Glossary
QMK/VIA firmware
Open-source keyboard firmware and a companion app that let you remap keys and build custom layers without writing code.
QMK is an open-source firmware project that runs on many custom and enthusiast keyboards, giving them advanced features like key remapping, custom layers, and macros that go beyond what most stock keyboard software offers. VIA is a companion desktop application that provides a simple visual interface for editing a QMK-compatible keyboard's layout without writing or compiling any code.
Together, they let a user reassign almost any key to any function, set up multiple layers accessed by a held key, and configure per-key lighting on boards that support it, all through drag-and-drop style menus rather than a command line. Not every keyboard supports QMK and VIA, so checking compatibility before buying matters if custom remapping is a priority.
A common point of confusion is assuming any keyboard with software can do this level of customization, when many prebuilt gaming keyboards use closed, brand-specific software with far more limited remapping options. If open, flexible remapping matters to you, checking for QMK or VIA support before purchase avoids being stuck with a rigid layout later.