Build your own custom mechanical keyboard that runs CircuitPython on the RaspberryPi Pico RP2040!

With lots of pins, the RaspberryPi RP2040 Pico makes for a great brain of a mechanical keyboard/macro pad -- no scan matrix required. Up to 26 keys can be used with direct GPIO pins. You'll learn how to make your own PCB design in Fritzing to send off for fabrication. A 3D printed or laser cut case finishes it off in style.

Once you've built your own custom keyboard from scratch, run over to Reddit r/mechanicalkeyboards and show it off!

Parts

PCB

You can order these using the Gerber files found later in the guide from a board house such as JLCPCB, or by visiting this OSH Park link. You only need one PCB per keyboard, but most board houses make them in multiples of three or five for a minimum order.

Cherry MX Compatible Keyswitches

The classic mechanical keyswitch. They come in three styles -- linear, tactile, and clicky, and in different strengths.

You can get them many places, including here from Digi-Key, or here.

MX Keycaps

Pick your style! Blank XDA or DSA profile keycaps look clean and stylish on this build, as it is an ortholinear (non-staggered) layout. Make sure all the keys are 1u (square) size.

I got some here and here. There's a whole world of keycaps out there, just make sure they fit the Cherry MX stems. These 1u Extras in pink and purple look pretty great...