Buttons on the MSI laptop keyboard: how to remove, replace and select new ones

Laptop keyboard MSI - one of the most vulnerable components, especially if you actively use the device for games, programming or typing. Over time, the buttons begin to stick, fly off, or completely stop responding to presses. Unlike stationary keyboards, replacing keys on a laptop is more difficult: it is important to take into account the model, type of mounts, and even the generation of the device.

In this article we will look at how remove the buttons correctly from the keyboard MSI (including popular series GF, GE, GS And Prestige), where to buy original or compatible replacements, and what errors lead to damage to the pads. You will also find out whether it is possible to restore the keys without completely replacing the keyboard and when you should contact a service center.

Types of keyboards in MSI laptops: what buttons are used

Laptops MSI are equipped with three main types of keyboards, which determine the method of attaching the buttons and the possibility of replacing them:

• 🔹 Scissor-switch mechanisms - used in ultrabooks (Prestige 14/15, Modern 14). The buttons are thin, with minimal travel, and are mounted on plastic guides. They are more difficult to replace due to the fragility of the structure.
• 🔹 Mechanical switches (mechanical keyboards) - found in game models (GT77 Titan, GE76 Raider). The buttons are removable, with metal springs, but require precise installation.
• 🔹 Rubber domes (membrane) — budget series (GF63, GL65). The buttons are attached to a silicone membrane and often come as a single block. Replacing individual keys is possible, but risky.

Important: on laptops MSI with backlight (RGB or single color) buttons may have additional LEDs connected to a separate board. When replacing such keys, you need to keep the original light guides or buy components that support backlighting.

How to determine your keyboard type? Look under one of the keys (for example, Shift or Space): if you see plastic “scissors” it’s a scissor-switch, if there are metal springs it’s mechanical, and if there’s a rubber dome it’s a membrane.

When to change buttons: signs of malfunction

Not all keyboard problems require replacing the buttons. Sometimes it is enough to clean the mechanism or reinstall the drivers. Here exact signsthat it’s time to change the key:

• 🚨 Button fails when pressed and does not return to its original position (the spring or guide is broken).
• 🚨 Key flies off completely, and the plastic fasteners remain in place.
• 🚨 The symbol on the button has been erased, and replacing the sticker is impossible (for example, on WASD or Enter).
• 🚨 The button is pressed, but doesn't work in the system (check in Notepad or Word).

If the key just gets stuck or takes a while to respond, try blow it out with compressed air or wash the contacts with alcohol. To do this:

1. Remove the button (instructions below).
2. Remove dust with a brush or a can of air.
3. Soak a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and wipe the contact pad.

⚠️ Attention: If after cleaning the button still does not work, do not press it forcefully. This may damage the membrane or unsolder the contact on the board.

How to remove a button from an MSI keyboard: step-by-step instructions

To dismantle the keys you will need:

• 🔧 Plastic spatula (or pick).
• 🔧 Tweezers with thin ends.
• 🔧 Magnetic screwdriver (for Phillips screws, if you need to remove the entire keyboard).

Important: do not use metal tools - they can scratch the body or damage the fastenings.

Unplug your laptop and remove the battery (if possible)|

Take a photo of the location of the keys with your phone|

Pry the button from the side with a plastic spatula|

Gently lift it, do not pull it up sharply-->

Step by step process:

1. Start with the corner key (For example, Esc or Delete) - they are easier to remove.
2. Insert a spatula under the side of the key and press lightlyuntil you hear a click (this is the first fastener that has come loose).
3. Repeat on the opposite side. Do not pull the button up until both fasteners are released!
4. Remove the key and set it aside. Under it you will see a mechanism: plastic “scissors” (for scissor-switch) or a metal frame (for mechanics).

For large buttons (Space, Shift, Enter) there is a nuance: they are attached to metal stabilization plate. Remove them carefully, starting from one edge and gradually releasing the fasteners along the entire length.

What to do if the button breaks during removal?

If the plastic “scissors” are cracked, they can be replaced separately - look for repair kits for your model on AliExpress or in service centers. Separate springs and stabilizers are sold for mechanical keys.

Key type	Difficulty in removing	Risks during dismantling
Regular (letters, numbers)	Low	Damage to plastic fasteners
Large (Space, Shift)	Average	Stabilization plate bending
Backlit keys	High	Broken light guide or damaged LED

Where to buy buttons for an MSI keyboard: original vs analogues

Find replacement buttons MSI possible in several places, but it is important to consider exact laptop model and keyboard type. Here are the tested options:

• 🛒 Official MSI Service Centers — they sell original keys, but the price can be steep (from 500 rubles for one button). Suitable for warranty devices.
• 🛒 AliExpress - cheap analogues (from 50 rubles/piece), but check the reviews. Search for "MSI [laptop model] keyboard key".
• 🛒 Local spare parts stores (For example, Citilink, DNS) - sometimes there are universal sets for laptops.
• 🛒 Donor keyboards — buy used keyboards of the same model at Avito or Yule and use them as a source of spare parts.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Key shape and size - even in one episode (GF63 And GF65) buttons may differ.
• 🔍 Color and material - cheap analogues often turn yellow over time.
• 🔍 Availability of stabilizers for large keys.

⚠️ Attention: Buttons with RGB backlight must have transparent light guides. If you buy the wrong key, the backlight will be dim or absent.

Critical nuance: in MSI series laptops Stealth And Raider Keys with a unique shape of fastenings are used. Analogues from other brands (for example, Asus ROG) will not fit!

How to install a new button: errors and tips

Installing a key is the reverse of removal, but there are key points that many people miss:

1. Before installation check the integrity of the fasteners on the new button. The plastic scissors should move freely.
2. For scissor-switch keys, first secure lower part of the mechanism on the keyboard, then put the top one on.
3. Press the key evenlyuntil you hear two clicks (both fasteners are locked).

Typical mistakes:

• ❌ Key Skew when installed - leads to sticking.
• ❌ Pressing hard on big buttons (Space) - breaks stabilizers.
• ❌ Using glue to fix - the button will stop pressing.

If the key after installation dangles or does not press, which means the mechanism is not fixed. Remove it and repeat the process.

What to do if the button does not work after replacement

If the new key does not respond to presses, the problem may be:

• 🔌 Damaged membrane (for membrane keyboards) - check the integrity of the rubber dome.
• 🔌 Oxidized contacts on the board - wipe them with alcohol.
• 🔌 Incorrectly installed mechanism - remove the button and reinstall.
• 🔌 Software failure - update the keyboard driver in Device Manager.

For diagnostics:

1. Connect an external keyboard and check if the problematic button works on it.
2. Run Keyboard diagnostic utility (For example, Keyboard Test Utility).
3. If the button does not respond only in certain programs, the problem is in the software, not in the hardware.

If none of the methods help, it may be damaged. contact pad on the board. In this case, the entire keyboard will need to be soldered or replaced.

When is it better to contact the service: cases that do not tolerate amateur activity

Not all keyboard failures can be fixed on your own. Contact the service center if:

• 🛠️ Broken keyboard board (damaged tracks or soldered contacts are visible).
• 🛠️ Several keys do not work at the same time - this may indicate a problem with the cable.
• 🛠️ Laptop won't turn on after attempting to repair the keyboard (the power cable may be damaged).
• 🛠️ The entire keyboard needs to be replaced (for example, after being flooded with liquid).

Cost of replacing the keyboard in the service MSI varies from 2,000 to 6,000 rub., depending on the model. For comparison: replacing one button yourself will cost 50–500 rubles, but the risk of damaging the device is higher.

If you decide to repair the keyboard yourself, but are not confident in your abilities, take photos of each stage of disassembly. This will help put everything back together if something goes wrong.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the buttons on the MSI keyboard

Is it possible to replace the keys on an MSI laptop with mechanical ones (like those on gaming keyboards)?

Technically possible, but only if your model natively supports mechanical switches (e.g. MSI GT77 Titan). For membrane or scissor keyboards, you will need to completely replace the keyboard with a mechanical one, which is expensive and not always justified.

What to do if the button Space fails when pressed?

This is a typical problem with a stabilizer plate. Remove the key and check the integrity of the metal frame underneath it. If the frame is bent, straighten it with tweezers. If it is broken, replace it with a new one (sold in repair kits).

Where can I find the keymap for my MSI model?

Official diagrams can be downloaded from the website MSI in the support section (enter your laptop model). Photos of the keyboard from sites like NotebookCheck or LaptopMedia.

Can I wash my MSI keyboard with water?

No! Water may short out the contacts or damage the backlight. For cleaning use isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a soft brush. If the keyboard is very dirty, it is better to remove all the buttons and wipe the board with alcohol.

How much does it cost to replace a keyboard at MSI?

The cost depends on the model:

• Budget series (GF63, GL65) — 2,000–3,500 rub.
• Gaming (GE76, GS66) — 4,000–6,000 rub.
• Ultrabooks (Prestige, Modern) — 5,000–8,000 rub.

Price includes labor and original keyboard.