The mechanical keyboard has come a long way since the days of IBM Model M and early Cherry switches. Our history articles trace the evolution from typewriter-derived designs to today's enthusiast-grade custom builds with CNC aluminum cases and hand-lubed switches.
We cover landmark keyboards, pivotal switch inventions, the rise of the gaming peripheral industry and the modern custom keyboard community. Whether you are curious about vintage boards or the latest trends, you will find the full story here.
Explore the articles below to discover the keyboards and innovations that shaped the industry, and understand how we got from clicky beige boxes to the premium boards available today.
Frequently Asked Questions
The IBM Model M (1984) is widely considered the first modern mechanical keyboard, featuring buckling spring switches and a robust build that many still use today. Earlier teletype and typewriter mechanisms predate it, but the Model M established the layout and feel we recognize.
Cherry MX switches debuted in the 1980s but became the industry standard in the early 2000s when gaming brands like Razer and Corsair adopted them. Their color-coded system (Red, Blue, Brown, Black) made switch choice accessible to mainstream users.
The custom keyboard community grew from forums like Geekhack and r/MechanicalKeyboards in the early 2010s. Enthusiasts began designing their own PCB layouts, cases and keycap sets. Group buys and small-batch manufacturing turned a niche interest into a thriving global hobby.
Yes. Many vintage boards like the IBM Model M, Northgate OmniKey and old Cherry G80 series can be adapted to modern computers with USB converters or Soarers adapters. Their durability means decades-old keyboards often still type perfectly.
Hot-swap sockets are arguably the most impactful innovation. They allow users to change switches without soldering, dramatically lowering the barrier to customization and making the hobby accessible to beginners.
