When you think of mechanical keyboards , many people immediately think of noisy typing. But in times when efficient work and a pleasant user experience are becoming more and more important, keyboards that retain the tactile feel of a mechanical keyboard while effectively reducing noise have become a new favorite of many users. Today we're talking about just such a model: the quiet mechanical keyboard.
How is the sound created in mechanical keyboards?
When we press a key, our finger touches the keycap which pushes the switch down. This compresses the spring and the little legs on the switch push the moving part down until the moving and static parts meet and the switch is triggered. Once we release the finger, the spring pushes the switch back up. The switch moves to the top where it hits the switch housing and is fully reset.
In this process, sounds are created in various ways:
- Different switches produce different sounds.
- The keycap may wobble and make noise when the switch is pressed.
- Hitting the switch on the top and bottom of the case also causes noise.
- The movement of the spring can also be audible.
- In addition, some keyboards use a metal positioning plate, which can create additional resonance in the keyboard housing due to the vibration of the switch.
What makes a mechanical keyboard quiet?
1. Quiet switch
Quiet switches are not structurally very different from conventional switches. They have a similar basic structure and work on the same principle as other mechanical switches. The method for making switches quiet is actually quite simple.
Quiet switches have special rubber bumpers on the switch rods - both at the top and bottom. These bumpers absorb the impact of the switch when it hits the case, thus dampening the noise when the keys are pressed and released.
2. Keycaps
The material of the keycaps also plays an important role in reducing noise. Some high-quality mechanical keyboards use keycaps made of polymer materials such as PBT or POM, which are not only particularly durable and feel good, but also have sound-absorbing properties. The surface treatment of the keycaps (eg by matting or coating) can also affect the volume of the typing noise.
3. Structural optimization
The overall structure of a mechanical keyboard also has a major impact on noise levels. Some mechanical keyboards are specifically designed with noise reduction in mind, using materials such as sound-absorbing cotton or shock-absorbing pads to reduce resonances within the keyboard and minimize noise. Thoughtful component layout and an optimized assembly process also help reduce the noise level of the keyboard.
With these adjustments, quiet mechanical keyboards can provide the typical tactile typing experience while keeping noise pollution to a minimum. Whether in the office, in the library or when gaming at night, these keyboards are the perfect solution for those who prefer mechanical switches without having to sacrifice quiet.
The best quiet mechanical switches
Akko Penguin Switch
The Akko Penguin Silent Switches are designed to provide a smooth and quiet typing experience without compromising performance. Featuring a 5-pin linear switch and 35g actuation force, these switches are ideal for those who prefer minimal noise levels - whether you're working in a quiet office or gaming late at night.
Akko Fairy Switch
The Akko Fairy Silent Switches are designed for those who value a quiet typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Compatible with most mechanical keyboards, the Akko Fairy Silent Switches are the perfect choice for a sleek and understated setup.
Choosing the quiet mechanical keyboard
1. Choose pre -built quiet mechanical keyboards
First, you should clarify your budget. The quality and functions of the keyboards vary depending on the price range.
Second, consider your needs. If you're primarily typing, quiet tactile switches might be a better choice, as they allow for quiet operation without sacrificing haptic feedback. For gamers, silent linear switches are often more suitable, as they allow for quick and smooth keystrokes without distracting noise.
Also pay attention to the type of switches and the material of the keycaps, as both affect the typing feel and user experience.
Last but not least, don't overlook the brand and customer service. Buying from well-known brands like AKKO ensures that you will receive timely support when you need it.
2. Custom -made quiet mechanical keyboards
For those who like to customize their keyboards, building a keyboard with quiet switches is a great option. You can choose every component yourself - from the case to the keycaps to the quiet switches that best suit your typing experience.
With this information, you can choose the perfect quiet mechanical keyboard that meets your needs - whether pre-built or self-built.
Conclusion: Are quiet mechanical keyboards the right choice for you?
If you enjoy the comfort and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard, but work or play in a quiet environment, then a quiet mechanical keyboard is a great solution. It offers the best of both worlds: quiet typing and the typical mechanical typing feel. With the right switches or additional dampers, you can keep typing noise to a minimum without sacrificing the benefits of a mechanical keyboard.
Whether in the office, at home or in a gaming setup, a quiet mechanical keyboard could be just what you need to type efficiently and without interruption.
