Master Your Keyboard Mods: How Switch Top Loaders and Extractors Transform Mechanical Keyboards

Guide to Switch Top Loaders and Extractors: Essential Tools for Keyboard Enthusiasts

If you've ventured beyond the basics of mechanical keyboards, you've likely encountered the need to modify your switches. Whether you're looking to lube switches, swap springs, or change stems, switch top loaders and extractors are tools you'll need in your arsenal. These specialized tools let you open switches without desoldering them from your keyboard—a game-changer for customization enthusiasts.

Let's break down what these tools are, how they work, and why they might be your next essential keyboard purchase.

What Are Switch Top Loaders and Extractors?

Switch top loaders and extractors are specialized tools designed to open mechanical keyboard switches by separating the top housing from the bottom housing.

Switch top loaders hold the switch in place while applying even pressure to pop off the top housing
Switch extractors (or switch pullers) remove entire switches from hot-swap keyboards

These tools make it possible to modify switches while they remain mounted on the keyboard plate, saving significant time compared to the traditional desoldering process.

Why You Need These Tools

The ability to open switches without desoldering offers several advantages:

Time efficiency - Modify dozens of switches in minutes instead of hours
Reduced risk - No need to desolder, which can damage PCBs
Accessibility - Makes switch modding accessible to beginners
Convenience - Test different switch combinations quickly

For anyone serious about customizing their mechanical keyboard, these tools are invaluable.

Types of Switch Top Loaders

Not all switch top loaders are created equal. Here are the most common types:

1. Two-Prong Switch Openers

These simple plastic or metal tools have two prongs that fit under the top housing clips. They're affordable and work well for most MX-style switches.

2. Four-Prong Switch Openers

These open both sides of the switch simultaneously, making the process faster and more consistent. They typically work with both Cherry MX and Kailh switches.

3. Switch Opening Stations

These desktop devices hold multiple switches and open them with a press of a lever. They're pricier but excellent for modding large batches of switches.

Compatible Switch Types

Before purchasing a top loader, confirm it works with your switches. Most tools are designed for specific switch types:

Cherry MX-style switches - The most common and widely supported
Kailh Box switches - Require specific openers due to their unique housing design
Outemu switches - Often compatible with standard MX openers
Gateron switches - Generally compatible with MX-style openers

If you're unsure about your switch type, check our mechanical keyboard switches explained guide.

How to Use a Switch Top Loader

Using a switch top loader correctly prevents damage to your switches. Here's a step-by-step process:

Identify if your keyboard supports switch top opening - Not all keyboards allow this; look for notches on the plate around the switch
Position the opener - Align the prongs with the latch points on the north and south sides of the switch
Apply even pressure - Press down firmly until you hear a click
Remove the top housing - Lift it straight up to avoid damaging the internal components
Make your modifications - Lube, spring swap, or stem replacement
Reassemble - Align the top housing and press until it clicks back into place

Switch Extractors vs. Top Loaders: What's the Difference?

It's important to distinguish between these commonly confused tools:

| Switch Top Loaders | Switch Extractors |

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Master Your Keyboard Mods: How Switch Top Loaders and Extractors Transform Mechanical Keyboards

Guide to Switch Top Loaders and Extractors: Essential Tools for Keyboard Enthusiasts