Common Mistakes in Keyboard Modification: Five Mistakes Newbies Should Avoid
Keyboard modification has become a popular hobby among tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. It allows you to personalize the look, feel, and sound of your keyboard to fit your specific needs. However, like any hobby, there are common mistakes that beginners tend to make when modifying their keyboards. If you're just starting out, it’s essential to understand these pitfalls to avoid costly mistakes and frustration.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through five key mistakes that newbies often make during keyboard modification and offer helpful tips to ensure your mods go smoothly.
the photo above is Awekeys Copper Thor Keycaps
1. Not Doing Enough Research Before You Start
One of the most common mistakes beginners make when modifying their keyboard is not researching enough before jumping into the project. Whether you're replacing switches, lubing them, or installing custom keycaps, it's important to learn about the process thoroughly beforehand.
Why it’s a mistake: Without adequate research, you might end up damaging your switches or voiding your warranty. It can also lead to poor-quality mods that don't improve your keyboard's performance or aesthetics.
Tip to avoid this mistake: Take the time to watch tutorial videos, read articles, and check out online forums or communities. Platforms like Reddit’s r/MechanicalKeyboards and YouTube channels dedicated to keyboard modding are excellent resources for getting started.
2. Using Low-Quality or Incompatible Parts
When starting, it's tempting to go for the cheapest parts to save money. However, using low-quality or incompatible components can result in a disappointing final result. For example, certain keycaps may not fit your switches, or low-quality stabilizers may affect the feel and sound of your keyboard.
Why it’s a mistake: Poor-quality parts can negatively impact your typing experience, cause wear and tear more quickly, or even damage your keyboard permanently.
Tip to avoid this mistake: Invest in quality parts from reputable brands. Check reviews and ensure the parts you're buying are compatible with your specific keyboard model and switches. This will help you get the most out of your mods.
the photo above is Awekeys Thor Copper Keycaps
3. Over-Lubing Your Switches
Lubing your switches is a common practice to reduce scratchiness and improve the smoothness of your keystrokes. However, over-lubing can lead to unwanted issues such as a sluggish feel and a dull sound.
Why it’s a mistake: Too much lube can result in a sticky or inconsistent typing experience, which is the opposite of the desired effect.
Tip to avoid this mistake: Use a light hand when applying lubricant. It’s best to start with a small amount and apply more if needed. Be sure to read guides on proper lubing techniques and consider the type of switches you're working with to avoid overdoing it.
4. Not Being Careful with Soldering (or Not Soldering at All)
For advanced modifications, such as switch swapping or custom PCB work, soldering is required. Many beginners make the mistake of not properly learning soldering techniques or avoiding it altogether.
Why it’s a mistake: If you're swapping switches or working with a custom PCB, improper soldering can cause irreparable damage to the board or result in non-functional keys. On the other hand, avoiding soldering might limit your ability to perform more advanced mods.
Tip to avoid this mistake: If you're new to soldering, practice on some scrap electronics or use a practice kit before attempting it on your keyboard. If you're not comfortable with soldering, you can opt for hot-swappable PCBs, which allow you to change switches without soldering.
5. Ignoring Sound Dampening Techniques
Sound dampening is an often overlooked but critical part of keyboard modification. Many newbies focus solely on aesthetics and switch feel but neglect the importance of tuning the sound of their keyboard.
Why it’s a mistake: Without sound dampening mods, your keyboard may end up sounding hollow, clacky, or rattly, which can make typing feel less satisfying.
Tip to avoid this mistake: Consider adding dampening materials such as foam or silicone between the PCB and the case, or under the key switches. This can significantly improve the sound and feel of your keyboard.
the photo above is Awekeys Frigg Silver Keycaps
FAQ Section
Q: What are the best resources for learning about keyboard modification? A: Popular online resources include Reddit’s r/MechanicalKeyboards, YouTube channels focused on keyboard modding, and dedicated keyboard modding websites. Be sure to check out tutorial videos, forum discussions, and product reviews to gather all the necessary information.
Q: Can I mod my keyboard without soldering? A: Yes! If you’re using a hot-swappable PCB, you can swap out switches without the need for soldering. This is a great option for beginners who don’t feel comfortable soldering but still want to mod their keyboard.
Q: How can I improve the sound of my keyboard? A: To improve the sound, you can add sound dampening materials such as foam or silicone to the inside of your keyboard case. Lubing your switches properly and installing high-quality stabilizers can also help achieve a more satisfying sound.
Q: Do I need to lube my switches for better performance? A: Lubing switches is an optional modification that can reduce scratchiness and improve smoothness. However, it’s important not to over-lube, as it can negatively impact the feel of your switches. Apply lubricant sparingly and consider the type of switches you’re working with.
Q: What parts should I use to upgrade my keyboard? A: Quality parts are crucial for a successful mod. Look for reputable brands when purchasing switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and lubricants. Ensure that the parts you choose are compatible with your keyboard model and the mod you’re planning to make.
Conclusion
Keyboard modification is an exciting and rewarding hobby, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your mods enhance both the functionality and the aesthetics of your keyboard. Take your time, do your research, and most importantly, have fun personalizing your setup!
Today's Awekeys Metal Keycap Showcase: Thor Copper
