Dygma keyboards are hot-swappable, meaning you can change the switches on them at any time. This can be done to replace a faulty switch or to experience a new feeling when using the keyboard.
If you’re using another keyboard, make sure it is hot-swappable before removing the switches. If the switches are soldered to the PCB, trying to remove them can permanently damage the keyboard.
Changing the switches on your keyboard is easy with some practice and advice. Let’s start!
- Locate the keycap and switch puller and set up a bowl or a container for the switches.
- Important: Disconnect the keyboard from the computer and turn the halves off.
- Remove the keycaps using the keycap/switch puller, and leave them in order on the desk to facilitate the reassembly.
- Use the switch puller to clamp and remove the switches. Ensure that the edges of the puller are in contact with the plastic clips that allow the switch to be removed.
- For adequate removal, standard MX switches must be clamped in the North-South direction and pulled straight up, whereas low-profile switches must be clamped in the East-West direction and pulled straight up.
A pro tip for low-profile switches is not to clamp them right in the middle. The switch's flanges are not centered, so clamping it slightly closer to the top makes removal easier. - Exert constant force and avoid violent pulls, twisting, or sideways extractions to help prevent damage to the electronics.
- In Raise ISO models, you cannot adequately clamp the switch to remove it. We have considered this: to remove it, press the key down and extract it. The switch will come out alongside the keycap. This is due to a micrometric adjustment to the frame of that specific keycap.
- If used carefully, the puller should not scratch the metal plate. To ensure this, use a single layer of Scotch tape or painter’s tape on the edges of the puller.
With that, you have more than half of the job done; reinstalling switches takes less time than the extraction. The process is simple; however, since there’s a slight chance of damaging a switch or the PCB if the insertion is inadequate, here are some tips to ensure everything runs smoothly:
- Check that the legs of the switch are straight before the insertion.
- Do not insert the switch entirely if you feel any resistance. Remove it, check that the legs are straight and properly aligned, and try again.
- Use the “two-step” insertion technique. Start by slowly aligning the legs with the socket holes, then press the switch down gently but firmly into the frame.
Once the switches are correctly inserted, reinstall the keycaps, connect the keyboard, and enjoy 😊
You can also check these videos for more visual information:
- How to open the Dygma Raise 2
- How to open the Dygma Defy
- How to open the OG Dygma Raise
As usual, please don't hesitate to ask any more questions. We can give you additional videos or any other information you think is missing in the article 🫶