Keyboard chatter

Key "chatter" is when a key input registers multiple times when you press the key once, or doesn't register at all when the key is pressed. This behavior can be caused by debris caught under the keycap or dust/debris inside the switches. You can try to clean around the key yourself by following these tips:

  • Use compressed air to blow debris and dust from around and under the keycaps. Hold the keyboard at different angles to get the best results.
  • Using a key puller, carefully remove the keycap. The large keys are hooked to a stabilizer bar, so be sure to keep the connectors in place on the keycap when it is removed. It's helpful to remove the keys immediately surrounding it to allow easier access.
  • Hold the switch down and use compressed air to blow out the switch toward the bottom of the mount.
  • Apply a small amount of 99% isopropyl alcohol to a Q-tip and clean around the key switch.
  • Snap the keycap back in place, and you should be all set.

Here is a video that shows a good method for cleaning your keyboard switches if dust/debris is causing the key chatter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciul1UTA52U

This one shows how to clean inside the switch housings using 99% isopropyl alcohol for best results: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBCrspzAIG4

This article also does a good job of explaining the possible causes of key chatter and includes a link to free third-party software that you can use to set the key repeat rate, which might also help solve the chatter issue: https://graphicscardhub.com/how-to-fix-keyboard-chatter/.

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