How to Remove Keyboard Switches (Quick and Easy)

Are you having trouble getting your keyboard keys to function properly? If stuck keys and misfires make it impossible to type, don’t throw away the offending device.

You can easily fix most problems with a little disassembly, some cleaning supplies, and a few hours of focused work.

In this blog post, we’ll walk through the best solutions for removing keyboard switches and, if needed, replacing them with new ones quickly and effectively.

Let’s get started!

Why Would You Want to Remove Your Keyboard’s Switches?

Here are a few reasons why you might want to Remove or change your keyboard’s switches:

• Cleaning Purposes: Over time, dust and other materials can build up inside the keyboard, making it difficult for your keys to function how they should.
• Removing Old Switches: If your keyboard is malfunctioning and you’ve determined that the switches are to blame, removing them is a good solution.
• Upgrading Your Keyboard: You can upgrade your keyboard with newer switches that provide a better typing experience.
• Replacement Costs: Replacing the entire keyboard is more expensive than changing out the switches. So, how much does a keyboard switch cost? Keyboard switches can range from $1 – 10 per switch, depending on the type and quality.

How To Remove Keyboard Switches (Easy and Quick)

The Process differs from the type of keyboard. There are two types of keyboards: Hot-swappable keyboards and Not hot-swappable keyboards.

A Hot-swappable keyboard has a plate and switches housing that works together and allows you to remove and replace individual switches without too much effort.

A Not hot-swappable keyboard is not designed to remove or replace switches, requiring more disassembly easily.

Tools You Will Need to Remove Switches

For a Normal Hot-Swappable Keyboard

1. A keycap puller
2. A switch puller

NOT hot-swappable

1. A soldering iron
2. A “solder sucker,” i.e. solder pump
3. Screwdriver

Step-By-Step Process

For Hot-Swappable Keyboard

Remember to unplug the keyboard from the power source.

Step 1: Remove the Keycaps:

Remove the keycaps using a keycap puller or switch puller, depending on your keyboard. Gradually pull the keycaps straight up, and be sure to move slowly. If you’re working with a particular type of material, there’s always a chance that hasty movements could cause damage or leave scratches on your keycap. It is important to store the keycaps in a safe place where you can easily return them later.

Step 2: Remove the Switches:

Remove the switch from the keyboard by gently pushing it up from the bottom of the switch. To remove your switch, you won’t be grabbing it anywhere – instead, use your switch puller to carefully press in the tabs on either side of the switch and gently tug until it pops out. Be extra cautious when squeezing these tabs, as they are delicate! It should come out with minimal effort.

Step 3: Clean and Replace the Switches/Press in New Switches:

Take the removed switch and gently use a compressed air duster/soft brush to clean the pins. This will help eliminate any dust, dirt, and oils that might have accumulated.

Once the cleaning is done, you can install your new switches/press in the removed switches. Line up the pins and gently press down until you hear a click.

Make sure that each switch is firmly in place before continuing.

For Not Hot-Swappable Keyboard

Step 1: Locate the Switches on Your Keyboard

Locate and identify the switches on your keyboard. Note their location so you can easily find them again later.

Step 2: Remove the Keycaps

Remove the keycaps using a keycap puller or switch puller, depending on your keyboard. Gradually pull the keycaps straight up, and be sure to move slowly.

Step 3: Disassemble the Keyboard

You will need to disassemble your keyboard until you gain access to the circuit board. Carefully disassemble the keyboard case (and plate, if you have one) using a screwdriver and place all of the components in an orderly manner for easy reassembly.

Step 4: Suck Up the Solder

Heat the solder joints with a soldering iron and remove the solder with a solder sucker. This is how you will do this:

1. Gently press the heated iron to the soldered joints, heating up and loosening the tinned solder in just a few seconds.
2. Line up the tip of your solder sucker with both the soldering iron and solder, then press down on its plunger to suck it up.

Step 5: Remove the Switch

Once the solder is removed, you can now remove the switch. Gently tug on each side of the switch until it pops out from the board.

Step 6: Clean and Replace the Switches/Solder in the New Switches

Take the removed switch and gently use a compressed air duster/soft brush to clean the pins. This will help eliminate any dust, dirt, and oils that might have accumulated. Once the cleaning is done, you can install your new switches/press in the removed switches.

Line up the pins and gently press down until you hear a click. Make sure that each switch is firmly in place before continuing.

Step 7: Reassemble Your Keyboard

Gather all the components in the order you disassembled them and reassemble your keyboard. Make sure to align everything properly so that all switches sit where they should. Once the assembly is complete, you can enjoy your newly upgraded keyboard!

Conclusion

Removing and replacing keyboard switches is a great way to customize your typing experience.

With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily upgrade your keyboard without investing in a new one.

Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be able to enjoy a brand-new feel with each keystroke!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)