Are Keycaps Universal? | In 2022

When people are looking to buy a new mechanical keyboard, they usually look for what switch the keyboard has. This is because different switches have different actuation points, weights, etc. People who type often want something that feels good in their hands, while gamers may want something that has more resistance to make it easier to double-tap keys. This article will give you the answer to “are keyboard switches universal.”

However, not everyone is familiar with keyboard switches and what they do. So what are keyboard switches? What do they do? Can any switch be used in any keyboard?

What Are Keyboard Switches?

Switches are mechanisms that lie beneath each key of a mechanical keyboard. They are what register a keypress and come in various shapes and sizes. There are many different types of switches, but the most common ones are Cherry MX switches.

Most keyboards that use Cherry MX switches are interchangeable, meaning you can put any switch in any keyboard. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

Cherry MX switches come in 4 main styles; Black, Red, Blue, and Brown. Each switch type has a different function; Pressing down on a key with a uniform 45g of force for at least 2mm will trigger the key (black). Pressing down with less than 40g of uniform force will activate the switch (red). 

And pressing down on a key with less than 50g of force will register as a press (blue), and pressing down with anything between 40g to 60g of force will trigger the switch (brown).

Now that you know more about keyboard switches, which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! If you are curious about the answer to “are keyboard switches universal,” don’t worry because we have everything mentioned about keyboard switches.

Why might someone want to change keyboard switches?

Everyone has different reasons for wanting to change the keyboard switches of their mechanical keyboard. Some people may find that the switch type they have does not feel good in their hands, while others may want a switch with a different feel or sound.

Meanwhile, gamers may want a more resistant switch, making it easier to double-tap keys. If you are considering changing the switches on your keyboard, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Not all keyboards have interchangeable switches. If you want to change the switches on your keyboard, make sure to do research about them first, so you don’t accidentally damage anything.
  • Changing the switch type or color can be done, but it is not as simple as swapping the switches. Even with instructions, it will take time to do correctly.
  • Switches are challenging to put back in once you remove them, so make sure you don’t want the original switch type anymore before changing things around.
  • Remember that mechanical keyboards (not membrane or dome) are more expensive because of the switches, so if you are unsure that you want to change them, it may be wiser to buy a new keyboard.

Are Keyboard Switches Universal?

As stated earlier, most keyboards that use Cherry MX switches are interchangeable. This doesn’t mean that you can put any switch in any keyboard. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

Some Cherry MX switches, such as the Green switch, are not standard and may not be available in all keyboards. There are also many clones from companies like Gateron, Kailh, and Razer, similar to the Cherry MX switches.

Each clone has its unique feel and sound, so if you are looking for a specific type of switch, it is best to do some research beforehand.

Overall, you can use any switch on almost every keyboard as long as that keyboard has the same switch type. If you are unsure what switch your keyboard uses, many guides online can help you determine the kind of switch your keyboard has. So, experiment with different switch types to see which one is best for you!

Can You Switch Keyboard Switches?

That’s a question that many people ask, and the answer is yes – you can switch keyboard switches. It’s not all that difficult to do, and with a little bit of practice, you can do it in just a few minutes.

There are a few things to keep in mind when switching keyboard switches; however, first, make sure you have the right tools.

Second, be careful not to damage the keyboard when switching the switches. If you’re not careful about this, it could damage the keyboard or you.

Lastly, ensure that the keyboard still functions correctly when you’re done. Once again, if you’re not careful here, it can ruin your entire job and leave you with an unresponsive keyboard.


FAQs

Can You Mix Switches On A Keyboard?

The simple answer is “yes.” You can install any switch on any key you want. If you want brown switches for the keys “WASD,” you can. If you want blue, red, or any other type of switch on a key, you can easily do that. A keyboard is not limited to using one kind of switch. But, if you type on your keyboard while installing different switches, it can be uncomfortable. However, later on, you will get used to it.

Are All Mechanical Keyboard Switches The Same?

All mechanical keyboard switches are not the same. In many of our articles, we have told this thing that there are three types of switches. Linear, Clicky, and Tactile. You can choose whatever switch you like by reviewing these three types individually.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading! If you have any questions, have no difficulty asking in the comments below. Also, check out our other articles for more helpful content.

We hope that you have earned more knowledge and got the answer to “are keyboard switches universal.” We will try to guide you more about keyboards. If you want to buy a keyboard for long nails, then be sure to read this article, as we have provided a brief comparison of the top keyboards.

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