Do Mechanical Switches Go Bad? Understanding the Lifespan and Maintenance of Mechanical Keyboards

As a mechanical keyboard enthusiast and a professional in the field of electronics, I often get asked this question: do mechanical switches go bad? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is more nuanced and depends on various factors. In this post, I will explain what mechanical switches are, how they work, what can cause them to fail, and how to prevent or fix such issues.

First of all, let’s define what we mean by mechanical switches. In the context of keyboards, a mechanical switch is a type of switch that uses a physical mechanism to register a keystroke, as opposed to a membrane or rubber dome switch that relies on a thin layer of conductive material to complete a circuit. Mechanical switches come in different types, such as Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, and so on, each with its own characteristics in terms of actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise level.

Mechanical switches are generally more durable and reliable than membrane switches, as they can withstand more keystrokes and have a more consistent feel over time. However, they are not immune to wear and tear, especially if they are used heavily or exposed to environmental factors such as dust, moisture, or heat. The lifespan of a mechanical switch can vary from tens of millions to hundreds of millions of keystrokes, depending on the quality of the switch and the usage pattern of the keyboard.

So, what can cause a mechanical switch to go bad? There are several common issues that can affect the performance of a switch or even render it unusable. One of the most common issues is key chatter, which is when a key registers multiple keystrokes even though it was pressed only once. This can be caused by a faulty switch, a dirty switch, or a loose connection between the switch and the PCB. Another issue is key sticking, which is when a key does not register a keystroke or gets stuck in the down position. This can be caused by a bent or broken stem, a worn-out spring, or a foreign object inside the switch.

Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed or prevented with some basic maintenance and troubleshooting. Here are some tips on how to maintain your mechanical keyboard and prolong the lifespan of your switches:

– Clean your keyboard regularly with a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris that can accumulate inside the switches and cause friction or interference.
– Lubricate your switches with a thin layer of silicone or PTFE grease to reduce friction and noise. Be careful not to over-lubricate or use a thick or sticky lubricant that can attract more dust and gunk.
– Replace any broken or worn-out switches with new ones. Most mechanical keyboards allow you to replace individual switches without having to replace the entire keyboard. You can buy replacement switches online or from local vendors.
– Check the solder joints and connections between the switches and the PCB. If you notice any loose or broken connections, you can try re-soldering them or using a hot glue gun to secure them in place.

In conclusion, mechanical switches can go bad over time, but with proper care and maintenance, you can extend their lifespan and enjoy a satisfying typing experience for years to come. If you encounter any issues with your mechanical keyboard, don’t panic and don’t rush to buy a new one. Instead, try to diagnose the issue and apply the appropriate fix. You can also seek help from online forums, communities, or experts who can offer advice and solutions based on their experience and expertise.