Mechanical Keyboard Lube Guide How To Make Your Switches Sound Thocky

A satisfying “thock” when typing isn’t just about the keycaps or case—it starts with the switches. Many enthusiasts seek that deep, muted, punchy sound signature known as “thocky,” which combines tactile feedback with a soft acoustic profile. While switch type and keyboard build contribute significantly, one of the most effective ways to dial in that ideal sound and feel is through proper lubrication. Lubing your mechanical switches can transform a scratchy, loud board into a smooth, refined instrument. This guide walks you through the science, tools, and step-by-step process to achieve a consistently thocky typing experience.

Understanding Switch Lubrication and the Thocky Sound

The term “thocky” describes a typing sound that’s deep, full-bodied, and slightly muffled—distinct from the higher-pitched “clack” of stock linear switches or the sharp “tick” of clicky variants. Achieving this sound involves reducing high-frequency vibrations and internal friction within the switch. When parts inside a switch rub against each other without lubrication, they generate noise and resistance. Applying the right lubricant dampens these interactions, resulting in smoother keystrokes and a more uniform acoustic output.

Lubrication primarily affects three components: the stem (which moves up and down), the housing (where the stem slides), and the spring (which provides resistance). By targeting friction points, especially between the stem and housing walls, you minimize micro-vibrations that cause harshness in sound. The result? A cleaner, deeper, more controlled keystroke that many describe as “buttery” or “premium.”

“Proper switch lubing doesn’t just improve sound—it fundamentally changes the tactile experience. It’s like going from sandpaper to silk.” — Daniel Reyes, Custom Keyboard Builder & Switch Acoustics Researcher

Essential Tools and Materials

Before beginning, gather the right supplies. Using improper tools or low-quality lubes can damage switches or worsen performance. Below is a checklist of what you’ll need:

• Switch opener tool or precision tweezers
• Deswitching tool or tweezer-based deswicher
• High-quality switch lubricants (light, medium, and damping)
• Small brushes (foam or metal-tipped)
• Clean workspace with good lighting
• Magnetic tray or compartmentalized container
• Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and lint-free wipes
• Ziplock bags or labeled containers for organization

Tip: Always label your containers. Mixing unlabeled lubed switches can lead to inconsistent typing experiences across your board.

Choosing the Right Lubricants

Not all lubes are created equal. The viscosity and composition determine where and how they should be used:

Lube Type	Viscosity	Best For	Examples
Light (20k–50k cP)	Low	Stem rails, light coating	Krytox 205g0, Tribosys 3202
Medium (100k–1000k cP)	Medium	Housing contact points, balanced feel	Tribosys 3204, Krytox 105
Damping (Thick/Grease)	High	Springs, bottom-out reduction	Dielectric grease, Lubeguys Damp+Glide

For a thocky sound, a combination approach works best: use a light lube on the stem rails to ensure smooth travel and a damping compound on the spring to absorb impact noise during bottom-out. Avoid petroleum-based greases—they can degrade plastic housings over time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Lubing Switches for a Thocky Sound

This process applies to most common mechanical switches, including Cherry MX clones, Gateron, Kailh, and optical variants. Allow 2–4 hours depending on switch count.

1. Remove switches from the PCB or plate. Use a desoldering pump or hot air station if soldered; otherwise, carefully pop them out with a switch puller.
2. Disassemble each switch. Use a switch opener to separate the top housing from the bottom. Then remove the stem and spring. Handle delicate parts gently—especially the leaf spring in some designs.
3. Clean all components. Wipe stems and housings with isopropyl alcohol to remove factory oils and debris. Let dry completely before lubing.
4. Lube the stem rails. Apply a small amount of light lube (e.g., Krytox 205g0) along both vertical rails of the stem using a fine brush. One thin coat is sufficient—over-lubing causes stickiness.
5. Apply medium lube to housing contact points. Target the inner walls where the stem touches during actuation. Focus on upper and lower housing seams and slider areas.
6. Treat the spring. Stretch the spring slightly and apply a damping lube to every 3rd or 4th coil. Rotate and repeat until evenly coated. This reduces spring ping and deadens bottom-out noise.
7. Reassemble switches. Place the stem back into the housing, insert the spring, and snap the top cover shut. Test actuation with your finger to ensure smooth movement.
8. Let cure for 24 hours. After reassembly, store switches in a clean container. Most lubes reach optimal consistency after a day, allowing excess to settle and initial odor to dissipate.
9. Reinstall and test. Place switches back into your keyboard and type for at least 1000 keystrokes to break in the lube.

Tip: If you hear lingering spring ping after installation, disassemble and add a tiny bit more damping lube to the spring ends.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced builders make errors that compromise results. Here are frequent pitfalls and their solutions:

• Over-lubing: Excess grease creates drag and attracts dust. Use sparingly—less is more.
• Mixing incompatible lubes: Silicone and PFPE-based lubes don’t mix well. Stick to one chemical family per build.
• Skipping cleaning: Factory oils can react poorly with new lubes, causing gumminess. Always clean first.
• Rushing the cure time: Typing too soon leads to inconsistent feel. Wait at least 24 hours.
• Using cotton swabs: They shed fibers that interfere with switch mechanics. Opt for foam brushes or lint-free wipes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Switch Lubing

Action	Do	Don't
Lube Application	Use precision brushes for control	Apply lube directly from tube
Workspace	Work on a magnetic tray with dividers	Place parts on bare desk
Lube Selection	Choose PFPE-based lubes (Krytox, Tribosys)	Use WD-40 or automotive grease
Assembly	Test each switch before reinstalling	Assume all switches work post-build
Break-in	Type or actuate 500–1000 times	Expect perfect feel immediately

Real Example: Transforming a Noisy Gateron Red Build

Jared, a freelance writer from Portland, owned a prebuilt keyboard with Gateron Red switches. He loved the typing speed but found the sound tinny and fatiguing during long sessions. After researching, he decided to lube his switches for a deeper, quieter feel. He disassembled all 61 switches, cleaned them with 99% IPA, then applied Krytox 205g0 to the stems and Lubeguys Damp+Glide to the springs. Upon reassembly and a 24-hour cure, he noticed an immediate difference. The once-bright “clack” had transformed into a rich, muted “thock” with noticeably smoother travel. After a week of regular use, he reported reduced finger fatigue and said coworkers commented on how quiet his typing had become. His total investment: $25 in lubes and tools, and about three hours of effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lube switches without removing them from the keyboard?

Yes, but results are limited. Top-down lubing only reaches the stem and offers minimal housing or spring treatment. For a true thocky transformation, full disassembly is recommended.

How long does switch lube last?

Quality lubes like Krytox or Tribosys can last 2–5 years under normal use. Over time, dust accumulation or lube migration may require reapplication.

Will lubing void my warranty?

Most manufacturers consider opened switches non-returnable. Check your warranty terms before proceeding. DIY builds are safer for modding.

Final Checklist Before You Begin

1. ✅ Confirm switch compatibility with lubing (avoid Hall effect or optical switches unless specified)
2. ✅ Gather all tools and lubes
3. ✅ Prepare a clean, organized workspace
4. ✅ Remove switches safely from the board
5. ✅ Clean all components thoroughly
6. ✅ Apply correct lube to each part (light on stem, damping on spring)
7. ✅ Reassemble and allow 24-hour cure
8. ✅ Break in with extensive typing
9. ✅ Evaluate sound and feel—adjust if needed

Conclusion: Elevate Your Typing Experience

A thocky mechanical keyboard isn’t magic—it’s craftsmanship. With precise lubrication, you take control of every aspect of your typing feel and sound. The process demands patience and attention to detail, but the payoff is a personalized, premium experience few off-the-shelf keyboards can match. Whether you’re chasing auditory satisfaction, ergonomic comfort, or pure mechanical refinement, switch lubing is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. Start with a single switch to test the method, then scale up. Once you hear that deep, resonant thock under your fingertips, you won’t want to go back.

💬 Have you lubed your switches for a thocky sound? Share your favorite lube combo or tip in the comments below!