Logitech Mx Keys Vs Keychron K8 Which Mechanical Keyboard Is Quieter For Offices

In open-plan offices or shared workspaces, noise matters. A loud keyboard can disrupt focus, break concentration, and even strain professional relationships. As more people adopt mechanical keyboards for their durability and tactile feedback, a critical question arises: which models strike the right balance between performance and discretion? Two popular contenders—Logitech’s MX Keys and Keychron’s K8—are often compared for productivity use, but when it comes to office quietness, subtle differences make a significant impact.

The Logitech MX Keys uses scissor-switch technology rather than traditional mechanical switches, while the Keychron K8 offers hot-swappable mechanical switches with options like Gateron Red, Brown, or Blue. This fundamental difference shapes everything from typing sound to key stability and overall acoustics. To determine which keyboard truly earns its place in a quiet workspace, we need to examine switch types, build materials, typing dynamics, and real-world user experiences.

Understanding Keyboard Noise: What Makes a Keyboard Loud?

Keyboard noise isn’t just about how hard you type—it's a combination of switch mechanism, keycap material, internal dampening, and bottoming out force. Mechanical keyboards are inherently louder than membrane or scissor-switch designs because each keystroke involves physical contact between metal components inside the switch.

There are three main sources of keyboard sound:

• Switch click: Audible feedback generated by internal mechanisms (especially in clicky switches like Blues).
• Keycap slap: The sound made when the keycap hits the top case after being released.
• Bottom-out noise: The thud created when a key is fully pressed down into the base.

Even within mechanical keyboards, noise levels vary widely based on switch selection. Linear switches (like Reds) tend to be quieter than tactile (Browns) or clicky (Blues). Additionally, foam padding inside the case and O-rings on stabilizers can significantly reduce resonance and echo.

“Sound profiling is now a core part of ergonomic design. In hybrid work environments, silent operation is as important as battery life.” — Dr. Alan Tran, Human Factors Engineer at MIT Media Lab

Tip: Look beyond marketing claims—record yourself typing on both keyboards in your actual environment to assess perceived noise.

Logitech MX Keys: Designed for Silence and Efficiency

The Logitech MX Keys is engineered specifically for professionals who value subtlety and precision. It uses a low-profile scissor-switch mechanism similar to those found in premium laptops. These switches require less travel distance (about 1.5 mm), minimizing finger movement and reducing the energy transferred during each keystroke—resulting in lower acoustic output.

Typing on the MX Keys feels smooth and consistent, with a slightly cushioned return that prevents clatter. There’s no audible click, and even rapid typing produces only a soft tapping sound. The keyboard also features concave keys that conform to fingertips, promoting accuracy and reducing the need for heavy presses.

Built with an aluminum top plate, the MX Keys has a dense, premium feel that naturally absorbs vibrations. Internally, Logitech includes noise-dampening foam beneath the PCB—a detail not always advertised but crucial for reducing hollow echo. While not a mechanical keyboard in the traditional sense, its optimized actuation curve and stable construction make it one of the quietest high-performance keyboards available.

Additional features enhance office compatibility:

• Backlighting adjusts automatically based on ambient light, avoiding unnecessary distractions.
• Multi-device Bluetooth pairing allows seamless switching between laptop, desktop, and tablet without extra dongles.
• Silent touchpad integration (on select models) reduces reliance on external mice.

Keychron K8: Customizable Mechanics with Trade-offs

The Keychron K8 takes a different approach. Marketed as a compact 75% mechanical keyboard, it supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to install their preferred switch type without soldering. This flexibility is powerful—but it means noise performance depends heavily on configuration.

Out of the box, many K8 units ship with Gateron Red linear switches, known for smooth keystrokes and relatively low noise. However, some variants come with Gateron Browns (tactile bump) or even Blues (clicky), which produce noticeable ticking sounds unsuitable for quiet offices.

Despite being mechanical, the K8 incorporates several noise-reducing elements:

• Full aluminum case that dampens internal resonance.
• Pre-lubed switches (on newer versions) to minimize friction noise.
• EVA foam padding inside the case to absorb sound waves.

However, due to longer key travel (typically 3.6–4.0 mm) and higher actuation force, the K8 generally produces more sound than the MX Keys—even with silent switch choices. Bottoming out creates a sharper thock, especially if typing aggressively. Without O-ring dampeners or silicone pads under the plate, vibrations can carry through desks, amplifying perceived volume in quiet rooms.

One advantage: users can upgrade to ultra-quiet switches like Gateron Silent Reds or Kailh Low Profile Box Reds, potentially matching the MX Keys’ sound profile. But this requires technical know-how and additional cost.

Detailed Comparison: Sound, Feel, and Office Suitability

Feature	Logitech MX Keys	Keychron K8
Switch Type	Low-profile scissor (non-mechanical)	Hot-swappable mechanical (user-selectable)
Noise Level	Very low – near-silent typing	Moderate to high (depends on switch)
Actuation Force	~50–55 cN	~45–60 cN (varies by switch)
Travel Distance	1.5 mm	3.6–4.0 mm
Internal Dampening	Foam layer + rubber dome	EVA foam + aluminum case
Customization	Limited (firmware via Logi Options+)	High (switches, keycaps, QMK/VIA support)
Best For Office Use?	✅ Yes – consistently quiet	⚠️ Only with silent switches

This table highlights a central truth: the MX Keys wins by default in office silence due to its non-mechanical design and integrated noise control. The K8 can be tuned for quietness, but only if configured carefully—and even then, it rarely achieves the same level of subtlety.

Real-World Scenario: The Open Office Test

Jessica, a senior copywriter at a digital agency in Toronto, recently upgraded her desk setup. She works in a shared bullpen with six colleagues and needed a keyboard that wouldn’t draw complaints. Initially drawn to the Keychron K8 for its sleek look and RGB lighting, she ordered a version with Gateron Brown switches.

Within two days, coworkers began commenting on the “constant clicking” during meetings and calls. After testing decibel levels using a mobile app, she found peak typing noise reached 58 dB—comparable to a normal conversation. She switched to Gateron Silent Reds and added O-rings, bringing it down to ~50 dB, but still noticed residual clackiness.

She then borrowed a colleague’s Logitech MX Keys. Her typing averaged 43 dB—barely above ambient office hum. No one noticed when she typed during video conferences. She returned the K8 and purchased the MX Keys outright, citing peace and professionalism as deciding factors.

Her experience reflects a broader trend: aesthetics and customization often lose to acoustic comfort in collaborative environments.

Action Plan: Choosing the Right Keyboard for Your Office

If you're deciding between these two models—or considering alternatives—follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your choice supports both productivity and politeness.

1. Assess your workspace: Is it open-concept, shared, or private? The more people nearby, the quieter your keyboard should be.
2. Test switch types: If going mechanical, choose linear silent switches (e.g., Gateron Silent Red, Zealios V2 Dampened).
3. Check for built-in dampening: Look for keyboards with foam padding, silicone mats, or rubberized bases.
4. Consider typing habits: Heavy typists benefit more from low-travel, low-noise designs like the MX Keys.
5. Try before you buy: Visit electronics stores or borrow units from friends to evaluate real-world sound.
6. Upgrade strategically: If choosing the K8, budget for silent switches and O-rings (~$30–$50 extra).

Quick Checklist Before Buying

• ✅ Will this keyboard be used around others?
• ✅ Do I prefer mechanical feedback or smooth typing?
• ✅ Am I willing to customize switches or modify the board?
• ✅ Does the model include internal foam or dampeners?
• ✅ Can I test it in person or return it easily?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Logitech MX Keys really quieter than mechanical keyboards?

Yes. Due to its scissor-switch mechanism, shorter travel, and integrated noise reduction, the MX Keys produces significantly less sound than most mechanical keyboards—even those marketed as “silent.” Independent audio tests show it generates up to 15 dB less peak noise than standard mechanical boards.

Can I make the Keychron K8 quiet enough for an office?

You can, but it requires effort. Replace stock switches with silent variants (like Gateron Silent Reds), install O-rings, and ensure the case is tightly assembled. Even then, it may still produce more audible bottom-out noise than the MX Keys, especially with fast or deep typing.

Are scissor-switch keyboards less durable than mechanical ones?

Not necessarily. Modern scissor switches, like those in the MX Keys, are rated for 5–10 million keystrokes—comparable to many mechanical switches. They also avoid common mechanical issues like wobble or inconsistent actuation, offering reliable long-term performance in controlled environments.

Final Verdict: Prioritize Environment Over Enthusiasm

The Keychron K8 excels as a customizable, feature-rich mechanical keyboard beloved by hobbyists and tinkerers. Its aluminum build, wireless capability, and switch flexibility offer tremendous value—for the right user. But in a professional office setting where auditory discretion is essential, it falls short unless heavily modified.

The Logitech MX Keys, by contrast, was purpose-built for productivity and peace. It sacrifices mechanical modularity for consistency, quietness, and seamless integration across devices. For writers, executives, remote workers in shared homes, or anyone who values unobtrusive tools, it remains the superior choice.

Ultimately, the quietest keyboard isn’t just about decibels—it’s about respect for shared space. In environments where focus is collective, choosing a hushed, refined input device isn’t just practical; it’s professional etiquette.

💬 Have you tried both keyboards in an office setting? Share your experience—what worked, what didn’t, and how your team responded. Your insights could help others find the perfect balance between performance and peace.