If you've been around the mechanical keyboard hobby even for a short period of time, you may have heard about the practice of "lubing" switches. Lubing involves applying a small amount of lubricant generally Krytox 205g0 or Tribosys to the moving parts of a mechanical switch to reduce friction and improve the feel and sound of the switch. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of lubing mechanical switches for keyboards.

1. Smoother Keypress

One of the main benefits of lubing switches is that it can make the keystroke smoother and more consistent. Without lubrication, the friction between the moving parts of the switch can cause a scratchy, inconsistent feeling when typing. By adding lubricant, you can reduce this friction and create a smoother, more consistent keystroke.

2. Reduced Sound

In addition to creating a smoother keystroke, lubing switches can also reduce the sound of the switch. When a switch is not lubed, the friction between the moving parts can cause a "rattling" or "pinging" sound when typing. Lubrication can help to dampen this sound, resulting in a quieter, more pleasant typing experience.

3. Longer Lifespan

Lubrication can also help to extend the lifespan of your switches. Without lubrication, the friction between the moving parts can cause wear and tear on the switch over time. By reducing this friction, you can help to minimize the wear on your switches, potentially prolonging their lifespan.

4. Improved Switch Feel

Lubing can also help to improve the feel of the switch. By reducing the friction and creating a smoother keystroke, you can enhance the tactile feedback and make the switch feel more satisfying to use. This can be particularly beneficial for gamers and typists who rely on the feel of the keyboard for precision and accuracy.

5. Customization

Finally, lubing switches can be a fun way to customize your mechanical keyboard. Different types of lubricants can produce different effects on the feel and sound of the switch, allowing you to tailor the keyboard to your preferences. Additionally, lubing can be combined with other customization options, such as switch swapping and keycap replacements, to create a truly unique and personalized keyboard.

In Conclusion

Lubing mechanical switches can have a number of benefits for keyboard enthusiasts. From creating a smoother keystroke and reducing sound to prolonging the lifespan of the switches and improving switch feel, there are many reasons to consider lubing your switches. If you're interested in trying it out, there are many resources available online to guide you through the process. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a keyboard that feels and sounds just the way you want it to.