Mechanical Keyboard - Plate

Plate

Plate is a layer above the PCB that is used to hold switches in place in a Mechanical Keyboard. Most of the time, it is also the layer that is mounted to the Keyboard Case. Plate material can drastically change the typing feel and sound of a Keyboard.

While Plate material contributes a lot to the typing feel and sound of a Keyboard, it is also important to note that plate design (flex cuts, relief cuts) and mounting style are also significant factors. Below are some common plate materials listed in the order of decreasing stiffness,

  1. Steel

  2. Carbon Fiber

  3. Brass

  4. Copper

  5. Aluminum

  6. FR4

  7. PC

  8. POM

  9. PP