Mechanical keyboards are super popular with gamers, typists, and computer geeks — and for good reason! They’re tough, feel great to type on, and often let you change things like colors and key actions. But what happens when something goes wrong? Maybe a few keys stop working, the lights act weird, or your computer doesn’t seem to recognize your keyboard anymore. Don’t worry — resetting your mechanical keyboard can often fix the problem.
In this easy guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to reset a mechanical keyboard using two main methods: a soft reset and a hard (factory) reset. We’ll also walk through common problems and how to fix them.
Let’s get started!
Why Reset a Mechanical Keyboard?
Before we talk about how to reset a mechanical keyboard, let’s understand why you might need to.
Here are a few common reasons:
- The lights (RGB lighting) are acting funny or stuck on one color
- Some keys stopped working or respond weirdly
- Your keyboard isn’t showing up on your computer
- Macros or custom features are messing things up
- A wireless keyboard isn’t connecting properly
- You’re having driver or software issues
If you’ve noticed any of these problems, a reset might help fix them fast.
What’s the Difference Between a Soft Reset and a Hard Reset?
Both soft and hard resets can fix keyboard issues — but they do different things. Here’s a quick breakdown:
🟢 Soft Reset:
- Like turning your keyboard off and on again
- Doesn’t delete saved settings, macros, or lighting setups
- Good for small problems
🟥 Hard Reset (or Factory Reset):
- Erases all saved settings and returns the keyboard to how it was when new
- Deletes custom profiles, lighting, macros, and layers
- Best for big or stubborn issues
Now let’s walk through how to do each one!
How to Soft Reset a Mechanical Keyboard
Try a soft reset first — it’s simple and doesn’t delete your custom settings.
Method 1: Basic Unplug Reset (works for almost all keyboards)
- Unplug the keyboard from your computer.
- Wait 30–60 seconds.
- Plug it back in.
- For wireless keyboards: turn off the power and remove the battery for 1 minute. Then put it all back and turn it on again.
This step helps clear out any temporary glitches.
Method 2: Press Key Combinations
Some mechanical keyboards have a secret key combo that does a soft reset. Try these:
- Fn + Esc
- Fn + Spacebar
- Fn + R
- Left Ctrl + Left Shift + Esc (for Ducky keyboards)
Hold these keys for about 5 seconds. If nothing happens, check the manual or website for your keyboard brand.
Method 3: Restart Your Computer
A simple computer restart can fix USB issues or minor keyboard errors. Just shut down your PC and turn it back on.
How to Hard Reset a Mechanical Keyboard (Factory Reset)
If a soft reset didn’t fix the problem, a hard reset might be the answer. This resets your keyboard back to factory default settings.
⚠️ Warning: A hard reset will erase all saved profiles, lighting, and macros! Be sure to back up anything you want to keep (if your keyboard’s software allows it).
Most Common Hard Reset Methods
Note: These methods vary depending on your keyboard’s brand. Here are common ones:
- Hold Esc + Spacebar while plugging the keyboard into the USB port
- Hold Esc + B for 5 seconds (try this with the keyboard already plugged in)
- For Keychron: Hold Fn1 + Fn2 + J for 5 seconds
Watch for flashing lights — that usually means the reset worked.
Using Keyboard Software to Reset
If your keyboard comes with special software (like Razer Synapse or Corsair iCUE), try resetting the keyboard through the software:
- Open the software with the keyboard plugged in.
- Go to “Settings” or “Profiles.”
- Look for an option like “Reset to Factory Defaults.”
- Click OK or Confirm.
This is another safe way to do a hard reset — especially if you don’t want to remember tricky key combinations.
Reset Shortcuts for Popular Brands
If you know your keyboard’s brand, use the right shortcut below:
🟢 Razer
- Soft Reset: Unplug and reconnect
- Hard Reset: Hold Esc + Ctrl + Esc while plugging in
- Use Razer Synapse for a software reset
🟢 Corsair
- Unplug your keyboard
- Hold the Esc key
- Plug it back in while still holding Esc
- Wait 5 seconds before letting go
🟢 Ducky
- Soft Reset: Left Ctrl + Left Shift + Esc
- Hard Reset: Hold Esc and plug it in
🟢 Keychron
- Hard Reset: Fn1 + Fn2 + J for 4–5 seconds until lights flash
Check your keyboard’s manual or user guide to be sure — different models may have slightly different steps.
After the Reset: Troubleshooting Tips
Reset done, but still having problems? Try these tips.
🟡 Try Another USB Port
- Move your keyboard to a different USB port (try one on the back of the PC)
- Avoid using a USB hub if possible
🟡 Update Drivers
- On Windows: Press Win + X → Device Manager → Keyboards
- Right-click on your device → Update driver
- Or uninstall and restart your computer to reinstall it
🟡 Reinstall Software
If your keyboard has software like Razer Synapse, Corsair iCUE, etc. — uninstall and reinstall it for a clean slate.
🟡 Check for Firmware Updates
Head to your keyboard brand’s website to see if a firmware update is available. This can fix weird bugs and connection issues.
🟡 Try Another Computer
Test your keyboard on another device. If it works there, the issue may be your original computer or USB port.
How to Keep Your Mechanical Keyboard Working Great
Here are a few bonus tips to avoid running into issues in the future:
✅ Don’t unplug your keyboard during firmware updates
✅ Use keyboard software to manage macros and lighting instead of guesswork
✅ Keep keyboard software and firmware updated regularly
✅ Clean your keyboard once in a while — debris stuck in switches can cause problems
✅ Store your keyboard safely if not using it for long periods
Final Thoughts: Fix Your Keyboard the Easy Way
A mechanical keyboard is a great companion — but even the best ones can glitch out sometimes. Whether your lights freak out or your macros stop working, knowing how to reset your mechanical keyboard can save time, headaches, and even money.
Start with a soft reset. If that doesn’t help, go for a hard reset or use the manufacturer software to wipe it clean. Use our guide as a quick reference anytime your keyboard acts up.
Reset it. Restore it. And get back to crushing your game or work session like a pro! 🎮⌨️🎯
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🟡 Can I reset a wireless mechanical keyboard?
Yes, you can! Turn it off, remove the battery (if removable), or unplug the USB dongle. Then try a soft or hard reset combo like a wired keyboard. Double-check your keyboard’s user manual.
🟡 Will a hard reset delete my lighting and macros?
Yes. A hard reset will erase all the lighting settings, macros, and key customization you’ve set. If possible, back up settings using the keyboard’s software.
🟡 My RGB lights act up even after resetting. What next?
Try plugging into a different USB port. Flickering lights can also mean you have old drivers — check for updates on the manufacturer’s site or update them through Device Manager.
🟡 How do I know if the reset worked?
You may see flashing lights, a restart of the lighting system, or hear a Windows sound when it reconnects. Try typing on it to test!
Happy typing! ⌨️🔥