Transform Your Typing Experience: Custom Switch Spring Options for Your Keyboard
By Ethan Brooks•Published on May 27, 2025
Customization
Switch Types
Guides
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When you dive into mechanical keyboard customization, you quickly realize that switches are more than just their housing and stems. The humble spring inside each switch plays a critical role in how your keyboard feels and performs.
As a mechanical keyboard enthusiast who's spent countless hours testing different spring configurations, I can tell you that swapping springs might be the most cost-effective way to transform your typing experience. Let's explore the world of custom switch springs and how they can take your keyboard to the next level.
The spring in a mechanical switch determines several key aspects of your typing experience:
Understanding these factors is crucial when selecting the right springs for your needs, just as understanding actuation force and travel distance is essential for choosing the perfect switch.
Springs are typically measured in grams (g), representing the force required to compress them. Here's a breakdown of common weights and how they feel:
Not all springs are created equal. The material and design affect performance and longevity.
These are the default in most switches. They're reliable but can suffer from spring ping (a high-pitched noise when keys are pressed and released).
Gold plating reduces corrosion and can minimize spring ping. The difference is subtle but noticeable to discerning users.
These offer excellent durability and consistent performance. They're the most common material for aftermarket springs.
Unlike standard springs that have linear resistance throughout the keystroke, progressive springs increase in resistance as you press down. This creates a unique typing experience that some users prefer for tactile switches.
Selecting springs depends on your preferences and switch type. Here's a quick guide:
If you're new to mechanical keyboards and want to understand the differences between these switch types, check out our guide on mechanical keyboard switch types explained.
Several manufacturers produce quality aftermarket springs:
Changing springs requires opening your switches. Here's a simplified process:
For a more detailed guide, our step-by-step guide to switch cleaning and lubing covers similar techniques.
Beyond simple replacement, you can modify springs for better performance:
Applying a thin coat of lubricant to springs reduces friction and eliminates spring ping. Use a light oil like Krytox GPL 105 or Christo-Lube MCG 129.
Mix and match springs from different switches to create custom feels. For example, putting a heavier spring in a light tactile switch can create a unique typing experience.
Advanced users sometimes stack two lighter springs instead of using one heavy spring. This creates a progressive feel that's hard to achieve with standard springs.
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