What are mechanical switches?
Mechanical switches are the heart of a mechanical keyboard. Unlike membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards use individual switch mechanisms to register keystrokes. A mechanical switch is triggered by pressing the stem, which creates an up-and-down movement and connects the contacts on the metal spring.
A mechanical switch consists roughly of four parts: the switch cover, housing, stem, and spring. Some switches also have special structures such as optical fibers. These components influence the typing feel, including the noise level.
Mechanical switches can be divided into three main types:
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Clicky : Known for their audible “click” sound.
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Tactile : Provides noticeable feedback in the form of resistance, but is quieter than clicky switches.
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Linear : Produce a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance and are generally quieter than the other types.
Factors that determine the volume of a switch
1. Switch type
Different switch types produce different amounts of noise. Clicky switches, for example, have a deliberately integrated noise component, while linear switches avoid it entirely.
2. Material of stem and housing
The main source of switch noise is the collision of the stem within the housing. With clicky switches, the characteristic "click-click-click" sound occurs when the lower part of the stem quickly slides over a protrusion on the moving component and hits the floor.
Different stem and housing materials have different degrees of hardness and elasticity, which affect the rebound speed and sound of the switch.
3. Spring material
The material and design of the spring also influence the sound of the switch. High-quality springs can reduce friction, make the switch smoother, and thus reduce noise.
4. Lubricant and degree of lubrication
Different lubricants have different effects on the sound of a switch. High-viscosity lubricants, for example, increase the smoothness of the stem, reduce friction, and thus lower noise.
5. External factors
Changes in temperature and humidity affect the stem's coefficient of friction and the spring's elasticity, thus affecting the sound. In a dry environment, stem friction can increase, amplifying the noise.
In addition, different table materials absorb and reflect sound differently. For example, a wooden table can dampen noise, while glass or metal tables reflect sound, making it seem louder.
What makes a switch quieter?
If you want a switch to be quieter, the most important thing is to minimize the noise of the stem when it hits the floor and lid.
Quiet switches typically reduce noise by adding rubber dampers to the stem, especially at the top and bottom of the switch's impact points. These dampers absorb and reduce the sound both when the switch hits the floor and when it rebounds against the upper housing.
However, this noise reduction also affects the typing experience. Damping can change the feedback and make the typing experience softer.
The 5 quietest mechanical keyboard switches
1. Akko Fairy Switch
Type: Linear
Actuating force: 55±5gf
Total stroke: 3.3 mm
Pre-stroke: 2.0±0.5 mm
Features: The Akko Fairy Switch is designed for a smooth and quiet typing experience. Every keystroke feels soft and consistent, without tactile feedback or loud noises.
Noise level: Very quiet, with a muted bottom-out noise thanks to the smooth movement and special damping.
Best for: Office work, quiet gaming, and low-noise environments.
2. Akko Penguin Switch
Type: Tactile
Actuating force: 50 ± 5gf
Total stroke: 3.3 mm
Pre-stroke: 2.0 ± 0.5 mm
Tactile stroke: 0.4 mm
Tactile force: 65 ± 5gf
Features: The Akko Penguin Switch is another great option from Akko, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience. The focus is on smooth actuation, allowing for a comfortable, near-silent typing experience.
Noise level: Very quiet with minimal bottom-out noise. Designed for users seeking a quiet typing experience without compromising on smoothness.
Best for: Quiet typing sessions and users who prefer tactile switches with smooth actuation.
3. Cherry MX Silent Red
Type: Linear
Features: Cherry MX Silent Red switches are a popular choice for those who need a quiet switch without sacrificing the smoothness of linear switches. They feature integrated noise-dampening technology that significantly reduces typing noise.
Volume: Extremely quiet, especially compared to conventional linear switches.
Best for: Quiet gaming and office environments where noise reduction is critical.
4. Gateron Silent Red
Type: Linear
Features: Gateron Silent Reds are similar to Cherry MX Silent Reds, but are often considered a more affordable alternative. They offer a smooth keystroke with excellent noise reduction thanks to internal dampers.
Volume: Very quiet with minimal bottom-out noise.
Best for: Budget-conscious users looking for a quiet typing experience without sacrificing performance.
5. Razer Yellow (Silent)
Type: Linear
Features: The Razer Silent Yellow Switch is an excellent option for those seeking a quiet typing experience. With a smooth, linear travel and dampened actuation, it produces significantly less noise than other Razer mechanical switches.
Volume: Quiet, with significantly reduced noise compared to Razer Green or Orange switches.
Best for: Gamers and professionals who need quiet, linear switches.
How to choose the right quiet switch for you
1. Based on your needs
Choosing the right silent switch depends on your personal needs and the environment. Do you use your keyboard in a quiet office, library, or at home? Different environments have different requirements for a switch's noise level.
2. Choose the right switch type
Decide whether you prefer a linear or tactile silent switch.
If you want a smooth typing experience without resistance, linear silent switches are a better choice.
If you prefer noticeable feedback when pressing keys without it being too loud, tactile silent switches are ideal.
3. Consider your budget
Consider how much you want to spend and your preferred brand. There are a variety of silent switches on the market, so you can choose a model that meets both your needs and your budget.
4. Check customer reviews
Before making a purchase decision, you should read reviews or, ideally, test the switches. A switch tester will help you find the perfect model for your needs.
Conclusion
Silent switches are an excellent solution for mechanical keyboards in noise-sensitive environments. They significantly reduce noise without compromising the typing experience. If you're looking for the quietest typing experience, linear silent switches are the best choice.
Whether you work in an open-plan office or play at night, quiet switches let you enjoy all the benefits of a mechanical keyboard without disturbing others.
FAQ
Which switch is quieter, Red or Brown?
Red and brown switches are both very popular options for mechanical keyboards. Red switches are generally quieter than brown switches.
The Red switch is a linear switch; it goes directly to the bottom when the key is pressed, has a short actuation travel, and springs back quickly, resulting in relatively low noise. The Brown switch is a tactile switch with clear feedback, making it slightly louder than the Red switch.
If the switch is used in an environment where quiet is required, such as an office, library, or nighttime home use, the Red switch is more suitable due to its lower noise level. If you're typing at home or in a gaming environment and don't care much about noise, the Brown switch's unique feedback could provide a better typing experience.
Are silent switches good for typing?
Silent switches are excellent for typing. Not only do they reduce noise, but they also offer a comfortable typing experience and reliable performance. Of course, you should also consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing a specific product.
The main feature of silent switches is the significant reduction in keystroke noise. This is especially beneficial for users who require a quiet environment, such as in an office, library, or at home at night. They help minimize disturbance to others.
Although the silent switch reduces noise, this doesn't mean the typing experience suffers. Many high-quality silent switches are designed to offer a balance between feel and noise, providing a smooth, comfortable typing experience.
Are linear or tactile switches quieter?
Linear switches are generally quieter than tactile switches.
Linear switches have no tactile section; they go straight to the bottom, with a short actuation stroke and a fast rebound. This design results in linear switches producing relatively little noise when pressed and rebounded.
Tactile switches have distinct feedback and a "click" sound when pressed. While this sound is unique, it will be slightly louder than with linear switches.
