Cleaning mechanical keyboard switches can help improve the performance and longevity of your keyboard. Here's how you can clean them:
- Disconnect the keyboard: Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to unplug your keyboard from the computer or turn it off if it is wireless.
- Remove keycaps: Gently remove the keycaps from the keyboard using a keycap puller or by carefully lifting them with your fingers. Set them aside in a safe place.
- Shake out debris: Hold the keyboard upside down and gently shake it to remove any loose debris or crumbs that may have collected between the keys.
- Use compressed air: Utilize a can of compressed air to blow away any remaining dust or particles. Aim the nozzle at an angle to ensure you're targeting the spaces between the switches.
- Clean with a brush: Take a soft-bristled brush, such as a clean toothbrush or a small paintbrush, and gently brush between the switches to dislodge any stubborn dirt or dust. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the switches.
- Isopropyl alcohol: Moisten a cotton swab or a clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol. Make sure it is not soaking wet, just slightly damp.
- Wipe the switches: Gently rub the damp cloth or cotton swab over the top of each switch, gently moving it back and forth to remove dirt, grease, or grime that may have built up.
- Allow drying: Give the switches some time to air dry completely, ensuring that no moisture is left behind before reassembling the keyboard.
- Replace keycaps: Once the switches are completely dry, carefully place the keycaps back on the keyboard, making sure they are aligned properly and securely seated.
- Test the keyboard: Plug in your keyboard or turn it on, and test all the keys to make sure they are working correctly and smoothly.
Regularly cleaning your mechanical keyboard switches can help maintain their functionality and prevent any issues caused by dirt or debris buildup. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions for cleaning to ensure you don't void any warranties.
Best Mechanical Keyboard of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Logitech K845 Mechanical Illuminated Keyboard, Strong Adjustable Tilt Legs, Full Size, Aluminum Top Case, 104 Keys, USB Corded, Windows (TTC Brown Switches)
-
An adjustable 4-8 degree tilt and slim front lets you type at a comfortable angle.
-
Choose between Red, Blue, or Brown switches for the right level of sound and tactile key feedback.
-
White backlighting in 5 patterns lets you be productive your way — even in the dark.
-
A modern and durable aluminum design gives you all the mechanics of a gaming keyboard in a sleek premium package that lasts
-
A full-size keyboard featuring a number pad and FN keys — all in a surprisingly compact footprint.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Compact Backlit Keyboard with Tactile Mechanical Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Compatible with Windows, macOS - Black Aluminum
-
Take your gaming skills to the next level: The Logitech G413 TKL SE is a tenkeyless keyboard with gaming-first features and the durability and performance necessary to compete
-
PBT keycaps: Heat- and wear-resistant, this computer gaming keyboard features the most durable material used in keycap design
-
Tactile mechanical switches: Uncompromising performance is always within reach with this wired gaming keyboard
-
Premium color, material and finish: Elevate your gaming setup with this backlit keyboard featuring a sleek, black-brushed aluminum top case and white LED lighting
-
6-Key rollover anti-ghosting performance: Experience reliable key input with this anti-ghosting keyboard versus non-gaming mechanical keyboards
-
FN key media controls: Twelve (12) function (FN) keys let you control volume, play and pause, skip track, mute, toggle lighting, enter Windows lock, etc
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, RGB 104 Keys Ultra-Slim LED Backlit USB Wired Keyboard with Blue Switch, Durable ABS Keycaps/Anti-Ghosting/Spill-Resistant for PC Mac Xbox Gamer
-
【Mechanical Keyboard: Responsive BLue Switches】RisoPhy PC keyboard features clicky keys which offer you higher accuracy and quicker response with an enjoyable click sound when typing.This keyboard is more comfortable to type on since it features deeper key travel,greater feedback,and more space between keys.For those who prefer keyboards with a more tactile and "clicky" feel,our keyboard with BLUE switches is a nice choice.
-
【Rainbow Backlit Keyboard: illuminate Your Desktop】With 9 different backlights,5 levels of light speed and brightness,this computer keyboard enriches your gaming experience and improves your mood greatly,which is a great addition to your desktop,especially in the dark.Plus,the ultra-durable double injection ABS engineered keycaps provide crystal clear uniform backlight and greatly improve your typing accuracy at night.
-
【High-end 104 Keys Full-Size Keyboard】The Win lock function frees your worry about mistyping when gaming(Fn+Win).Keycaps are pluggable and easy to clean,saving you much unnecessary trouble.We designed 4 hydrophobic holes for this keyboard,allowing water to flow away quickly to prevent damage to the keyboard.No longer afraid of accidents.(✦Include a keycaps puller for cleaning or other needs.)
-
【Advanced Ergonomic Comfort】This PC gamer Keyboard adopts a scientific stair-up keycap design that keeps your arms in the most natural state to minimize hand fatigue for long time use.In order to improve your posture and make you more comfortable during use,the wired keyboard comes with 2 strong foldable rear kickstands to slope it.Moreover,the keyboard is non-slip enough because there are 4 rubber padding underneath the keyboard.
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
RK6 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical PC Gaming Keyboard,2.4G/Bluetooth/USB-C,Via Hot Swap RGB Backlit,Suspended Keycap,4000mAh,Anti-ghosting,12 Multimedia Keys for FPS,MOBA,RPG,LOL,PUBG(Orange/Linear)
-
⌨【Compact 96% 100 keys Layout】K6 Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with 100 keys Layout is fantastic for gamers, typists and office workers,featuring independent arrow keys and number keys, with all keys anti-ghosting,ultimate gaming experience for you.This custom keyboard has 1 USB and provides a Type C to USB data cable for data transfer.Durable and high-quality TPU materials for long-lasting performance.Universal compatibility with most USB Type-C devices.
-
💻【Tri-Mode BT5.0+Wired+2.4GHz】K6 provides a variety of connection methods, including Fn+4 2.4G wireless mode, Fn+1/2/3 Bluetooth 5.0 and Fn+5 USB C wired mode( Support USB2.0--Transfer speed 60MB/s,1000Hz report rate).It can connect to up to five devices,Long press Fn+1-5 to pair with devices & short press to switch between them easily,suitable for home, office, outdoor and casual games.
-
▶【Hot Swappable Linear Switch】Smooth and quiet operation with minimal actuation force for fatigue-free typing and gaming.Durable 50 million keystrokes lifespan and 2mm actuation point, providing accuracy and faster response.Ideal for those who prefer a more linear and silent switch.Support 99% 3-pin socket, hot-swap, DIY various switches like Akko /Glorious Panda Switch/Epomaker/ Kailh Cream/ Gateron switch.
-
🎁 【Ergonomics & Replaceable Keycaps】 Classic High-quality Double Shot ABS material for superior durability and long-lasting usage.Ergonomic 3 adjustable supporting angles for maximum relief of hand fatigue.Resistant to wear, fading, and oil build-up,ensuring longevity and easier maintenance.Multi-color design and replaceable, you can replace keycaps according to preference like RK/ XDK/ VXV/ Hyekit XDA profile keycaps.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Wired Mechanical Keyboard with RGB Backlit, 94 Keys, Programmable Macro Editing, Numeric Pad, Red Switches, Compact Keyboard Mechanical for Pc Mac Ipad, K636CLO
-
Programmable Macros Expand your options to design your own keys, light effects and macro, the macros with different keybindings or shortcuts combine multiple keys function in one key for more efficient work and gaming
-
【Programmable Macros】Expand your options to design your own keys, light effects and macro, the macros with different keybindings or shortcuts combine multiple keys function in one key for more efficient work and gaming
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104 Keys White Backlit Keyboard with Brown Switches, USB Wired Mechanical Computer Keyboard for Laptop, Desktop, PC Gamers (Black & White)
-
WHITE BACKLIT GAMING KEYBOARD: MageGee gaming keyboard is designed with single white lighting effect, 20 different backlit modes, 5 backlight brightness levels and 5 backlit speed, creating a cool and colorful game atmosphere to enhance the excitement of the game. The backlight can be easily turned off. NOTE: THE WHITE & PINK / WHITE & BLUE KEYBOARDS COME WITH AN EXTRA SET OF KEYCAPS IN THE NEGATIVE COLOR SCHEME. THE BLACK & GRAY / GRAY & BLACK / BLACK & WHITE KEYBOARDS COME WITH 16 KEYCAPS.
-
MECHANICAL BROWN SWITCHES: Brown switch is somewhere in between the blue and red switches, with good tactile feedback and a slight click. It is responsive and feels a little heavier than the red switch, especially suitable for fans of entry-level mechanical keyboards. Floating keys design, easy to clean the dust.
-
DESIGNED FOR COMFORT: The mechanical keyboard adopts premium metal panel construction to make it stable. Ergonomic key layout fits your fingers perfectly and reduces typing fatigue. Two-step keyboard feet allow you to set your keyboard up at 3 different tilt angles. No driver needed, just plug and play.
-
ANTI GHOSTING KEYBOARD: All keys have individual switches with full n-key rollover, which provides faster response and better keystroke feeling. 104 mechanical keys are conflict free, allowing you to press or hold multiple keys simultaneously. 12 multimedia combination keys on the top of the keyboard (FN+ F1~F12) offer quick operations, great for gaming and office.
-
WIDE COMPATIBILITY: The USB wired gaming keyboard works well with computer, PC, laptop, compatible with Windows 2000/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10/MAC/Linux.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Havit Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Compact PC Keyboard with Number Pad Red Switch Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 89 Keys for Computer/Laptop (Black)
-
【Compact Keyboard with Numpad】Unlike bulky full-sized layout, this 85% keyboard saves more desk space but keep the numkeys which is essential. Press Fn+Backspace to lock/unlock the numkeys (Note: The numpad lights up ONLY when it's unlocked, the rest of the keys don't have lighting)
-
【Colorful PBT Keycaps】 Constructed from unique and high-quality durable PBT keycaps, Havit mechanical keyboard has excellent touch experience and long serving time. Colorful keycaps can bring a more pleasant mood during games or work, decorate your space and enhance your life.
-
【Red Switches Keyboard for Different Needs】Perfect for office typing or playing games. Havit HV-KB487L wired keyboard frees up your desk during work, after working sessions, you can enjoy the keyboard for gaming, or bring it with you as the size is compact and easy to carry out.
-
【Ergonomic Comfort】The design of this mechanical gaming keyboard is based on ergonomics, the two keyboard kickstands provide comfortable angle for typing and effectively reduces the burden on the wrist.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth5.1/2.4G/Wired 96% Full Size 100-Key Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 3 USB Ports, Red Switch for Mac Windows, Carbon
-
Full Size Mechanical Keyboard - RK100 wireless mechanical keyboard is 96% full size with compact 100 keys, which is solid, stable and durable. Especially suitable for the mechanical keyboard starters during gaming or working.
-
Three Modes Connectivity - This mechanical keyboard includes 2.4Ghz wireless, Type-C-USB 2.0 wired and bluetooth 5.1 connections. And RK100 gaming keyboard could be connected with up to 3 devices via Bluetooth5.1; N-key rollover (NKRO) in the wired mode, all 100 keys are conflict free.
-
Hot-swappable Switches - RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 wireless keyboard can be hot swapped at wish and replaced by all of MX-similar mechanical switches (including Gateron, Cherry, etc.), supporting 3-pin/5-pin switches. This wireless keyboard is available in blue/brown/red switch.
-
3 USB Ports - This hot swappable keyboard is armed with a 3750mAh large battery and geared with 2 built-in USB pass-through ports and 1 Type-C port, this wireless keyboard is allowed to back up more facilities and works for long-time gaming/working. This gaming keyboard is compatible with Win/Mac dual system, unlimited use.
-
All Keys Programmable - This bluetooth mechanical keyboard is attached with a newly-developed software that you can customize the lighting modes, macro keys and using scenarios. Find the latest software link under the part of “Product Description”
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 87 Keys, Dual Super Programmable Buttons for Windows and Android - N Edition
-
Inspired by the classics. Compatible with Windows 10(1903) or above, and Android 9.0 or above.
-
Connnect via Bluetooth, wireless 2.4G, or wired.
-
87-key layout. Kailh Box Switch V2 White. Dye-sub PBT keycaps.
-
Top mount style. Hot-swappable PCB. Support n-key rollover.
-
Dual Super Buttons - offer large, programmable keys. Map anything to the Super Buttons instantly without using software.
-
Classic power status LED, with independent control panel.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
XVX Retro 75% Gaming Keyboard with OLED Display&Knob, M87 Pro Bluetooth 5.1/2.4GHz /USB-C Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Hot-Swappable Custom Switch, Compact TKL Gamer RGB Keyboard, PBT Keycaps
-
【Smart OLED Color Display and Knob Design】XVX M87 PRO gaming keyboard built-in smart OLED color display can intuitively display the keyboard status, including custom gif image, caps lock, connection mode, WIN/MAC, battery. Built-in mechanical knobs allow quick adjustment of complex functions: connection, system, backlit brightness/speed, RGB mode/color, volume & language.
-
【3-Mode Connection Wireless Keyboard】The M87 Pro TKL mechanical keyboard gears tri-mode connectivity technology, USB-C wired, BT 5.1 and 2.4Ghz wireless modes, which can be easily switched not only with key combinations, but also by knobs.
-
【Unique silencing Installation Design】This custom keyboard has built-in triple absorption layers, including an EVA sound absorbing foam, an IXPE switch pad and the sponge case Foam, In addition, silencer foam installed under the space bar, which increase the rebound speed of the keys while reducing vibration, resulting in improved key sound for a unique typing feel.
-
【Hot-Swappable Custom Keyboard】You can alter every switch on the M87 pro keyboard without the need to solder. Hot-swap PCB is compatible with almost all 3-pin/5-pin switches on the market, personalize your typing experience with ease.
-
【Ultimate Personalization RGB Keyboard】The keyboard itself comes with 19 RGB backlight modes, 9 colors selection, 5 brightness levels and 5 speed levels. This RGB gaming keyboard can enhance your gameplay atmosphere at its maximum, and the light can also be turned off if you don’t need it for saving power. It can be intuitive switched by the knob.
What are the signs that my mechanical keyboard switches need cleaning?
There are a few signs that may indicate your mechanical keyboard switches need cleaning:
- Sticky or unresponsive keys: If you notice that certain keys are not registering or feel sticky when pressed, it could be an indication that dirt or debris has accumulated within the switch.
- Reduced tactile feedback: Mechanical switches are known for their tactile feedback, but if you notice a decrease in the switches' responsiveness or tactile feel, it might be time for cleaning.
- Inconsistent key actuation: If some keys actuate too easily while others require more force to register, it could be a sign of dirt or grime build-up in the switches.
- Loud or unusual sounds: Mechanical keyboards do produce a distinct sound, but if you notice any abnormal or inconsistent sounds, such as squeaking or scratching, it may be a sign of dust or debris interfering with the switches.
- Difficulty in typing or gaming: If you find yourself making more errors while typing or experience input delays during gaming, it could be due to the switches not functioning optimally, possibly caused by accumulated dirt or dust.
If you experience any of these signs, it's a good idea to consider cleaning your mechanical keyboard switches to ensure optimal performance.
What are mechanical keyboard switches?
Mechanical keyboard switches are the individual components within a mechanical keyboard that register keystrokes. They provide the tactile and audible feedback when a key is pressed, unlike the rubber dome switches found in most standard keyboards. Mechanical switches consist of a base housing, a spring, a stem, and metal contacts.
There are various types of mechanical switches available, each offering different characteristics and preferences for typists and gamers. Some commonly used switch types include:
- Cherry MX switches: These are one of the most popular and widely used mechanical switches. They come in different variants like Cherry MX Red, Blue, Brown, and Black, each having different actuation forces, tactile feedback, and noise levels.
- Gateron switches: These switches are similar to Cherry MX switches but are manufactured by a different company. They also offer similar variants and have gained popularity for their smooth keystrokes.
- Razer switches: Razer has its line of mechanical switches known as Razer Green, Orange, and Yellow switches. They are designed with gaming in mind and offer different levels of tactile feedback.
- Kailh switches: Kailh switches are another popular alternative to Cherry MX switches. They come in variants like Kailh Box Red, Blue, Brown, etc., offering similar features to the Cherry MX counterparts.
Mechanical keyboard switches provide typists and gamers with a more enjoyable and responsive typing experience due to their tactile feedback, distinct keystroke sound, and higher durability compared to membrane switches.
Can I use dish soap to clean mechanical keyboard switches?
It is generally not recommended to use dish soap to clean mechanical keyboard switches. Dish soap is not specifically designed for cleaning electronics and may potentially damage the switches or the circuitry within the keyboard. It is recommended to use isopropyl alcohol or specialized electronics cleaning solutions that are safe for use on electronics. These solutions can effectively clean and remove dirt, grease, and grime from mechanical keyboard switches without causing any harm. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and instructions when cleaning your mechanical keyboard switches.
Can I use a hairdryer to dry the switches after cleaning?
Using a hairdryer to dry switches after cleaning is not recommended. Hairdryers can generate high heat, which may damage the delicate electrical components of the switches or even cause them to malfunction. It's best to let the switches air dry naturally or use a compressed air duster to remove any remaining moisture.
