How to change keyboard switches

[TheBoax]

I just ordered a new Redragon K556 and I wanted to change the brown switches they had for a replacement blue switches that came with the box. However I managed to replace the Q and W key using the tools, however, I felt like I was using too much pressure when pulling the switches out and am almost breaking the plastic on it. HELP!

 

[Ralston18]

Very "grey" area.

Good instincts if you felt that too much force was being used.

On the other hand if you successfully changed Q and W then all may be well.

Unfortunately many products are made to break. Especially if the end user can be blamed and thus voiding any apparent warranties. (Natural cynic here.)

My recommendation is to contact Redragon and ask. Use chat so you can document their response(s).

Hopefully they can help you determine what level of force is applicable.

 

[TheBoax]

Can I take pictures and send it to you and maybe you can help because this switch thing is really bothering me

 

[Ralston18]

Certainly.

Anything can help.

If there is some error of omission or commission on my part some other Forum member may be able to provide additional suggestions or solutions.

For pictures use imgur.

 

[TheBoax]

https://imgur.com/a/icz4t

Here is of the e switch, as you see the top of the switch, the plastic is like broken or bent inwards due to my attempts to take out the switch without applying too my force. I am pretty sure I am to pull from the top and bottom using the tool as there is no other way to pull out the switch, however, it requires me a great deal of force and I am almost breaking the plastic,.

 

[Ralston18]

Interesting.

My suggestion is at this point to go online and look for some applicable videos (YouTube and otherwise) explaining and showing key and switch replacements.

For example:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqFa6EIwhRQ

Cannot attest per se to the video as a whole but starting around 2:00 or so he demonstrates removal of the cap and then the switch.

Then look for similar videos and compare. Two things to watch for: 1) that you are following the correct replacement procedure and, 2) that the necessary force does seem to be "normal".

And take a very close look at your switch removal tool. Appears okay (comparing your image and the video's image) but if the tool is not quite what it should be then the tool itself could be the cause.

Find some other image to compare. Or stop the videos as applicable to take a longer look.

If it becomes apparent that your switches are truly difficult to remove then it may well be some defect in the switches or the supporting board.