Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their tactile feel and customization options. One of the most common ways to personalize a mechanical keyboard is to change the color of the keys. Whether you want to match your keyboard to your gaming setup, your company’s branding, or your personal style, changing the color of your mechanical keyboard is a relatively straightforward process. In this article, we’ll explore the steps involved in changing the color of a mechanical keyboard.
Step 1: Choose Your Keycaps
The first step in changing the color of your mechanical keyboard is to choose the keycaps that you want to use. Keycaps are the individual keys that sit on top of the switches on your keyboard. They can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and you can choose from a range of colors, including black, white, gray, blue, green, and red.
When selecting keycaps, it’s important to make sure that they are compatible with your keyboard. Mechanical keyboards come in different sizes and layouts, and different keycap sets may be designed for specific keyboard models. Some common sizes of mechanical keyboards include tenkeyless (TKL), 60%, and full-size, so make sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
Step 2: Remove the Old Keycaps
Once you have your new keycaps, it’s time to remove the old ones. To do this, use a keycap puller, a small tool designed to grip the keycap and pull it off the switch. Gently wiggle the keycap puller and the keycap back and forth until the keycap pops off the switch.
Be careful when removing the keycaps to avoid damaging the switches. Also, make sure to keep track of the keycaps you remove so you can replace them later.
Step 3: Clean the Keyboard
With the old keycaps removed, it’s a good idea to clean the keyboard before installing the new keycaps. Use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the switches and the keyboard base.
Step 4: Install the New Keycaps
Now it’s time to install the new keycaps. Simply place each keycap over the corresponding switch and press down firmly until you hear a click. Make sure that each keycap is properly aligned and sitting flush with the keyboard.
Step 5: Test the Keyboard
Once all the new keycaps are installed, it’s important to test the keyboard to ensure that everything is working properly. Press each key to make sure that it registers properly, and test the space bar, shift keys, and other special keys to make sure that they are functioning correctly.
Tips for Changing the Color of a Mechanical Keyboard
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when changing the color of your mechanical keyboard:
- Take your time. Changing the color of a mechanical keyboard can be a time-consuming process, so be patient and don’t rush the job.
- Consider the lighting. If you plan to use your keyboard in low-light conditions, it’s a good idea to choose keycaps with a high contrast between the keycap color and the lettering.
- Look for quality keycaps. Cheap keycaps may be more prone to chipping, fading, or breaking, so it’s important to invest in high-quality keycaps that will last.
- Don’t forget the stabilizers. Some keyboards have stabilizers under the larger keys, such as the space bar and shift keys. These stabilizers may need to be removed and replaced along with the keycaps.
- Experiment with different colors. Changing the color of your mechanical keyboard is a great opportunity to experiment with different colors and styles.
How to paint the keycaps of mechanical keyboard
Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular due to their durability, customizability, and tactile feel. While many enthusiasts enjoy customizing their keyboard with different keycap sets, sometimes they want to take it a step further by painting their own keycaps to match their unique style.
To paint keycaps, the first step is to select the appropriate materials. This includes primer, paint, and a sealant. It is important to choose high-quality materials to ensure a long-lasting and professional-looking finish. In addition, it is important to have the proper tools on hand, including a small brush or airbrush, masking tape, and a well-ventilated workspace.
Next, the keycaps must be prepared for painting. This involves thoroughly cleaning them to remove any oils or debris that may interfere with the painting process. It is also important to sand the surface of the keycaps to create a rough surface for the primer to adhere to.
Once the keycaps are prepared, it is time to apply the primer. This creates a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to. It is important to apply the primer in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This will prevent any lumps or bumps from forming on the surface of the keycaps.
Once the primer has dried, it is time to apply the paint. This should be done in thin layers as well, building up the color gradually to prevent any drips or smudges. It is important to allow each layer of paint to dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the desired color and finish, multiple layers of paint may be required.
Finally, the keycaps should be sealed to protect the paint from wear and tear. This can be done using a clear coat sealant, which should also be applied in thin layers. Once the sealant has dried, the keycaps are ready to be reattached to the keyboard.
Overall, painting keycaps can be a fun and rewarding DIY project for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With the right materials and tools, it is possible to create unique and custom keycaps that add a personal touch to any keyboard. It is important to take the time to prepare the keycaps properly and apply the paint in thin, even layers for the best results. With a little bit of patience and practice, anyone can paint their own keycaps and create a one-of-a-kind mechanical keyboard.
In the final thoughts, changing the color of a mechanical keyboard is a fun and exciting way to personalize your keyboard and make it stand out. It involves choosing new keycaps that match your preferred color scheme, removing the old keycaps, cleaning the keyboard, and installing the new keycaps. To change the color of your mechanical keyboard, you need to ensure that the new keycaps are compatible with your keyboard, and that you follow the right steps to install them. It’s important to take your time when changing the color of your keyboard, and to invest in high-quality keycaps that will last. With these steps and tips, you can easily change the color of your mechanical keyboard to suit your style and preferences.
