FKcustom, operated by the same FKcaps as YUZU Cutom Keycaps, is a service that allows individuals to create their own original keycaps.
Compared to YUZU, there are only two keycap colors to choose from, but the ability to select various profiles is a key feature.
In addition, depending on the keycap selected, it is possible to create your own “shine-through keycap” because it transmits LEDs.
This article reviews the “FKcustom” keycap creation service.
Representative of GreenEchoes Studio
He launched his own media as a site operator and web writer, and now plans and manages multiple corporate media. He often types heavily in his work, and in his search for greater efficiency, he became addicted to the keyboard swamp and established “GreenKeys”.
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Original keycap review created by FKcustom
The concept for this project is “low profile” and “no-fetch LED transparency”.
This time the target is my own Corne v4 chocolate mini.
This low-profile mechanical keyboard is equipped with Choc v2 switches.
There are few shinethrough compatible keycaps for this keyboard, as it is low-profile and has few keycap variations, and the LEDs are oriented north instead of south.
So we said, “If you don’t have it, let’s make it!” I decided to make it.
The profile of the keycap I ordered is the “LPF” profile.
Let’s take a look at the original keycaps created by FKcustom.
It arrived in a box with a logo.
This is a tension.
When I opened the package, it was in the form of a vacuum pack.
This way, the keycaps will not be damaged by bumping into each other even if they are impacted during transportation.
Very favorable impression.
It is vacuum packed with the layout exactly as ordered.
KawamuraI don’t know how they do this…amazing!
When held up to the light, not only the legendary part but also the iconic part shows how well the light penetrates through it.
LPF, a profile that I am touching for the first time.
We will observe carefully.
As for the shape, it is asymmetrical top and bottom, and the key tops are slightly cylindrical.
From the top, you can see that it is slightly wider at the front and has rounded corners for better finger contact.
Compare with NuPhy, a staple in the low-profile community.
NuPhy is a PBT material.
The material of the LPF has not been disclosed, but it may be ABS.
I don’t think there is any significant difference in graininess, etc.
The height is almost the same.
They are very similar in terms of shape.
As for the cross stem, LPF uses a more transparent material, but this does not seem to be an issue at this time in terms of durability.
NuPhy is a double shot.
LPF is a double shot with transparent material.
KawamuraGiven that light was transmitted through it, it appeared to be a two-color molding using transparent material.
Then compare it to the shine-through keycap made of PBT material used in Lofree Flow Lite.
In terms of structure, the molding method seems to be almost the same as this keycap.
The transparent material used for the axis and shine-through portion of this one was considered “PC”.
As for LPF, it is also likely to be transparent ABS or PC.
Click here to see a photo of the actual installation on Corne.
The two central keys are from NuPhy for comparison.
Shine-through WoB, that’s a nice touch.
It is a little hard to tell, but the LEDs are turned on under bright lighting.
This is what it looks like when the lighting is completely dimmed.
The thumb portion is not transparent because the icon was not placed in a position that allows light to penetrate through it, but you can see that the other portions are well lit.
The LED transparency may be easily seen here.
The legend portion placed on the north side is glowing nicely, but the rest of the area does not appear to be glowing.
KawamuraWe found that LED transparency is quite severe.
If you want to make all keys shine through, consider the location of the legend and icons while looking at the LED locations.
Keycap colors and profiles available for selection in FKcustom
At the time of writing, there are a total of 10 different profiles from which to choose the keycap to be created.
The color of the key caps will be white or black, and for the coloring of the legend, only one color will be available as shown in the photo.
KawamuraBy default, the five keycaps in the bottom row are treated as options. It is like a click to expand them.
There is a very large selection of key layouts to choose from.
It is also possible to customize the keyboard to match the original layout, so it is a good idea to select a layout that is close and modify the key layout.
The customization screen looks like this.
You can add any key you like.
KawamuraIt can also be customized to Keyball.
In this case, we present a pattern in which LPF is selected.
You will start with a screen to select the fonts and icons to be used.
You can choose your favorite fonts or upload your own fonts for use.
In the Presets section, you can adjust font size and rough positioning.
KawamuraIn my case, I wanted a shine-through with north-facing LEDs, so I placed the legend at the top of the keytop.
Next is the icon setting screen.
There are so many default icons to choose from.
The next step is to fine-tune the positioning of text and icons.
You can really adjust the placement down to the smallest detail.
Final confirmation screen.
Small keyboards have fewer keys and are cheaper…!
After final confirmation, click “Check out.
The final product looked like this.
Shipping to Japan is $9.00, so the minimum order line is about $50.00.
On the next screen, select credit card or Google Pay and enter your payment information. Finally, enter your address, name, and other necessary information to complete the process.
Thank you for your hard work.
KawamuraWe recommend this site for converting addresses to English.
Summary｜Recommended for those who want to make original keycaps with ease.
The above is an introduction to FKcustom.
Compared to YUZU, this service is not as flexible, but in addition to having so many profiles to choose from, and the fact that it is inexpensive, we are sure that many people will prefer this service.
YUZU Custom Keycaps Review ▷▷▷
Especially for users of home-built keyboards, existing keycaps with the same layout as their own keymaps are unlikely to exist.
Make your own original keycap and enjoy your keyboard life to the fullest.
