A mechanical keyboard is the preferred choice for gamers, coders, and typists due to its high tactile feedback and the satisfying click sound making it enjoyable. However, with time, some enthusiasts seek to improve their typing experience further by modifying their mechanical keyboards. The process involves disassembling, replacing parts, or customizing them using certain tools. This guide will walk you through a selection of essential tools required for mechanical keyboard modding.
### Screwdrivers
The primary tool required for keyboard modding is a high-quality screwdriver set. The mechanics of a keyboard involve a variety of screws, so you will need both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers. You’ll also need a variety of screwdriver heads, ranging from size 000 to size 1. Precision screwdriver sets are perfect for this task as they come with a variety of interchangeable heads in various sizes.
### Keycap Puller
A keycap puller is necessary for removing the keys safely without damaging them. They are designed to grip the underside of the keycaps, allowing you to lift them straight upward smoothly. In the absence of a keycap puller, you might end up scratching the keys or harm the key switch beneath. It is typically made of wire or plastic and can pull off keycaps one at a time or multiple with some versions.
### Switch Puller
A switch puller comes into play if you plan to replace or modify your keyboard switch. Most mechanical keyboards use plate-mounted or PCB-mounted switches, making it crucial to have a specialized tool like a switch puller. The bent tips of the puller are designed to latch onto the clips of the switches, allowing them to be removed without hassle.
### Soldering Station
If your mechanical keyboard is not hot-swappable, desoldering and soldering become an inevitable part of modification. A soldering station is a must-have tool for connecting and removing wires or switches from the PCB board. It includes a soldering iron, solder wire, and often a desoldering pump for removing solder joints.
### Tweezers and Pliers
Tweezers are handy for holding small components like diodes or resistors. They come in various types; however, an ESD-safe pair is best fit for this task. Regarding pliers, a small set of needle-nose pliers will do just fine. They’re great for pulling switches from tight spots, tightening screws, or bending diodes.
### Key Switch Opener
If you plan on lubing or changing the springs in your switches, a switch opener will be a vital tool. A switch opener consists of metal or plastic that fits around the latches of the key switch, allowing you to open it without damaging the tiny plastic pieces inside.
### Lubricants
Acquiring the right lubricant is key to improve the mechanical keyboard’s sound and feel. There are several types available, though the most common for keyboards are Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 for stabilizers and Tribosys 3203 or 3204 for switches.
### Brush
A small, soft-bristled brush is ideal for applying lubricant to the keyboard’s switches and stabilizers. It helps to deliver a thin and even layer of lube, ensuring a smooth and improved feel.
### Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
When working with electronics, it’s easy for things to get messy. A microfiber cleaning cloth helps to keep the working area clean. It’s also great for wiping off excess lubricant on the surface of the keyboard.
### Foam or Sorbothane
To achieve a quieter keyboard typing noise, implementing sound-absorbing foam or Sorbothane in the casing can work wonders. You can cut these materials into the size of your keyboard casing, dampening the sound and improving stability.
In conclusion, having the right set of tools can be a gamechanger in modding your mechanical keyboard. It not only boosts your keyboard’s performance but also significantly elevates your typing experience. Whether you are a hobbyist or a pro, these tools will serve you loyally as you venture into the satisfying world of keyboard modding.
