Reddit user u/Molti_gfx discovered their SteelSeries wireless mechanical keyboard developed severe battery bloat after being left plugged into a gaming PC permanently. Posting to r/spicypillows, they noticed a "weird bump" in the keyboard's plate caused by the swelling Li-ion battery, forcing its removal for safety.

All lithium-ion batteries degrade over charge cycles—especially when kept above 85% or below 15% capacity—and despite battery management systems (BMS), some cells inevitably bloat. The user kept the keyboard connected for reduced latency, but the PCB design appears to draw power exclusively from the battery even when USB-connected, unlike brands such as Keychron, Nu Phy, Mo Ergo, and Epomaker.

After battery removal, the keyboard no longer receives power via USB. This design likely accelerated the battery's demise. Swollen wireless keyboard batteries are common, as evidenced by numerous r/spicypillows posts. Users who keep keyboards desk-bound should consider wired alternatives to avoid similar hazards.