As the popularity of mechanical keyboards continues to grow, so does the need to find ways to reduce the noise they produce. While some people love the satisfying clickety-clack of a mechanical keyboard, it can be a distraction for others in an office or shared space. Fortunately, there are several ways to quiet a mechanical keyboard.
I. Applying Lubricant to Stabilizer Bars
One of the easiest ways to reduce the sound of your mechanical keyboard is by applying lubricant to the stabilizer bars. These bars are responsible for keeping larger keys, like the spacebar, level and stable. Over time, they can start to make a rattling noise when the key is pressed.
To quiet this sound, you can apply a little lube to the point where the stabilizer bar hits the plastic. Anything that’s safe for plastic will work, though keyboard enthusiasts prefer silicone grease. Just apply a dab to the area and work it in with your fingers or a cotton swab. This should help reduce the noise and make your keyboard feel smoother to use.
II. Using O-Rings as Dampers
If lubricating the stabilizer bars doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to take a more hands-on approach. This involves opening up your keyboard and making some mechanical adjustments. While this may sound daunting, it’s not as difficult as it sounds.
One option is to use O-rings as dampers. These are small rubber rings that fit around the stem of each keycap. They act as shock absorbers, preventing the keycap from clattering against the surface of the switch beneath it.
To use O-rings, you’ll need to remove each keycap from your keyboard and slide the ring onto the stem. Then, replace the keycap and press it down firmly to secure the ring in place. This will add a bit of cushioning to each key and help reduce the noise.
III. Pressing Keys Carefully
If you don’t want to open up your keyboard, there are still some things you can do to reduce the noise. One option is to simply press the keys more carefully. If you have a tactile switch, like Cherry MX Brown or Clear, you can prevent making noise by only pushing down on the keys just enough for the press to register but not hard enough to trigger the clicking sound.
This may take a bit of practice, but it can be a simple and effective way to reduce the noise your keyboard produces. It also has the added benefit of making your typing more accurate and efficient.
IV. Using a Desk Mat
Another easy way to reduce the sound of your keyboard is by using a desk mat. Each time you type on your keyboard, it vibrates your desk, which amplifies the noise. Using a desk mat under your keyboard dampens the vibrations and silences everything.
Not only will this help reduce the noise, but it can also protect your desk from scratches and wear. Desk mats come in a variety of materials and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs and style.
V. Switching to Quieter Switches
Finally, if none of the above options work for you, you may want to consider switching to quieter switches. Some mechanical switches, like Cherry MX Silent Red or Black, are designed to be quieter than their counterparts.
While this may require purchasing a new keyboard or replacing the switches in your current one, it can be a worthwhile investment if you type frequently in a shared space.
In conclusion, there are several ways to quiet a mechanical keyboard, from lubricating the stabilizer bars to using O-rings as dampers, pressing keys more carefully, using a desk mat, or switching to quieter switches. Each option has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to find the one that works best for you.
FAQ
What is the quietest switch for a mechanical keyboard?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the quietest switch will depend on your personal preferences. However, some of the quietest switches on the market include Gateron Silent Reds, Zilent V2s, and Aliaz switches.
Can you make a clicky switch quiet?
Clicky switches are notoriously loud, but there are some things you can do to reduce the noise. For example, you can add O-rings or other dampening materials to the stems or replace the switches altogether with a quieter option.
Are all keycaps created equal in terms of noise?
No, keycaps can have a significant impact on the sound of a mechanical keyboard. Thick PBT keycaps tend to produce less noise than thin ABS keycaps, and keycaps with built-in sound dampening materials can also help to reduce noise.
Do all mechanical keyboards need to be quiet?
No, not all mechanical keyboards need to be quiet. Some people enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a loud mechanical keyboard. However, if you’re using your keyboard in a shared space or need to avoid disturbing others, it may be worth taking steps to reduce the noise.
Is it possible to completely silence a mechanical keyboard?
While it may not be possible to completely silence a mechanical keyboard, there are many ways to significantly reduce the noise. By using a combination of techniques like lubrication, sound dampening materials, and quieter switches, you can make your keyboard much quieter than it would be otherwise.
Hopefully, these FAQs have helped to answer some of your questions about quieting a mechanical keyboard. With a little experimentation, you should be able to find a combination of techniques that works best for you and your keyboard.