← All terms

What does “hot-swap” actually mean?

Plain-English explanations of the terms keyboard enthusiasts use every day. Plus what to buy if you want it.

linearthockytactileclickyhall effectrapid triggergasket mounttray mounttop mounto-ring mountfull-sizeTKL75%65%60%splitPBTABSdouble-shotCherry profileOEM profileSA profilenorth-facingsouth-facingper-key RGBhot-swapQMK / VIAstabilizerslubed switchesfilmed switchesfoam modtape mod
hot-swap · adjective

The PCB has sockets that grip switch pins, so you can pull and replace switches by hand — no soldering. Lets you try different switches without committing. Now near-universal on enthusiast and mid-range boards.

How to get it · CHEAP
Weikav Nut65
Weikav Nut65
Cheap 65% · hot-swap with stock thock

Cheap 65% that surprises with stock thock — the most affordable hot-swap entry to start trying new switches on.

see why →buy on aliexpress →
How to get it · BEST
EvoWorks Evo75
EvoWorks Evo75
Prebuilt 75% · hot-swap daily driver

Prebuilt 75% for skip-the-build buyers — hot-swap sockets let you swap switches without ever picking up a soldering iron.

see why →buy on mechanicalkeyboards →
How to get it · DIY
Bauer Lite
Bauer Lite
Polycarbonate 65% barebone · hot-swap top-mount

Polycarbonate Bauer in playful colorways with hot-swap sockets — the customizable starting point for switch experimentation.

see why →buy on omnitype →