Mechanical keyboards have gained a lot of popularity over the years due to their performance, sound, and tactile sensation. However, like any other device, they require maintenance to ensure they function optimally. Lubing is one crucial maintenance activity, and here’s a comprehensive guide to help you lubricate your mechanical keyboard switches for smoother and better performance.
1. Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Switch Lubing
Lubing mechanical keyboard switches involves applying a low viscosity material such as grease or oil to the moving parts of the switch to reduce friction. This process helps to dampen the sound produced during typing, enhances the smoothness of key presses, and prolongs the lifespan of the keyboard.
2. What You Need for Lubing
Before we dive into the lubing process, it’s essential to understand the tools you’ll need. These are:
- A switch or keyboard opener
- A paintbrush or applicator for applying the lubricant
- A high-quality keyboard lubricant
Additionally, tweezers, a keycap puller, and a clean workspace can also come in handy during the process.
3. Choose the Right Lubricant
Choosing the correct lubricant is crucial in the lubing process. Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0, Tribosys 3203, and Tribosys 3204 are some of the most popular lubricants for mechanical keyboard switches. For linears switches, Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 would be an excellent option. For tactile switches, Tribosys 3203 or Tribosys 3204 are suitable choices.
4. The Lubing Process
The lubing process includes the following steps:
A. Disassemble the keyboard: Start by removing the keycaps with a keycap puller. Be careful not to damage the key caps or the switch stems during the process.
B. Open up the switches: Once all keycaps are off, it’s time to open the switches. You’ll need a switch or keyboard opener for this step.
C. Lubricate the Switches: Next, using your paintbrush, apply a thin coating of lubricant to both sliders’ sides, the slider rails inside the bottom housing, and a small amount around the spring’s top inside bottom housing.
D. Reassemble the Switches: After applying the lube, reassemble the switches, ensuring all the parts are in their correct places.
E. Reassemble The Keyboard: Finally, after re-assembling all switches, put them back into their places and reattach the keycaps.
5. Lubing Linear vs. Tactile Switches
When lubing linear and tactile switches, several practices should be followed for the best results.
A. Lubricating Linear Switches: Linear switches derive their name from the smooth, linear keystroke they produce without a tactile bump. Thus, the aim of lubing these switches is to enhance this smoothness and dampen the ‘bottoming out’ sound.
Start by applying a thin layer of lubricant on the bottom housing, focusing on the shaft where the stem will slide against. Next, lube the stem aligning with the points lubed in the housing. Lastly, apply a small dab of lubricant on both ends of the spring to reduce the pinging sound.
B. Lubricating Tactile Switches: Tactile switches have a ‘bump’ in their keystroke, providing physical feedback to the typist. When lubing tactile switches, you want to maintain this tactile feedback while still reducing noise and enhancing the smoothness of the keypress.
Start by applying lube to the bottom housing, but be aware not to apply any lubricant to the contact leaf. Afterwards, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the stem, avoiding the tactile bump. Finally, lube both ends of the springs to eliminate any pinging sounds.
6. Lubing Stabilizers
Stabilizers are used on wider keys like the spacebar, enter, shift, and backspace. Lubing them correctly can significantly reduce the ‘rattle’ sound during keypresses.
Start by removing the stabilizers from the keyboard. Clean them thoroughly before applying lubricant to the ‘clips’ on both ends. Then, apply a generous amount of lubricant to the hole where the metal wire enters the plastic insert, and reassemble.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid While Lubing
While lubing, avoid over-lubrication as it can negatively affect the keyboard’s performances. Also, remember not to lube clicky switches as it can inhibit their clickiness, and always ensure you’re using the right lubricant for your keyboard.
8. Regularity of Lubing
How often should you lube your keyboard switches? Ideally, it should be done once every 6 to 12 months. However, this depends on how often you use and clean your keyboard. The more frequently you use your keyboard, the more often you’ll need to lube.
This detailed guide provides you with all the steps to successfully lube your mechanical keyboard switches. The process requires precision and concentration while offering an opportunity to custom-tune each switch for the perfect typing experience. It’s a fun and rewarding process that any mechanical keyboard owner should consider.
