How to remove buttons from a laptop keyboard: step-by-step guide with photos and tips

Removing buttons from a laptop keyboard is a task that users face when deep cleaning, replacing damaged keys, or repairing the backlight. It seems that the process is trivial: pry and remove. But in practice, one wrong move can lead to breakage of fastenings, tearing off the cable or even damaging the keyboard itself. Working with models is especially risky Apple MacBook, ASUS ROG or Lenovo ThinkPad, where the fixation mechanisms differ from standard ones.

In this article we will look at three main dismantling methods (for scissor, mechanical and membrane keyboards), we will list the necessary tools and warn about common errors. You will also find unique data on the compatibility of keys from different brands - this will help avoid purchasing unsuitable spare parts. If you've never disassembled a laptop, start with preparation: read the section on tools and be sure to watch video instructions for your model.

What tools are needed to remove the buttons?

Without the right tools, removing keys without damaging them is nearly impossible. Here is the minimum set you will need:

• 🔧 Plastic paddle or pick — for carefully prying up the keys (metal objects scratch the surface).
• 🧲 Magnetic screwdriver - so as not to lose small parts (springs, latches).
• 📸 Smartphone with camera — to fix the location of the keys before dismantling (especially important for non-standard layouts).
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (70%+) — for cleaning contacts and adhesive surfaces.
• 📦 Container with cells - to sort the removed keys and not mix them up during reassembly.

For laptops with backlit keyboards (MSI GS66, Razer Blade) additionally required antistatic wrist strap — it will prevent damage to the LEDs by static electricity. If you are working with MacBook Pro (2016-2020 models), prepare special kit for removing "butterflies" - their mechanism is fragile and does not tolerate brute force.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use a knife or scissors! Even slight metal pressure can leave microcracks in the plastic of the keys, which later will lead to them breaking off when pressed.

Types of key mounts: how to determine yours

Before you remove the buttons, you need to understand what type of mechanism your laptop uses. The dismantling method and the risk of damage depend on this. Total exists three main types of fastenings:

Mounting type	Example models	Features of dismantling	Risk of damage
Scissor mechanism	Lenovo IdeaPad, HP Pavilion, most budget laptops	The key is attached to two plastic “scissors”. Removable by hooking on one side.	Medium (latches may break)
"Butterfly"	MacBook 2015–2019, MacBook Air/Pro	Fragile mechanism with a metal frame. Requires special tools.	High (often breaks if removed carelessly)
Mechanical switches	ASUS ROG, MSI Titan, gaming laptops	The keys are removed like on desktop keyboards - they are pulled upward with force.	Low (unless excessive force is used)
Membrane keyboard	Samsung Notebook, old models Dell	The keys sit on a silicone membrane. They are easy to remove, but the membrane is easy to tear.	Low (if careful)

To determine the type of fastening, look at the key at an angle: if you can see plastic “antennae” on the sides, this is a scissor mechanism. If the key sits tightly and does not wobble, it is most likely a “butterfly” (MacBook) or mechanical switch (game models). For accurate identification, find a disassembly of your model on the Internet - for example, search for "disassembling the keyboard [your model]" on YouTube.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove scissor keys

Scissor mechanisms are the most common, but also the most insidious: they are easy to break if you pull the key in the wrong direction. Follow this algorithm:

1. Preparation: Turn off the laptop, disconnect the battery (if possible). Take a photo of the keyboard - this will help you avoid mixing up the keys during assembly.
2. Prying: Insert a plastic spatula under top edge keys (from the screen side) and gently press up. You should hear a click - this is the first latch being released.
3. Removal: After the click, pry the key from the opposite side. Don't pull it up - it should come out of the grooves on its own.
4. Dismantling the mechanism: Under the key you will see two plastic “scissors”. Carefully remove them, remembering the location (they are not symmetrical!).

For keys Space, Shift or Enter the process is more complicated: they have additional metal stabilizers. First remove the key itself (as described above), then carefully remove the stabilizer by pulling it up by the central part. Don't bend him! - this will lead to uneven pressure after assembly.

⚠️ Attention: If the key does not budge, do not force it! Most likely you missed one of the latches. Try prying from the other side or watch a video disassembly for your model.

Features of removing keys on a MacBook (Butterfly mechanism)

Keyboards MacBook with the Butterfly mechanism (2015-2019) are notorious for being fragile. Apple even acknowledged the defect and launched a free repair program. If you still need to remove a key on such a model, proceed with extreme caution:

• 🛠️ Buy special removal kit (sold on AliExpress or in service centers). It includes plastic hooks that hook into the mechanism.
• 🔍 Light the keyboard with a bright lamp - the mechanism is almost transparent, and you will see where the latches are located.
• 📵 Do not use metal tools! Even light pressure can bend the metal frame.
• 🔄 After removal, do not touch the inner membrane - it is covered with a conductive layer that is easy to erase.

Removal process:

1. Carefully pry the key off left side (the main latch is located there).
2. When the key rises, pull it up parallel to the body - not at an angle!
3. Below the key you will see a silicone dome. Do not touch it with your fingers - only with tweezers.

Assembly occurs in the reverse order, but there is a catch: if the membrane is damaged, the key will “stick.” In this case, the entire keyboard module will need to be replaced (at an Apple service center this will cost 5–10 thousand rubles).

What should I do if the key on my MacBook cannot be pressed after assembly?

If the key becomes “soft” or does not work, most likely the membrane has moved away from the contacts. Try to gently press it back with a plastic spatula. If this does not help, take the laptop to a service center: self-repair of the membrane almost always ends in its final failure.

How to remove keys on gaming laptops (mechanical switches)

Gaming laptops (ASUS ROG Strix, MSI GT76, Acer Predator) are often equipped with mechanical keyboards with switches Cherry MX or their analogues. Such keys are easier to remove, but there are some nuances:

• 🎮 Use mechanical keyboard remover (sold in gamer stores). It distributes pressure evenly.
• 🔧 For keys with stabilizers (spacebar, Shift), first remove the cap, then carefully pull out the stabilizer.
• 🧹 Clean the switches after removal only with a dry brush - Liquids can damage the contacts.

Dismantling algorithm:

1. Place the puller on the key and pull up with even force.
2. If the key does not budge, slightly rock it left and right - this will help release the latches.
3. For keys with stabilizers, first remove the cap, then pull out the metal stabilizer wire (it is attached to the board with latches).

When reassembling, make sure that the stabilizers fit into place evenly - otherwise the key will “dangle”. If the switch is damaged, it can be replaced separately (the cost of one is from 50 to 200 rubles). The main thing is to choose a model with the same type of actuation (linear, tactile or click).

Cleaning and replacing keys: what to do after removal

Once the keys are removed, the options for deep cleaning or replacement open up. Here's what you can do:

• 🧼 Cleaning the keys: Wash them with warm water and soap, then dry them on a paper towel. For stubborn stains, use cotton swabs soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
• 🔄 Replacing broken keys: Buy new keys on AliExpress or at a service center. Make sure they fit size and type of fastening.
• 💡 Cleaning contacts: Wipe the contact pads on the membrane or board with a lint-free cloth moistened with alcohol. Don't press too hard!
• 🎨 Key color: If the symbols are erased, you can use special paint for plastic (available in model shops).

To replace keys, it is important to select exact copy. For example, the keys from Lenovo ThinkPad not suitable for Dell XPS, even if outwardly they look the same. Please note:

• 📏 Size (for example, key Left Shift may be wider on different models).
• 🔗 Mounting type (scissor, butterfly, mechanical).
• 🎨 Color and font (symbols may vary in style).

⚠️ Attention: If you clean a membrane keyboard, do not use aggressive chemicals (acetone, solvents) - they will destroy the conductive layer. A soap solution or alcohol is enough.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when removing keys. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Using metal tools	Scratches on keys, damaged latches	Use only plastic paddles or picks
Too much pressure when removing	Breakage of fastenings, separation of the cable	Pry the key from different sides, do not pull sharply
Mixed up keys during assembly	Wrong layout, broken buttons	Take pictures of the keyboard before disassembling, use containers for sorting
Liquid getting on the contacts	Short circuit, broken keys	Clean the keys separately from the body and dry for at least 24 hours
Ignoring stabilizers	"Dangling" keys (Space, Shift, Enter)	Carefully remove and install stabilizers according to the instructions

Another common mistake is failure to check functionality after assembly. Always test each key after installation, especially if you cleaned the contacts. If a button does not work, take it apart again and check:

• 🔌 Are the latches in place correctly?
• 📱 Are there any contaminations on the contact areas?
• 🔄 Are the keys mixed up (especially important for Ctrl And Fn).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing keys from a laptop

Is it possible to remove the keys on a laptop without tools?

Theoretically, yes, but the risk of damaging the fasteners is extremely high. For example, you can use a credit card instead of a plastic spatula, but it is less flexible and may break the latches. Even a fingernail will do for mechanical keyboards, but for scissor or butterfly keyboards MacBook this is not an option.

What should I do if the key cannot be pressed after removal?

There may be several reasons:

1. The mechanism is not installed correctly (check that all latches are in place).
2. The membrane is damaged (relevant for “butterflies” MacBook).
3. There is dirt under the key (wipe the contacts with alcohol).

If the problem cannot be solved, the keyboard cable may be damaged. In this case, diagnostics will be required at a service center.

How to remove a key on a laptop HP Omen with backlight?

On HP Omen (and other gaming laptops with RGB backlighting) the keys are removed in the standard way, but there is a nuance: under them there are LEDs on a separate board. When dismantling:

• Disconnect the battery to avoid short circuit.
• Do not touch the LEDs with your fingers; static electricity may damage them.
• After cleaning, check the backlight: if some keys do not light up, the contact on the board may have come loose.

Where can I buy replacements for broken keys?

Purchase options:

• 🌍 AliExpress - cheap, but long wait (search by laptop model).
• 🏬 Service centers - more expensive, but you can choose original keys.
• 🔧 Spare parts stores (For example, CompYou or Notik) - suitable if you need an urgent replacement.

Tip: when ordering, check exact laptop model And key size (For example, 1U for standard buttons or 2U for Shift).

Can I wash my laptop keyboard in the dishwasher?

Absolutely not! Even if you remove all the keys, the membrane or board will not withstand high temperatures and humidity. The maximum that can be done:

• Rinse only keys in warm soapy water (no soaking!).
• Wipe the keyboard case with a damp cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
• Let everything dry for at least 24 hours before assembly.

For deep cleaning it is better to use compressed air (spray can for cleaning equipment) or professional products like Contact Cleaner.