EVO80 PCB Replacement: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

EVO80 PCB replacement is a simple maintenance procedure thanks to the keyboard’s screwless ball-catch case design and magnetic pogo-pin connectors. Whether you’re installing a replacement PCB due to damage, troubleshooting issues, or upgrading your keyboard, this EVO80 PCB replacement guide will walk you through the entire process step by step. Follow the video tutorial and written instructions below to safely replace the PCB and get your keyboard back in working order.

This guide covers the PCB replacement process for the EVO80 Mechanical Keyboard. If you are looking for specifications, available configurations, or replacement parts, visit the EVO80 product page.

Before Starting Your Evo80 PCB Replacement

Tools Required

• EVO80 switch puller (included with the keyboard)
• Replacement EVO80 PCB
• Clean, flat workspace

Important Notes

• Work on a clean surface to avoid damaging components.
• Handle the PCB carefully and avoid excessive bending.
• Check that switch pins remain straight during installation.

Step 1: Open the Case

1. Place the keyboard on a clean, stable surface.
2. Press down the two corner keys at the top of the keyboard.
3. While holding the keys down, grip the edge of the top case.
4. Gently lift the top case upward until it releases from the bottom case.
5. Set the top case aside.

The EVO80 uses a screwless ball-catch design, so no screwdriver is required.

Step 2: Remove the Internal Assembly

1. Carefully lift the complete assembly out of the bottom case. This includes:
   • Keycaps
   • Switches
   • Plate
   • PE foam
   • PCB
2. Leave the case foam layers inside the bottom case.

Take care not to twist or flex the assembly while lifting it out.

Step 3: Remove the Switches

Before replacing the PCB, all switches must be removed from the plate and PCB assembly.

1. Take the included switch puller.
2. Position the puller vertically so the tabs engage the top and bottom (north and south) sides of the switch.
3. Squeeze gently to release the retaining clips.
4. Pull the switch straight upward.

Important

Do not clip the left and right sides of the switch. The retaining clips are located on the top and bottom of the switch housing, and gripping the wrong sides will not release the switch properly.

Repeat this process until all switches have been removed.

Step 4: Remove the Old Evo80 PCB

1. Carefully separate the old PCB from the plate and PE foam.
2. Keep the PE foam with the plate, as it will be reused with the replacement PCB.
3. Set the old PCB aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Replacement Evo80 PCB

1. Place the replacement PCB flat on your work surface.
2. Position the PE foam on top of the PCB.
3. Place the plate on top of the PE foam.

Ensure all switch openings and alignment points match correctly.

The assembly order should be:

Plate → PE Foam → PCB

Step 6: Reinstall Switches After Evo80 PCB Replacement

After the EVO80 PCB replacement is finished, reinstall the switches and keycaps.

1. Insert each switch through the plate and into the PCB.
2. Check that both metal pins are straight before installation.
3. Press the switch firmly until it sits flush with the plate.

Installing a few switches around the corners first can help keep the plate and PCB aligned while completing the rest of the build.

Step 7: Reinstall the Keycaps

1. Place each keycap onto its corresponding switch.
2. Press down gently until fully seated.

Check that all keycaps are aligned correctly and move freely and put the top case back. You can verify that the keyboard is detected correctly using VIA

Conclusion

The EVO80’s screwless ball-catch case and magnetic pogo-pin connection system make Evo80 PCB replacement significantly easier than many traditional custom keyboards. By following the steps above, you can quickly swap out a PCB and get your keyboard back up and running with minimal tools and effort.

If you need additional assistance during your EVO80 PCB replacement, join our Discord community where our team and other EVO80 owners can help answer questions.