If you're serious about mechanical keyboards, lubing your switches and stabilizers is one of the best ways to improve their feel and sound. But with so many lubricants available, choosing the right one can be confusing. This guide breaks down the best options for different components and preferences.

Types of Lubricants

There are two main categories of lubricants used for mechanical keyboards:

1. Oil-based lubricants – Thin and light, best for switches where a smooth but not overly dampened feel is preferred.

2. Grease-based lubricants – Thicker and more viscous, ideal for stabilizers and switches where you want a deep, smooth keystroke with reduced rattle.

Best Lubricants for Switches

Different switches require different types of lubricant to maximize their potential.

Linear Switches

For linear switches, a smooth and consistent keypress is the goal. The best lubricants for these are:

• Krytox 205g0 – The gold standard for linear switches, providing a buttery smooth feel.

• Tribosys 3204 – Slightly thinner than 205g0, offering a balance between smoothness and control.

• Krytox 105 – A light oil alternative for those who prefer a more subtle effect.

Tactile Switches

Tactile switches require a careful approach—too much lube can mute their tactility.

• Tribosys 3203 – A thin lubricant that enhances smoothness without compromising the bump.

• Krytox 204g0 – A middle-ground lube that smooths out scratchiness while retaining feedback.

• Krytox 105 – A light oil that preserves tactility while reducing friction.

Clicky Switches

Clicky switches generally don’t need much lubrication, as it can dampen the sound and feel of the click. However, if necessary:

• Krytox 105 – A very thin oil applied sparingly to reduce stem wobble.

Best Lubricants for Stabilizers

Stabilizers benefit from a thicker lubricant to eliminate rattle and improve smoothness.

• Dielectric Grease – A popular choice for stabilizer wires, preventing ticking and rattle.

• Krytox 205g0 – Works well on stabilizer housings for a smoother feel.

• XHT-BDZ – An ultra-thick grease designed specifically for stabilizer wires.

How to Apply Lubricant Properly

1. For Switches:

   • Disassemble the switch.

   • Apply a thin, even coat to the rails and stem legs (avoid legs for tactiles if preserving bump).

   • Reassemble and test.

2. For Stabilizers:

   • Apply a generous amount of dielectric grease or XHT-BDZ to the wire where it contacts the housing.

   • Use Krytox 205g0 or Tribosys 3204 on stabilizer housings for extra smoothness.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lubricant can drastically improve your keyboard’s feel and sound. Linear switches benefit from thicker greases like Krytox 205g0, while tactile switches work best with lighter lubes like Tribosys 3203. Stabilizers require a thicker grease to minimize rattle. Experiment with different options to find what suits your typing preferences best!