Common Mistakes That Can Shorten the Lifespan of Your Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical keyboards are a favorite among many for their durability, tactile feedback, and superior performance. However, despite their robustness, they are not immune to wear and tear. Many users unknowingly make mistakes that can significantly shorten the lifespan of their beloved keyboards. Whether you're a gamer, programmer, or just someone who enjoys typing, understanding these common mistakes can help you preserve your keyboard’s longevity. In this blog, we’ll highlight the most frequent errors people make and provide tips on how to avoid them to ensure your mechanical keyboard stays in top condition for years to come.
the photo above is Awekeys gold keycap set
1. Neglecting Regular Cleaning
One of the simplest yet most impactful mistakes is failing to clean your mechanical keyboard regularly. Dust, dirt, and crumbs can accumulate between the keycaps and switches, causing the keys to become sticky or unresponsive. Over time, debris can also damage the switches, leading to malfunctions.
Tip: Clean your keyboard at least once a month. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and dirt. You can also remove the keycaps and clean them thoroughly. For deeper cleaning, wipe down the surface with a damp microfiber cloth.
2. Overusing or Forcing the Keys
Mechanical switches are built to withstand millions of key presses, but that doesn’t mean you should overwork them. Pressing the keys too hard or repeatedly slamming them can cause unnecessary strain on the switches, leading to wear and a decrease in performance.
Tip: Typing with a gentle touch and avoiding hard presses will prolong the life of your switches. If you're a gamer, consider using key switches designed for faster, lighter presses to reduce strain.
3. Exposing Your Keyboard to Moisture
Spilling liquids on your mechanical keyboard is a common but disastrous mistake. Whether it's water, coffee, or soda, moisture can seep into the switches, causing electrical damage and even short-circuiting the internal components.
Tip: Always keep drinks and food away from your keyboard. If a spill happens, unplug the keyboard immediately, turn it upside down to drain the liquid, and let it dry completely before using it again.
4. Ignoring the Environment Temperature
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can damage the mechanical components of your keyboard. High heat can cause the plastic components to warp, while cold temperatures can make the switches more brittle.
Tip: Avoid placing your keyboard in direct sunlight or near sources of extreme heat, such as radiators. Also, ensure the keyboard is kept in a room with a consistent temperature range, ideally between 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C).
5. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
When cleaning your mechanical keyboard, using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can cause damage to the surface, keycaps, and even the switches. This can result in scratches, fading, or malfunctioning keys.
Tip: Stick to mild cleaning agents like a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol. Use a soft cloth and avoid rough scrubbing. For keycaps, consider using a gentle brush or air blower to avoid damaging the surface.
6. Improper Storage and Transport
Many users make the mistake of tossing their mechanical keyboards into bags or drawers without proper protection. This can lead to physical damage such as bent keycaps, misaligned switches, or broken cables.
Tip: Always store your keyboard in a safe, dry place, preferably in a protective case if you need to transport it. Ensure the keyboard is unplugged and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
7. Neglecting Software and Firmware Updates
While most mechanical keyboards are plug-and-play, some offer software customization features like lighting profiles or key remapping. Not updating the firmware or software can result in bugs, performance issues, and incompatibility with your system.
Tip: Regularly check for updates to your keyboard’s firmware and software to ensure smooth functionality. Many manufacturers release updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features.
8. Overloading with Customization
While customization is one of the joys of owning a mechanical keyboard, too much of it can lead to complications. Overloading the keyboard with multiple layers of key remapping, macros, and heavy lighting effects can strain the internal components, reducing the overall lifespan.
Tip: Keep your keyboard customization moderate and ensure you don’t overburden it with unnecessary features. Opt for clean, simple layouts and lighting schemes to ensure the keyboard performs optimally.
9. Not Using a Wrist Rest
If you’re typing for long periods, neglecting ergonomics can lead to physical strain on your hands and wrists. Constantly typing in a hunched position or without wrist support can lead to fatigue, which could, in turn, damage your keyboard over time due to uneven force applied on specific keys.
Tip: Consider using a wrist rest to keep your wrists in a neutral position. This will not only protect your hands but also reduce uneven pressure on the keys, helping prevent physical damage to the keyboard.
10. Overextending the Cable or Using the Wrong Cable
Tugging on or overextending the cable is another common mistake that can damage your keyboard. Repeatedly bending or pulling on the cable can cause internal wire damage, leading to connectivity issues or a complete failure.
Tip: Always handle the cable gently and avoid pulling or twisting it. If your keyboard features a detachable cable, ensure you disconnect it safely by pulling from the connector, not the cable itself.
the photo above is Awekeys moon landing keycap set darkside of the moon
FAQs
Q1: How often should I clean my mechanical keyboard?
A1: It’s recommended to clean your mechanical keyboard at least once a month. However, if you use it frequently or in a dusty environment, you may want to clean it more often.
Q2: Can I fix a mechanical keyboard if it gets spilled on?
A2: If you spill something on your mechanical keyboard, immediately unplug it and dry it out thoroughly. If the keyboard continues to malfunction after it’s completely dry, you may need to replace affected switches or consult the manufacturer for repairs.
Q3: Can I use any kind of keyboard cleaner?
A3: No. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Use mild cleaning agents like isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth or a soft brush for cleaning.
Q4: How do I prevent key switches from wearing out too quickly?
A4: Avoid slamming or pressing the keys too forcefully. Use gentle, consistent pressure and consider using lighter switches if you tend to type quickly.
Q5: What’s the best way to store my mechanical keyboard?
A5: Store your keyboard in a safe, dry place and preferably in a protective case if you need to transport it. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it to prevent physical damage.
the photo above is Awekeys Titanium Black keycap set
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboards are built to last, but their longevity depends largely on how you treat them. By avoiding these common mistakes—such as neglecting cleaning, exposing the keyboard to moisture, and using the wrong cleaning products—you can significantly extend the life of your keyboard. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and a bit of care go a long way in keeping your mechanical keyboard in optimal condition for years.
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