GMK has released its TriggerKey, a keycap replacement set that adds actuation and tilt adjustability to your mechanical keyboard without requiring new switches. Thanks to their lever-based actuation mechanism, these keycaps allow gamers and keyboard enthusiasts to tune each key individually.
The TriggerKey is basically an aftermarket keycap that sits directly on top of compatible mechanical and magnetic switches, giving you control over the key’s typing feel by adjusting the angle and actuation distance. Each TriggerKey is individually configurable via two built-in screws, the first allowing actuation adjustment between 0 and 2mm while the second allows tweaking the key’s tilt angle between 0 and 34°.
In other words, this allows you to customise the typing feel of your keyboard by mimicking a star feature of Hall Effect, TMR, and Optical switches without requiring difficult or permanent modifications. The main difference is that TriggerKeys use physical screws to adjust actuation instead of software.
This means you can fine-tune pretty much any keyboard to your play style, which GMK says unlocks unmatched comfort and control. That said, it’s better suited for mechanical keyboards due to their lack of software actuation control. For example, you can transform a typing-focused keyboard with long-travel distance into a great gaming keyboard by reducing the WSAD actuation distance.
Meanwhile, the adjustable tilt angle could be useful for those wanting a more natural hand/finger position while using their keyboard. Each TriggerKey can also be rotated 180° to move the depressing edge of the key towards the north or south, depending on your preference. Combined with a textured POM stem cap, this should help increase user comfort while reducing strain during long sessions.
Each set includes four TriggerKeys, three interchangeable stem cap variations (0.7mm / 1.2mm / 1.7mm) for fine-tuning your preferred feel, an installation tool, plus an adjustment tool. You can also choose from a wide range of cap colours to match your keyboard’s style.
The TriggerKey is compatible with most MX-style mechanical switch housings, including those from Cherry and Gateron. You can find the full compatibility list here. As for durability, GMK claims they can handle 100+ installation cycles, which should be more than enough.
The GMK TriggerKey keycap set is available for $49 / €49, backed by a two-year warranty. It’s not a cheap add-on considering that compact Hall Effect keyboards can be found around the same price, but it’s not unreasonable for someone who has already invested in a premium mechanical keyboard and wants to improve it.
