Keyboards—some might say they are the pièce de résistance for a gaming setup, and not many stand out as much as a customised keyboard. Keyboard customisation has been a somewhat niche hobbyist scene, but lately, it is becoming more accessible. The newest player is The Laboratory by RF, which recently launched its first physical store at Cathay Cineleisure.
The masterminds behind The Laboratory are the Reformd Group, whose roots differ greatly from the custom keyboard space. They manage the many Anytime Fitness franchises around Singapore, as well as several BFT outlets and Reformd Personal Training. Suffice it to say, it is a surprising marriage of two distinct worlds.
Located in the heart of Orchard Road, The Laboratory by RF’s physical store is a 2,600-square-foot open-space haven for all things keyboard-related. The idea behind the store is not just for people to browse and be entranced by the many unique keyboards on display but also to enable people to learn and get hands-on experience making their own beauties. After all, what’s better than having a keyboard that you’ve assembled yourself?
For those eager to make their next keyboard or dip their toes into customisation, let’s check out what The Laboratory by RF is all about!
The Space
Entering the store is much like entering an exhibition. All around the space are a myriad of customised keyboards, with exclusive collections of rare, one-of-a-kind keyboards showcased prominently in display cases. Unfortunately, these aren’t for sale, but they make for pretty viewing nonetheless.
While you make your way around the store’s periphery, you’ll see the various brands that you can use to make your custom keyboard. Popular names like Akko and Keychron are available, but there are also special ones like Lemokey, which I’m told can only be found stocked here at The Laboratory by RF.
But the highlight is the middle of the store. Here, there are three stations for customers to begin their journey into building their keyboards: Barebones, Switches, and Keycaps. You can mix and match whatever components you want from each station to create your ultimate keyboard—it’s like Build-A-Bear, but for keyboards!
Come along to the next section to learn more about what each station is all about.
Building Your Keyboard
Customers will start at the Barebones station as the first step in creating their keyboard. This station is all about choosing the base of your keyboard, and despite the titling of the name, there are many considerations.
For one, what size keyboard would you like? The 65% is a popular choice for many due to its minimalist and compact design, but if you’re like me, you might prefer the traditional full-sized keyboard for productivity. Luckily, The Laboratory by RF has it all, including Tenkeyless (TKL) and 75%.
Then, of course, there’s the style. You may think this is just about choosing the colour for your keyboard, but given that these are custom, there is more than meets the eye. Remember the brandLemokey, as I mentioned before? You’ll find that their boards come with all sorts of special inclusions, like volume knobs. If you have a preference for these additional features, you can ask the helpful store assistant for some help!
The last consideration is the material. Some people prefer a robust build, but others want something light to carry around. At the station, you’ll see the boards up close and feel them before making your choice.
The next station is the most key (pun intended) out of the three, the Switches. Just like how weird ill-fitting clothes might feel, choosing the wrong switches can make the typing experience feel off. So don’t be afraid to take your time to select the one you feel is perfect.
The number of choices is huge. It’s the only station with both sides decked out, with the switches displayed in a candy shop-like fashion. When you have picked out what you want, the store will fish out these switches in a jug as they prep your build.
As we all know, there are three types of switches — Linear, Tactile, and Clicky. Linear switches are noted for their smooth keystrokes, Tactiles give tactile feedback at the actuation point, and Clicky switches are similar to Tactile switches but add a ‘click’ noise when you press down. Different people will have different preferences, so if you’re unsure what you may like, there is a helpful tester for each switch to help you make an informed decision.
The final station is Keycaps, and it is here that you can really start to make the keyboard uniquely yours. There are all manner of keycaps with different shapes, feel, and aesthetics. In fact, I saw one made with silicon to give users a more cushioned feel.
Similar to the other stations, the options truly vary. You can go simple and sleek with a minimalistic look or go all out with eye-popping designs. Brands like Wuque Studio, DOMIKEY, and Zuoya are just a few names available to pick.
Now that you’ve picked a choice from every station, it’s time to assemble your keyboard! There’s a seating area where you can slowly build it in peace, and I must say, it is a pretty relaxing routine. And if you need any help, a store assistant is also close by to guide you through the process.
Once you’re done, you’ll be taken to a testing station to ensure that everything is good. Then that’s it; say hello to your new keyboard!
Where to find The Laboratory by RF
Has that whetted your appetite for keyboard building? If it has, you know what to do next. Here is where you can find The Laboratory by RF:
📍Location: Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, Singapore 239695, #02-18/23A
⏰Opening hours: 12pm – 9pm daily
For more information and updates from The Laboratory by RF, you can follow their socials on Facebook and Instagram. Alternatively, you can also visit their official website to see their range of products.
Photos by Russell Loh of the DANAMIC Team.
