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By: Robert Llarves | Date Posted: January 2, 2023
Mechanical keyboards have been around for some time now, and have seen a surge in popularity due to their unique features. Not only do mechanical keyboards provide superior responsiveness and durability compared to traditional rubber dome keyboards, but they also offer customization options that allow users to tailor the feel of the keyboard exactly to their preferences.
Gamers in particular appreciate mechanical keyboards because of the tactile feedback they offer; with each keypress being registered accurately and reliably every time. This makes them great for twitch gaming or fast-paced typing commands, allowing gamers to stay one step ahead of their opponents. Professionals too can benefit from mechanical keyboards as the superior technology will enable them to type more accurately and quickly than ever before.
However, many people are wondering how long their mechanical keyboards will last before they need to be replaced.
Answer: The lifetime of a mechanical keyboard depends on several factors, including the quality of the keyboard and how it is used. High-quality keyboards are made with durable parts that can last for many years, even when subjected to heavy use. On the other hand, cheap models may only last a few months or years if they aren’t taken care of properly.
In general, you can expect your mechanical keyboard to last anywhere from 3 to 5 years with regular use. The key switches in mechanical keyboards are rated for up to 50 million clicks, so even heavy typists should expect their keyboard to last many years before needing a replacement. The metal construction also makes mechanical keyboards more resistant to damage from spills or drops than regular membrane keyboards.
Below are some tips to help extend the lifetime of your mechanical keyboard:
Taking the time to properly clean a mechanical keyboard can help it last longer. Mud, dust, and other debris can accumulate over time, causing the keys to losing their responsiveness and even make the keyboard look nasty.
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain a high level of performance from your mechanical keyboard, as well as its overall appearance. Disassembling and cleaning each key once in a while or using compressed air or vacuum cleaners regularly can work wonders for keeping the keyboard clean and in top condition.
The lifespan of any mechanical keyboard inevitably decreases with use, but regular cleaning helps you extend its longevity as much as possible.
When using a mechanical keyboard, it is important to be gentle and avoid banging or slamming the keys. Try to type with light strokes, as pressing too hard on the keys can cause them to malfunction over time.
Also, try to rest your palms on the desk rather than on the keyboard itself; this will reduce wear and tear on both the keys and other components of the keyboard.
A good way to protect your mechanical keyboard from dust, dirt, and spills are by using a cover or wrist pad. These are relatively inexpensive accessories that are designed to fit around your entire keyboard (or just some of its rows) and provide an extra layer of protection against external elements.
They also provide some cushioning, making typing more comfortable and reducing the risk of injury caused by heavy use over long periods.
Using a mechanical keyboard for extended periods can put a lot of strain on your wrists and fingers.
Make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day to give your hands a rest and prevent any long-term injuries or aches. This will also help reduce wear and tear on the key switches, ensuring that they last as long as possible.
It’s important to keep liquids away from your mechanical keyboard at all times. Even small amounts of liquid can cause the keys to become sticky, or even short-circuit and damage the keyboard beyond repair.
If you do spill liquid on your keyboard, immediately unplug it and dry it off with a cloth before attempting to clean any of the components.
If you’re not using your mechanical keyboard for a while, make sure to store it properly in a safe place that is away from any dust or moisture. This will help ensure that all its components stay intact and functioning correctly when you need to use it again.
The keycaps on a mechanical keyboard are subject to wear and tear over time, so it is important to make sure they are of good quality.
Look for keycaps made from materials like PBT plastic which have a better grip and won’t wear down as quickly. This will help your keys maintain their responsiveness and aesthetic appeal for longer periods of time.
Excessive dust can cause the keys of a mechanical keyboard to become sluggish or unresponsive, reducing its lifespan in the process. If you live in an area with high levels of dust, you may want to invest in some type of cover or filter that can keep out dirt and debris. This will help your keyboard last longer and perform better.
It is important to check on the condition of your mechanical keyboard every few months or so to make sure everything is working properly. Take a look at the key switches and make sure they are still in good shape, as well as any other components that you can access like the cable or backlighting system.
Performing regular maintenance can go a long way in helping extend the lifespan of your mechanical keyboard.
Some mechanical keyboards come with replaceable switches. These are the components responsible for registering keystrokes and are likely to wear down over time due to heavy use or exposure to dust or liquids.
If you notice a drop in performance, it may be time to replace the switches on your keyboard.
Keycaps tend to show signs of wear and tear more quickly than other parts of the keyboard, especially if they’re made from materials like ABS plastic that can become shiny and slippery over time.
Replacing worn-out keycaps is an easy way to give your mechanical keyboard an aesthetic upgrade while also making the keyboard look new.
Stabilizers are what keep the keys from wobbling when pressed. They can also become loose or damaged over time, resulting in sloppy keystrokes or unresponsive keys.
Replacing the stabilizers on your keyboard can help keep it running smoothly for longer periods of time.
Mechanical keyboards are a great choice for gamers, typists, and general users who want the best performance and durability.
By taking proper care of your mechanical keyboard and following these tips, you can ensure it will last many years. You also need to remember that the way you use it is a big factor in how long it will last, so use it wisely.
