The Benefits of Lubing and Filming Switches: Elevating Your Mechanical Keyboard Experience

If you're a mechanical keyboard enthusiast or just getting into the hobby, you've probably heard about lubing and filming switches. These modifications may seem tedious at first, but the difference they make in feel and sound is well worth the effort. Whether you're looking for a smoother keystroke, reduced scratchiness, or a more satisfying sound profile, lubing and filming can significantly enhance your typing and gaming experience. Let’s break down the benefits of these two essential modifications.

Lubing Switches: The Key to Smoothness

Lubing switches is one of the most impactful modifications you can make to your mechanical keyboard. It involves applying a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts of a switch to reduce friction and improve overall performance. Here’s why it’s worth doing:

1. Smoother Keystrokes

Stock mechanical switches can sometimes feel scratchy due to friction between the switch’s moving components. Applying the right lubricant can eliminate this issue, making each keystroke buttery smooth.

2. Reduced Rattle and Noise

Lubrication dampens unnecessary noise caused by friction and rattle, leading to a more refined and pleasant sound profile. This is especially beneficial for those who prefer a quieter keyboard for work or shared spaces.

3. Improved Consistency

Stock switches can have inconsistencies in feel and sound, especially when coming from different batches. Lubing ensures that all switches feel uniform, creating a more enjoyable and predictable typing experience.

4. Enhanced Longevity

By reducing friction and wear, lubrication helps extend the lifespan of your switches, ensuring they perform well for years to come.

Filming Switches: Stability and Acoustics Upgrade

Filming switches involves placing a thin plastic or rubber film between the top and bottom housing of the switch. This modification helps stabilize the switch housing and improves acoustics. Here’s why switch films are a great addition:

1. Reduced Housing Wobble

Some switches, especially those with looser housings, tend to wobble, which can create an inconsistent feel. Adding a film tightens the housing, making each keystroke feel more stable and precise.

2. Improved Sound Profile

Filming enhances the acoustic properties of switches by eliminating unwanted rattling and deepening the overall sound. This results in a richer, more satisfying “thock” or “clack,” depending on the switch type.

3. Increased Durability

A tighter switch housing not only improves stability but also helps maintain the switch’s integrity over time, reducing wear and tear from repeated use.

Which Switches Benefit Most from Lubing and Filming?

• Lubing: Most switches benefit from lubrication, but tactile and linear switches see the biggest improvements. Clicky switches can also be lubed, but sparingly to avoid dampening their signature click.

• Filming: Filming is particularly useful for switches with looser housings, such as Gateron Milky Tops, some TTC switches, and certain Outemu switches. Some premium switches with tight housings (like some newer GMK or JWK switches) may not need films.

Final Thoughts: A Worthwhile Investment

Lubing and filming switches may require patience, but the results are undeniable. Whether you’re an enthusiast aiming for the ultimate typing experience or a casual user looking to enhance your keyboard’s performance, these mods provide a noticeable upgrade in smoothness, sound, and longevity. If you haven’t tried it yet, grab some lube, films, and a switch opener—you might just fall in love with your keyboard all over again.