How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Mechanical Keyboard?

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their superior typing experience and durability. However, like any electronic device, they are prone to wear and tear over time. To make the most out of your investment, it is important to learn how to take care of your mechanical keyboard properly. Here are some tips on how to extend the lifespan of your mechanical keyboard.

Clean it regularly

One of the simplest ways to prolong the lifespan of your mechanical keyboard is to clean it regularly. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate between the keys, which can affect the performance of the switches. To clean your keyboard, start by unplugging it and removing the keycaps. You can use a small brush or compressed air to remove the dirt and debris from the switches and the PCB. For tougher stains or grime, you can use a cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol. Make sure to let the keyboard dry completely before reassembling it.

Avoid eating and drinking near your keyboard

Food crumbs and spills can easily damage your keyboard’s switches, and the moisture can corrode the metal contacts. To prevent this, it is best to avoid eating and drinking near your keyboard. If you must snack while using your keyboard, use a keyboard cover or mat to protect it from spills and crumbs. And if you do accidentally spill something on your keyboard, turn it off immediately and clean it as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

Use a keycap puller

Keycap pullers are handy tools that allow you to remove the keycaps from your keyboard without damaging them. They are especially useful for cleaning your keyboard or for replacing the keycaps. You can purchase keycap pullers online or at your local electronics store. When using a keycap puller, make sure to pull the keycaps straight up to avoid damaging the switches.

Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents

While it is important to clean your keyboard regularly, you should avoid using abrasive cleaning agents such as bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals. These can damage the plastic or metal components of your keyboard and affect the performance of the switches. Instead, use a mild cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol to clean your keyboard.

Keep it away from direct sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause the plastic components of your keyboard to fade or discolor over time. To prevent this, it is best to keep your keyboard away from direct sunlight or any other sources of heat. You can also use a keyboard cover or mat to protect it from sunlight or other environmental factors.

Use a wrist rest

Using a wrist rest can help prevent strain and fatigue on your hands and wrists while typing. It can also help prevent accidental spills and debris from entering the keyboard. When choosing a wrist rest, make sure to choose one that is comfortable and ergonomic.

Don’t overuse the keys

While mechanical keyboards are designed to withstand heavy use, it is still important to avoid overusing the keys. Rapid and forceful typing can wear down the switches over time, which can affect the performance of the keyboard. To prevent this, type at a comfortable pace and avoid pounding on the keys unnecessarily.

Store it properly

When not in use, it is important to store your keyboard properly to prevent any damage or wear and tear. You can store it in a keyboard case or box, or simply cover it with a dust cover. Make sure to keep it in a dry and cool place, away from any sources of moisture or heat.

Replace worn-out keycaps

Over time, the keycaps on your keyboard can become worn out or damaged. When this happens, it is important to replace them to maintain the performance. Keycaps are the individual pieces that cover the key switches on your keyboard. Over time, keycaps can become worn, discolored, or even break off. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your keycaps.

Replacing keycaps is a relatively simple process. Most keycaps can be removed by gently pulling them upwards. You can then replace them with new keycaps, which can be purchased online or at a computer store. When replacing keycaps, make sure to match the size and shape of your existing keycaps.

Avoid Spilling Liquids on Your Keyboard

Another common cause of mechanical keyboard failure is liquid spills. Water, soda, coffee, and other liquids can cause serious damage to the internal components of your keyboard. If you spill liquid on your keyboard, immediately unplug it and turn it upside down to allow the liquid to drain out. You can also use a towel or cloth to soak up any remaining liquid.

If your keyboard has been exposed to a liquid spill, it’s essential to let it dry completely before using it again. Do not use a hairdryer or other heating device to speed up the drying process, as this can cause additional damage. Instead, leave your keyboard in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours before using it again.

Use a Keyboard Cover

A keyboard cover can be an excellent investment for protecting your mechanical keyboard from dust, dirt, and spills. Keyboard covers are made of a thin, flexible material that fits over your keyboard and provides an extra layer of protection against accidental spills and dust.

When purchasing a keyboard cover, make sure to choose one that fits your keyboard’s specific model and size. Keyboard covers come in a variety of materials, including silicone, vinyl, and plastic. Silicone covers are typically the most durable and offer the best protection against spills.

Type Gently

Mechanical keyboards are designed to handle heavy typing and gaming use, but that doesn’t mean you should be too rough with them. Typing too hard on your keyboard can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the key switches, which can lead to premature failure.

To avoid typing too hard, make sure to use proper typing technique. Keep your wrists straight and use a light touch when pressing the keys. Avoid slamming your fingers down on the keys or hitting them with excessive force.

Conclusion

Mechanical keyboards have been around for several decades and have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their superior tactile feedback and durability. However, like all electronic devices, mechanical keyboards are subject to wear and tear over time. The good news is that with proper care and maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your mechanical keyboard.