The main difference is how the switch detects a key press.

Mechanical switches use physical contacts to register a key press. They are available in different types, such as linear, tactile, and clicky, offering different typing feels and sounds.
Magnetic switches use a magnet and sensor to detect the key’s position without relying on traditional physical contact points. This allows the keyboard to detect more precise changes in key movement.

Depending on the keyboard and software, magnetic switches can support features such as adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger (RT), giving users more control over key response.

In simple terms, mechanical switches detect key presses through physical contacts, while magnetic switches detect key movement through magnetic sensing.

Are AULA keyboards hot-swappable?

Many AULA keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing you to ｒｅｐｌａｃｅ compatible switches without soldering. For example, models such as the F65, F75, F99, and F108 feature hot-swappable switch sockets.

However, hot-swap compatibility varies by model. Before replacing switches, check the specifications of your specific AULA keyboard to confirm whether it supports hot-swapping and which switch types are compatible.

In simple terms, if your AULA keyboard supports hot-swapping, you can change compatible switches without soldering.

Can I change the switches on my AULA keyboard?

You can change the switches on an AULA keyboard if the specific model supports hot-swapping.

For a hot-swappable keyboard, compatible switches can be removed and installed without soldering. Before changing the switches, check your keyboard’s specifications to confirm:

Whether the keyboard supports hot-swapping
Which switch types are compatible
Whether the replacement switches have the correct pin configuration and size

Use a suitable switch puller when removing switches and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the switch sockets or PCB.

In simple terms, you can change the switches on a hot-swappable AULA keyboard, as long as the replacement switches are compatible with your model.

Not necessarily, but a hot-swappable keyboard makes changing switches much easier.

Hot-swappable keyboard: Compatible switches can be removed and installed without soldering.
Non-hot-swappable keyboard: The switches are usually soldered directly to the PCB, so changing them requires desoldering the existing switches and soldering the new ones.

If you plan to change switches regularly, a hot-swappable keyboard is the more convenient option.

In simple terms, you do not need a hot-swappable keyboard to change switches, but you do need soldering work if the switches are soldered to the PCB.

Are AULA switches compatible with other keyboards?

AULA switches may be compatible with other keyboards, but compatibility depends on the switch type and the keyboard’s socket.

Mechanical switches: AULA 3-pin/5-pin mechanical switches can generally be used with keyboards that support the corresponding MX-style mechanical switch format. For example, AULA’s mechanical keyboards such as the F75 Ultra support 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
Magnetic switches: AULA Hall Effect magnetic switches are only compatible with keyboards that support the same magnetic switch system and compatible sensor/footprint. They are not interchangeable with standard mechanical switches. Some AULA magnetic models also specify particular compatible magnetic switch families.

Before installing an AULA switch in another keyboard, check the switch type, pin configuration, physical footprint, and socket compatibility of both the switch and keyboard.

In simple terms, AULA mechanical switches may work with compatible MX-style hot-swap keyboards, while AULA magnetic switches require a compatible Hall Effect keyboard system.

What is the difference between 3-pin and 5-pin switches?

The main difference is the number of pins used to position and support the switch on the PCB.

3-pin switches have two metal contact pins and one plastic center pin. They rely more on the keyboard plate for stability.
5-pin switches have the same two metal contact pins plus three plastic pins. The additional plastic pins provide more stability when the switch is mounted directly to the PCB.

Both types can provide a similar typing experience when used in a compatible keyboard.

A 5-pin switch can often be used on a 3-pin PCB by removing the two extra plastic positioning pins, while a 3-pin switch may feel less secure on a PCB designed to use the additional positioning pins.

In simple terms, 3-pin switches use fewer positioning pins, while 5-pin switches provide additional PCB-mounted stability. Always check your keyboard's socket and PCB compatibility before installing switches.

The main difference is the height, key travel, and overall design of the switch.

Standard switches are taller and generally offer longer key travel. They are commonly used with traditional mechanical keyboards and provide a familiar mechanical typing feel.
Low-profile switches are shorter and designed for slimmer keyboards. They typically have shorter key travel and a more compact feel.

Low-profile switches are often preferred for slim desk setups, portability, and users who prefer shorter key travel, while standard switches offer a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience.

In simple terms, standard switches are taller with longer travel, while low-profile switches are shorter with a more compact design.

If your keyboard supports hot-swapping, you can change compatible switches without soldering. Follow these steps:

Turn off and disconnect the keyboard before changing any switches.
Remove the keycap using a keycap puller to access the switch.
Use a switch puller to grip the switch from the top and gently release it from the hot-swap socket.
Check the replacement switch and make sure its pins are straight and compatible with your keyboard.
Align the pins with the socket and press the switch straight down until it is fully seated.
Reinstall the keycap and test the key after reconnecting the keyboard.

Avoid twisting or forcing the switch. Excessive force can bend the pins or damage the hot-swap socket or PCB.

In simple terms, disconnect the keyboard, remove the switch carefully, align the replacement switch correctly, and never force it into the socket.

What should I do if a switch feels loose or inconsistent?

If a switch feels loose, wobbly, or behaves inconsistently, try the following:

Remove and reinstall the switch to make sure it is fully seated in the socket.
Check the switch pins for bending or damage. Straighten bent pins carefully before reinstalling.
Check the hot-swap socket for visible damage or looseness.
Test the switch in another compatible socket, if available. This can help determine whether the issue is with the switch or the keyboard.
ｒｅｐｌａｃｅ the switch if the switch itself is damaged or continues to behave inconsistently.

Do not force the switch into the socket, as excessive pressure can damage the switch, hot-swap socket, or PCB.

If the issue remains after troubleshooting, contact AULA Support for further assistance.

If a switch arrives damaged or does not work properly, please:

Stop using the switch if you notice visible damage, bent pins, or other physical issues.
Check the installation to make sure the switch is fully seated and correctly installed.
Test the switch in another compatible socket, if available, to determine whether the issue is with the switch or the keyboard.
Take photos or a short video showing the damage or the issue.
Contact AULA Support and provide your order information along with the photos or video. Our support team can help you with the next steps.

Do not force or modify a damaged switch, as this may cause further damage to the switch, socket, or PCB.

Yes, AULA keycaps can be compatible with many mechanical and magnetic keyboards, but compatibility depends on your keyboard’s switch type, layout, key sizes, and keycap profile.

Before purchasing or replacing keycaps, check:

Switch stem: Make sure the keycaps use a compatible stem, such as an MX-style cross stem. AULA also offers keycaps designed for both mechanical and magnetic switch keyboards.
Keyboard layout: Confirm whether your keyboard uses ANSI or ISO, as the Enter, Shift, and other key sizes can differ.
Key sizes: Check larger keys such as the Spacebar, Shift, Enter, Backspace, and bottom-row modifiers. A keycap set may fit the standard letter keys but still be incompatible with these positions.
Keyboard size: Make sure the keycap set provides enough coverage for your keyboard layout, such as 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, or full-size.
Keycap profile: Different profiles, such as Cherry and OEM, have different heights and shapes and can affect the typing feel.

AULA keycap sets list their supported layouts and keyboard sizes on the product page. For example, some AULA sets support both ANSI and ISO layouts and multiple keyboard sizes.

Tip: If you are unsure whether a specific keycap set will fit your AULA keyboard, check the product specifications or contact AULA Support with your exact keyboard model before purchasing.

Yes. Many AULA keycap sets support both ANSI and ISO layouts, but compatibility varies by keycap set.

Before purchasing, check the product specifications to confirm the supported layout. For example, some AULA keycap sets are specifically listed as supporting both ANSI and ISO layouts.

The main differences to check include:

Enter key: ANSI uses a wide horizontal Enter key, while ISO uses a taller, two-row Enter key.
Left Shift: ISO layouts have an additional key next to the left Shift, so the keycap set needs to include the correct key sizes.
Bottom row: Spacebar and modifier key sizes can vary between keyboards.
Language layout: QWERTY, QWERTZ, and AZERTY are different character layouts and should also be checked when choosing keycaps.

Tip: Always check the specific AULA keycap product page for its supported layouts and key sizes before purchasing. If your keyboard uses ISO, make sure the keycap set includes the correct ISO Enter and left-side key configuration.