Do you love using your mechanical keyboard but hate the loud noise it makes? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people find the clickety-clack of mechanical keyboards satisfying, but it can be distracting to others nearby. Luckily, there are simple and effective ways to soundproof your mechanical keyboard so you can enjoy typing in peace. In this guide, we'll walk you through the effective ways to sound-proof your mechanical keyboard so you can type in peace.
Understanding the Noise:
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why mechanical keyboards are so loud. Unlike membrane keyboards, which use a rubber dome beneath each key to dampen sound, mechanical keyboards have individual mechanical switches for each key. When you press a key on a mechanical keyboard, the switch mechanism generates noise as it registers the keystroke. This noise is often attributed to the keycaps hitting the switch housing or the spring mechanism within the switch itself.
Now, let's explore some easy methods to sound-proof your mechanical keyboard.
1. Choosing Quieter Switches
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard and noise is a concern, consider opting for switches that are known for their quieter operation. Cherry MX Silent Red or Brown switches, are crafted with the aim of lowering typing noise while preserving a delightful tactile experience. Doing some research on different switch types can help you find the one that best suits your needs.
2. Desk Mat or Keyboard Tray
The surface on which you place your keyboard can also impact its sound output. Hard surfaces like desks or tabletops can reflect and amplify keyboard noise, making it seem louder. Placing a desk mat or keyboard tray beneath your keyboard can help absorb some of this noise and create a quieter environment.
Desk mats come in various materials, such as rubber, leather, or fabric, and can be easily placed on your desk beneath your keyboard. Similarly, keyboard trays attach to the edge of your desk and provide a dedicated surface for your keyboard, isolating it from the desk's hard surface. Experiment with different materials and placements to find what works best for you.
3. Install O-Rings
O-rings are small rubber rings that you can install beneath each keycap to dampen the sound of the key bottoming out. When you press a key on a mechanical keyboard, it makes a noise when the keycap hits the keyboard’s base. O-rings cushion this impact, reducing the noise without affecting the tactile feedback of the switch.
Installing O-rings is easy and requires only a few tools, such as a keycap puller and a steady hand. Simply remove the keycaps, place the O-rings on the stem of each key switch, and reattach the keycaps. You’ll notice a significant reduction in noise without compromising the feel of your keyboard.
4. Lubricating the Switches
Mechanical switches can also generate noise due to friction between the moving parts. By lubricating the switches, you can reduce this friction and make your keyboard quieter. Mechanical switches benefit from specially formulated lubricants like Krytox and Tribosys. Applying lubricant to the switch stems and housings can make typing smoother and quieter.
However, lubricating switches require some disassembly of your keyboard, so it’s essential to proceed with caution and follow online guides or tutorials specific to your keyboard model. With proper lubrication, you can enjoy a quieter typing experience without compromising the longevity of your switches.
5. Foam Padding
Another effective way to soundproof your mechanical keyboard is by adding foam padding inside the keyboard case. Foam helps absorb and dampen the noise generated by the switches and keycaps, reducing the overall sound output of the keyboard. You can use various types of foam, such as acoustic foam or packing foam, depending on your preference and availability.
To add foam padding to your keyboard, you’ll need to disassemble the case and cut the foam to fit inside. Make sure not to obstruct any critical components or interfere with the movement of the switches. Once installed, reassemble the keyboard, and enjoy a quieter typing experience.
6. Modifying the Case
The casing of your keyboard can contribute to the level of noise it makes. Some mechanical keyboards come with open-back designs that allow sound to escape more easily, while others have solid, closed-back cases that help contain the noise. If your keyboard has an open-back design, consider adding sound-absorbing foam inside the case to help dampen the noise. You can also experiment with adding additional layers of foam or other materials to further reduce sound transmission.
7. Invest in a Keyboard Silencer
If you're willing to invest a bit more, consider purchasing a keyboard silencer. These aftermarket accessories are specifically designed to reduce keyboard noise by dampening the sound of key presses. Some keyboard silencers attach directly to the keycaps, while others sit between the keycap and the switch housing, effectively muffling the sound.
8. DIY Soundproofing Mods
For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, there are several DIY mods you can try to soundproof your mechanical keyboard. One popular method involves adding sound-dampening material, such as foam or silicone, inside the keyboard casing. Simply open up your keyboard, apply the material to the inner surfaces, and reassemble. This can significantly reduce the reverberation of sound within the keyboard, resulting in a quieter typing experience.
9. Modifying Keycaps
In addition to modifying the switches themselves, you can also reduce keyboard noise by swapping out the keycaps for quieter alternatives. PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps, for example, are thicker and denser than the more common ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) keycaps, resulting in a quieter typing experience.
You can also opt for keycaps with sound-absorbing materials built-in, such as double-shot PBT keycaps or silicone keycaps. These keycaps are designed to dampen the sound produced when a key is pressed, resulting in a quieter and more enjoyable typing experience.
10. Consider a Keyboard Cover
If you're really serious about keeping your keyboard quiet, you might want to invest in a keyboard cover. These are usually made of silicone or other soft materials and fit snugly over your keyboard, muffling the sound of your keystrokes. While they may take some getting used to, they can be highly effective at reducing noise, especially in shared or noise-sensitive environments.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can significantly reduce the noise generated by your mechanical keyboard without compromising its performance. Whether you're a late-night worker, a considerate roommate, or just someone who prefers a quieter typing experience, sound-proofing your keyboard is a practical solution. Experiment with different combinations of methods until you find the perfect balance between sound reduction and typing feel. Happy typing!
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