It is important to know how long lube lasts for a mechanical keyboard. Lubrication is essential for keeping the keys working at their best, as it prevents them from sticking and creating an uncomfortable typing experience. Depending on the type of lube used and the frequency of use, lube can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Thin lubes tend to last longer than thicker varieties, but all types should be replaced when they start to become dry or sticky. Knowing how long your lubricant will last can help you plan when you need to reapply it, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard continues to perform at its best.
Description:
Mechanical keyboard lube" is a popular way to extend the life of a mechanical keyboard, but how long should you expect it to last? This post discusses the different factors that affect the longevity of lube and offers some tips for keeping it going for as long as possible.
What is Keyboard Lube?
Keyboard lube is a lubricant that helps reduce friction between the keys of a mechanical keyboard. It can help improve performance, reduce noise, and increase the lifespan of the keyboard.
What is lube?
Lube is a substance used to lubricate and protect components in keyboards. It helps reduce friction and wear, making keys smoother to type on. It also prevents dust, dirt, and other particles from sticking to the keys. Lube can also be used to clean the keyboard and make it look new again. With proper lubing, keyboards can last longer and perform better.
Why is lube important?
Lube is an important component in keyboards, as it helps reduce noise and friction while typing. It is applied to the key joints inside the switch, and on the spring, which makes them a lot quieter when typing. This lube helps the switch gloss over any surface imperfections and prevents dust particles from entering the keyboard. Lubrication also ensures that the keystrokes are smooth and consistent, resulting in a more comfortable typing experience.
How Long Does Keyboard Lube Last?
Keyboard lube is an important part of maintaining your keyboard and keeping it in optimal condition. But how long does keyboard lube last? It depends on the type of lube you use, how often you use it, and other factors.
Factors Affecting Longevity
The longevity of keyboard switches is an important aspect of keyboard maintenance. The various factors that can affect the longevity of a keyboard switch, including its
- Viscosity
- Oil-based VS grease-based lubricants
- Other environmental factors
Reapplication Frequency
Keyboard lube is an essential part of keeping your keyboard in top condition. It helps to reduce friction between the keys and the board, making typing smoother and more comfortable. However, it needs to be reapplication frequently in order to maintain its effectiveness. The frequency of reapplication depends on several factors such as:
- Usage intensity
- Environment
- Type of lube used
Hernan Patel, from Tech Advisor, wrote an article about how often you should reapply for keyboard lube for your keyboard. Hernan listed four points –
- The first point is the degree of use that the surface on your keyboard is subjected to.
- The second point is how hard the keys are pressed down against the surface of your keyboard.
- Thirdly, Hernan lists frequency and length of use as factors in determining when it might be time for more cleaning and lube application.
Method 1: Push-Stem-Lube Method
The Push-Stem-Lube Method is a simple, yet effective way to remove a switch from its housing. It involves taking a small piece of plastic, applying lube to the plastic, and sliding the plastic between the stem and the housing of a switch. This method is most commonly used when trying to replace or repair switches in electronic devices like keyboards, mice, and other gaming peripherals. The lube helps reduce friction between the stem and housing which makes it easier to slide out the switch without damaging it. This method can also use for other types of switches as well such as tactile switches or linear switches.
Suggested Tools
- Tweezers
- Soldering Tools or Switch Puller
- A Small Brush
- Switch Opener
- The Lubricant
Steps
- Step 1: Unplug Keyboard & Remove Keycaps
- Step 2: Cut a Small Piece of Plastic
- Step 3: Apply Lube to the Plastic
- Step 4: Slide Plastic Between the Switch Stem and Housing
- Step 5: Clean Excess Lube off Switch
Method 2: Spray Lube Method
The Spray Lube Method is a great way to quickly and easily lubricate your keyboard. It is an easy process that can do in a few minutes and will ensure that your keyboard runs smoothly. This method involves spraying lube onto the keycaps, switches, and other parts of the keyboard to reduce friction and prevent dust buildup. It also helps to reduce noise while typing. The Spray Lube Method is a great way to maintain your keyboard for smooth operation and improved performance.
Suggested Tools
- Tweezers: Picking the smaller components.
- Soldering Tools or Switch Puller
- A Small Brush: A size 2 or 5 mm brush is preferred
- The Lubricant: The three major types of key switches are Linear, Tactile, and Clicky. Each type has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for different types of users. The Lubricant tool can help you decide which type of key switch is best suited for your needs. It provides detailed information about each type of key switch so that you can make an informed decision when choosing the right one for your keyboard. With this tool, you can be sure that your keyboard will provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Steps
- Step 1: Remove Keycaps
- Step 2: Remove PCB from Case
- Step 3: Put on Protective Equipment (Mask, Gloves, Eye Protection)
- Step 4: Spray Lube Onto the Switches
- Step 5: Clean off Excess Lubricant
Is it Necessary to Lube the Key Switches?
The answer is no. Although lubing the key switches can provide a smoother typing experience, it is not a necessity. You can still enjoy an excellent working keyboard without lubricating the key switches. In fact, many keyboards are designed to work without any kind of lubrication, and they will continue to do so for years to come.
What happens if you do not lube your key switches?
Without proper lubrication, the performance of your keyboard will suffer and you won't be able to type as quickly or accurately as you could.
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboard are becoming increasingly popular in the gaming and typing community. To ensure perfect performance with the right feel and sound, it
