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An FR4 plate keyboard refers to a custom mechanical keyboard that uses FR-4 material as the plate. FR-4 is a composite material made of epoxy resin and fiberglass, possessing excellent insulation, mechanical strength, and durability. Its advantages lie in providing a stable and balanced feel and pleasant typing sound (usually crisp or "raindrop" sound). Compared to aluminum or steel plates, it is more elastic, making it a popular choice for keyboard enthusiasts who pursue a unique feel and sound.
In addition to feel and sound, the inherent stability of FR4 material is also one of the important reasons why it is being used in more and more keyboards. Because of this balance and stability, FR4 plates are also more "accommodating" to different types of switches. Whether it's linear switches, tactile switches, or light tactile switches, they don't easily show significant shortcomings when paired with an FR4 plate.
FR4 plate keyboard
What is FR-4?
FR-4 (Flame Retardant Grade 4) is an epoxy glass laminate that forms the basis of over 90% of global PCB manufacturing. It consists of woven fiberglass cloth impregnated with brominated epoxy resin.
The "FR" designation indicates that it meets UL 94 V-0 flammability requirements. FR-4 offers an excellent balance of electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties at a low cost, making it the default choice for most applications.
However, FR-4's inconsistent dielectric properties and relatively high loss tangent make it less suitable for high-frequency and high-speed digital applications, where specialized laminates offer better performance.
Advantages of FR4 Plates:
1. Excellent performance stability
Thermal and electrical stability: FR4 boards maintain reliability even in high-temperature, high-pressure, and high-humidity environments.
Electromagnetic interference resistance: They effectively resist electromagnetic interference and radiation, ensuring consistent performance of sensitive electronic systems.
2. Excellent mechanical strength
Impact resistance: FR4 boards are very durable and can withstand mechanical stresses such as vibration, shock, and pressure.
Corrosion resistance: Their resistance to acids, alkalis, and harsh chemicals ensures stability under demanding conditions.
3. High-precision machinability
FR4 boards are ideal for high-precision processes such as drilling, wire cutting, and chip mounting. Its excellent machinability ensures a low error rate, which is crucial for advanced manufacturing requirements.
The Role of FR4 Plates in Keyboards
Plate: Located between the key switches and the PCB, it fixes the key switches and provides a base for key feel and sound.
Feel and Sound: FR-4 positioning plates are softer than metal plates, providing a more springy and elastic key feedback, and producing a crisp, clean typing sound, reducing the "metallic sound" of metal plates.
FR4 plate keyboard
What does typing on an FR4 plate keyboard feel like?
In a word, the feel of an FR4 plate is: not too soft, not too hard, just right.
Specifically, it has several characteristics:
1. Not too hard, less finger fatigue
Metal positioning plates (such as aluminum and steel) have a very crisp feel, but over time, fingers can easily get tired.
FR4 plates have a certain elasticity, so typing is not as "jarring," making long typing sessions more comfortable.
2. Not too soft, clear rebound
Some plastic positioning plates are soft, but the rebound is not crisp enough, and after typing for a while, it can feel "sluggish."
FR4 plates provide better support, with clear feedback when pressed, without feeling mushy.
3. Overall consistent feel
The FR4 material itself is very stable, and it's less likely to have some keys that are particularly hard and others that are particularly soft.
This consistency is very important for daily typing, office work, and studying.
An FR4 plate keyboard may not be the type that impresses you at first glance, but it's often the one you use the longest and find the most comfortable. It doesn't pursue exaggerated sound or extreme feel, but rather finds a good balance between comfort, stability, and durability.
If you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use mechanical keyboard suitable for long-term use, an FR4 plate keyboard is worth serious consideration.