If you have ever owned a mechanical keyboard, you may have wondered if it makes a lot of noise. While a lot of the time the switches on a keyboard will be able to make a loud clacking sound, there are ways to minimize or eliminate the sounds.
Switches that make a lot of noise
Many keyboard enthusiasts prefer to have quieter keyboards. However, there are a number of factors that influence the sound. For instance, the type of desk you have, the materials used in the build, and the number of keys you are typing will all play a part. Ultimately, you will need to experiment until you find a sound signature that you enjoy.
If you’re looking for a quieter mechanical keyboard, your first step is to determine the type of switch. You can select from three main categories: click, linear, and tactile. Each offers a different experience, but all provide a satisfying physical bump when you press a key.
Keyboards with tactile switches provide a satisfying pop when you press a key. However, these switches are not as silent as a Roomer-G linear switch.
Linear keyboards offer less audible feedback, but they also give a smoother up-down key press. They are great for gaming because they provide a more consistent feel.
To reduce the noise produced by keyboards, consider a keyboard with a gasket-mounted design. This feature absorbs the impact of the keycaps. Another option is a keyboard with a rubber dome at the bottom.
A popular option is Cherry MX Blue switches. These are lighter than green switches and offer a more responsive actuation force. However, most Cherry MX switches produce click noises.
If you’re looking for softer, more silent switches, try Topre. These switches combine the best of rubber dome and mechanical keyboards. Some people swear by them. But they aren’t the cheapest, and they may not be the best choice for everyone.
There are several other options you can use to silence your keyboard. Try installing additional layers of sound dampeners, or changing the switches.
To customize your mechanical keyboard, consider adding various top plates and keycaps. Then, you can change your switches for specially designed silent ones. Finally, don’t forget to lube the switches. That way, they will remain quiet when you’re not using them.
Your choice of a mechanical keyboard can make a huge difference in your gaming and typing experiences. Take a look at the options on the market, and choose the one that’s right for you.
O-rings dampers prevent the noise from hitting the keyboard
Using rubber O-rings in your keyboard is a great way to reduce the noise coming from your keys. There are several different ways to do this, but it is important to select the right dampeners for your specific keyboard and computer setup.
When you have a mechanical keyboard, you should be aware that the keys are usually a bit more responsive to touch than on membrane keyboards. This can be a source of both pain and frustration, but a good O-ring will help. A mechanical keyboard will register every key touch, but a ring will make your keycaps more responsive, and will also decrease the amount of travel distance that your keys take.
Keyboard O-rings come in many different sizes. You can buy packs of varying thicknesses, ranging from about 0.2mm to 2.0mm. The thicker the O-ring, the lower the travel distance for the key. However, you should be aware that adding more O-rings will cause your keys to become mushy. It is important to test out a few of the keycaps before installing them.
If you don’t care about the sound of your keyboard, you can leave the dampeners off your mechanical keyboard. Rather than using O-rings, you can try placing a tower underneath your keyboard. This will help to absorb the vibrations coming from the keys, and will also keep them clean and dust free.
One of the simplest ways to install O-rings is to remove the keycaps. With the keycaps out of the way, you can use a small pair of tweezers to push the ring onto the keycap stem. Ensure that you press the ring on the stem evenly. Do not bend or twist the ring.
Using O-rings is a great way to increase your typing speed, and to reduce the noise of your keys. But don’t forget to check the other parts of your keyboard.
You can also mod your keyboard by applying a stabilizer to the spacebar and shift keys. These are easy to do, and will increase your typing speed. You can also try to improve the touch-typing experience by using a clear O-ring.
Soft surface can reduce the sound
If you want to reduce the noise from your mechanical keyboard, there are a few things you can do to make it a more mellow experience. One of the easiest ways is to use foam. There are several options available, from neoprene to Subroutine, which are both inexpensive and lightweight.
A desk mat can also help to dampen keyboard sounds. These are available in many styles and are easy to install, as long as you remove the plastic clips from the bottom of the keypad.
Another way to reduce the noise is to use O-rings. Usually made of rubber, they can be placed on the bottom of the keycap stems and will dampen the clacking sound. The only downside is that they aren’t a permanent solution and must be replaced on a regular basis.
You can also reduce the noise from your mechanical keyboard by changing the working surface. Generally, a wooden table will amplify the sound, while a glass table will add a metallic tinge to the signature.
Finally, you can also use a shelf liner to quiet down your keys. This is a cheap and easy way to do it. Generally, you can find one in your local store or online.
While this can’t entirely eliminate the noise from your mechanical keyboard, it’s a great start. Not only does it help to absorb the vibrations from your keyboard, it also keeps your setup from getting destroyed by spills.
Whether you’re using a membrane or a mechanical keyboard, you may find that you’re still plagued with the occasional noisy moment. To mitigate this, you can try installing some of the other keyboard accessories we’ve covered here. And don’t forget to consider lubrication to decrease friction.
Conclusion
While a lot of people will swear by the benefits of a mechanical keyboard, the sound they create can be annoying to others. However, there are plenty of ways to keep it a quiet, smooth experience.
The O-rings are also a great way to minimize the sound created by hitting the switch. You can purchase them for a low price on Amazon. A common thickness is 0.4mm. Ideally, you should place the O-rings on the keycap stems of the keyboard. Leaving the O-rings off of the keyboard can cause weird key presses.
Roomer G Tactile switches are designed for competitive gaming. Their actuation is quick and they offer a noticeable bump. However, they are less responsive than Cherry MX Browns.