Design and RFQ Guide
Custom Mechanical Keyboard Case Design and RFQ Guide
A successful CNC mechanical keyboard housing begins with the complete assembly, not only the exterior shape. PCB position, switch plate, daughterboard, USB connector, battery, screws, gaskets, weights and cable clearance should be defined before the housing drawing is released.
Start with the Complete Assembly Stack
Use a complete 3D assembly to confirm component heights, connector position, plate location and screw access. When only separate part files are provided, relationships between the housing, PCB and plate can be missed.
Choose Materials by Function
Aluminum 6061-T6 is suitable for many housings because it balances strength, machining and finish options. Brass and stainless steel are often used for plates, weights and decorative components. Material should be selected according to structural load, weight, appearance and budget.
Avoid Unnecessary Deep Pockets and Thin Walls
Deep cavities and very thin walls increase machining time, deformation risk and material waste. Internal corner radii should allow practical cutting tools, while wall thickness and pocket depth should be reviewed against the required stiffness.
Plan Surface Finishing Before Final Tolerances
Anodizing, PVD and coatings can affect holes, threads and mating features. Cosmetic surfaces should be marked on the drawing, along with texture direction, acceptable color range and areas that require masking.
Prioritize the Features That Affect Assembly
Not every dimension needs the same tolerance. Prioritize PCB holes, plate positions, USB openings, mating faces, gasket grooves, screw locations and decorative-part fits. This helps concentrate machining and inspection resources on functional requirements.
What Affects CNC Keyboard Case Machining Cost?
Cost is influenced by material size, material-removal volume, deep cavities, thin walls, the number of setups, small corner radii, complex multi-axis surfaces, finishing requirements, cosmetic standards, tolerance level and inspection documentation.
Information to Include in Your RFQ
Provide the 3D model, 2D drawing, material, quantity, surface finish, color reference, critical dimensions, assembly files and prototype or batch-production requirements. More complete information enables a more accurate engineering review and quotation.