The TriboSys series has been a popular lubricant among keyboard enthusiasts. Both types of TriboSys are a great alternative to Krytox 205g0. However, many people don’t know the difference between TriboSys 3203 vs 3204. This mistake could result in choosing the wrong lubricant for your keyboard. And there’s nothing worse than using a keyboard that’s uncomfortable to type on. That’s why we made this article to help differentiate TriboSys 3203 from 3204.
In this article, we’ll go over the similarities and differences between these lubricants to help you find which one is ultimately best for you.
What is TriboSys?
TriboSys is a type of switch lubricant used in the keyboard community to enhance a switch’s sound and feel. Specifically, TriboSys is targeted at the tactile switch market due to its lower viscosity. It can also be used on linear switches, however, Krytox 205g0 usually suits them better.
TriboSys 3203
TriboSys 3203 is a medium-thin lubricant mixture that is ideal for tactile switches. While the lube can be used on linear switches, Krytox 205g0 is usually the better option. Due to TriboSys 3203 being thinner than the average lubricant, it sharpens a switch’s tactility. It also adds a fair amount of smoothness to tactile switches. And on top of that, allows a switch to retain its stock acoustics, unlike thicker lubricants. Overall, TriboSys 3203 is a lower viscosity lube aimed at improving a switch’s tactility.
TriboSys 3204
TriboSys 3204 is a medium-thick lubricant mixture that is ideal for tactile and sometimes linear switches. Its generally considered the “middle ground” between TriboSys 3203 and Krytox 205g0. Tribosys 3204 is not too thin, yet not too thick. It will make a switch noticeably smoother while not shaving off too much tactility. Overall, TriboSys 3203 is a medium viscosity lube perfect for tactile switches.
Where Can I Buy TriboSys Lube?
Our go-to vender for lubricant (and other keyboard components) is Divinikey. They are based in the USA and stock almost every switch lubricant available. You also have the choice between 3mL and 5mL jars of lube for extra convenience. All lubes are genuine and every lube showcased in this article was purchased from them.
Which Lube is Better?
Between the two types of TriboSys lube mentioned in this article, there is no objectively “better” lubricant. They both do their job very well and it’s up to the consumer to decide which is “better”. One person may like TriboSys 3203 more since it sharpens tactility. On the other hand, a separate person may prefer TriboSys 3204. In the hobby of mechanical keyboards, everything is preference. There will be almost no situation where one product is better than the other.
Are There Any Alternative Lubricants?
In terms of lube for tactile switches, there is one other alternative. Krytox 205g0 is a thicker lubricant mostly used for linear switches. It’s recommended for switches with higher tactility. This will dampen the bump though still improve the acoustics and feel of a switch. If you decide to lube your tactile switches with Krytox 205g0, make sure to be extremely careful. Applying too much lube on a tactile switch can make the tactile bump janky. While you can remove lube from mechanical switches, it’s best not to waste any.
Conclusion
Overall, in many ways, both these lubes are very similar and different from each other. It’s crucial to know the difference between them to guarantee a smoother lubing process. For further knowledge on lubing switches, check out our article on the topic here. We hope this article has helped in giving you the knowledge you need to successfully lube your switches.
Thanks for reading and have fun!