost-effective keyboard mount or a sound-dampened keyboard, there’s a style for everyone. From tray mount keyboards that are simple and affordable to gasket mount keyboards that provide a quiet, smooth experience, each style offers unique benefits.
Consider factors like typing feel, customization, and price before making your decision. No matter your choice, understanding these mounting styles helps you create the perfect keyboard for work, gaming, or personal use.
Lily Watkins is an experienced tech writer specializing in the latest trends and innovations. She is passionate about making complex technology accessible and shares her insights on TechThingPro.com.
