Introduction

Mechanical keyboards have become a favorite among gamers, developers, typists, and everyday computer users—not just for their satisfying feel but also for how customizable they are. One of the most common upgrades people want to perform is replacing or cleaning their switches. If you are wondering how to remove keyboard switches or searching for the safest method for how to remove switches from keyboard, this guide walks you through every step with expert-level clarity and safety in mind.

Whether you use a hot-swap keyboard or a soldered PCB, the steps below help you avoid damage, stay safe, and achieve a cleaner or upgraded typing experience. Throughout this guide, you’ll also see insights based on real-world usage, common user pain points, and best practices that align with industry repair standards.

What Tools Do You Need to Remove Keyboard Switches?

Essential tools for hot-swap keyboards

If you own a hot-swap mechanical keyboard, you’re in luck—removing switches is significantly easier. For this type, you primarily need:

• A metal or plastic switch puller
• A keycap puller
• A clean workspace

Some users also keep a small brush or compressed air nearby to clean dust once the switch is removed.

Additional tools for soldered keyboards

• A soldering iron (25W–60W)
• Desoldering pump or electric desoldering station
• Solder wick (optional but useful)
• Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning pads

Optional tools for cleaning and testing switches

• Lubricant for smoother keystrokes
• Switch opener
• Multimeter for PCB continuity testing

Tools Comparison Table

Keyboard Type	Tools Required	Difficulty Level
Hot-Swap	Keycap puller, switch puller	Easy
Soldered PCB	Soldering iron, desoldering pump, wick	Moderate–Hard
Custom Boards	Full modding toolset	Varies

How Should You Prepare Your Keyboard Before Removing Switches?

Power safety and workspace preparation

Always disconnect your keyboard from your computer. Static electricity can damage a PCB, so placing your keyboard on an anti-static mat or grounded surface reduces the risk. A bright, organized workspace helps you avoid losing small components like stabilizer inserts.

Removing keycaps properly

Before pulling switches, remove the keycaps using a keycap puller. Pulling diagonally or twisting aggressively can crack stems or keycap walls. Always lift straight upward.

Inspecting the keyboard to confirm whether it’s hot-swap or soldered

Many modern keyboards, especially 75% models, feature hot-swap PCBs. If yours is hot-swap, you’ll see small metal sockets behind the removed switches. Soldered boards will show switches permanently soldered from underneath.

If you’re unsure, your product manual or listing will clarify. For example, hot-swap 75% layouts such as those found in the 75% Keyboard collection frequently include hot-swappable sockets.

How to Remove Switches From a Hot-Swap Keyboard

Step-by-step guide using a switch puller

1. Remove the keycaps.
2. Insert the switch puller hooks around the top and bottom tabs of the switch.
3. Squeeze gently and pull straight upward.
4. Avoid twisting to prevent bent pins.

How to avoid bending pins during removal

• Pull gently and evenly.
• Ensure the puller grips both sides of the switch.
• If the switch is stuck, loosen it with gentle vertical rocking—never sideways.

Handling stabilizer keys and long keys

Keys like the Spacebar, Enter, and Shift use stabilizers. Removing stabilizer keycaps improperly can cause bent wires or broken housings, leading to rattling or loose keys.

What to do if a switch feels stuck

• The plate may be tight.
• Dust may be clogging the edges.
• The puller may not be gripping securely.

Use a thin plastic card to gently release tension if necessary.

Removing switches on a compact 75% layout—such as those in the 75% Keyboard lineup—follows the same process but with tighter spacing.

How to Remove Soldered Switches Safely

Understanding how soldered switches work

Each switch is secured by two solder joints on the underside of the PCB. These joints must be melted and removed before the switch can be lifted out.

Using a soldering iron the safe way

For safe operation:

• Work in a ventilated space.
• Do not touch the metal tip of the soldering iron.
• Use a proper stand to avoid burns.

Heat each contact point until the solder liquifies.

Using a desoldering pump vs. desoldering station

• Desoldering pump: More affordable; requires manual suction.
• Desoldering station: More consistent and beginner-friendly but higher cost.

How to clean solder pads before installing new switches

1. Heat the old solder with the iron.
2. Use solder wick to remove excess solder.
3. Clean gently using isopropyl alcohol.

Desoldering Equipment Table

Tool	Cost	Ease of Use	Best For
Soldering Iron + Pump	Low	Moderate	Beginners
Desoldering Station	Medium–High	Easy	Frequent Modders
Solder Wick	Low	Moderate	Cleaning Pads

Troubleshooting, Safety Tips, and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Signs you may be damaging a PCB

• Peeling pads
• Burn marks
• Switches not reseating correctly

Avoiding overheating and solder burns

Do not keep the iron on one point for too long. Slow movements increase heat spread, potentially damaging traces.

When you should consider professional repair

If a pad lifts or switches do not desolder cleanly, professional soldering technicians can help prevent permanent PCB damage.

Conclusion

Learning how to remove keyboard switches not only improves your keyboard knowledge but also gives you more control over your typing experience. Whether you’re cleaning, upgrading, or experimenting with switch types, the right tools and steps ensure a safe and successful result.

If you're considering trying new switches or upgrading layouts, exploring well-designed hot-swap boards—such as models in the 75% Keyboard category—can make future switch changes easier and safer.

FAQs

Can I remove keyboard switches without a switch puller or desoldering tools?

For hot-swap keyboards, a switch puller is highly recommended. Improvised tools can bend pins or scratch plates. For soldered keyboards, proper soldering equipment is necessary.

How do I know if my keyboard is hot-swappable?

Hot-swap keyboards use removable sockets instead of soldered joints. Many modern 65%, 75%, and 96% keyboards clearly mention “hot-swap” in their product listings.

Will removing switches void my keyboard warranty?

Policies vary. Many manufacturers allow switch swapping on hot-swap models, while soldering modifications may void the warranty. Checking your brand’s policy beforehand is advised.