7 Must-Have Accessories That Actually Improve Your Keyboard Performance


The right accessories can transform your mechanical keyboard from merely functional to exceptional. As someone who's tested countless keyboard setups, I've found that strategic accessory choices make a tangible difference in both comfort and performance.
This guide focuses on accessories that deliver real benefits—not just aesthetic improvements. Let's explore the tools that can genuinely boost your typing experience and keyboard longevity.
Proper wrist positioning prevents strain during long typing sessions and can improve your overall typing speed and accuracy.
The key is matching your wrist rest height to your keyboard profile. For higher-profile keyboards, choose thicker wrist rests that keep your wrists properly aligned with your fingers on the keycaps.
Lubing your switches is one of the most effective ways to improve keyboard performance. A properly lubed switch reduces friction, eliminates spring ping, and creates a more consistent typing experience.
Popular lubricants include:
For a comprehensive guide on how to properly apply lubricants, check out our step-by-step guide to switch cleaning and lubing.
Switch films are thin pieces of material placed between the top and bottom housing of mechanical switches. They:
For keyboards with switches that have looser tolerances (like certain Gateron or Cherry switches), films can transform the typing experience. They're particularly effective when combined with proper lubrication.
Nothing ruins keyboard performance like rattling stabilizers. These essential components keep larger keys like the spacebar, enter, and shift keys stable—but they're often overlooked.
Effective stabilizer upgrades include:
If you're interested in more customization options beyond stabilizers, our guide on how to customize your mechanical keyboard covers additional modifications.
Sound quality is a critical but often neglected aspect of keyboard performance. Foam inserts placed inside your keyboard case can:
Options range from simple neoprene sheets to specialized keyboard foams like Stupidfish or KBDfans module foam. The right choice depends on your case design and sound preferences.
Custom cables do more than look good—they can improve functionality:
Quality cables with proper shielding ensure consistent connection without data loss—particularly important for gaming or professional work where input lag matters.
Proper tools make maintenance easier and help prevent damage to your keyboard components.
Regular maintenance extends keyboard lifespan and preserves performance. For more maintenance tips, read our ultimate guide to mechanical keyboard maintenance.
When selecting keyboard accessories, consider:
The best accessories address your specific pain points. If you experience finger fatigue, focus on switch modifications. If wrist strain is your issue, prioritize ergonomic accessories.
Keyboard accessories that improve performance offer more than cosmetic benefits—they create tangible improvements in comfort, sound, and typing experience. Start with one modification that addresses your most pressing issue, then build your setup methodically.
Remember that the best keyboard setup is personal. What works for others might not work for you. Experiment with different combinations until you find your perfect typing experience.
What keyboard accessories have made the biggest difference in your setup? Share your experiences in the comments below.