Steelseries

If you've been diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, you've likely heard the term "lubing" thrown around. Lubing your switches is one of the most effective ways to transform your typing and gaming experience. It reduces friction, eliminates scratchiness, and makes every keystroke feel buttery smooth. Whether you're a competitive gamer or a daily typist, learning how to lube mechanical keyboard switches can elevate your setup to the next level. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right keyboard switch lubricant to the step-by-step lubing process, so you can achieve that coveted smooth keyboard typing feel.

Why Lubing Your Switches Matters

Mechanical switches have moving parts—a stem, spring, and housing. Out of the box, these parts can create a gritty or scratchy sound due to manufacturing tolerances. By applying lubricant, you fill those microscopic gaps, reducing metal-on-metal and plastic-on-plastic contact. The result is a quieter, smoother, and more satisfying keystroke. For gamers, this can mean faster, more consistent actuations, especially during high-intensity sessions. For typists, it reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort.

Many high-end keyboards, like those in the SteelSeries lineup, come with factory-lubed switches. But if you want to customize your feel or refresh old switches, a manual lube job is the way to go. If you're building a custom keyboard or upgrading an existing one, understanding this process is essential for lubing switches guide enthusiasts.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the right tools. Here’s a checklist:

• Switch puller – to remove switches from the keyboard plate
• Switch opener – to safely open switch housings (some switches, like Kailh Box, can be opened with a flathead screwdriver)
• Small brush – a fine-tipped paintbrush or a dedicated switch lubing brush (0.5mm to 1mm tip)
• Lubricant – the star of the show. We’ll cover types below.
• Container – to hold your switches and lubricant
• Tweezers – for handling small components
• Paper towels or lint-free cloth – for cleaning excess lubricant

If you’re working with a pre-built keyboard like the Apex 5 US, which features hybrid switches, you may need to desolder switches if they are not hot-swappable. Always check your keyboard’s compatibility before disassembly.

Choosing the Right Keyboard Switch Lubricant

Not all lubricants are created equal. Using the wrong type can damage switches or attract dust. Here’s a breakdown of common keyboard switch lubricant options:

Lubricant Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Krytox 205g0	Linear switches	Thick, long-lasting, smooth feel	Can be over-applied easily, may slow down tactile switches
Krytox 105	Springs only	Thin oil, perfect for spring ping	Not for slider or housing
Super Lube 51004	Budget-friendly alternative	Cheap, works on linear and tactile	Thinner, may need reapplication sooner
Dielectric grease	Stabilizers	Thick, dampens rattle	Too thick for switch sliders

For most users, Krytox 205g0 is the gold standard for linear switches. If you have tactile or clicky switches, use a lighter lubricant like Tribosys 3204 to preserve the tactile bump. Always avoid using WD-40 or oil-based lubricants designed for machinery—they can damage plastic housings.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Lube Mechanical Keyboard Switches

Follow these steps for a professional-grade lube job. This process works for Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, and most standard switches.

Step 1: Remove the Switches

If your keyboard is hot-swappable, use a switch puller to gently pull each switch straight up. For soldered boards, you’ll need to desolder each switch. If you’re using a keyboard like the Apex 5 US, check if the switches are hot-swappable—many SteelSeries models use proprietary or soldered switches, so proceed with caution. If you’re not comfortable desoldering, consider a hot-swappable custom board.

Step 2: Disassemble the Switch

Use a switch opener to separate the top housing from the bottom housing. Be careful not to lose the spring or stem. Place the components in separate containers to avoid mixing them up.

Step 3: Clean the Components

Wipe each part with a lint-free cloth to remove dust and factory oil. For heavily soiled switches, use isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and let them dry completely.

Step 4: Apply Lubricant to the Spring

Dip your brush lightly into Krytox 105 (or a thin oil) and apply a thin coat to the entire spring. This reduces spring ping and coil noise. Place the spring back into the bottom housing.

Step 5: Lubricate the Stem

With a small brush, apply a thin layer of Krytox 205g0 to the stem’s sliders (the side rails). Only coat the contact points—avoid the stem legs on tactile switches to preserve the bump. For linear switches, you can lightly coat the stem pole (the center column).

Step 6: Lubricate the Housing

Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the inside of the bottom housing where the stem sliders make contact. Also, apply a small amount to the top housing’s inner rails. Be careful not to get lubricant on the contact leaves (metal pins) or the PCB.

Step 7: Reassemble and Test

Place the stem into the bottom housing, align the top housing, and press firmly until it clicks. Test the switch by pressing it a few times. It should feel smooth with no scratchiness. If you hear a sticky sound, you’ve used too much lubricant—wipe it off and try again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-lubing: Too much lubricant can make switches feel sluggish or mushy. Less is more.
• Lubing the wrong parts: Avoid lubricating the contact leaves or PCB—this can cause electrical issues.
• Skipping the spring: Spring ping is a common noise that lubing the spring alone can fix.
• Using the wrong lubricant: Thick lubricant on tactile switches can kill the bump. Stick to lighter oils for tactile clicks.

How Lubing Affects Gaming Performance

For competitive gamers, every millisecond counts. Lubing switches reduces the friction that can slow down rapid key presses, especially in games like shooters or MOBAs. A smoother keystroke also means less finger fatigue during long sessions. While factory-lubed switches are good, a manual lube job can offer a more consistent feel across the entire keyboard. If you’re pairing your lubed switches with high-performance gear like the Arctis Nova 3X Wireless + Apex 3 + Aerox 3 Wireless (2022), you’ll enjoy a seamless audio and input experience.

Maintenance and Longevity

Lubricated switches can last for years, but over time, the lubricant can attract dust or degrade. If you notice scratchiness returning, you can re-lube the switches. It’s also a good idea to clean your keyboard regularly with compressed air to prevent debris from entering switches. For keyboards like the Apex series, the wrist rest and keycaps are also part of the overall experience—consider upgrading to a Apex (2023) Wrist Rest TKL for added comfort during long gaming sessions.

Is Lubing Worth It for Beginners?

Absolutely. While it requires patience and a steady hand, lubing is a rewarding DIY project that can dramatically improve your typing and gaming experience. It’s also a great way to learn more about your keyboard’s mechanics. If you’re new to the hobby, start with a cheap set of switches to practice before moving to your primary keyboard. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

If you’re using a SteelSeries keyboard that isn’t hot-swappable, consider upgrading to a custom build or a model that supports switch swapping. Many enthusiasts pair their lubed switches with premium keycaps like PrismCaps - Black US for a complete aesthetic and performance upgrade.

Final Thoughts

Lubing mechanical keyboard switches is a game-changer for anyone who values a smooth keyboard typing feel and quieter operation. By choosing the right keyboard switch lubricant and following this lubing switches guide, you can transform your keyboard into a premium typing tool. Whether you’re a competitive gamer or a keyboard enthusiast, the effort is well worth it.

Ready to take your keyboard to the next level? Check out the Apex (2023) Wrist Rest TKL to complement your lubed switches with ergonomic support for marathon sessions. Your fingers will thank you.