May 1, 2026
Description
Clicking on a character inside the table opens the page of the corresponding design.
All KeyboaStick series released to date have been designed to be installed on desktop computer keyboards. However, a significant number of people have requested a design that can be used on laptops or Chromebooks. Since laptop switches vary widely in layout and keycap installation methods, and the keycaps have very weak holding power, it is impossible to design a version based on the same concept as my other KeyboaSticks. Therefore, I had no intention of making a laptop version.
However, I recently saw a comment from someone with a disability stating that they wanted to use it on their Chromebook. Seeing that post, I started designing, wondering if my model might be of some help.
Since Chromebook keys have a somewhat standardized shape, I designed it based on the key layout shown in the image below.
First of all, this design is completely different from other KeyboaStick models. As explained above, replacing keycaps on laptops like Chromebooks is nearly impossible. Therefore, the method I devised is to use it by placing it over the existing keys.
I was unable to conduct a complete test because I do not own a Chromebook. Instead, I created a mockup of a Chromebook switch and confirmed that it is functional to some extent.
This design is functional to some extent even without being fully bonded to the Chromebook body. There is a support structure at the bottom that surrounds the switches, allowing them to hold their position to some degree. However, for smooth operation, I recommend temporarily securing it using double-sided adhesive or similar methods.
The custom model below was added on May 8, 2026. With this, you can print by adjusting the shape of the base to fit the arrow keys on most laptops as well as Chromebooks.
SwitchHeight is the protrusion height of the key, and a wall is created to support the body at the set height.
If the side arrow keys are large as shown in the photo below, please set the SideDepth and Depth settings to be the same.
If the arrow and the switch above it are not vertically aligned as shown in the image below, such as on a MacBook, entering a number other than '0 (zero)' for the 'mac' parameter will move it by 3/4 of the switch pitch to create a wall, and entering '0' will create a wall aligned with the left wall of the arrow key.
The standard keyboard key pitch is 19.05mm (0.75 inches). For most Chromebooks, the total width of the arrow key cluster is 61.9125mm, which is 3.25 times the standard pitch. Please note that 'pitch' refers to the distance between the centers of two adjacent switches (the sum of the switch size and the gap between them), rather than the size of the switch itself. While these are the default parameters, they can be adjusted to fit the specific dimensions of your laptop or Chromebook.
The printed components are as shown in the photo below.
Insert the four switch link parts into place.
Insert the central column. (Use adhesive)
Insert the springs.
Insert the lever into the center column. You must press it in slightly firmly using the snap-fit method.
Position it at the arrow key location on the Chromebook as shown below. If necessary, use a method to temporarily secure it, such as double-sided adhesive.
This is a video of a test conducted on a laptop that has a very similar keyboard layout, although it is not a Chromebook.
Parameter for Macbook added.
License:
Standard Digital File License
FunOrNothing
