How to Remove a Key from an MSI Laptop Keyboard: Safely and Without Errors

Laptop keyboard MSI - one of the most vulnerable components, which over time becomes dirty, sticks or requires replacement of individual keys. However, trying to remove the button without knowing the design can lead to broken fasteners, damage to the cable, or even failure of the entire keyboard. In this article we will look at how to properly dismantle the keys on models MSI GF63, GS66 Stealth, Prestige 14 and others without contacting the service center.

The process of removing keys on laptops MSI has its own nuances: here they use both classic scissor mechanisms (scissor-switch), as well as low-profile switches on gaming models. We will look at both options, and also tell you what tools you will need, how to avoid common mistakes, and what to do if the key breaks during dismantling. If you are planning cleaning, replacement or repair, these instructions will help you do everything carefully.

Why you might need to remove a key on an MSI laptop

Reasons for removing keys on your keyboard MSI several, and not all of them are associated with breakdowns. Here are the most common situations:

• 🧹 Pollution: Dust, crumbs, hair or sticky liquids (coffee, soda) get under the keys, causing sticking or an unpleasant crunch when pressed.
• 🔧 Replacing a broken key: If the button breaks off, cracks or no longer fits into the mechanism, it needs to be replaced.
• 🎨 Customization: Some users change the keys to colored or backlit ones (for example, on models MSI Raider GE76 with RGB backlight).
• 🔍 Troubleshooting: If the key fails, double input or does not work, a mechanism check is required.
• 💦 Liquid ingress: Even after drying, there may be a sticky residue under the keys that needs to be removed.

On gaming laptops MSI (series GT, GE, GS) keys often fail due to heavy use. For example, buttons W, A, S, D or Space wear out faster than others. In such cases, replacing an individual key is cheaper than buying a new keyboard.

Before proceeding with dismantling, make sure that the problem is in the key mechanism and not in the cable or motherboard. For example, if several buttons in a row do not work, most likely the cable is to blame, and removing the keys will not help.

Key removal tools: what you need

For neat removal of keys on a laptop MSI You don't need professional tools, but some accessories will make the process much easier. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 Plastic paddle or pick - the main tool for prying off keys. Metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) cannot be used: they will scratch the plastic.
• 🧲 Magnet or tweezers - will help you get small parts (springs, clamps) if they fall out.
• 📸 Smartphone for photography — before removing the key, take a photo of its fastening so that you can assemble it correctly later.
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) — for cleaning mechanisms and contacts.
• 🧻 Cotton swabs and lint-free wipes - to remove dirt from under the keys.
• 🔍 Magnifying glass or flashlight - will help you see small fastening parts.

If you are planning to replace a key, order a similar part in advance. On laptops MSI Keys with different types of fastenings are used: scissor mechanism (most models) and mechanical switches (game series with Cherry MX or Kailh). Check your keyboard type before purchasing replacement parts.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use acetone, solvents or wet wipes with harsh chemicals for cleaning - they can damage the plastic of the keys and the coating on the contacts.

If you don't have a plastic spatula at hand, you can use credit card or flat wooden stick. The main thing is to avoid sharp metal objects that can scratch the case or break the latches.

Preparing an MSI laptop for removing the keys

Before removing the keys, you must properly prepare your laptop to avoid damage. Follow this checklist:

On most models MSI (For example, Modern 14, Summit E13) the battery is non-removable, so just turn off the device and wait until it cools down completely. If the laptop has been spilled, allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before disassembling it.

Pay special attention key Space — it is mounted on a metal frame with additional latches. If you plan to remove it, be prepared for the process to take longer. Also on some models MSI keys Shift, Enter And Backspace have reinforced latches.

If you are removing the keys for cleaning, have a container of isopropyl alcohol ready in advance. Do not immerse the entire keys in it - just moisten a cotton swab and wipe the mechanism. To remove sticky stains (such as soda) you can use toothpick, soaked in alcohol.

⚠️ Attention: On laptops MSI with mechanical keyboards (series GT Titan) Removing the keys requires more effort due to the metal stabilizers. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact the service.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove a key from an MSI laptop

The process of removing keys on laptops MSI depends on the type of mechanism. We will consider two options: scissor switch (most models) and mechanical keys (game series). Let's start with the most common one - the scissor mechanism.

Removing a key with a scissor mechanism (scissor-switch)

This type of mount is used on most laptops MSI, including PS42, Prestige 15 And Creator 17. Sequence of actions:

1. Gently pry the top edge of the key with a plastic spatula, pressing toward the center. Don't pull up - just lift slightly.

2. When the key rises 2-3 mm, move the paddle to the left or right to release the first lock. You will hear a slight click.

3. Repeat on the opposite side. The key should now come off easily.

4. Under the key you will see two plastic elements of the scissor mechanism. Carefully remove them and set them aside.

If the key does not give way, do not apply force - most likely, you have caught the wrong edge. Try starting from a different angle. On large keys (for example, Space) the side latches are released first, and then the central ones.

What to do if the latch is broken?

If the plastic scissor retainer is cracked, it can be temporarily replaced with a piece of thick plastic (such as from a CD case). However, this solution is short-lived - it is better to order a new mechanism.

Removing the mechanical key (on MSI gaming laptops)

On models MSI GT76 Titan, GE76 Raider and other gaming laptops use mechanical switches (such as Cherry MX or Kailh). Here the process is more complicated:

1. Press the key down and gently pull it up using key for removing mechanical keys (can be purchased at computer accessory stores).

2. If there is no key, pry the key on both sides with a flat-head screwdriver, but act extremely carefully - metal stabilizers bend easily.

3. After removing the key, you will see the metal stabilizer frame. To dismantle it, carefully squeeze the side latches and pull it out.

Mechanical keys are attached more rigidly, so stabilizers often break during dismantling. If this happens, replace them with new ones - without a stabilizer, the key will wobble or stick.

On MSI laptops with mechanical keyboards, the Space mounted on 4–6 stabilizers. It is not recommended to remove it without experience - there is a high risk of damaging the fastenings.

How to clean an MSI keyboard after removing the keys

Once the keys are removed, you can begin cleaning. Here are step-by-step instructions for effectively removing dirt:

1. Blow away large debris (dust, crumbs) using compressed air can or a small brush.

2. Soak a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and wipe the contacts on the keyboard membrane. Do not press too hard - the membrane is thin and may tear.

3. To remove sticky stains (such as from sugary drinks), use toothpick, soaked in alcohol.

4. Wipe the plastic parts of the scissor mechanism with a dry cloth. If they are dirty, wash them in warm water and soap and dry them.

5. The keys can be washed in a soapy solution, but do not rub them with a hard brush - this will erase the letters.

For disinfection use chlorhexidine or special wipes for electronics. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or vinegar - they may damage the plastic.

Type of pollution	Recommended cleaning method	What not to do
Dust, crumbs	Compressed air, soft brush	Vacuum cleaner (may damage the membrane)
Sticky liquids (coffee, soda)	Isopropyl alcohol + toothpick	Water or wet wipes
Oily stains (from fingers)	A napkin soaked in alcohol	Acetone, gasoline
Mold (long-term storage)	Chlorhexidine + drying 24 hours	Bleach

After cleaning, allow all parts to dry completely (at least 1-2 hours). It is not recommended to speed up the process with a hairdryer - hot air can deform the plastic.

How to install the key back on an MSI laptop

Assembling the keyboard after cleaning or replacing the keys is the most critical step. If the scissor mechanism is not installed correctly, the key will wobble or not be pressed. Follow this instruction:

1. Check that there is no debris on the keyboard membrane and that the contacts are clean.

2. Install bottom part scissor mechanism (the one with two “ears”). It should fit tightly into the grooves.

3. Put it on top part mechanism (with a cross-shaped lock). Make sure it clicks into place.

4. Gently press the key on top until you hear a click. Do not press from the side - this may move the mechanism.

For large keys (eg. Space or Shift) the process is more complicated: First secure the metal stabilizer frame, then install the scissor mechanism, and only after that the key itself.

If the key wobbles or falls in after installation, check:

• 🔹 Is the scissor mechanism sitting correctly (it should be symmetrical).
• 🔹 Are the latches on the key bent?
• 🔹 Is there any debris under the membrane?

On mechanical keyboards MSI When installing keys, the stabilizers are first fixed, then the switch is inserted, and only then the key itself. If the stabilizer is bent, the key will stick.

⚠️ Attention: On laptops MSI with backlit keys (RGB or white), if the mechanism is installed incorrectly, the LED may be damaged. If the backlight does not work after assembly, check the integrity of the contacts.

What to do if the key breaks when removed

If the key retainer or scissor mechanism cracks during removal, don't panic—in most cases, it can be fixed. Here are possible scenarios:

• 🔧 The latch on the key is broken: If the crack is small, you can fix it with superglue (for example, Loctite). However, this is a temporary solution - the glue will fall off over time.
• 🔄 Broken scissor mechanism: order a new one at AliExpress or at the service center MSI. Cost - from 50 to 200 rubles per piece.
• 🔨 Mechanical key stabilizer is bent: Gently straighten it with tweezers. If it’s broken, replace it (price about 100–300 rubles).
• 💡 The backlight contact is damaged: if the LED stops lighting, check the integrity of the tracks on the membrane. They can be restored with conductive glue.

If the key is completely broken, find a replacement according to your laptop model. On MSI keys from other brands are suitable (for example, ASUS or Lenovo), if the size and type of fastening matches. Check with the seller before purchasing.

On gaming laptops MSI (For example, GE66 Raider) keys W, A, S, D often sold as a set. If one of them is broken, it is more logical to replace all four to ensure even wear.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing keys on MSI

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

Theoretically, yes, but the risk of damaging the fasteners is very high. Without a plastic paddle or pick, you could scratch the key or break the scissor mechanism. If you don't have the tools, use credit card, but proceed extremely carefully.

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

Most likely, the scissor mechanism is installed incorrectly or debris has gotten under the membrane. Remove the key again, check the integrity of the mechanism and clean the contacts with isopropyl alcohol. If the problem persists, the membrane may be damaged and needs to be replaced.

How to remove a key Space on MSI - it doesn't work!

Key Space mounted on a metal frame with 4–6 clamps. Start with the side latches: carefully pry them off with a spatula on both sides, then release the central ones. If it doesn't work, watch the video instructions for your model - the design may vary.

Can keys be washed in the dishwasher?

No! Hot water and detergents will damage the plastic and erase the writing. The maximum is to wash the keys in warm soapy water, then wipe with alcohol and air dry.

Where can I buy spare keys for MSI?

Spare keys are sold at AliExpress, in stores like Citilink or DNS (in accessories departments), as well as in service centers MSI. Check your laptop model and keyboard type (scissor or mechanical) before purchasing.