A Detailed Guide To Lubing Topre Switches

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: carson-rutz
  • Sep 12, 2023

Lubing Topre switches is a way to improve the feel and sound of your keyboard. In this article, you will learn what Topre switches are, why you should lube them, what materials and tools you need, and how to perform the lubing process step by step. By following this guide, you will be able to enjoy a smoother and quieter typing experience with your Topre keyboard.

Best Lube For Topre Switches

Best lube for topre switches
Best lube for topre switches

When lubing Topre switches, avoid applying too much lube, as it can make the switch feel sluggish or sticky. The type of lube that you use is personal preference, but here are some general guidelines:

  • Thick lube (i.e. Krytox GPL 205) is recommended for linear switches, as it can make them smoother and quieter.
  • Medium-thick lube (i.e. Tribosys 3204) is recommended for tactile switches, as it can enhance their smoothness and reduce their noise without compromising their tactility.
  • Thin lube (i.e. Krytox GPL 107) is recommended for clicky switches, as it can make them smoother and quieter without affecting their clickiness.

You can also mix different lubes to create your own custom blend. For example, some users like to mix Krytox GPL 205 and Krytox GPL 107 for a balanced feel.

The best lube for Topre switches depends on your preference and the type of feel and sound you want to achieve. Generally, you will need a thin or low-viscosity lube that won’t reduce the tactility or make the Topre switches sluggish. Here are some of the best lubes for Topre switches.

Lube For Topre Switches Form Common Uses Price range
Tribosys 3204 Grease Tactile switches $7,56 - $12,43
Krytox GPL 205 Grease Linear switches

Stabilisers

$5,92 - $9,66
Tribosys 3203 Grease Tactile switches $7,56 - $12,43
Lubing topre switches improves the feel and sound of keyboard
Lubing topre switches improves the feel and sound of keyboard

Tribosys 3204

Tribosys 3204 is a grade 0 lubricant that is widely used in the mechanical keyboard industry. It has a medium oil viscosity and a semi-fluid consistency that make it easy to apply and spread. Tribosys 3204 is recommended for tactile or clicky switches, such as Topre because this can enhance their smoothness and reduce their noise without compromising their tactility.

Tribosys 3204 is also extremely stable and durable, meaning it will not migrate or degrade over time. It is considered one of the best for lubing Topre switches by many keyboard enthusiasts.

Krytox GPL 205

Krytox gpl 205g0 is suitable for lubing topre switches
Krytox gpl 205g0 is suitable for lubing topre switches

Krytox GPL 205 is a thick grease lubricant, often used for Topre switches. It has a high base oil viscosity and a PTFE thickener that make it suitable for components that come in contact with chemicals. It can improve the smoothness and sound of Topre switches by filling the gaps and reducing the friction between the parts.

Krytox GPL 205 is also chemically inert and stable, meaning it will not react or degrade with exposure to oxygen, steam, acids, bases, or solvents. It is considered one of the best lubing topre switches by many keyboard enthusiasts.

Tribosys 3203 

Tribosys 3203 is ideal for tactile and click switches like topre
Tribosys 3203 is ideal for tactile and click switches like topre

Tribosys 3203 is a grade 0 grease lubricant that is designed for all switch types. It has a low base oil viscosity and a fluorinated polymer thickener that make it easy to apply and spread.

It is ideal for tactile and click switches, such as Topre, because it can enhance their smoothness and sound without affecting their tactility. Tribosys 3203 is also extremely stable and durable so that it will not migrate or degrade over time.

Still wondering why lubing Topre switches are needed? If so, the article The Best Lube for your Mechanical Keyboard Switches And Stabilizers will explain it to you and give you more options for lubing topre switches.

Step-by-Step Guide to Lubing Topre Switches

Step 1: Gather Materials

There are many materials you need to repair for lubing topre switches
There are many materials you need to repair for lubing topre switches
  • Lubricant: Choose a high-quality switch lubricant suitable for Topre switches. Popular options include Krytox, Tribosys, and GPL205g0.
  • Brush or an applicator:  This can be any tool that has fine and soft bristles, such as a makeup brush, a paint brush, or a dental brush. You want to use a tool that can spread the lube evenly and precisely, without leaving any excess or spillage.
  • Switch puller: A switch puller is essential for removing keycaps from the keyboard.
  • Tweezers or pliers: Tweezers are helpful for handling small components during the lubing process. It helps remove the springs from the switches.
  • Small screwdriver or dental pick: This will be needed when you reassemble the Topre switch
  • Container or tray: This can be any box or dish that can hold your materials securely and neatly, without losing or mixing them up.

Step 2: Remove Keycaps

To remove keycaps with a keycap puller, you need to place the loops of the keycap puller around the sides of the keycap. Then lift the keycap away from the switch’s stem with a little upward pressure. Avoid using too much force while removing the keycaps and place them in a safe place or in a container.

You will need a switch puller to remove keycaps
You will need a switch puller to remove keycaps

You can learn more about the best keycap pullers and how to use them. If you don’t have a keycap puller, you can use tweezers, or even your fingers. However, these methods are not as safe as using a keycap puller. Find out how to remove keycaps without a tool at our guide.

Step 3: Pull Apart the Topre Switch

You can use a switch puller or tweezers to grab the edges of the switch housing and lift it up. Be careful not to bend or break the housing or the spring. You should see the rubber dome, the spring and the slider inside the switch.

Step 4: Lube Slider Housing

Apply lube on the 4 inner corners of the housing
Apply lube on the 4 inner corners of the housing

The slider housing is the part that holds the slider, which is the plastic piece that moves up and down when you press the switch. To lube the slider housing, you need to apply a thin and even layer of lube on the inside walls of the housing, where the slider slides against.

Step 5: Reassemble the Topre Switch

You press down the switch housing to finish
You press down the switch housing to finish

After you have lubed the slider housing, you can reassemble the Topre switch. You can use a small screwdriver or a dental pick to align the rubber dome and the spring on top of the slider. Then, you can press down the switch housing until it snaps into place.

Step 6: Repeat for All Switches

Repeat the process can take time but worth it
Repeat the process can take time but worth it

You can repeat steps 3 to 5 for all the switches on your keyboard. This may take some time and patience, but it will be worth it in the end.

Step 7: Test the Switches

Test the switches for experiencing the difference in their smoothness and sound
Test the switches for experiencing the difference in their smoothness and sound

Once you have lubed all the switches, you can test them by pressing them and listening to their sound. You should notice a difference in their smoothness and sound compared to before. If you are not satisfied with the result, you can always go back and adjust the amount or type of lube.

Step 8: Put the keycaps back and Enjoy

The final step is to put the keycaps back onto the lubed switches carefully, ensuring they are aligned correctly back on your keyboard. You can use a keycap puller to align them on the stems and push them down firmly. 

Then you have successfully lubed your Topre switches. Now you can enjoy typing on your keyboard with a smoother and quieter feel.

Above is the most detailed guide for lubing Topre switches. In general, the steps are quite simple, other than that it takes a bit of your time to complete the entire keyboard.

We also have lubing for other types of switches. There is not much difference between lubing Topre switches compared to other types of switches. If you are interested, you can go through the tutorial. They will be very useful to those who are inexperienced in lubing switches.

Tips for Lubing Topre Switches 

Prepare your workspace before lubing

Lubing Topre switches can be a messy and time-consuming process, so you should prepare your workspace before you start. You will need a clean and spacious surface to work on, such as a desk or a table.

Lubing evenly

You should apply a thin and enough lube to cover the surface
You should apply a thin and enough lube to cover the surface

You don't want to apply too much or too little lube, as it can affect the performance and feel of the switches. Too much lube can make the switches feel sluggish or sticky, while too little lube can make them feel scratchy or noisy. You will need to apply just thin and just enough lube to cover the surface of the parts that you are lubing, without leaving any excess or gaps.

Avoid lubing certain switch brands

The type of lube that you use for lubing Topre switches is also important. You want to use a thin or low-viscosity lube that can penetrate into the small gaps and crevices of the switch parts without clogging them up. A thin lube can also preserve the tactility and responsiveness of the switches, while reducing their noise and scratchiness.

You can also mix different thin lubes to create your own custom blend. For example, some users like to mix Krytox GPL 107 and Krytox GPL 103 for a balanced feel.

Use a thin or low-viscosity lube

Topre switches are already quite smooth and tactile, so you don’t want to use a thick or high-viscosity lube that might reduce their tactility or make them sluggish. A thin or low-viscosity lube, such as Krytox 105 or Tribosys 3203, can enhance the smoothness and reduce the friction of the switches without affecting their feel too much.

Use a small brush and apply lube sparingly

Small brush for lubing topre switches
Small brush for lubing topre switches

You don't want to use a large brush or a cotton swab that can absorb too much lube and cause over-lubing. You also don't want to apply too much pressure or force when spreading the lube, as it can damage the switch parts or push out the excess lube.

A small brush, such as a size 00 or smaller, can help you apply lube precisely and evenly to each switch part.  Before you put the switch back together, make sure to remove any extra lube using a cloth or paper towel.

Is It Necessary to Lubricate Topre Switches?

Topre switches are a special type of keyboard switch that use a rubber dome and a spring to create a tactile and smooth typing feel. Some users may wonder if it is necessary to lubricate Topre switches, and what are the benefits and drawbacks of doing so. 

If you are not familiar with Topre switches, you can read this article to learn more about them: What are Topre Switches? Are they good for typing and gaming?

Benefits of lubing Topre switches

  • Improved key feel: Lubing can reduce the friction and damping of the switches, making them smoother and more responsive. It can also enhance the tactility of the switches, making them more satisfying to press.
  • Quieter typing: Lubing can reduce the noise of the switches, especially the upstroke clack that some users find annoying. It helps make the sound of the switches more consistent and pleasant.
  • Enhanced durability: Lubing can protect the switch parts from wear and tear, extending their lifespan and performance. It can also prevent dust and dirt from getting into the switches, which can cause them to malfunction or degrade.
  • Tactile enhancement: Lubing can increase the sharpness and crispiness of the tactile bump, making it more noticeable and satisfying. It will reduce the pre-travel and post-travel of the switches, making them more responsive and accurate.
Benefits of lubing topre switches
Benefits of lubing topre switches

Drawbacks of lubing Topre switches

  • Risk of over-lubing: Applying too much lube can have negative effects on the switch feel and sound. It can make the switches feel sluggish or sticky, or lose their tactility or clickiness. Too much lube can also attract more dust and dirt, which can clog up the switch parts or cause corrosion.
  • Skill and time required: Lubing Topre switches is not a simple or quick process. It requires some skill and patience to disassemble the switches, apply the lube evenly, and reassemble them without damaging them. It also requires some time and effort to do it properly, especially if you have a lot of switches to lube.

Lubing Topre switches is not necessary, but it can be beneficial for some users who want to improve their switch feel and sound. Ultimately, the decision to lube Topre switches depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. You should weigh the pros and cons of lubing Topre switches carefully, and do it at your own risk.

Bottom Up

In this post, you have learned how to lube Topre switches. You have also learned why lubing Topre switches can improve their key feel, sound, and durability, as well as the risks and challenges of doing so. By now, you should be able to decide if lubing Topre switches is worth it for you, and how to do it properly and safely.

Also, besides lubricating the switches to make them smoother, you might also consider filming your switches. It helps reduce the vibration of the two halves of the switch housing (top housing and bottom housing), making the switch more snug, improving the sound and typing feel. Switch film can be made from a variety of materials, but is usually PET or polycarbonate.

FAQs

Does Topre switch need lube?

Lubing Topre switches is not necessary, but it can enhance their performance and feel. Lubing can reduce the friction, noise, and scratchiness of the switches, making them smoother, quieter, and more consistent. Lubing can also prolong the lifespan of the switches by preventing dust and dirt from accumulating inside them.

What kind of lube do you use for Topre switches?

Topre switches can be lubed using Krytox 103, 107, or Tribosys 3204. These medium-thin lubes preserve tactility and responsiveness while reducing unwanted sounds and sensations. Or if you want a thicker lubes, there is Krytox 205g0, but may reduce tactile bumps and make switches feel heavier and slower.

Will lubing Topre switches make them feel mushy?

Lubing Topre switches will not make them feel mushy if done correctly. Topre switches can enhance the tactile bump's sharpness and crispiness by lubing them correctly. However, over-lubing or using a thick lube can result in a dampened feeling, reducing feedback and enjoyment of typing on Topre switches.

How often should I lube my Topre switches?

Topre lube is essential for maintaining the longevity and quality of your keyboard switches. Factors such as usage frequency, clean environment, force applied, and storage conditions can affect the longevity and quality of the lube. 

A general rule of thumb is to lube Topre switches once every year or two, or whenever you notice a decline in performance or feel.

How much lube should I apply to the switches?

Over-lubing or under-lubing can affect the switch's feel. For this, a small brush or applicator can be used to apply lube gently and carefully to the switch. You can also test the switch after lubing to see if it feels smooth and consistent, and adjust accordingly. 

Should I lube all the switches in one go, or can I do it in batches?

you can lube your switches in one go or in batches, depending on your time, patience and skill. However, it's recommended to lube your switches in small batches for more precision and consistency. Lubing all your switches in one go may be faster and more convenient, but it may also result in uneven or sloppy application.

Can lubing void the warranty of my Topre keyboard?

Before attempting any modifications, check the warranty terms and conditions to understand the potential implications of lubing. Some manufacturers allow lubing, as long as it doesn't damage or alter the original components, while others consider it a form of tampering that invalidates the warranty. 

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