A keyboard switch is the little component that sits underneath the keycap and connects to the keyboard PCB. On a mechanical keyboard, every key has its own switch.
How many switches do I need?
For common sizes, here are some estimates (these can vary slightly by keyboard model):
- Full-size (100%): 104
- TKL (Tenkeyless): 87
- 75%: 84
- 65%: 68
- 60%: 61
We recommend buying enough to fill your board, with some extra to spare.
For more switch basics, read our Switches 101 article on Keyboard University →
