Looking to enhance your mechanical keyboard’s feel and sound? WS PC switch films are a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking precision and customization. These thin, durable films improve switch stability, reduce wobble, and refine keystrokes for a smoother typing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned modder or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you discover the benefits and best options for WS PC switch films.
WS PC Switch Films: A Comprehensive Shopping Guide
WS PC Switch Films Comparison Table
| Type | Material | Thickness | Color | Compressibility | Pack Size | Acoustic Impact | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WS Poron | Poron (Foam) | 0.30 mm | Black | High | 120 | Softer, more “thock” | Most MX-style switches |
| WS Polycarbonate PC | Polycarbonate | 0.15 mm | Clear/White | Low | 120 | Sharper “thock”, distinct | Most MX-style switches |
| TX Films | Polycarbonate | 0.125/0.15mm | Various | Low | 110 | Moderate | Tight/medium housing switches |
| Durock Films | PC+HTV | 0.15 mm | Various | Medium | 120 | Brighter sound | Most MX switches |
| Geon Films | Poron | 0.25 mm | Black/White | High | 120 | Soft, refined | MX switches |
| KBDfans Films | PC/Foam | 0.15 mm | Clear/Black | Low-Medium | 130 | Clear/Thockier | Most MX switches |
Everyday Usage of WS PC Switch Films
WS PC switch films are precision-cut, ultra-thin layers designed specifically to enhance mechanical keyboard switches, especially those using the MX-style design. During regular typing or gaming sessions, mechanical switches can develop slight play (wobble) between their top and bottom housings. This can lead to:
- Inconsistent key feel
- A subtle rattling or scratchy sound
- Reduced stability during fast or accurate keystrokes
By installing WS PC switch films, you bridge the micro-gap between switch housings. This modification is mostly invisible in daily use but delivers a firmer, more consistent keypress. Whether you’re writing code, gaming, or just typing out emails, each keystroke feels tighter and more satisfying.
Typical Applications
- Enthusiast Custom Builds: Essential for high-end custom keyboards.
- Upgrading Troublesome Boards: Fixes looser switches on prebuilt or mass-market boards.
- Sound Tuning: Alters the acoustic profile, often reducing higher-pitched noise and creating a more pleasing “thock.”
- Gaming Setups: Improves key stability for fast and precise repeated key taps.
Benefits of Using WS PC Switch Films
Switch films are a small but impactful modification with several notable advantages:
1. Reduced Switch Wobble
By compressing between switch housings, films minimize unwanted side-to-side and front-to-back movement. This makes every keypress feel steadier, enhancing your typing confidence.
2. More Refined Acoustics
Films dampen and tune keyboard sounds:
– Poron foam films make the keyboard quieter and give a dampened “thock”
– PC films emphasize the crispness of each keystroke, making the sound more pronounced
3. Enhanced Typing Consistency
Every key actuates with the same tactile feedback, crucial for professionals, writers, and gamers who demand accuracy and comfort.
4. Improved Switch Longevity
By reducing mechanical play, films can decrease long-term wear and tear, keeping your switches in optimal shape for longer.
5. Easy, Reversible Upgrade
Switch films are non-permanent. You can remove or change them as your preferences evolve.
How to Choose the Right WS PC Switch Films
Selecting the optimal switch film depends on your needs, preferences, and the switches you use. Consider these factors:
1. Material Differences: Poron vs. PC
- Poron (Foam):
- More compressible; adapts to switches with less housing tolerance.
- Great for sound dampening—yields a softer, lower-pitched “thock”.
- Ideal for those seeking a more muted, premium feel.
-
Thickness typically around 0.30mm.
-
Polycarbonate (PC):
- Rigid with low compressibility.
- Enhances a sharper, higher-pitched “thock”.
- Best for users wanting a snappier, clickier sound.
- Thickness around 0.15mm.
2. Switch Housing Tolerance
- Loose/Tolerant Switches: Go for thicker or foam-based films (Poron, 0.30mm+) for a snug fit.
- Tight-Fitting Switches: Opt for thinner, stiffer films (PC, 0.15mm) to avoid difficulty closing the switches.
3. Acoustic Preferences
- Prefer a quieter, softer keyboard? Choose Poron or similar foam films.
- Like a louder, crisper sound? Polycarbonate films will likely suit you.
4. Quantity and Value
- Most WS PC switch films packs come with 120 films—a good match for full-sized boards (including some extras).
- Buying in packs is cost-effective and ensures spare films for future maintenance.
5. Color and Visibility
While the color doesn’t impact performance, clear/white PC films are less visible—good for showcase builds or lighter-colored keyboards. Black Poron films blend well with darker switches and setups.
6. Compatibility
- Most WS PC switch films are designed for MX-style mechanical switches (Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, OUTEMU, and many custom/enthusiast models).
- Not typically compatible with low-profile, optical or box switches without specific designations.
Practical Tips, Advice, and Best Practices
Before You Start
- Check Your Switches: Determine if your switches benefit from filming (those with noticeable wobble).
- Gather Tools: You’ll need a keycap puller, switch puller, tweezers, and a switch opener. For soldered boards, a soldering kit may also be required.
- Work Area: Use a well-lit, static-free workspace. A parts tray helps avoid losing small pieces.
During Installation
- Remove Keycaps and Switches: For hot-swappable boards, this is simple. Otherwise, desolder individual switches first.
- Open Each Switch: Use a switch opener tool to avoid damaging the plastic tabs.
- Place the Film: With tweezers, align the film over the bottom housing’s rim. Ensure the central burr fits around the stem cutout.
- Reassemble: Gently press the top housing back on, ensuring the film doesn’t shift or bunch.
- Test Each Switch: Before reinstalling all switches, test a few to check for improvements and ensure no added stiffness.
After Installation
- Double-Check Fitment: Improperly seated films can cause sticky or difficult keystrokes.
- Spares: Keep leftover films for future maintenance or new builds.
- Experiment: Try different materials and thicknesses to find your signature sound profile.
Troubleshooting
- Switch Difficult to Close: Switch film may be too thick for your switch. Try a thinner or stiffer film.
- Unchanged or Negative Effect: Only loose switches benefit; some already tight switches don’t need filming.
Technical Features & Specifications Table: WS PC Switch Films & Rivals
| Film Type | Thickness | Material | Compression | Pack Size | Color | Suitability | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WS Poron | 0.30 mm | Soft Poron | High | 120 | Black | Looser MX switches | Sound dampening, stability |
| WS PC | 0.15 mm | Polycarbonate | Low | 120 | Clear/White | Medium-tight MX switches | Sharper acoustics, less vibration |
| Deskeys V2 | 0.30 mm | Rubber/Teflon | Medium | 120 (+16 pads) | Various | MX switches | Silencing, premium feel |
| TX Films | 0.125/0.15mm | Polycarbonate | Low | 110 | Various | Tight/medium switches | Minimal clearance builds |
| Durock Films | 0.15 mm | PC + HTV | Medium | 120 | Various | Most MX | Sound tuning, general stability |
| Geon Films | 0.25 mm | Poron | High | 120 | Black/White | MX switches | Custom acoustics, soft feel |
| KBDfans Films | 0.15 mm | PC or Foam | Low/Medium | 130 | Black/Clear | Most MX | All-around filming |
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Conclusion
Switch films are one of the simplest, most budget-friendly ways to enhance the performance and enjoyment of your mechanical keyboard. WS PC switch films—available in both Poron foam and Polycarbonate—let you fine-tune the stability and acoustics of each key. Most users will notice an immediate improvement in key feel, less wobble, and a more consistent “thock” across their board.
Choosing the right type depends on your switch fitment and sound preferences. With proper installation and care, switch films deliver a professional-grade typing or gaming experience from keyboards of any price point. They’re a must-have mod for enthusiasts and a satisfying, no-regret upgrade for anyone wanting a premium keyboard feel.
FAQ
- What are WS PC switch films and what do they do?
WS PC switch films are ultra-thin layers designed to fit between the top and bottom housings of mechanical keyboard switches. They reduce housing wobble and improve both the feel and sound of your keystrokes.
- Which switches are compatible with WS PC switch films?
These films are compatible with most “MX-style” mechanical switches, including Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, and other similar custom switches. They are not typically suitable for low-profile, optical, or box-style switches unless otherwise specified.
- What is the difference between Poron and PC switch films?
Poron switch films are thicker and softer, providing greater compression and superior sound dampening. PC (polycarbonate) films are thinner and more rigid, which results in a sharper, more noticeable “thock” sound and less compression.
- How do I know if my keyboard needs switch films?
If you experience key wobble, hear subtle rattles, or want to tweak your keyboard’s sound and feel, switch films may help. They are especially beneficial for keyboards known to have loose switch housings.
- Are switch films difficult to install?
Installation requires some patience but is manageable for most users. You’ll need a switch opener, tweezers, and (for non-hot-swappable boards) a soldering kit. Proper alignment and care are important to ensure the films function as intended.
- Can installing switch films damage my switches?
If installed properly, switch films are safe and will not damage your switches. Avoid using films that are too thick for tighter switches, as they can make reassembly difficult or cause internal stress.
- How many switch films come in a typical WS PC pack?
Most packs contain 120 films, which is enough for a full-size keyboard with plenty of extras for future use or mistakes during installation.
- Will switch films affect how my keyboard looks?
Generally, switch films are not visible once installed, especially with opaque keycaps or switches. Clear or white films blend in even on transparent switches, while black films are best paired with darker builds.
- Can I remove WS PC switch films if I don’t like the result?
Yes. Switch films are non-permanent and can be removed by opening your switches again. You can change the film type, try a different thickness, or revert to stock.
- Is there a performance difference between branded and generic switch films?
Premium brands like WS, TX, and Durock use high-quality materials and precision cuts, resulting in better consistency and fit. Generic films may be less precisely cut or use lower-quality material, which can affect feel and durability. For consistent results, branded films are generally recommended.