Mechanical Keyboard Mounting Styles

 

(Gasket-Mounted vs Traditional Mounts)

✨Once you know you want a mechanical keyboard, the next thing that affects how it feels and sounds is how the keyboard is built internally. This is referred to as the mounting style✨

The two most common styles you’ll see are gasket-mounted and traditional (non-gasket) mounts.

🧩What Is a Gasket-Mounted Keyboard?

A gasket-mounted keyboard uses soft materials — usually silicone or foam — placed between the plate and the case. These gaskets allow the internal components to “float” slightly instead of being rigidly fixed.

🖐How gasket-mounted keyboards feel:

  • Softer and more cushioned
  • Slight flex while typing
  • Reduced harsh bottom-out

🔊How they sound:

  • More muted and controlled
  • Less metallic ping
  • Often described as “creamy” or “thocky”

🎯Best for:

  • Long typing sessions
  • Shared or quiet environments
  • Users who prefer a softer, more comfortable feel

Gasket mounts are popular in modern mechanical keyboards because they prioritize comfort and sound quality🎵

🧩What Are Traditional (Non-Gasket) Mounts?

Traditional mounts secure the plate directly to the case using screws. Common types include tray-mount, top-mount, and plate-mount designs.

🖐How traditional mounts feel:

  • Firmer and more direct
  • Less flex during typing
  • Clear, consistent key feedback

🔊How they sound:

  • Brighter and sharper
  • More noticeable bottom-out sound
  • Often described as “clacky” or “crisp”

🎯Best for:

  • Users who prefer a firm typing feel
  • Those who like a brighter sound
  • Budget-friendly mechanical keyboards
  • Gamers who prefer fast, direct feedback

Traditional mounts are widely used and can still provide an excellent typing experience, especially when paired with good switches and keycaps.

⚖️Which Mounting Style Is Better?

Neither mounting style is objectively better — it comes down to preference.

  • 🫧Gasket-mounted keyboards prioritize comfort, sound dampening, and a softer feel.
  • 🧱Traditional mounts offer a firmer, more responsive typing experience.

Many people who type for long periods gravitate toward gasket-mounted keyboards, while others prefer the direct feedback of a traditional mount.

💡A Quick Note on Budget vs Premium Boards

You may see “gasket mount” listed on more affordable keyboards today. While the experience may vary by brand and build quality, gasket-mounted designs generally aim to reduce noise and soften keystrokes compared to older rigid designs.

At SwitchSmiths, we clearly label mounting styles, so you know exactly what kind of typing experience to expect — no guesswork required 💜