The 7 types of gasket mounts of the Meletrix Zoom65 V3
When it comes to custom mechanical keyboards, the mounting style is crucial.
In particular, the gasket mount system — which involves placing soft gaskets between the PCB and the case — can radically change how a keyboard feels and sounds. Unlike traditional rigid mounting methods, a gasket mount isolates the PCB from the case using elastic materials (like rubber or springs), giving the keyboard a softer, cushioned feel and a more muted sound by reducing vibrations transferred to the case.
This means a keyboard can feel either softer or firmer depending on the mounting type: for example, Top Mount offers a solid and firm experience, while something more innovative like magnetic levitation is one of the softest and most flexible options available.
The new Zoom65 V3 by Meletrix takes customization to the next level by offering seven interchangeable gasket mount styles in a single kit. This lets every user find their perfect combination of comfort and acoustics.
Below, we break down the seven mounting methods available on the Zoom65 V3 — from the most classic to the most innovative — explaining what each one is, how it works, its pros and cons, and who it's best suited for. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast chasing that perfect typing feel or just curious to experiment, this guide will help you choose the right mount for you.
1. Leaf Spring Mount
The Leaf Spring Mount uses small flexible metal arms attached inside the case. The PCB rests on these short, flat spring arms, providing elastic but controlled support. The goal is to strike the right balance between flexibility and stability: the short springs retain a nice bounce without making the PCB too “bouncy.”
The result is a typing experience that’s soft yet precise, with a slight bounce effect on each press that makes the keyboard feel responsive but not out of control. Installation tip: It’s important to ensure these arms don’t touch the case directly, or they might cause friction or unwanted noise.
Pros:
Soft but balanced feel: Offers some flex without excessive bounce.
Precision: Each keypress feels responsive without the stiffness of traditional mounting.
Reduced fatigue: The slight elasticity absorbs part of the impact, making it comfortable for long typing sessions.
Cons:
Slight bounce: Heavy-handed typists might need to adjust to avoid accidental keypresses (some users report possible double presses if typing sloppily).
Careful installation required: Springs must be positioned correctly to avoid noise or rubbing.
Not ultra-flexible: Softer than top mount, but less flexible than spring or magnetic mounts — might leave ultra-soft fans wanting more.
Who should choose this?
Writers and heavy typists: Ideal for those who type a lot and want a softer touch without sacrificing too much precision.
Fans of controlled comfort: If you want cushioning without sacrificing accuracy, this is a great middle ground.
Tactile switch users: Works well with medium-weight tactile switches, adding slight cushioning while preserving the tactile feedback.
2. Spring Mount
The Spring Mount uses actual springs to support the PCB via clips on the plate, with a key feature: these springs are highly elastic but non-load bearing — meaning they compress rather than fully support the keyboard’s weight. The PCB and plate essentially “float” on the springs: when you type, they compress slightly and bounce back.
The initial feel can be surprising — it almost feels like the keyboard responds with a soft recoil — but after a bit of practice, it becomes extremely comfortable and even fun. The experience combines a cushioned bottom-out with a pronounced elastic return.
Pros:
Maximum bounce: Each key offers a lively, satisfying bounce.
Comfortable typing: The springs absorb much of the impact, easing strain on your fingers.
Innovative feel: A refreshing alternative to standard gasket systems.
Cons:
Learning curve: The bounce can cause mistypes early on; sloppy typing may lead to accidental re-presses.
Maybe not ideal for fast-paced gaming: The elastic response can slightly throw off rhythm in rapid, repeated keystrokes, though many users adapt quickly.
Extra components: The springs add more parts to install, and though they’re secure, they could theoretically shift if the board is hit hard.
Who should choose this?
Fans of softness and bounce: This is the most elastic mount aside from magnetic levitation.
Tinkerers and experimenters: Perfect for those who want to try something fresh and unique.
Linear switch users: The bouncy feel pairs beautifully with medium-weight linear switches for smooth, comfy typing — might even become your daily favorite.
3. O-ring Mount
The O-ring mount (also known as gummy O-ring) on the Zoom65 V3 comes in a “split” version. Traditionally, a gummy O-ring is a single rubber ring stretched around the plate and PCB, wedged between the top and bottom of the case to suspend the assembly.
Meletrix improved this by splitting the O-ring into segments and attaching them using small internal blockers. This prevents the ring from slipping out and removes the old issue of backspace stabilizer incompatibility.
The end result is a fairly solid mounting style: the plate and PCB are held in place by the O-ring segments, which act as cushions, slightly softening the bottom-out. Don’t expect it to feel ultra-soft — this implementation is firmer than traditional gummy O-ring setups, with less of a “springy” effect, but still offers pleasant typing and a clean sound.
Pros:
Consistent typing feel: Delivers a stable, uniform experience without overly soft spots.
Cushioned bottom-out: Reduces the harsh “bottoming out” feeling of rigid mounts.
Great acoustics: Offers a full-bodied, non-hollow sound. The wide O-ring surface reduces internal echo and gives a more dampened tone.
Stabilizer compatibility: The split design allows use of any stabilizer, even in tricky spots like backspace.
Cons:
Limited flexibility: It’s relatively stiff compared to other gasket systems. The plate doesn’t move much — could feel a bit too similar to top mount for those seeking a very soft feel.
Slightly more complex install: You’ll need to carefully place the O-rings and supports. Not difficult, but adds a few steps.
Less innovative feel: While effective, the experience may feel familiar or less exciting for those who’ve tried standard gaskets.
Who should choose this?
Those seeking balance: If you want a slightly cushioned feel without excessive softness, the split O-ring gives a premium feel without overdoing it.
Tactile or clicky switch fans: The firmer mount pairs well with tactile switches, enhancing the bump feel while softening the bottom-out.
Sound-focused users: If keyboard acoustics matter to you, this mount delivers a full, clean, non-echoey sound — great even without much foam.
4. MagLev Mount (Magnetic Levitation Mount)
The MagLev Mount is a completely new system that uses magnets to support the plate without any physical contact. Essentially, magnets with opposite polarities are positioned on the plate and inside the case so that they repel each other, causing the entire assembly (plate + PCB) to "float" in suspension. When you press a key, the plate moves down against the magnetic force and is then pushed back up by the magnetic field—like an invisible spring. This results in an extremely soft and uniform typing feel: there's no rigid bottom-out point, meaning the keystroke ends in a gradual, almost 100% cushioned way. Many describe it as the most flexible and comfortable mounting system of all. From an acoustic standpoint, it also has benefits: the lack of mechanical contact eliminates vibrations and resonance, giving the keyboard a cleaner and less noisy sound (no clunky parts hitting each other). The downside is that installing the magnets requires a bit of patience and care: they are very small and fragile—they tend to snap together forcefully and can chip if you're not careful. Meletrix includes spare magnets in the kit just in case.
Pros:
Ultimate softness: This is by far the softest system. Typing feels like pressing on a cushion of air. Ideal for those who want to eliminate any harsh bottom-out sensation.
Highly flexible: The plate has significant vertical freedom, resulting in a bouncy typing experience. Perfect for fans of bouncy keyboards.
Clean acoustics: No direct contact means fewer unwanted noises. The result is a muffled sound, free of unwanted vibrations, with softer tones and less case reverb.
Wow factor: This is a fascinating and innovative technology—typing on a magnetically levitating keyboard is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Cons:
Not for everyone: The ultra-soft feel might not appeal to those used to more defined feedback. Some may find it “mushy” or not precise enough for competitive gaming, for instance.
Delicate installation: Handling small, fragile magnets takes care; it's a bit more finicky to install than other options (plastic washers, polarity matching, etc.).
Potential maintenance: In case of strong impacts or drops, the magnets could shift or get damaged. Over time, they may also attract metallic dust. Nothing critical in daily use, but something to keep in mind.
Slightly higher cost: The magnets are extra components that increase the kit's cost; although included in the Zoom65 V3, they still represent a more complex solution compared to rubber or springs.
Who should choose this?
Those seeking the softest typing possible: If fingertip comfort is your top priority and you're curious to try the most flexible keyboard on the market, this is the mount for you.
Typing enthusiasts: Ideal for those who want to experiment with a futuristic mounting system and surprise their friends with something unique.
Long writing sessions: If you type for hours (e.g., programming, creative writing), you'll likely appreciate the reduced finger fatigue due to the lack of hard impacts. Magnetic levitation was created with the goal of reducing strain during high-frequency typing.
5. Silica-Gel Mount
This system is essentially the classic gasket mount implementation on the Zoom65 V3. “Silica gel” refers to the small silicone pads used as soft mounting points. Around the inner edge of the case, tiny protruding hooks hold these soft silicone pads, and the plate is sandwiched between upper and lower pads, remaining suspended. This setup effectively isolates the plate from the case, dampening vibrations and sound, just like a good gasket should. The feel is similar to other gasket keyboards: soft but not overly squishy, with a slight compression when pressing harder. In terms of stiffness, it’s considered the second stiffest among the seven Zoom65 mounts (after the top mount)—slightly firmer than the O-ring mount, but still more comfortable than a traditional screw mount. The acoustic benefits are notable too: the silicone pads prevent metal-on-metal vibrations, so the sound is fuller and less metallic. No wonder gasket mounts are so popular!
Pros:
Balanced and proven: It delivers exactly what you'd expect from a classic gasket mount. A mix of comfort and stability for everyday use.
Vibration reduction: Silicone pads isolate the plate from the case, reducing metal ping and making typing quieter and cleaner.
Versatility: Works well with all types of switches—tactile, linear, or clicky—without stability issues.
Easy to assemble: Installing the silicone pads is straightforward with fewer tiny parts compared to other systems.
Cons:
Less "extreme": Doesn’t offer unique characteristics like other mounts. If you’re after something radically different, this is the most standard choice.
Moderate flex: While not rigid, it’s still among the stiffer Zoom65 mounts. Those seeking a very soft typing experience may find it only moderately flexible.
Familiar feel: For users who already own gasket boards, this may feel like more of the same—lacking the novelty of springs or magnets.
Who should choose this?
Gasket newbies: If you’ve never tried a gasket mount, this is a great introduction to why the system is so beloved.
All-round users: Ideal for those who use their keyboard for everything—work, gaming, writing—and want consistent performance in every situation.
Those seeking reliability: As the most “standard” option, it’s hard to go wrong here. It delivers a familiar, enjoyable experience that most users will appreciate.
6. Top Mount
The top mount is the classic mechanical keyboard mounting style. In this configuration, the plate is screwed directly into the top part of the case—usually via screws around the edge. It’s a tried-and-true method used in many well-known keyboards (from the JD40 to high-end customs like the TGR Jane, and even commercial kits like the Tofu). On the Zoom65 V3, Meletrix included this option for those who prefer a more traditional feel. The result is a stiffer, more stable typing experience: the plate is firmly secured to the case, allowing very little flex (depending on the plate material), and every keypress is transmitted directly to the frame. Feedback is sharp and immediate, with no bounce or cushioning. Sound-wise, top mounts can emphasize case resonance—especially with metal plates—and the bottom-out tends to sound higher-pitched and drier compared to gasket mounts unless you add dampening foam. Many appreciate this consistency and precision: “you always know what to expect” from each keystroke. If paired with stiff plates (aluminum, brass, carbon), this character is even more pronounced, while softer plates (POM, polycarbonate) offer a touch more flex without changing the mount’s firm nature.
Pros:
Stability and precision: Offers the firmest feedback—each keypress responds instantly with no dampening. Great for tactile or clicky switch users.
Consistency: The typing experience is uniform across the board. For many, this is the “classic” mechanical keyboard feel.
Great for competitive gaming: The absence of cushioning elements means keys reset quickly with no wobble—perfect for fast input in FPS or high-speed typing.
Simple construction: Fewer soft parts to worry about—just screw in the plate. No springs, magnets, or rubber bits to shift over time.
Cons:
Less comfort: Without cushioning, typing can be more fatiguing over long sessions. Every bottom-out is a small sharp impact.
Louder, more metallic sound: Without isolation, some key sound gets amplified through the case. Can lead to ping or metallic resonance unless dampened.
Very rigid: Little to no flex in the typing experience. If you like some softness in the center, this mount may feel too stiff.
Perceived as less "premium": In today’s custom scene, gasket mounts are often seen as the gold standard. The top mount might feel a bit “old-school” in comparison.
Who should choose this?
Fans of classic feel: If you love the solid, no-frills typing of older mechanical keyboards, the top mount will feel familiar and reliable.
Competitive gamers: Those who need ultra-stable keypresses with no flex will benefit from the rigid, instant feedback.
Tactile/clicky switch users: Those using tactile switches like Cherry MX Browns or Zealios will enjoy the mount’s feedback-enhancing properties.
Minimalist builders: If the idea of handling magnets or springs stresses you out, this simple screw-in solution might be your best bet.
7. Floating Pogo Pin Mount
The final—and perhaps most intriguing—system is the floating pogo pin mount. Pogo pins are small spring-loaded pins typically used in electronics to make temporary connections. Here, Meletrix has repurposed them as flexible support points for the plate. Instead of sitting on screws or rubber pads, the plate rests on several dome-tipped pogo pins. These pins act like mini shock absorbers: they compress slightly under pressure and then spring the plate back up. The result is a high-frequency bounce: short travel, low resistance, and quick response. The aim is to improve typing speed and responsiveness without adding fatigue. In terms of feel, many describe it as soft but not mushy—there’s a bit of springiness, but not as much as with coils or magnets. You can feel a slight elastic response under your fingers, just enough to remove stiffness without feeling overly squishy. Some users even wished for more bounce. Acoustically, pogo pins don’t introduce unwanted noises when tuned correctly—no scratching or clicking—so the sound remains clean, similar to a light gasket. It’s a new system with limited prior experience, but those who’ve tested the Zoom65 V3 agree it’s one of the first to implement it successfully.
Pros:
Snappy typing: The pogo pins provide a light cushion with fast return. Great for fast typists—the keyboard keeps up with your fingers effortlessly.
Reduced fatigue: While not as soft as springs or magnets, this system still softens the impact compared to rigid mounts. Good for long typing sessions.
No fragile parts: Pogo pins are sturdy and integrated—less delicate than separate magnets or springs. Once installed, they rarely move or break.
Innovative yet simple: This is a clever system that doesn’t overcomplicate assembly. Once the correct pins are in place, setup is intuitive. The internal assembly stays well-aligned thanks to guide pins—no wobbling plates or misalignment.
Cons:
Limited travel: If you’re looking for a deep, springy bounce, this might feel underwhelming. The motion is minor compared to full gaskets or spring systems.
In-between feel: It’s not as rigid as top mount, nor as soft as full gasket. If you have strong preferences, this middle ground may not impress.
New implementation: As a recent innovation, long-term durability is still unproven. While designed to last, internal spring wear over years is an open question.
Harder to replace: If a pogo pin were to break (unlikely), replacing it isn’t as easy as swapping an O-ring or silicone pad—you’d need to get parts from the manufacturer.
Who should choose this?
Fast typists/steno users: Writers, programmers, or content creators who type rapidly will appreciate the reduced fatigue without losing responsiveness.
Balanced feel seekers: If springs feel too soft and top mount too stiff, pogo pins offer an interesting middle ground worth trying.
Linear switch lovers: Users who prefer smooth linear switches often enjoy this setup more than with tactiles—it enhances fluidity without interruptions.
Everyday users: For general daily use (writing, occasional gaming), this mount offers a noticeable comfort upgrade without drastically changing the feel.
Conclusion:
The Zoom65 V3 by Meletrix stands out for its incredible flexibility—very few kits allow you to experiment so freely with different mounting styles. The seven systems described here cover nearly the entire spectrum of typing experiences—from the stiffest (Top Mount) to the softest (MagLev), with unique options in between. There’s no definitive “best”: each mount has its own personality, with pros and cons that make it better suited for some users than others. The good news is that with the Zoom65 V3, you're not locked into a single choice—you can test all the configurations yourself and find the one that fits your style best. Whether you prefer the classic stability of a gasket or the futuristic softness of magnets, this keyboard lets you try them all. Ultimately, the Zoom65 V3 perfectly embodies the spirit of customization in the mechanical keyboard world—putting personalized sound and feel literally at your fingertips.
Personal thoughts:
After trying all the gasket mount types except the top mount, I can confidently say that each one has its own character—you’ll have to discover them for yourself, because no text can truly convey the feel of each mount. If you get the chance, it’s an experience worth having.
If you're curious, check out the Zoom65 V3 livestream