How to Lube Keyboard Switches

A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches for each key. These switches are typically more durable and provide a better typing experience than traditional membrane keyboards. Mechanical keyboards are available in a variety of switch types, each with its own unique characteristics. This guide will help you to learn How to Lube Keyboard Switches. 

If you're anything like me, your mechanical keyboard is one of your most prized possessions. Not only do they provide a fantastic typing experience, but they can also be a beautiful piece of technology to look at. But even the best keyboards need a little TLC from time to time, and that's where lubricating your switches come in.

Just like any other piece of machinery, your keyboard's switches will eventually start to show signs of wear and tear. But unlike other machines, there's an easy way to fix this problem: simply lubricate the switches! Doing so will not only make your keyboard feel brand new again, but it can also help extend its lifespan.

There are a few different ways to lubricate your switches, but the most popular method is to use a lubricant such as silicone grease or switch lubricant. Applying a small amount of lubricant to the contact points of each switch will help reduce friction and make the keys feel smoother and more responsive.

If you're not sure how to lubricate your switches, don't worry – we've got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about lubricating your mechanical keyboard switches, including which products to use and how to apply them. Let's get started!

First things first: why lubricating your switches important?

As we mentioned earlier, lubricating your switches can help extend the lifespan of your keyboard by reducing wear and tear. But that's not the only advantage – it can also make your keyboard feel smoother and more responsive.

If you've ever used a keyboard with stiff, unresponsive keys, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does it make typing more difficult, but it can also be a real pain to use for gaming or other activities that require quick reflexes. Lubricating your switches can help solve this problem by making the keys feel smoother and more responsive.

In addition, lubricating your switches can also help quiet down your keyboard. If you've ever used a keyboard with loud, clicky keys, you know how annoying it can be – both for you and for the people around you. Lubricating the switches can help reduce the noise level by dampening the sound of the keys.

So now that we know all the benefits of lubricating your switches, let's take a look at the products you'll need to do it.

There are a few different products you can use to lubricate your switches, but the most popular option is silicone grease.

• Silicone grease is a clear, odorless, and non-toxic substance that can be found at most hardware stores. It's also very inexpensive, so it's a great option if you're on a budget.
• Another popular choice is switch lubricant. Switch lubricant is specifically designed for use on mechanical keyboard switches, and it can be found at most online retailers that sell mechanical keyboard parts. It's a bit more expensive than silicone grease, but it's worth the extra cost if you want the best possible results.

No matter which product you choose, be sure to avoid using any kind of petroleum-based lubricants, such as WD-40. These products can damage your switches and should be avoided.

Now that we've covered the products you'll need, let's move on to the application process.

Applying lubricant to your switches is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind.

1. Well-ventilated area.

First, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area – the fumes from the lubricant can be quite strong.

2. Make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand before you start. In addition to the lubricant itself, you'll need a small brush or toothpick for applying it to the switches. A cotton swab can also be useful for cleaning up any excess lubricant.

3. take your time and don't rush – this is a delicate process, and rushing can lead to mistakes.

With those caveats out of the way, let's take a look at the step-by-step process on lubricating your mechanical keyboard.

1. Begin by removing the keycaps from your keyboard.

This will give you better access to the switches and make it easier to apply the lubricant.

2. Pull apart the switch.

Most mechanical switches can be pulled apart into two pieces: the stem and the housing.

3. Use the brush or toothpick.

Apply a small amount of lubricant to the stem. Be sure to use a light touch and use a very small amount – too much lubricant can cause problems with your keyboard, such as ghosting or sticking keys.

4. Use a cotton swab.

Once you've applied the lubricant, use the cotton swab to clean up any excess.

5. Reassemble the switch.

Put the stem back into the housing and give it a gentle shake to distribute the lubricant evenly.

6. Repeat the process for each switch on your keyboard.

Remember to take your time and be careful not to get any lubricant on the PCB or other parts of your keyboard.

7. Reattach Keycaps.

Once you've finished applying lubricant to all the switches, reattach the keycaps and enjoy your newly smooth and responsive keyboard!

8. Test your keyboard

After you've lubricated your switches, it's a good idea to test your keyboard to make sure everything is working correctly. One way to do this is to use a program like Keyboard Test to check for any problems with your keys. Another option is to simply type out a few paragraphs of text to see how the keyboard feels. You might also notice that your keyboard is a bit louder than it was before – this is normal and will eventually go away as the lubricant dries and cures.

Final Thoughts

That's all there is to it! With just a few simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your keyboard and make it feel smoother and more responsive. Lubricating your switches is a relatively simple process, but it can make a big difference in the feel and performance of your keyboard. So if you're looking to get the most out of your mechanical keyboard, be sure to give it a try.