A beginner-friendly, practical guide explaining why, when, and how to replace keycaps — including tools, cleaning, installation and troubleshooting for MX-style mechanical keyboards.

Why Replace Your Keycaps?

Personalization

Replacing keycaps is the easiest way to give your keyboard a fresh look or unique style. Gamers often choose RGB “pudding” caps for stronger backlight glow; enthusiasts might choose artisan or themed sets to match a desk setup.

Browse our keyboard keycap collection for a range of PBT and ABS options suitable for different profiles and layouts.

Improved Typing Feel

Keycap materials and profiles affect sound and feel. Due to the nature of the material, ABS keycap sets come in more vibrant colors, and the ABS material makes keyboards sound crispy and clean. Thicker PBT keycaps are generally more durable and resist shine longer than thin ABS sets, while different profiles (e.g., Cherry, SA) alter finger travel and ergonomics.

Easier Cleaning

Removing keycaps exposes the board for a deep clean—dust, crumbs, and oils accumulate over time. Swapping to a matte or textured set can also reduce visible fingerprints and glossy wear in heavy-use environments.

Are You Ready to Swap Keycaps?

Mechanical Keyboards Only: This guide focuses on MX-style mechanical keyboards. Most laptops, scissor-switch keyboards, and many membrane keyboards do not support standard removable keycaps. If uncertain, check your keyboard model or manual.

Hot-Swap vs. Soldered: Hot-swappable keyboards let you replace switches and keycaps without soldering; soldered boards still allow keycap swaps but opening the case or desoldering may void warranty. Only remove caps — not the PCB — unless you understand warranty implications.

Safety Reminder: Always unplug or turn off your keyboard before working on it. Use the proper tools and work gently — aggressive prying can damage switch stems or stabilizers.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Keycap Puller — a wire (ring) puller is recommended for even pressure and minimal risk to caps and switches.
• Cleaning Supplies — microfiber cloth, compressed air, cotton swabs and isopropyl alcohol for spot cleaning.
• Optional — switch puller (for hot-swap boards), rubber O-rings to dampen sound, lubrication kit for switches, and pre-lubed switches for a smoother feel. For pre-lubed options, consider our lubed keyboard switches.

Step-by-Step Keycap Replacement

1. Preparation

• Document the layout: Take a clear photo of your keyboard (front and angled) so you can restore the correct arrangement later.
• Power down: Unplug USB or disable Bluetooth to prevent accidental inputs.
• Set up workspace: Work on a soft, clean surface (desk mat or towel) and have a bowl or bag to hold removed keycaps.

2. Removing Keycaps (Standard vs. Large Keys)

Standard keys: Fit the puller under the cap edges, clamp, and pull straight up. Most keycaps pop off with steady vertical force.

Large keys: Spacebar, Shift, Enter and Backspace use stabilizers. Gently lift one side first, then the other to avoid bending stabilizer wires. If a key resists, check for clips or screws on specialty boards.

3. Cleaning and Inspecting

• Use compressed air or a small brush to dislodge dust and crumbs.
• Wipe the top plate with a microfiber cloth; use a lightly dampened (isopropyl alcohol) cotton swab for sticky spots.
• Inspect switch stems and stabilizers for damage; if a switch looks broken and your board is hot-swap, consider replacing it now.

4. (Optional) Switch Mods and Lubrication

If your keyboard is hot-swappable, now is a good time to add dampening mods. Lubrication of switches is an advanced step — many users opt for pre-lubed switches instead of DIY lubing.

5. Installing New Keycaps

Match sizes and profiles: Confirm the set includes the correct row profiles and sizes (e.g., 1u, 1.5u, 2u, 2.25u). Align the cross-shaped underside with the switch stem and press vertically until seated.

For large stabilized keys, hook one side of the cap onto the stabilizer then press the other side down to seat fully.

6. Testing and Troubleshooting

• Reconnect the keyboard and test every key in a text editor or an online key tester.
• If a key doesn’t register, ensure the cap is seated and the stem is intact. For persistent issues, reseat the switch (hot-swap) or consult support.
• Spacebar or large-key rattle usually means the stabilizer or cap isn’t properly seated; remove and reseat carefully.

Maintenance and Next Steps

Regular cleaning: Do a light cleaning weekly and a deeper clean (full keycap removal + swabbing) every few months if you use your keyboard heavily or eat at your desk.

Keycap care: Store spare or replaced keycaps in a dry, dust-free container. This preserves color and prevents warping.

Sharing your build photos and notes in keyboard communities helps others and builds trust — it’s also a great way to get feedback on layouts, profiles, and mods.

Helpful Tables

Keycap Material Comparison

Feature	ABS Keycaps	PBT Keycaps
Durability	Tends to be thinner; prone to developing glossy shine over time	Thicker, more wear-resistant; keeps texture longer
Sound	Generally brighter / sharper	Deeper / more muted
Cost	Often less expensive	Typically mid to higher range
Color Stability	Colors can fade and yellow	Color tends to remain more stable

Common Keycap Sizes (Quick Reference)

Key	Typical Size	Notes
Alphanumeric keys	1u	Standard letter/number keys
Tab / Caps / Shift (left)	1.75u–2.25u (varies)	Depends on layout and kit
Enter	1u (ANSI) or larger (ISO)	Check ANSI vs ISO variants
Spacebar	6.25u, 7u or custom	Commonly varies by layout—confirm before buying

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can all mechanical keyboards change keycaps?

Most MX-style mechanical keyboards use standard stems and will accept aftermarket keycaps, but always verify your keyboard's stem type and layout (ANSI vs ISO) before purchasing a set.

How long does it take to replace keycaps?

A full replacement typically takes about 15–30 minutes for a standard-size keyboard, plus additional time for cleaning or switch swaps.

What’s the best material for keycaps?

PBT is generally preferred for durability and resistance to shine. ABS can offer brighter colors and is often cheaper; the "best" depends on your priorities (sound, feel, appearance, budget).

Do I need to lubricate switches when replacing keycaps?

No — lubrication is optional and primarily for enthusiasts seeking a smoother, quieter feel. Pre-lubed switches are an easy alternative to DIY lubing.

Will replacing keycaps void my warranty?

Removing keycaps alone generally does not void warranty, but opening the case, desoldering, or otherwise modifying internal components may. Check your keyboard manufacturer's warranty terms.

Conclusion

Swapping keycaps is a low-risk, high-reward upgrade that refreshes your keyboard’s look and can improve feel or sound. With the right tools and a little care—documenting your layout, using a keycap puller, cleaning properly, and testing after installation—you’ll have a polished result in under an hour. For high-quality keycap sets and pre-lubed switches, check our curated collections.

Shop Keycaps & Pre-Lubed Switches

© 2025 Unikeyboards. This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace manufacturer instructions. If you’re unsure about any step, consult your keyboard’s manual or contact the manufacturer.