Case Materials Guide

Case Materials Guide

A keyboard case isn’t just a shell — it defines the acoustic profile, typing experience, aesthetic appeal, and overall build quality of your custom keyboard. Below is a deep-dive comparison of the most popular case materials used in mechanical keyboards. Each section explores how the material affects acoustics, rigidity, sound dampening, visual appeal, and price-to-performance ratio.

1. Plastic (ABS, Polycarbonate, PBT)

Acoustic Properties

  • Tends to sound more hollow or high-pitched depending on the internal structure.

  • Polycarbonate (PC) is more muted and produces a softer, lower-pitched thock.

  • ABS is sharper and more plasticky.

Build Quality

  • Lightest and most flexible of all case materials.

  • Prone to flex under pressure — may impact the rigidity of the typing experience.

  • Can develop shine or wear over time (especially ABS).

Aesthetics

  • Wide range of colors and textures.

  • PC supports RGB lighting with semi-transparent or frosted finishes.

  • PBT has a matte, more textured finish compared to glossy ABS.

Typing Feel

  • Softer feel with some case flex — not ideal if you want a rigid deck.

  • Preferred by some for a cushioned typing experience.

Price Range

  • Most affordable option: 20 to 50 Euro depending on design and brand.

  • Ideal for entry-level builds or budget custom keyboards.

2. Aluminum

Acoustic Properties

  • Crisp, slightly higher-pitched sound.

  • Reflects sound internally unless paired with dampening foam.

  • “Clack” dominant with a sharper tactile feel.

Build Quality

  • CNC-milled aluminum is extremely durable and rigid.

  • Resists deformation, even under heavy typing.

Aesthetics

  • Clean, premium anodized finishes in various colors.

  • Looks sleek and industrial — a common choice for enthusiast boards.

Typing Feel

  • Very firm and stiff — excellent for typists who prefer feedback.

  • Minimal to no flex depending on mounting style.

Price Range

  • Mid-to-high tier: 80 to 200 Euro.

  • Heavily influenced by milling precision and finish quality.

3. Brass

Acoustic Properties

  • Deep, rich resonance — creates a distinct "ring" if undampened.

  • Preferred by audiophiles who want a full-bodied sound.

Build Quality

  • Incredibly dense and heavy.

  • Not commonly used for full cases due to weight — often used for weights or plates.

Aesthetics

  • Shiny golden finish.

  • Develops patina over time unless treated — desirable for some enthusiasts.

Typing Feel

  • Extremely stiff; enhances the crispness of tactile or clicky switches.

  • No case flex.

Price Range

  • High-end: 150 to 300+ Euro for partial cases or brass components.

  • Expensive to machine; not practical for full builds unless for showcase.

4. Stainless Steel

Acoustic Properties

  • Bright and metallic with high resonance.

  • Needs dampening to control echo and ping.

Build Quality

  • Among the most durable and corrosion-resistant materials.

  • Very heavy — excellent for stability.

Aesthetics

  • Can be polished to a mirror finish or left raw for a rugged look.

  • Rarely used for full cases due to cost and weight.

Typing Feel

  • Unyielding — zero flex.

  • Typing feels direct and responsive.

Price Range

  • Premium: 150 to 250+ Euro.

  • More niche due to manufacturing complexity.

5. Acrylic

Acoustic Properties

  • Soft, muted, and lower-pitched sound.

  • Naturally dampens resonance.

Build Quality

  • Medium weight with fair rigidity.

  • Can be brittle if dropped or poorly cut.

Aesthetics

  • Clear or frosted layers — stunning RGB diffusion effects.

  • Great for sandwich and stacked layer designs.

Typing Feel

  • Slight flex gives a gentle bounce.

  • Softer bottom-out feel.

Price Range

  • Mid-tier: 40 to 90 Euro.

  • Popular in mid-budget DIY kits.

6. Wood

Acoustic Properties

  • Organic, warm sound profile.

  • Naturally absorbs high-frequency resonance.

Build Quality

  • Varies by wood type — harder woods are more durable.

  • Can warp or crack without proper treatment.

Aesthetics

  • Unique grain patterns — no two are alike.

  • Adds a rustic or artisanal aesthetic.

Typing Feel

  • Slightly cushioned, depending on the case design.

  • More forgiving than metals but firmer than plastic.

Price Range

  • Varies widely: 50 to 150 Euro depending on craftsmanship.

  • Often handmade or limited production.

7. Carbon Fiber

Acoustic Properties

  • High-pitched, airy sound.

  • Sounds a bit hollow unless foamed.

Build Quality

  • Strong, light, and very rigid.

  • Excellent for portable or travel boards.

Aesthetics

  • Unique woven texture.

  • Sleek, modern, and performance-oriented look.

Typing Feel

  • Very little flex.

  • Lightness enhances responsiveness.

Price Range

  • High-end: 100 to 200+ Euro.

  • Less common, mostly used in high-performance layouts.

Summary Table

Material Sound Rigidity Aesthetics Typing Feel Price (€)
Plastic (ABS/PC) Hollow, sharp Low Basic or translucent Soft, flexible 20–50
Aluminum Clacky, crisp High Premium anodized Firm, stiff 80–200
Brass Rich, deep Very High Shiny, golden Ultra stiff 150–300+
Stainless Steel Metallic, loud Very High Raw or polished metal Ultra stiff 150–250+
Acrylic Soft, thocky Medium Transparent/frosted Slight bounce 40–90
Wood Warm, muted Medium Natural, unique grains Soft-to-firm 50–150
Carbon Fiber Bright, light High Woven, futuristic look Firm & snappy 100–200+

This guide aims to help you make an informed decision based on your priorities — whether that’s deep acoustics, show-stopping visuals, portability, or price efficiency. If you’re unsure where to start, plastic or aluminum cases offer the best entry points depending on your budget and goals.