Why I only use pot knobs for my mechanical keyboards
My life revolves around mechanical keyboards – apart from my family, that is. Any chance to personalise these devices further is a win for me. Meet my latest infatuation: kitsch potentiometer knobs.
The control knob on my mechanical keyboard is practical. I use it to adjust the volume or play my latest favourite song on the computer. However, these things usually look boring – just like any old control knob would. I want something more personalised.
Rich with choice and an extra portion of kitsch
I could buy a new knob. For example, from manufacturer Glorious via our online shop or through group buying. But in the first instance, your choice is limited and in the second, you usually have long wait times. It’s quicker and edgier to use potentiometer or pot knobs.
The ones I’m interested in are usually found on guitars and, aptly, are also known as guitar tone knobs. They come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and colours. Alongside the classic knobs, there are also unusual ones you can find on Etsy. These remind me of artisan key caps, which are a special type of cap made from artificial resin. You could even call them artisan knobs. The things scream kitsch so much that I just have to get them. I immediately order four so I’ve got a supply.
It works, even if it’s not perfect
A few weeks later, the knobs arrive. Initially, I only have cause to use one. I’d earmarked it for my Keychron Q2. A few weeks before, I’d misshapen the original knob during an experiment – more on that in another article.
To affix the pot knob, all I need to do is push it on, which I don’t do completely. If I did, I’d not actually be able to press it. My new tone knob has a large circumference and therefore doesn’t fit in the hole intended for the key cap any more. But the fact that it seems to hover doesn’t bother me.
I’m now looking forward to finding space to use the other knobs on my keyboards. Obviously, you can also get pot knobs that aren’t quite as ugly kitsch. With a huge selection on offer, there should be something to float everyone’s boat.
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Kevin Hofer
Senior Editor
kevin.hofer@digitecgalaxus.chFrom big data to big brother, Cyborgs to Sci-Fi. All aspects of technology and society fascinate me.
