Mechanical keyboards are known for their tactile and satisfying keystrokes, but they can also produce loud and distracting noise, especially if you're using them in a quiet environment. If you want to reduce the noise of your mechanical keyboard, here are a few methods to consider:
- Keyboard Mat: Placing a soft keyboard mat or an anti-vibration mat beneath your keyboard can help absorb the vibrations and noise produced when typing. The mat acts as a dampening layer, minimizing the sound that reverberates through your desk.
- O-Rings: O-rings are small rubber rings that you can install underneath each keycap. They help dampen the sound by reducing the distance it takes for each key to bottom out. This way, the keys won't produce a loud "clack" sound when fully pressed.
- Lubrication: Applying a thin layer of lubricant can significantly reduce the noise generated by the mechanical switches. You can use a lubricant specifically designed for keyboards and apply it to the switch housing and the stabilizers. This helps to mitigate any friction between the moving parts, reducing the sound of the keystrokes.
- Sound Absorption: Modifying your keyboard's case or adding foam sound dampening materials can help absorb and reduce the noise. You can line the inside of the keyboard case with foam or use adhesive-backed foam sheets on the underside of the keys. Be careful not to obstruct the key switches while doing this.
- Switch Types: Different mechanical switch types produce varying levels of noise. Switches like Cherry MX Silent, Gateron Silent, or Topre switches are specifically designed to be quieter. Consider switching to a keyboard with these quieter switch options.
- Typing Technique: Adjusting your typing technique can also help muffle the noise. Instead of bottoming out every key press forcefully, try to type more lightly, allowing the switch to actuate without hitting the bottom. This requires a bit of practice and getting used to, but it can significantly reduce the sound of each keystroke.
By employing these methods, you can enjoy the tactile benefits of a mechanical keyboard while minimizing the noise it produces, making it more suitable for quieter environments or offices.
Best Mechanical Keyboard of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Logitech K845 Mechanical Illuminated Keyboard, Strong Adjustable Tilt Legs, Full Size, Aluminum Top Case, 104 Keys, USB Corded, Windows (TTC Brown Switches)
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An adjustable 4-8 degree tilt and slim front lets you type at a comfortable angle.
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Choose between Red, Blue, or Brown switches for the right level of sound and tactile key feedback.
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White backlighting in 5 patterns lets you be productive your way — even in the dark.
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A modern and durable aluminum design gives you all the mechanics of a gaming keyboard in a sleek premium package that lasts
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A full-size keyboard featuring a number pad and FN keys — all in a surprisingly compact footprint.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Compact Backlit Keyboard with Tactile Mechanical Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Compatible with Windows, macOS - Black Aluminum
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Take your gaming skills to the next level: The Logitech G413 TKL SE is a tenkeyless keyboard with gaming-first features and the durability and performance necessary to compete
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PBT keycaps: Heat- and wear-resistant, this computer gaming keyboard features the most durable material used in keycap design
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Tactile mechanical switches: Uncompromising performance is always within reach with this wired gaming keyboard
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Premium color, material and finish: Elevate your gaming setup with this backlit keyboard featuring a sleek, black-brushed aluminum top case and white LED lighting
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6-Key rollover anti-ghosting performance: Experience reliable key input with this anti-ghosting keyboard versus non-gaming mechanical keyboards
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FN key media controls: Twelve (12) function (FN) keys let you control volume, play and pause, skip track, mute, toggle lighting, enter Windows lock, etc
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, RGB 104 Keys Ultra-Slim LED Backlit USB Wired Keyboard with Blue Switch, Durable ABS Keycaps/Anti-Ghosting/Spill-Resistant for PC Mac Xbox Gamer
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【Mechanical Keyboard: Responsive BLue Switches】RisoPhy PC keyboard features clicky keys which offer you higher accuracy and quicker response with an enjoyable click sound when typing.This keyboard is more comfortable to type on since it features deeper key travel,greater feedback,and more space between keys.For those who prefer keyboards with a more tactile and "clicky" feel,our keyboard with BLUE switches is a nice choice.
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【Rainbow Backlit Keyboard: illuminate Your Desktop】With 9 different backlights,5 levels of light speed and brightness,this computer keyboard enriches your gaming experience and improves your mood greatly,which is a great addition to your desktop,especially in the dark.Plus,the ultra-durable double injection ABS engineered keycaps provide crystal clear uniform backlight and greatly improve your typing accuracy at night.
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【High-end 104 Keys Full-Size Keyboard】The Win lock function frees your worry about mistyping when gaming(Fn+Win).Keycaps are pluggable and easy to clean,saving you much unnecessary trouble.We designed 4 hydrophobic holes for this keyboard,allowing water to flow away quickly to prevent damage to the keyboard.No longer afraid of accidents.(✦Include a keycaps puller for cleaning or other needs.)
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【Advanced Ergonomic Comfort】This PC gamer Keyboard adopts a scientific stair-up keycap design that keeps your arms in the most natural state to minimize hand fatigue for long time use.In order to improve your posture and make you more comfortable during use,the wired keyboard comes with 2 strong foldable rear kickstands to slope it.Moreover,the keyboard is non-slip enough because there are 4 rubber padding underneath the keyboard.
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
RK6 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical PC Gaming Keyboard,2.4G/Bluetooth/USB-C,Via Hot Swap RGB Backlit,Suspended Keycap,4000mAh,Anti-ghosting,12 Multimedia Keys for FPS,MOBA,RPG,LOL,PUBG(Orange/Linear)
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⌨【Compact 96% 100 keys Layout】K6 Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with 100 keys Layout is fantastic for gamers, typists and office workers,featuring independent arrow keys and number keys, with all keys anti-ghosting,ultimate gaming experience for you.This custom keyboard has 1 USB and provides a Type C to USB data cable for data transfer.Durable and high-quality TPU materials for long-lasting performance.Universal compatibility with most USB Type-C devices.
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💻【Tri-Mode BT5.0+Wired+2.4GHz】K6 provides a variety of connection methods, including Fn+4 2.4G wireless mode, Fn+1/2/3 Bluetooth 5.0 and Fn+5 USB C wired mode( Support USB2.0--Transfer speed 60MB/s,1000Hz report rate).It can connect to up to five devices,Long press Fn+1-5 to pair with devices & short press to switch between them easily,suitable for home, office, outdoor and casual games.
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▶【Hot Swappable Linear Switch】Smooth and quiet operation with minimal actuation force for fatigue-free typing and gaming.Durable 50 million keystrokes lifespan and 2mm actuation point, providing accuracy and faster response.Ideal for those who prefer a more linear and silent switch.Support 99% 3-pin socket, hot-swap, DIY various switches like Akko /Glorious Panda Switch/Epomaker/ Kailh Cream/ Gateron switch.
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🎁 【Ergonomics & Replaceable Keycaps】 Classic High-quality Double Shot ABS material for superior durability and long-lasting usage.Ergonomic 3 adjustable supporting angles for maximum relief of hand fatigue.Resistant to wear, fading, and oil build-up,ensuring longevity and easier maintenance.Multi-color design and replaceable, you can replace keycaps according to preference like RK/ XDK/ VXV/ Hyekit XDA profile keycaps.
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Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Wired Mechanical Keyboard with RGB Backlit, 94 Keys, Programmable Macro Editing, Numeric Pad, Red Switches, Compact Keyboard Mechanical for Pc Mac Ipad, K636CLO
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Programmable Macros Expand your options to design your own keys, light effects and macro, the macros with different keybindings or shortcuts combine multiple keys function in one key for more efficient work and gaming
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【Programmable Macros】Expand your options to design your own keys, light effects and macro, the macros with different keybindings or shortcuts combine multiple keys function in one key for more efficient work and gaming
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104 Keys White Backlit Keyboard with Brown Switches, USB Wired Mechanical Computer Keyboard for Laptop, Desktop, PC Gamers (Black & White)
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WHITE BACKLIT GAMING KEYBOARD: MageGee gaming keyboard is designed with single white lighting effect, 20 different backlit modes, 5 backlight brightness levels and 5 backlit speed, creating a cool and colorful game atmosphere to enhance the excitement of the game. The backlight can be easily turned off. NOTE: THE WHITE & PINK / WHITE & BLUE KEYBOARDS COME WITH AN EXTRA SET OF KEYCAPS IN THE NEGATIVE COLOR SCHEME. THE BLACK & GRAY / GRAY & BLACK / BLACK & WHITE KEYBOARDS COME WITH 16 KEYCAPS.
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MECHANICAL BROWN SWITCHES: Brown switch is somewhere in between the blue and red switches, with good tactile feedback and a slight click. It is responsive and feels a little heavier than the red switch, especially suitable for fans of entry-level mechanical keyboards. Floating keys design, easy to clean the dust.
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DESIGNED FOR COMFORT: The mechanical keyboard adopts premium metal panel construction to make it stable. Ergonomic key layout fits your fingers perfectly and reduces typing fatigue. Two-step keyboard feet allow you to set your keyboard up at 3 different tilt angles. No driver needed, just plug and play.
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ANTI GHOSTING KEYBOARD: All keys have individual switches with full n-key rollover, which provides faster response and better keystroke feeling. 104 mechanical keys are conflict free, allowing you to press or hold multiple keys simultaneously. 12 multimedia combination keys on the top of the keyboard (FN+ F1~F12) offer quick operations, great for gaming and office.
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WIDE COMPATIBILITY: The USB wired gaming keyboard works well with computer, PC, laptop, compatible with Windows 2000/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10/MAC/Linux.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Havit Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Compact PC Keyboard with Number Pad Red Switch Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 89 Keys for Computer/Laptop (Black)
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【Compact Keyboard with Numpad】Unlike bulky full-sized layout, this 85% keyboard saves more desk space but keep the numkeys which is essential. Press Fn+Backspace to lock/unlock the numkeys (Note: The numpad lights up ONLY when it's unlocked, the rest of the keys don't have lighting)
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【Colorful PBT Keycaps】 Constructed from unique and high-quality durable PBT keycaps, Havit mechanical keyboard has excellent touch experience and long serving time. Colorful keycaps can bring a more pleasant mood during games or work, decorate your space and enhance your life.
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【Red Switches Keyboard for Different Needs】Perfect for office typing or playing games. Havit HV-KB487L wired keyboard frees up your desk during work, after working sessions, you can enjoy the keyboard for gaming, or bring it with you as the size is compact and easy to carry out.
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【Ergonomic Comfort】The design of this mechanical gaming keyboard is based on ergonomics, the two keyboard kickstands provide comfortable angle for typing and effectively reduces the burden on the wrist.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth5.1/2.4G/Wired 96% Full Size 100-Key Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 3 USB Ports, Red Switch for Mac Windows, Carbon
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Full Size Mechanical Keyboard - RK100 wireless mechanical keyboard is 96% full size with compact 100 keys, which is solid, stable and durable. Especially suitable for the mechanical keyboard starters during gaming or working.
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Three Modes Connectivity - This mechanical keyboard includes 2.4Ghz wireless, Type-C-USB 2.0 wired and bluetooth 5.1 connections. And RK100 gaming keyboard could be connected with up to 3 devices via Bluetooth5.1; N-key rollover (NKRO) in the wired mode, all 100 keys are conflict free.
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Hot-swappable Switches - RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 wireless keyboard can be hot swapped at wish and replaced by all of MX-similar mechanical switches (including Gateron, Cherry, etc.), supporting 3-pin/5-pin switches. This wireless keyboard is available in blue/brown/red switch.
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3 USB Ports - This hot swappable keyboard is armed with a 3750mAh large battery and geared with 2 built-in USB pass-through ports and 1 Type-C port, this wireless keyboard is allowed to back up more facilities and works for long-time gaming/working. This gaming keyboard is compatible with Win/Mac dual system, unlimited use.
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All Keys Programmable - This bluetooth mechanical keyboard is attached with a newly-developed software that you can customize the lighting modes, macro keys and using scenarios. Find the latest software link under the part of “Product Description”
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 87 Keys, Dual Super Programmable Buttons for Windows and Android - N Edition
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Inspired by the classics. Compatible with Windows 10(1903) or above, and Android 9.0 or above.
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Connnect via Bluetooth, wireless 2.4G, or wired.
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87-key layout. Kailh Box Switch V2 White. Dye-sub PBT keycaps.
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Top mount style. Hot-swappable PCB. Support n-key rollover.
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Dual Super Buttons - offer large, programmable keys. Map anything to the Super Buttons instantly without using software.
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Classic power status LED, with independent control panel.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
XVX Retro 75% Gaming Keyboard with OLED Display&Knob, M87 Pro Bluetooth 5.1/2.4GHz /USB-C Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Hot-Swappable Custom Switch, Compact TKL Gamer RGB Keyboard, PBT Keycaps
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【Smart OLED Color Display and Knob Design】XVX M87 PRO gaming keyboard built-in smart OLED color display can intuitively display the keyboard status, including custom gif image, caps lock, connection mode, WIN/MAC, battery. Built-in mechanical knobs allow quick adjustment of complex functions: connection, system, backlit brightness/speed, RGB mode/color, volume & language.
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【3-Mode Connection Wireless Keyboard】The M87 Pro TKL mechanical keyboard gears tri-mode connectivity technology, USB-C wired, BT 5.1 and 2.4Ghz wireless modes, which can be easily switched not only with key combinations, but also by knobs.
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【Unique silencing Installation Design】This custom keyboard has built-in triple absorption layers, including an EVA sound absorbing foam, an IXPE switch pad and the sponge case Foam, In addition, silencer foam installed under the space bar, which increase the rebound speed of the keys while reducing vibration, resulting in improved key sound for a unique typing feel.
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【Hot-Swappable Custom Keyboard】You can alter every switch on the M87 pro keyboard without the need to solder. Hot-swap PCB is compatible with almost all 3-pin/5-pin switches on the market, personalize your typing experience with ease.
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【Ultimate Personalization RGB Keyboard】The keyboard itself comes with 19 RGB backlight modes, 9 colors selection, 5 brightness levels and 5 speed levels. This RGB gaming keyboard can enhance your gameplay atmosphere at its maximum, and the light can also be turned off if you don’t need it for saving power. It can be intuitive switched by the knob.
Are wireless mechanical keyboards generally quieter than wired ones?
No, wireless mechanical keyboards are not generally quieter than wired ones. The noise produced by a mechanical keyboard comes from the physical switches beneath the keys, which create a distinct "click" or "clack" sound when pressed. This sound is the same for both wired and wireless mechanical keyboards, as it is not affected by the wireless transmission of data. However, there are certain mechanical keyboard switches, such as Cherry MX Silent or Gateron Silent switches, which are designed to reduce the audible noise. Choosing keyboards with these silent switches can make them quieter, regardless of their wired or wireless connection.
Does typing technique affect the noise produced by a mechanical keyboard?
Yes, typing technique can affect the noise produced by a mechanical keyboard. A mechanical keyboard typically has individual mechanical switches for each key, and the noise produced is a result of the switch mechanism being activated.
Different typing techniques can have varying impacts on the noise generated. For example, using a lighter touch while typing with less force can result in quieter keystrokes, as the switch does not need to travel as far to activate. On the other hand, typing with a heavy hand or bottoming out the keys forcefully can create more noise, as the switch is being fully compressed with each keystroke.
Furthermore, some switches, such as those with tactile or clicky feedback, inherently produce more audible sound when pressed, regardless of typing technique. So the choice of switch type can also influence the overall noise level of a mechanical keyboard.
Are there any known tricks to suppress rattling noise from mechanical keyboards?
Yes, there are a few known tricks to help suppress rattling noise from mechanical keyboards:
- Lubricate the switches: Apply a thin layer of switch lubricant (such as silicone or Teflon grease) to the moving parts of the switches. This can help reduce the friction and subsequent rattling sounds.
- Install switch films: Switch films are thin plastic layers that can be placed between the switch housing and the PCB. They help to minimize vibrations and reduce noise by providing a tighter fit for the switches.
- Add dampeners: Keyboard dampeners, also known as O-rings or landing pads, can be placed on the stem of each keycap. These rubber rings absorb impact and cushion the landing of the keycap, reducing rattling noise.
- Tighten keycap screws: In some cases, loose keycap screws can cause rattling noise. Ensure that all keycap screws are properly tightened to eliminate any unnecessary movement.
- Use a desk mat or keyboard foam: Placing a desk mat or keyboard foam under the keyboard can help absorb and dampen vibrations, reducing the overall noise produced.
- Opt for switches with built-in dampening: Some mechanical switches come with built-in dampening features, such as rubber pads or noise reduction mechanisms. These switches are designed specifically to minimize rattling and provide a quieter typing experience.
It's worth noting that not all rattling noises can be completely eliminated, as they can be inherent to certain keyboard designs or switch types. However, these tricks can help reduce the noise significantly.
Can I use a silicone keyboard cover to reduce mechanical keyboard noise?
Yes, using a silicone keyboard cover can help reduce mechanical keyboard noise to some extent. The cover acts as a dampening material that absorbs the sound produced when the keys are pressed. It can also prevent dust and debris from entering the keyboard, prolonging its lifespan. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of the cover in reducing noise will depend on the thickness and quality of the silicone material.
Can I modify my existing mechanical keyboard to make it quieter?
Yes, you can modify your existing mechanical keyboard to make it quieter. Here are a few methods to achieve that:
- O-rings: Install rubber O-rings on the keycaps to dampen the sound of bottoming out the keys. O-rings reduce the travel distance of the keys and soften the impact when pressed.
- Sound-dampening foam: Place sound-dampening foam inside the keyboard case to absorb vibrations and reduce the noise produced by keystrokes.
- Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of keyboard lubricant on the switch springs, sliders, and stabilizers to reduce friction and dampen the noise.
- Switch modifications: Some mechanical switches, such as Cherry MX Silent Red or Gateron Silent Brown, are specifically designed to be quieter. You can consider replacing your existing switches with these quieter alternatives.
It's important to note that while these modifications can help make your mechanical keyboard quieter, they may also slightly affect the typing feel and responsiveness. Therefore, it's recommended to try out different methods and find the balance between noise reduction and typing experience that suits your preference.
Can I dampen mechanical keyboard noise by placing a mat or rubber feet under it?
Yes, placing a mat or rubber feet under a mechanical keyboard can help dampen the noise. The mat or rubber feet act as a barrier between the keyboard and the surface it is placed on, reducing the transmission of vibrations and minimizing the noise generated. However, the effectiveness of this method can vary depending on the keyboard model and materials used.
