Mechanical keyboards are amongst the most popular keyboard options. They are efficient and convenient to use. However, they may face a range of common problems that you can troubleshoot easily. So, let’s look at some common mechanical keyboard problems users usually face and the tips to troubleshoot them in the below table.

What is a Mechanical Keyboard?

A mechanical keyboard is a computer keyboard using spring-activated switches. Many people prefer mechanical keyboards for their tactile response enabling quicker, easier, and more accurate typing. Quick typists love the sound of typing while working on a mechanical keyboard. But it is a device that may face technical problems. Let’s discuss some common ones and their solutions. 

3 Common Mechanical Keyboard Problems

Here are three common mechanical keyboard problems and their solutions.

1. Keys Not Working

The keyboard and its keys are exposed to a lot of sunlight, dust, and debris throughout the day. These elements can interfere with the functioning of the keys and render them non-functional. But not only these. Some other common reasons for non-operational keys may include a worn-out cable, a dead battery, outdated drivers or redundant operating system, and an OS using a different keyboard layout.

Some troubleshooting solutions include cleaning the keyboard regularly by using compressed air or removing the keys to clean them comprehensively. In some cases, the OS may not detect a particular keypress from your keyboard. The problem could be the battery. Change the battery or recharge it with a charger, if you can do so. 

In a few cases, an internally faulty or damaged switch may also affect the system’s ability to detect a keypress. With a switch puller, you can remove and replace keys if your keyboard has a hot-swappable switch. However, if you don’t, you may be required to solder to replace the switches.

2. Stuck or Repeating Key

If one of the keys is registering multiple inputs for every key press, it could be a problem. For instance, pressing “k” inputs “kkkkkk” on your screen. A straightforward solution to this problem is to adjust the repeating key rate in the operating system. You do so by following the below simple steps.

On Windows OS

• Open the Control Panel
• Double-click the Keyboard icon
• In the “Speed” tab, search for the “Repeat delay” setting.
• Slide the setting closer to “long” to avoid a repeated key at longer intervals.

The above can prove an apt solution if repeated typing on your keyboard is not worse.

On macOS

On MacOS, a similar setting and process exists. Use the finder to locate the settings under “Keyboard”, or the general “Settings” menu. Then, change the slider of “Delay Until Repeat” to be proximal to the “Long” setting.

In Chrome OS

The setting for Chrome OS users is nearly the same. Go to “Settings” and then click on “Device Settings”. Lastly, click on “Keyboard Settings”.

If none of the above works, you can blow out the switch with compressed air, as dust could interfere with the mechanical switches. All you have to do is take a can of compressed air and hold your keyboard vertically. Further, blast the air into the switch by holding the plunger towards the side to make an opening for the air to pass.

3. The Keyboard Doesn’t Switch On

If you are using a wireless keyboard, attempt removing the USB 2.4GHz dongle from your computer and reinserting it. It may resolve the issue by forcing a reconnection. Some high-end keyboards have a key combination to activate the wireless mode. So, check your instruction manual before doing it. So, be sure to check your instruction manual.

In the case of a wired keyboard, the USB cable could be at fault. Replace you can remove and replace it. If not, take your keyboard for repair as the cable may be short-circuited. 

Before concluding a particular problem and fixing it, you should try checking your keyboard on another computer and see if the same problem persists. If the keyboard works properly on another computer, then, the computer may be at fault.

Choose Cutek Circuits if you are looking for superior mechanical keyboards for your application. We use the latest and high-quality parts and components to enhance the typing experience, pace, and accuracy. Please email us at info@cutekcircuits.com to learn more about our mechanical keyboard products.