Keychron K8 (Aluminum, RGB, Hotswap) Review and Modding

A quick review of Keychron’s new K8. This is the RGB aluminum frame version with a hotswap PCB. I decided to mod it by adding some foam inside the case as well as lubing the included Gateron brown switches with Krytox 203. Sound test comparison at the end.
Get the Keychron K8 here: www.keychron.com/products/key...
Links for the stuff I used in the video and where I bought them
4 prong pickup tool: amzn.to/2Gsm4mk
Needletip tweezers: amzn.to/2TLtMe2
Brushes: amzn.to/2TIbo68
1/8" neoprene foam: amzn.to/2HJHo7y
Hobby knife kit (includes knife, ruler, cutting pad, replacement blades): amzn.to/3jNPxo6
Metallic Sharpie markers: amzn.to/2HSk9rP
Double sided tape: amzn.to/3eeMVOW
Clear ruler: amzn.to/3kNOIwW
Switch puller: amzn.to/3jL0WFi
Dielectric grease: amzn.to/3mGCwid
Brushes: amzn.to/2TIbo68
Small screwdriver set: amzn.to/34IvsLR
Multiple bit screwdriver set (has the hex bit for outer rails): amzn.to/3eqQORj
Flushcut clippers: amzn.to/2HIDqfp
Deskpad: amzn.to/3ecJgBv
Switch opener: flashquark.com/product/switch...
Krytox 203 Lube: kebo.store/collections/access...
Switch films: kebo.store/products/switch-fi...
Camera Equipment (I used my iPhone to record this vid, but have since switched over to a real camera)
Canon EOS Rebel SL3: amzn.to/3oJxqDC
Camera battery pack (for unlimited recording time): amzn.to/3jLoqu5
El Gato CamLink 4K: amzn.to/35THUry
MeFOTO tripod: amzn.to/3jMpa22
Camera overhead tripod mount: amzn.to/3jNTk4O
Camera ballhead: amzn.to/3mGtKkm
Audio Equipment
Blue Yeti microphone: amzn.to/35Vqw5s
Foam microphone cover (works as pop filter): amzn.to/31XOBaD
Microphone stand arm: amzn.to/3oKBBiC
Blue Yeti compatible shock mount: amzn.to/2HSnW8x
Lighting Equipment
LED floor lamp + side lamp: amzn.to/32ixssL
LED ring light: amzn.to/3kN2e42
0:00 Intro
2:10 Height Comparison
2:49 Disassembly
4:07 Adding Case Foam
7:05 Sound Test - Stock
7:56 Sound Test - Lubed Switches and Case Foam
8:52 Final Thoughts
#Keychron #K8 #MechanicalKeyboards
*Disclaimer: Amazon links are affiliate links. Clicking on them doesn't cost you anything, but it does really help me keep making videos

[@mary6305]

The quality of the sound improved so much after adding the foam!! I hope Keychron is watching! Great video, thank you for doing it!!

[@AustinV]

Totally agree! Would recommend adding the foam for anyone that buys this board. Thanks for the support!

[@itshertzzz]

@@AustinV Does the foam came with the keyboard or do I need to buy it myself?

[@AustinV]

@@itshertzzz The 1/8" neoprene foam I bought myself but the thick foam was the foam they used in the box that the board came in

[@itshertzzz]

@@AustinV Noted. Thank you for the information 👍

[@alessandroloreti8448]

@@AustinV Hi and compliment for the video; I would like to buy this keyboard and it seems inevitable to put in the foam, but i'm afraid of breaking something, for example the switches. In your opinion is it very feasible or do I risk breaking something? Sorry for the trouble and for my english (I'm Italian)

[@oddballaklyama4395]

I finally bought a K8 because of your video. I went all out with the aluminum, rgb, hotswappable version. You really deserve much more subscribers.

[@AustinV]

Nice! Congrats on your new purchase. Glad I could help you in your decision. And thanks for the kind words and your sub!

[@anishjami9680]

how is it so far? I'm planning on getting the same model without the aluminum.

[@oddballaklyama4395]

@@anishjami9680 It's been a good 8 months and I'm still using it daily. I got the brown switches so I lubed them lightly and did the foam mod for sound dampening. I kind of regret choosing the RGB variant since I rarely use it now after recently changing the caps to non-backlit PBT ones, it still looks beautiful tho when the RGB is on.

[@joshrayner7167]

How are the brown switches?

[@Abdullahxvii]

this was JUST the video i was looking for. i plan on making all these mods once i pull the trigger and buy a k8. thanks man, great video!

[@AustinV]

Thanks for the support! Glad I could help out

[@bixby451]

Awesome, I'm definitely gonna mod my K8 once it arrives on Friday. Thank you for the step-by-step process :D

[@AustinV]

Good luck with mods!

[@theangelopez]

Just ordered a K8 for my first MKB and am researching what mods I want to do. I'm so glad I found you, I'll be taking your recommendation and padding the inside too! Great vid!

[@AustinV]

Glad you liked the video! Gl with mods!

[@cececooke7684]

This is an EXCELLENT product. I’ve been using mine for work since August 2021 (8-9 hrs/5 days a week) and have had no issues. The RGB effects are simple and entertaining. I can change the theme right on the keyboard. I charge it once a week. Awesome typing experience!!

[@yogi3084]

Is per key rgb possible?

[@AleOnYouTube]

Couldn’t agree more, I had mine for over 2 years with no issues at all, simple and effective.

[@Crestxo]

Gonna buy the Keyboard because of your review. Very well done and informative - been trying to get into custom keyboards but because of the vast amount of options and very limited stock I felt very overwhelmed. So this feels like the perfect fit for me. I will definitely use foam and lube the switches, the difference is just crazy. Also the hot-swappable option is very nice as it allows me to experiment with other switches in the future. Great Video 👍🏻

[@AustinV]

Glad you liked the review! Good luck with mod!

[@joshrayner7167]

How have you been enjoying this? I'm thinking about getting it in red

[@nyctophilxii]

This is a really informative vid!! ive been searching for keychron reviews. Good job!

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Happy you found it useful!

[@dextervidemy4432]

fortnine justin is cracked

[@dolphinoplaza5904]

Thanks for the information, I got a Keychron K8 with Gateron browns coming in soon and I plan on modding it a ton. Thanks for showing the stuff I need to mod first (like the hollow insides)!

[@AustinV]

Glad I could help! What mods are you planning on doing besides adding foam to the case?

[@orangea9458]

Hey man how did this go? Do you have a video or a sound test of a before after? Planning on the same as you

[@imtortoro]

When I clicked he vid I thought u had like 100k subs. KZbin is doing this channel dirty

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much for the kind words! If you would like to help out, you could share my channel ;) I'd really appreciate it

[@UsefulChewtoy]

Holy crap, judging by the first sound test I thought those were blue switches. That foam mod is incredible

[@taur6115]

No problems, only solutions,,, Nice job!

[@alderpeirce7705]

Thank you so much for making this video I have been searching for so long and this computer fits my needs perfectly

[@AustinV]

Glad you found it useful! But you do mean keyboard right? :P

[@brandonzau2121]

How do you only have 55 subs?! Amazing content keep it up!

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much for the kind words! Really appreciate it

[@ryansmith5043]

I noticed the video and script quality, then noticed that somehow you aren’t viral??? Man keep this up. Gained a sub

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much! Really appreciate the support and the sub!

[@dylanmartinez925]

Putting the foam inside sold me. That sound is awesome. My current keyboard is just as tall as this so im used to it and have no issue typing with a higher raised keyboard.

[@dylanmartinez925]

Plus I didnt want to spend that much over $100. Not ready for the $300+ custom boards just yet.

[@AustinV]

@@dylanmartinez925 I wish you the best lol. I fell down the rabbit hole of mech keyboards real quick

[@dylanmartinez925]

@@AustinV hey do you know what screw driver you used? non of my hex bits seem to be working.

[@AustinV]

@@dylanmartinez925 Unfortunately, I don't. This was some cheap screwdriver set I got at a convenience store many years ago. You could try this set. I recently ordered it and it has a bunch of hex bits in the set. It also has free returns if it doesn't work out for you. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E16J6RQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@pindrusha]

Damn, that sounds amazing. I'm definitely stuffing mine with some foam, too once it arriver :) great review. Thank you

[@ravkhangurra7522]

Very informative video, i might get one of these keyboards!

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Enjoy it if you do! I think it’s a great entry into the world of premium mechanical keyboards

you should have like 800k subs, better yet 1 million, you're so underrated. I am definitely getting this keyboard, thank you so much. I subbed and liked

[@AustinV]

Thanks for the support! Enjoy your board!

[@xander7319]

Dude this channel is soooo underrated

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Really appreciate the support!

[@granthe1174]

Agree!

[@jedijunia563]

Hey there! I really wanted to thank you for your video. It has helped me a lot in doing research for a video I just finished making (about the best keyboards for beginners in the hobby). I put the link for your video in the description. Thanks again!

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much for the support! I'm glad you liked my video enough to put it in your own video. That video you made was super informative and really well made!

[@jedijunia563]

@@AustinV thank you for watching it! I always look forward to watching yours!

[@aamir1972]

Those keycap and switch removals were amazing

[@AustinV]

Hehe thanks

[@Subdubbin]

5:33 and the next shot are very satisfying. Well done sir.

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@andieluke1366]

Appreciate the concise yet detailed steps. Liked and subbed!

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much for the sub!

[@Theblerdgurl]

Just got one of these and I love it. But after watching this now I want foam in mine too! LOL Great vid!

[@Mystic-yt2lk]

This is awesome- I just got one for my brother and he loves it

[@ingliss]

I've vascillated over buying a UK K8 with mx brown equivalents, but the before and after in this video tipped the balance, thanks!

[@AustinV]

Glad you found it useful!

[@ingliss]

@@AustinV So here's the lesson - carefully look at the keyboard being used before you buy one. As a total neophyte I didn't notice "hotswappable" being vital to the simple mod. "I'll never swap them" I thought when i checked out - which is true, but also I'll never apply this mod as a result. Still a very decent keyboard for the price, but it is baffling why it's set to high, and it's a bit twitchy when it's switched through a USB KVM, sometimes needing the cable to be popped out and back in before it wakes up.

[@mly_f]

I have this keyboard but swapped the brown switches with c3 kiwis. Good review!

[@AustinV]

Thanks! How do you like the board with kiwis in them?

[@f.ingenia]

Cool modding!!

[@ElliotKwan]

Thx. For the vid. Will follow your foam steps

[@EnforcerMan]

Excellent review man. Subscribed

[@AustinV]

Thanks for the sub friend!

[@alexkarp130]

Nice video! 👍

[@wonkiestwook2103]

loving your vids bro, keep it up!

[@AustinV]

Thanks for the love!

[@JayzBeerz]

Nice job with the lube and foam it sounds much better.

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@JayzBeerz]

@@AustinV I just bought this keyboard today. Thanks for the video once again.

[@AustinV]

Awesome! Lmk how you like it. Did you get the hotswap version?

[@JayzBeerz]

@@AustinV yes. I’m using the K6 right now till the K8 arrives. I’m a noob so I hope I can mod it to sound real good.

[@AustinV]

Good luck! I think you’ll be fine. It’s just tedious work. Nothing too difficult

[@BennyTygohome]

I've ordered this keyboard for my dad and waiting for it to arrive. He specifically wanted North facing like in the k8, else I probably would've ordered the k8 pro which already comes with foam and silicone layers, screw in stabilizers but has South facing LEDs. So I'm getting him this k8 and I'll modify it similar to what you did but slightly different: - Poron foam for between the plate and PCB (ordered pre-cut foam kit from keyboard kustoms and it's specifically cut/mapped for the k8). - Poron foam layers (2 layers) for below the PCB at bottom of case (these are bundled with the above foam in a foam kit) - Blue Painter masking tape mode (I think two layers) for bottom of PCB. - I also have three different types of foam switch pads for the switch pads between the switch and PCB, but I'm unsure yet which foam type I'll use (poron foam, pe foam, or eva foam -- in order from firmest to softest). - tiny teflon pads for wherever the stabilizers and bars contact the plate and pcb. I have a bunch of these tiny teflon pads leftover and I'll see if they make any difference. - I'm considering ordering a set of Durok plate mount stabilizers, but I'd like to see if the ones that came with the keyboard can be used and sound/feel just as nice. - For switches I'm thinking of trying out the Gateron Pro Brown Tactile that come with the keyboard. Depending how those feel I may change them out for a set of Kailh Brown Box V2 Tactile 45g (because I already have them), or Kailh Clione Limacine Tactile 58g (fully translucent switch, including stem and I already have these too) , or ordering him a set of Boba U4T Tactile 62g (I'd have to order these so going to try those other two first). - YMDK OEM PBT Double-shot shine through (I already have several of these in a variety of colors so I'll just use whichever he likes best. I'm so excited! Thank you so much for the video. It showed me exactly what I was needing to know, such as how to seperate the plate from the PCB etc. Thanks!

[@algorithm1313]

Lovely idea dude!!!!!

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@GoTravisCollins]

Thanks so much much for this video it is amazing! I did want to let you know it is possible to remove the board without removing the switches first. Just need to remove keycaps and screws. Then run a budgie under the edge to pop the board out. It is a little bit harder to line up the BT and Mac/Win switches this way but cuts the time down drastically!

[@AustinV]

Ooh thanks for letting me know! I was planning on removing the switches anyways because I was going to lube them

[@GoTravisCollins]

@@AustinV No problem. That's what I figured since you said you were lubricating the stabs too.

[@w1zard.]

Thank you Austin!

[@Huey419]

Great review!

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@surajkarthikeyan3650]

Enjoyed the video, great job :)

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Happy you liked it!

[@TonyThomas10000]

Good review...just got my K8 and love it!

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Glad you’re enjoying your new board. What switches did you get on it?

[@TonyThomas10000]

Austin V I got Gateron Browns.

[@AustinV]

Oh nice!

[@lb6660]

I am 100% going to put foam in my if I get one for Christmas!

[@AustinV]

Gl with mod!

[@Rea_per]

Thank you bro, I might cop this

[@giovankabisano2266]

Great quality content!

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@PrinceRapopy]

This video is a great help since I’m trying to find a good customizable and professional-looking replacement to my years old, obnoxious-looking gamer themed mechanical keyboard. For such a small channel, the production quality is absolutely stunning too! Your effort deserves so many more subs, and I’m gonna join the club for sure. I do have a question though, are the little indicator lights above the arrow keys on at all times or only when you’re Win/FN-locked? I prefer as much of a refined and no-frills look as possible. Thanks again for the quality content!

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much! Really appreciate the support and nice comments :) Yeah the indicator lights are only there to let you know if something is active. I only used it in bluetooth mode so not sure if the charging light turns off after some time

[@PrinceRapopy]

@@AustinV Awesome, thanks! Wired is my preferred way to go, so that's why I was curious

[@ettiennevanloggerenberg8164]

The Keychron RGB is the best I have experienced.

[@arbi0324]

Great vid, thanks! Would you say the foam that came with the kb enough, or is the neoprene foam mandatory? Does that just make it more snug inside the case?

[@patrickroelens1699]

Amazing video loved it

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much!

[@barnahalo6916]

Hello! Very nice video! It helped me a lot.

[@AustinV]

Glad you liked it!

[@MrCmdCool]

Why is the position of the recording microphone between the non-modded and modded version different?

[@raf.nogueira]

I really want to know is possible to change the switches and use Akko ones for example ? Do I will lose the RGB functionality ? The LEDs are inside the board or embbed to the Switches ?

[@Dan99]

What lube do you recommend for this keyboard? Also, what size are the hex screws on the side?

[@arcos9344]

Hi there... I've been thinking of getting a Keychron Keyboard for sometime now, but there's just one thing bugging me, the default keycaps by Keychron don't allow backlight to shine through...can you tell where did you get the keycaps from?? And keep up the good job... great video

[@kirti3839]

hey idk if anyone can help me here, but I lost one of the hexscrews while modding the board. can someone tell me what size they used?

[@lDarkflamemaster]

I dont understand how did the rgb look better from just adding foam? Can someone explain?

[@StayReal02]

@4:42, I know that you mention "Neoprene foam", but if you don't have, can you then use mouse pad or something?

[@amirprog]

How come your letters are shine through? I want to buy k10 pro but its letters are not shine through. Which keycaps are you using and are they compatible with k10 pro?

[@eXistanCial]

Im stuck removing the battery cable, the white part wont budge :/

[@triadwarfare]

What was the second foam that was added. There was a 1/8 neoprene foam, but the second foam layer was unlabeled and doesn't look like the material from the first

[@iJansport]

I may be the only one but I really like the hollow sound this board has stock. I bought one and swapped to cream switches for that slightly heavy linear feel.

[@AustinV]

To each their own. At the end of the day, it's all preference. I prefer the more solid sound because I think it sounds more premium. Oh I've actually been trying to get some creams myself. Did you get them from the last novelkeys restock? The only linears I have atm are the silk yellows.

[@iJansport]

@@AustinV yeah when I ordered my keyboard they had plenty of stock on the novelkeys website. I would like to eventually lube them when I get some time and the supplies.

[@AustinV]

@@iJansport Ah gotcha!

[@daogpickle3159]

When taking the pcb off is it necessary to take the switches out or can you just pull it up without flipping it over

[@samferrer5652]

hi can i ask how to take a printscreen on it? mine is directing to mail when i press the crop button

[@chrisshaw451]

Just bought one of these, wish my K8 RGB lighting was as bright as this one, mine must be at least half this brightness.

[@ggsmrdoink]

if i put kailh speed silver switches in it or gatron yellows will the rgb still go through im very concerned about getting either of those switches as i still want the rgb

[@expiredinhaler]

Does anyone know if there's a way to purchase just the frame? Keychrone was only selling the frameless K6 with Hot-swappables! :(

[@MrSolidtiger]

I’m enjoying my K8. Not is it my first mechanical keyboard, but it’s my first JIS keyboard 😁

[@jarellchxn7134]

is there a video of how u lubed and put case foam in it

[@julianneli6142]

Thanks for video! Im in the process of modding my k8 but dont have the screwdriver to remove the hex screws. What size screwdriver did you use for this?

[@highkey8848]

Is that a modded keycap or does it already have shine through keycaps when you buy it

[@gmemes9023]

This video is the reason why i got this keyboard. Also, what music/tracks did you use?

[@andrea_9201]

Wow great video! I was doubtful about getting this K8 due to that hollow sound, but after watching your video I'll definitely get it, seems simple to do. Thanks! Btw, what's the material of the second foam you used, the thicker one?

[@benmagnus0858]

which kind of screwdriver do I need for the sidepanels?

[@tieshn]

How do I disassemble it if I have the plastic version?

[@JasonJia11]

I actually got this keyboard for free; it was delivered to me by accident. I'm assuming it was a logistical error from Amazon. I'm new to the MK community, this is the perfect chance for me to learn a new hobby!

[@Japuckle]

Do you need to unscrew anything to hotswap it? Bc ive been trying to take out the switches on mine, but its giving a lotof recistence, and im scared to break it, cuz its my first mechanical keyboard.

[@edwardelric.]

is it advisable to just use the case foam? because i dont think we have neoprene foam.

[@chromenut7759]

How do you know if the one you bought is hotswappable? Also, how do you hotswap? (my first mech key btw)

[@karudero575]

what size screwdriver did you use for the aluminum frame? I can't find the right size for the life of me

[@wahyuramadhani6685]

nice review

[@AustinV]

Thanks!

[@asduhaisjdjasd]

1:00 this board has the gateron browns which are the "tactile" version glarsman is proud

[@arturia5976]

Hey thanks for the great vid. Quick question - the 1/2” of empty space is from the bottom of the screw posts to the wings or from the bottom of the screw post to the top of the screw post?

[@AustinV]

It's from the bottom of the case to the top of the wings

[@ashved97]

Can you please let me know which keycaps did you use?

[@convert313]

muuuuch better with the foam , what a beast . more than worth a sub.

[@AustinV]

Thanks so much! Appreciate the sub! Totally agree about the foam

[@convert313]

@@AustinV So just to recap with ya Austin,i was searching high and low for a keyboard to replace my corsair k70 which I'm currently in the throws of returning "pain in the ass" ,umm for some reason it just bricked on me bar the volume wheel,I was researching keyboards "wasn't too fazed on the wireless option " I did however want USB pass through and a sound wheel BUT! i dropped that instead of going for a USB 3.0 hub and then relying on the volume key functions from the keyboard, received my keyboard YESTERDAY , had to get the plastic model all aluminium versions with the optical browns were sold out , blue is just too noisy and reds i cant hear the keys being pressed "there is a sweet spot and its the browns" so as soon as i got it back home popped the keys ,i glued my foam and i double layered it ,put it all backed together read the instructions changed the F key functions BOOM DONE!!! , excuse my language but this is a fuckn dope keyboard "you practically sold me this keyboard " the sound typing on it the way it feels the look!!! it clean without any wires that k70 had two USB cords THICK ones , this is a beast!!! ,I'm debating on swapping the key caps I'm not sure yet , Bluetooth was a bitch maybe too much interference i dunno I'm using a Bluetooth 4.0 adapter maybe that's it ,my issue was it was just not recognising the inputs after being connected now it is but it was a nightmare for some reason ,I'm swapping up to a Bluetooth 5.0 this week anyway , i recon keychron owe ya one on that review .

[@convert313]

@@AustinV My shift question icon works instantly by the way , take your keys off and see if the left portion of the bard is completely screwed down 'i had a problem with the delete and enter keys not registering properly so i opened it back up unscrewed everything took the board out of the housing aligned everything perfect and the screwed each screw down whilst using my index and thumb to press down on the board hard while screwing the screws back in "it sounds like either your shift or your backslash /question mark key isn't screwed down enough to make proper contact with the board,don't be scared to press down hard either the back splash is firm asf ' i doubt its going to hurt anything

[@AustinV]

@@convert313 Glad you like the board! Thanks for the tip

[@convert313]

@@AustinV its dope!!! So good man .thanks for the mod and review, i dont rhink i would have been this happy with the logitech g915 tbh ortho its a nice looking board with great functions i think for the price the k8 kills it. Plus its got bluetooth 5.0 and can be multi paired and 4000mha battery ,the anne pro 2 only has 1900 mha bluetooth 4.0 same qs the ducky one , and i didnt like the hyper x looks cheap and the Roccat Vulcan is over priced ridiculous!!! , again the k8 is the best fricken keyboard for the price ,man! Hats off sir.

[@Cabbajj]

The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.

[@hopeanudon3985]

you definitely deserve more subs! and i just subbed today. I'm seriously thinking of buying this or GMMK. I want to try the hot swappable market. But im kinda cautious about the 3 pin ports that gmmk have. they said clipped 5 pins have bad stability. any advise you can give? you can also suggest better ones if im missing some. drop shift is kinda expensive tho. Thank you so much!

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Appreciate the love! If you're only concerned about the hot swap part, I would definitely say that 5 pin support is very valuable. Switches that have had their pins clipped only have stability concerns if you go plateless or have a plate with large cutouts that accommodate multiple switch layouts. Basically, it will only be a problem for switches that don't clip in to something, which is actually a problem I have faced when putting my clipped switches in another board. Lmk what kind of layout you're looking for and I can try to recommend some boards

[@hendystark8333]

i plan to get this for my first mechanical keyboard, is the rgb programmable?

[@eidios6871]

Hey bro, is it possible to use zealios v2 switches/ Holy Pandas switches by swapping out the already included Gateron switches? I kinda like keychron frame because it is rather cheap compared to other frames from novelkeys and KBD fans.

[@AustinV]

Yeah this PCB supports all MX-style switches so you should have no problems. Just make sure you get the hot-swap version

[@jcdelacueva3256]

Great guide for a newbie like me! Is this also possible to non hot-swappable K2?

[@AustinV]

Thanks! If it is not hotswappable, you won’t be able to lube the switches without desoldering them from the PCB. You should still be able to add the foam to the back though. It will just take some more care to take apart the board

[@myroslav6873]

It sounded better without the foam, imo. Thanks for the vid.

[@firebreathingb1tchqueen]

man, ur channel should have more subs.

[@AustinV]

Thanks! Appreciate the love!

[@rdb1]

I was thinking of getting the K8 too. But I wasn't too sure if I'm gonna be able to add foam and lube the switches. Just asking, is the foam that comes in the box enough or do I need more to do a double layer like you did. Also, is lubing necessary? If so any tips on how I can do that and what do I use? Thanks!

[@AustinV]

Yeah there should be a minimal difference if you don't add that 1/8" foam like I did. Lubing is not necessary but with a hot swap board, I'd definitely recommend it. It will get rid of the scratchy sounds of the switch and remove any pinging from the springs. I have a video on how to lube tactile switches here (I've switched to using Krytox 105 oil for lubing the springs though): kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2Slh4aDibxnqas

[@fernandolevysto.domingo3329]

Hello! Would it sound significantly different without the neoprene foam and just the one from the box itself? Any alternatives for it since i'm from the Philippines? Can this be done on optical switches too or will it hinder with it?

[@AustinV]

Honestly it probably wouldn't make too much of a difference if you don't include the neoprene on the bottom. Do they not sell neoprene foam in the Philippines? Yeah you can do this with optical switches

[@athayanaufalmunandar6632]

I cant believe that your subscribers under 100k tbh.. great video man! Can i use tealios v2 switches to this keyboard? loving ur content! subscribed also

[@AustinV]

Hehe thanks! Yeah tealios switches will work on this board. Although with the cost of tealios switches, they might cost as much as the board itself 👀 Appreciate the sub!

[@athayanaufalmunandar6632]

@@AustinV thanks for the answer! hightly appreciate it.. can you add me on discord?

[@AustinV]

@@athayanaufalmunandar6632 My username is Austin V#4035 but I'm not really that active on discord

[@luisoregel6582]

Nice video Austin! where do you buy the neoprene foam and are you using any glue to add it to the base? you think the foam that keyboard package includes can be enough? Thanks for sharing an amazing video! new sub

[@AustinV]

Thanks for the sub! I got mine from amazon: amzn.to/3crdD6J You prob wouldn't notice too much of a difference if you didn't use the neoprene but I decided to anyways since I had it on hand. No glue required

[@georgeyu26]

If I were to purchase either the Keychron optical browns or Gateron mechanical browns, which would you recommend, the optical or non-optical? Would you say the optical is better due to speed/durability? Are there any other differences? Thanks!

[@AustinV]

I've never used optical switches before, so unfortunately I can't comment on which is better. But there should be no noticeable difference in actuation lag

[@Alvenrik1]

I'm thinking about buying a mech keyboard. I come from a 2016 Blackwidow that is starting to fail a little. Something clicky like the Blackwidow, with light (not necesarily RGB), easy to clean, easy to transport (not ultra compact but not gigantic), no crap software (I would rather get everything done from the keyboard, even if it means having less functions) and if possible, hot swap for repairs like this one. Like a no-nonsense solid keyboard. Any ideas or advice?

[@AustinV]

Hmm what layout would you say is not ultra compact and also not too gigantic? Is 65% too small? Is TKL too big?

[@meryllaninon3011]

Hi! May I know the difference between hot swappable and non hot swappable? I was planning to purchase but the only available item is non hot swappable. Thanks!

[@AustinV]

Sure! Standard (non-hotswappable) means that switches are soldered in to the board so if you want to remove them to either swap to nicer ones or lube the existing ones, you would have to desolder them which is a lot of work. Hotswappable means that there are special connectors on the board that allow the switches to clip into the board without having to be soldered on, which means all you need is a little tool and you can pop them right off

[@kyounhuh3543]

Very informative!! Could you share the exact hex bit size for the side rail?

[@AustinV]

Unfortunately, I'm not sure. The small little screwdriver set I got doesn't actually label the sizes of the bits :(

[@sunnix2506]

Awesome video, i wanted to ask how did you remove the pcb? i cannot find a good grip to open it so that i can put the foam.

[@AustinV]

I used a really small flathead screwdriver to get some leverage on the bottom and lifted it out

[@CPskipper21344]

wow, what a massive difference in sound, i was thinking of buying this specific keyboard. can i still get the same sound without lubing the switches

[@AustinV]

Yeah if you add the foam, you will still get that deeper, more solid sound from the board. If you don't lube the switches, they'll just sound a little more scratchy and won't feel as smooth