Mechanical Keyboard Red Vs Blue Switches Which One Is Actually Too Loud For The Office

When choosing a mechanical keyboard for daily use—especially in shared workspaces like offices—the switch type matters more than most people realize. Among the most popular options are Cherry MX Red and Blue switches. While both offer distinct typing experiences, their sound profiles differ dramatically. For professionals working in quiet environments, this difference can mean the distinction between seamless integration and constant side-eye from colleagues. Understanding the acoustic behavior, tactile feedback, and real-world performance of red vs blue switches helps determine which is truly too loud for the office.

The Core Differences: Red vs Blue Switches

Cherry MX Red and Blue switches belong to the same family of mechanical key switches but deliver entirely different user experiences. These differences stem from their internal design, actuation force, and feedback mechanisms.

Cherry MX Reds are linear switches. This means they offer a smooth keystroke from top to bottom with no tactile bump or audible click. They require a relatively light actuation force (45g) and have a total travel distance of 4mm, with actuation occurring at 2mm. Because of their linear nature, they’re favored by gamers and typists who prefer speed and consistency without interruption.

Cherry MX Blues, on the other hand, are tactile and clicky. They feature a noticeable bump mid-press and produce a sharp, high-pitched \"click\" sound when the switch activates. Their actuation force is slightly higher at 50g, and they share the same travel distance as Reds. The deliberate auditory feedback makes them satisfying for some typists but disruptive in quiet settings.

Tip: If you're unsure about switch noise, try a switch tester kit before buying a full keyboard.

Noise Levels: Measuring What’s “Too Loud”

Volume is subjective, but it can also be measured objectively. In acoustics, sound pressure level (SPL) is measured in decibels (dB). Ambient office noise typically ranges between 40–60 dB, depending on conversation, HVAC systems, and background activity. A single keystroke on a mechanical keyboard can exceed these levels significantly.

Independent tests using sound meters show that Cherry MX Blue switches produce an average peak sound of around 55–60 dB per keystroke—comparable to normal conversation. The distinctive \"click\" adds high-frequency content that carries farther and feels more intrusive than lower-pitched sounds. In contrast, Cherry MX Reds register between 45–50 dB, closer to a quiet room. Without the mechanical click, their noise is softer, more muffled, and less likely to draw attention.

More importantly, human perception plays a role. Repetitive clicking—even at moderate volume—tends to be more annoying than consistent tapping. Cognitive studies on office distractions show that irregular, unpredictable sounds (like individual clicks) disrupt concentration more than steady background noise. This makes Blue switches particularly problematic in open-plan offices or during conference calls.

“Clicky switches like Cherry MX Blues may enhance typing accuracy for some, but in collaborative environments, they often become a source of passive conflict.” — Dr. Lena Park, Workplace Ergonomics Researcher, MIT Human Factors Lab

Comparative Analysis: Red vs Blue in Office Settings

Feature	Cherry MX Red	Cherry MX Blue
Switch Type	Linear	Tactile & Clicky
Actuation Force	45g	50g
Travel Distance	4.0 mm	4.0 mm
Typing Sound	Low, soft thud	Loud, sharp click
Average Keystroke Noise	45–50 dB	55–60 dB
Tactile Feedback	None	Pronounced bump + audible click
Office Suitability	High – discreet and quiet	Low – disruptive in shared spaces
Best For	Gaming, fast typing, quiet environments	Typists who enjoy feedback, home offices

This comparison highlights why Blue switches are frequently deemed “too loud” for professional settings. While both switches perform reliably, the sensory output of Blues introduces friction in environments where auditory discretion is expected.

Real-World Example: The Open-Plan Office Dilemma

Consider Mark, a software developer at a mid-sized tech firm with an open-floor office layout. He recently upgraded his keyboard to a model with Cherry MX Blue switches, drawn by online reviews praising their “crisp” and “satisfying” feel. Within two days, three coworkers mentioned the noise during casual conversations. One asked if he could mute his keyboard during meetings. His manager eventually brought it up in a one-on-one, noting multiple complaints about distraction during focused work hours.

Mark switched to a keyboard with Red switches and added O-rings to dampen keycap impact. The change was immediate: typing became quieter, less fatiguing for others, and he noticed fewer interruptions. Interestingly, his typing speed remained nearly identical, and he adapted quickly despite initially missing the click feedback.

This scenario reflects a common pattern: users prioritize personal preference without considering environmental impact. The result isn’t just annoyance—it can affect team dynamics, productivity, and even career perception. Being known as “the loud typer” may seem trivial, but in collaborative cultures, small disruptions accumulate.

Alternatives and Modifications for Quieter Typing

Not everyone has to abandon mechanical keyboards to maintain office harmony. Several strategies reduce noise while preserving the benefits of mechanical switches.

Silencing Techniques for Existing Keyboards

• O-rings or dampeners: Rubber rings placed under keycaps absorb impact, reducing bottom-out noise by up to 20%.
• Keycap material: PBT plastic produces a deeper, less sharp sound than ABS. Heavier keycaps also minimize clatter.
• Desk mat or wrist rest padding: Adding foam or gel beneath the keyboard reduces resonance transmitted through desks.
• Lubing switches: Applying lubricant inside switches smooths movement and minimizes internal friction noise—common among enthusiasts.

Quieter Switch Alternatives

If Reds still feel too loud or lack feedback, consider these middle-ground options:

1. Cherry MX Browns: Tactile but non-clicky. Offers a subtle bump without the sharp sound of Blues. Ideal for typists who want feedback without disruption.
2. Zealios or Holy Pandas: High-end custom switches with balanced sound and tactility. Often pre-lubed and designed for premium typing experience.
3. Topre switches: Electro-capacitive, offering a soft, rounded feel with minimal noise. Found in高端 keyboards like Realforce or Happy Hacking.
4. Low-profile mechanical switches: Brands like Kailh or Gateron offer silent variants (e.g., Gateron Silent Red) with noise reduced by up to 30%.

Tip: Combine silent switches with a padded desk mat and PBT keycaps for maximum noise reduction.

Step-by-Step Guide: Choosing the Right Switch for Your Office

Selecting the right mechanical switch involves assessing your environment, typing habits, and social considerations. Follow this sequence to make an informed decision:

1. Evaluate your workspace. Is it open-plan, cubicle-based, or private? The more shared the space, the quieter your keyboard should be.
2. Assess your typing intensity. Heavy bottom-out typists generate more noise. Linear switches with cushioned landings (like Reds) help reduce impact.
3. Test switches in person if possible. Visit electronics stores or borrow devices from friends to hear real-world performance.
4. Consider hybrid solutions. Use a laptop-style scissor-switch keyboard at work and reserve your mechanical board for home.
5. Implement noise-reduction mods. If committed to a mechanical board, invest in O-rings, lubed switches, or foam-lined cases.
6. Monitor feedback. After introducing a new keyboard, observe colleague reactions. Address concerns proactively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cherry MX Blue switches really that loud?

Yes, especially in quiet environments. Their click mechanism produces a sharp, high-frequency sound that stands out even at moderate volumes. In offices with low ambient noise, each keystroke is clearly audible and can distract nearby workers.

Can I make a Blue switch keyboard quiet enough for the office?

You can reduce the noise significantly with modifications—such as switch lubing, foam lining inside the case, O-rings, and using a padded wrist rest—but you cannot eliminate the fundamental click. Even silenced, Blue switches remain louder and more perceptible than Reds or Browns.

Do Red switches wear out faster because they’re lighter?

No. Both Red and Blue switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes by Cherry. Actuation force doesn’t directly correlate with lifespan. Wear depends more on usage patterns, build quality, and maintenance than switch type alone.

Final Verdict: Which Is Actually Too Loud?

The answer is clear: **Cherry MX Blue switches are too loud for most office environments**. Their intentional click design, while enjoyable for some, violates the unspoken etiquette of shared workspaces. The sound is not only objectively louder but also cognitively more distracting due to its repetitive, irregular nature.

Red switches, being linear and silent, present a far more office-friendly option. They allow for fast, fluid typing without drawing auditory attention. For those who miss tactile feedback, Brown switches offer a compromise—providing a bump without the click.

In professional settings, functionality must align with social responsibility. A keyboard should serve its user without imposing on others. While personal preference matters, workplace harmony often requires compromise. Choosing a quieter switch isn’t about sacrificing quality—it’s about respecting shared space.

“The best keyboard is one that enhances your work without disrupting others. Sometimes, silence isn’t just golden—it’s professional.” — James Lin, Keyboard Engineer & Co-founder of Input Devices Review

Take Action Today

If you're currently using a clicky mechanical keyboard at work, consider switching to a quieter alternative—or at least testing how noticeable your typing is to others. Small changes in switch type or accessories can lead to better focus, improved relationships, and a more pleasant work environment for everyone. Your next keyboard upgrade is an opportunity to balance performance with professionalism. Choose wisely.

💬 Have experience with red vs blue switches in the office? Share your story or tips in the comments—your insight could help someone avoid an awkward noise complaint!