Swapping keycaps on a mechanical keyboard is very much like refurbishing your good old typing buddy. Whether you’re looking to sport the new look, optimize feel for typing, or rid the board of wear and tear from continuous relentless keystrokes, the new keycaps will refresh your board and orient it closer to your needs. This guide will show you how to easily swap these important little pieces, helping you boost both the appearance and performance of your keyboard.
Why Should You Replace Your Keycaps
- Personalization: Custom keycaps are an excellent way to tailor your keyboard and flash a bit of personal style. With no shortage of designs, colors, and materials, you’ll be sure to fashion something all your own.
- Improved Feel: Over time, keycaps can turn shiny, slick, or downright greasy, influencing how they feel to the touch. New keycaps, especially those using higher-quality materials like PBT, might look better with a texture for typing.
- More Durability: The keys take a great deal of use, and the legends—the letters and symbols—wear off quickly if a keyboard has undergone extensive use. Swapping these with quality keycaps can prevent this fading and keep your keyboard looking nice, crispy, and readable for several years longer.
- Ergonomics: With differently profiled keycaps comes individual typing experience. Others may like flatter or more angled keycaps, which enable typing with less straining during long sessions.
- Sound Modification: The material and thickness of keycaps can alter the sound your keystrokes are creating. Looking for a quieter workspace or a nice “thock” sound with each press, changing the keycaps can make all the difference.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Replacing your keycaps will leave you free to clean your keyboard with a vengeance, removing dust, hair, and other detritus that litter the inside of any board over time.
- Backlight Compatibility: If your board features backlighting, switching to translucent keycaps really brings out the light effects. Some opaque keycaps do have subtle looks in case that is desired.
Step 1: Understanding Your Keyboard and Keycaps
Mechanical Keyboard Type
Before replacing keycaps, it’s essential to identify the type of mechanical keyboard you have. Different keyboards may use different switch types (e.g., Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh) and mounting styles (e.g., plate-mounted, PCB-mounted), which can affect keycap compatibility.
Keycap Sizes and Profiles
Keycaps come in various sizes and profiles, with different shapes and heights. Common profiles include OEM, Cherry, SA, DSA, and more. Mixing keycap profiles can lead to an inconsistent typing experience, so it’s necessary to understand the profile of your existing keycaps.
Stem Types of Your Keycaps
Keycap stems are the plastic protrusions that fit into the switch housings, allowing the keycaps to be securely attached. The most common stem types are Cherry MX, Alps, and Topre. Identifying your keyboard’s stem type is crucial for ensuring compatibility with new keycaps.
Step 2: Preparing for Keycap Replacement
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before starting the replacement process, gather the necessary tools. A keycap puller is an essential tool for safely removing keycaps without damaging the switches or stems. Additionally, you’ll need cleaning materials such as compressed air, microfiber cloths, and optionally, a keyboard-safe cleaning solution.
Cleaning the Workspace
Clear a clean, well-lit workspace to ensure a smooth keycap replacement process. Consider using a soft surface or mat to protect your keyboard from scratches or scuffs during the process.
Documenting the Original Key Layout
If you plan to reinstall your existing keycaps or mix and match them with new ones, it’s essential to document the original key layout. Take a clear photo or use a keyboard layout diagram to ensure you can easily reference the correct placement of each keycap during reassembly.
Step 3: Removing Old Keycaps
How to Safely Use a Keycap Puller
Using a keycap puller is the safest and most effective way to remove keycaps without damaging the switches or stems. Position the puller correctly, ensuring it grips the keycap securely, and apply gentle leverage to lift the keycap straight up and off the stem.
Techniques for Removing Stubborn Keycaps
In some cases, keycaps may be stuck or difficult to remove. Gently wiggling the keycap back and forth while applying upward pressure can help dislodge it. Avoid prying or twisting the keycap, as this can damage the stem or switch housing.
Organizing Removed Keycaps
As you remove keycaps, organize them in a way that preserves their layout. You can use a keycap tray or a labeled container or simply arrange them on a flat surface in the correct order.
Step 4: Cleaning the Keyboard
How to Clean the Switches and Keyboard Base
Use compressed air or a soft-bristled brush to dislodge any debris or dust from the switch housings and stabilizers. Wipe down the keyboard base with a microfiber cloth or a lightly dampened cloth, taking care not to expose the electronic components to excessive moisture.
Suggested Cleaning Agents and Tools
While most keyboards can be cleaned with a mild, keyboard-safe cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific keyboard. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the keyboard’s components or finishes.
Drying and Preparing the Keyboard for New Keycaps
After cleaning, ensure the keyboard is completely dry before proceeding with the installation of new keycaps. Any remaining moisture could potentially damage the switches or cause corrosion over time.
Step 5: Choosing Your New Keycaps
Material Options
Keycaps are available in various materials, each with its own unique properties. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a common and affordable option, while PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) is known for its durability and resistance to shine or wear. Consider the material’s texture, sound profile, and durability when selecting new keycaps.
Profile and Size Selection
Ensure that the new keycaps you select are compatible with your keyboard’s existing profile and size. Mixing profiles or sizes can lead to an inconsistent typing experience or even prevent proper installation.
Color Schemes and Designs
One of the most exciting aspects of replacing keycaps is the ability to choose from a wide range of color schemes and designs. From minimalist monochrome styles to vibrant custom designs, the options are virtually endless.
Compatibility with Your Keyboard’s Backlighting
If your keyboard features backlighting, consider the legends and materials of the new keycaps to ensure optimal compatibility. Some keycaps may block or diffuse backlighting differently, affecting the overall appearance and visibility.
Step 6: Installing New Keycaps
Aligning Keycaps with Stems
Before pressing the keycaps into place, carefully align them with the corresponding switch stems. Pay close attention to the orientation and placement, particularly for sculpted or profiled keycaps.
Pressing Keycaps into Place
Once aligned, gently press the keycaps down onto the switch stems, ensuring they are securely seated and do not wobble or feel loose. Apply even pressure to avoid damaging the stems or keycaps.
Special Considerations for Larger Keys with Stabilizers
Larger keys like the spacebar, shift, and enter keys often feature stabilizers to provide even support and prevent binding. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult online resources for proper stabilizer installation and adjustment.
Double-Checking All Keys Are Securely Fitted
After installing all keycaps, perform a final check to ensure every key is securely fitted and functioning correctly. Gently wiggle each keycap to identify any potential issues or misalignments.
Step 7: Testing Your New Setup
With the new keycaps installed, test each key to ensure it registers correctly and functions as expected. Pay attention to any keys that feel inconsistent or unresponsive. Examine the keyboard for any signs of key interference or misalignment, which can occur if keycaps are not properly seated or if there are compatibility issues with the new keycap profile or size. If you’ve switched to a different keycap material, be prepared for a potential change in the typing feel and sound. It may take some time to adjust to the new sensations, but many enthusiasts find the differences appealing and refreshing.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Keycaps
Regular Cleaning Protocol
To keep your new keycaps looking and performing their best, establish a regular cleaning routine. Use a gentle cleaning solution or compressed air to remove any accumulated dust or debris, and wipe down the keycaps with a soft, dry cloth.
Storage Advice for the Old Keycaps
If you plan to keep your old keycaps, store them in a dry, dust-free environment. Consider using a keycap tray or a labeled container to maintain the original layout and prevent any damage or warping.
Longevity Tips for Preserving Keycap Legends and Finish
To extend the lifespan of your new keycaps, avoid excessive pressure or friction, which can cause premature wear or fading of legends and finishes. Use a wrist rest or palm rest to reduce direct contact with the keycaps during extended typing sessions.
Revitalize Your Keyboard with a Fresh Set of Keycaps!
Replacing keycaps on your mechanical keyboard is a simple yet rewarding process that allows you to refresh the appearance, improve the typing experience, and maintain cleanliness. It’s a great way to breathe new life into an aging keyboard or personalize a new one to reflect your unique style and preferences. The world of custom keycap sets is vast and ever-evolving, offering endless possibilities for self-expression and creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold color combinations, intricate designs, or unique materials to create a truly one-of-a-kind setup that sets your keyboard apart.