Mill-Max Hotswap Sockets

Yes. While these sockets allow you to swap switches without soldering later, the sockets themselves must be soldered onto your PCB to create the initial connection.

You need two sockets per mechanical switch. For a standard 60% keyboard with 61 keys, you would require 122 sockets.

The right choice depends on your PCB's thickness and the clearance available in your case. The 7305 and 3305 are shorter, making them more compatible with tight builds, while the 0305 is slightly longer and often easier to install if you have the extra space.

These are designed for Cherry MX style switches, which cover the vast majority of mechanical switches on the market. They will not work with low-profile switches or optical switches.

You will need a soldering iron with a fine tip and thin solder wire. Using a small tip is crucial to avoid bridging connections or damaging the surrounding PCB components.

Gold plating offers superior corrosion resistance and conductivity over time, which is ideal for long-term reliability. Tin plating is a more cost-effective option that performs well for most standard keyboard builds.