How to Lube Gateron KS-3X47 Milky Switches Step by Step
By Keychron | Custom Mechanical Keyboards for Mac, Windows ... | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: How-to Guides
A practical, step-by-step guide to lubing Gateron KS-3X47 Milky switches, including tools, technique, and common mistakes to avoid for a smoother, quieter typing feel.
Quick answer
To lube Gateron KS-3X47 Milky switches, open each switch, apply a thin coat of lubricant to the stem rails and spring, then reassemble. Use a brush for the stem and a light oil or grease for the spring. Work in batches of 10–20 switches and test one before doing the full set. This reduces scratchiness and evens out the sound.
Why lube Gateron KS-3X47 Milky switches?
The Gateron KS-3X47 Milky Top Black Bottom switch is a linear switch known for its smooth travel. Lubricating it reduces friction between the stem and housing, which makes each keypress feel silkier and sound more consistent. It also minimizes spring ping and rattle. If you already enjoy the stock feel, lubing can make it even better, but it is not mandatory. For those who want a quieter, more refined typing experience, it is a worthwhile project.
Tools and materials you need
Gather these before starting: a switch opener, fine-tip brush, lubricant (such as Krytox 205g0 for linear switches), a small container for springs, tweezers, and a clean workspace. You will also need a keycap puller and switch puller if the switches are already in a keyboard. For the Gateron KS-3X47, which comes in a set of 110 with a bottle, you have plenty of spares to practice on.
Step-by-step lubing process
Follow these steps for each switch. Work in a well-lit area and keep parts organized to avoid mixing components.
Step-by-step lubing process
- Open the switch: Use a switch opener to gently pry apart the top housing from the bottom. Place the opener on a flat surface and press down evenly to avoid bending the pins. Common mistake: forcing the opener can crack the housing. If it resists, check for clips on all four sides.
- Separate the components: Remove the stem, spring, and bottom housing. Keep the stem and spring together for each switch to avoid mixing parts. Use tweezers to lift the stem out. Checkpoint: Lay parts out in order so you can reassemble without confusion.
- Lube the stem: Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the stem rails (the sides that contact the housing) and the front and back faces. Avoid the legs that contact the leaf, as too much lube there can make the switch feel mushy. Common mistake: over-lubing. A little goes a long way; excess lube attracts dust and can slow the switch.
- Lube the spring: Dip a brush in lubricant and lightly coat the spring, or use a small bag with a drop of oil and shake the spring inside. This reduces spring ping. Checkpoint: If you use oil, use only a tiny amount to avoid dripping onto other parts.
- Reassemble the switch: Place the spring back into the bottom housing, then insert the stem. Align the top housing and press down until it clicks. Make sure the stem moves freely. Common mistake: misaligned stem can cause binding. Test the switch by pressing it a few times before installing.
- Test and install: Test a few switches in your keyboard or a switch tester to ensure they feel consistent. If satisfied, lube the rest in batches. Install them into a hot-swappable keyboard like the Keychron K14 Pro or K10 Pro. Next step: If your keyboard is not hot-swappable, you will need to desolder the old switches and solder the new ones.
Product facts
- Gateron KS-3X47 Milky Top Black Bottom Switch: The Gateron KS-3X47 Milky Top Black Bottom Switch is a mechanical keyboard switch offered by Gateron. Each set includes 110 switches and comes with a bottle. Having 110 switches means you can lube a full-size keyboard and still have extras for testing or mistakes.
- Keychron K14 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: The Keychron K14 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard allows anyone to master any keyboard keys or macro commands through Keychron Launcher web app, and users can hot-swap with any MX mechanical switch in a breeze. If you use a hot-swappable board like the K14 Pro, you can easily swap in your lubed switches without soldering.
- Keychron K10 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: The Keychron K10 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard allows anyone to master any keyboard keys or macro commands through Keychron Launcher web app, and users can hot-swap with any MX mechanical switch in a breeze. Note: The Black - Fully Assembled version is NOT hot-swappable and it doesn't include sound-absorbing foam, or silicone pad. Check your keyboard version before buying switches; if it is not hot-swappable, you will need soldering skills to change switches.
