Are Factory-Lubed Switches Good Enough?

Factory-lubed switches are often good enough to use as they are. Consider relubing only if you notice a problem, such as scratchiness during a press or noticeably inconsistent sound between switches. If they already feel and sound right to you, leave them closed: opening every switch adds work and can change the feel you liked.

A small documented comparison shows why the result is personal. In November 2024, a Reddit user compared factory-stock Akko Penguin Silent switches with switches they had lubed themselves, placing them on different keys in the same build. The post describes a steel plate, plastic case, several layers of sound-dampening material, O-rings on the keycaps and a microphone 10 cm from the keyboard. That is useful context, but it is one build and one recording—not a controlled test of every switch or production batch. The differing key positions and the many build components also limit what can be attributed to lubrication alone.

What factory lubrication can—and can’t—tell you

Lubricant inside a switch can reduce friction where moving parts meet, including the stem and housing. But “factory-lubed” is not a promise that every switch in a batch has identical coverage or will match your preferred feel. Manufacturers may describe lubrication for particular models or versions; for example, CHERRY’s MX2A Red datasheet lists factory-applied lubricant. Check the description for the exact switch you are considering rather than assuming every model from a brand is treated the same.CHERRY MX2A Red datasheet

Lubrication is only one part of a switch’s character. Switch design, materials and tolerances also matter, and the sound you hear depends on the complete keyboard build: keycaps, case, plate, mounting, stabilisers, modifications and even how you type. Relubing may smooth a scratchy switch, but it will not guarantee a particular sound profile.

Signs a switch might benefit from relubing

Before opening a batch, try the switches in a tester or keyboard if you can. Listen and feel for a repeated issue rather than judging the whole set from one press. Relubing may be worth considering if:

• A downstroke feels distinctly scratchy or gritty.

• Several switches make inconsistent friction or spring noise compared with their neighbours.

• You have tried the stock switches in your intended build and still want a smoother feel.

A different sound is not automatically a fault. Some switches are naturally more pronounced or less muted than others, and tactile switches are designed to provide a bump. Too much lubricant can soften that feedback or make a switch feel sluggish, so adding more is not always an improvement. If only one or two switches seem different, check them individually before deciding to modify the full set.

When it makes sense to leave switches alone

If the switches feel consistent and suit your preferences, there is no need to open them just because you are building a custom keyboard. Keeping them stock saves time and avoids the risk of applying too much lubricant or changing the feel—particularly important if you like a tactile bump or a switch’s natural sound.

If you do decide to relube, start with one switch and compare it with an untouched example before continuing. That gives you a chance to decide whether the change suits you before taking apart the rest. For more on the process, see our switch lubing tips for smoother typing.

How to check whether a switch is listed as factory-lubed

A factory-lubed label can help you shortlist switches, but it is not a substitute for checking the feel you want. In the Creamy Keyboard mechanical keyboard switch database, you can search for switches and narrow results using the factory-lubed filter, alongside options such as switch type and silent status. Listings bring together available specifications, and some details may be unknown when reliable information is not available. A missing lubrication entry does not mean a switch is unlubed.

In short: treat factory lubrication as a convenient starting point, not a guarantee that every switch will be perfect for you. Try the switches first, relube only when you can identify a reason, and test one before modifying the rest.