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

When selecting a mechanical keyboard for daily use—especially in shared spaces like offices or open-plan workspaces—the choice of switch can significantly impact both your productivity and your coworkers’ comfort. Among the most popular options are Cherry MX Blue and Cherry MX Red switches, each offering distinct tactile feedback and auditory characteristics. While both are widely used, their noise profiles differ dramatically. Understanding these differences helps you make an informed decision that balances typing satisfaction with workplace etiquette.

The core distinction lies in how each switch registers keystrokes and the physical sensation (and sound) it produces. Blues are known for their pronounced tactile bump and audible click, while Reds offer a smooth, linear press with minimal sound. For environments where quiet is valued, this contrast becomes critical.

Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Switch Types

Mechanical switches operate through individual spring-loaded mechanisms beneath each keycap. Unlike membrane keyboards, which rely on rubber domes, mechanical switches provide consistent actuation force and durability across millions of keystrokes. However, not all mechanical switches behave the same way. They fall into three main categories:

• Linear – Smooth press from top to bottom with no bump or click (e.g., Red, Black)
• Tactile – Noticeable bump halfway through the press without an audible click (e.g., Brown, Clear)
• Clicky – Tactile bump combined with a sharp, audible \"click\" sound (e.g., Blue, Green)

Cherry MX Blue switches belong to the clicky category, designed to mimic the sound and feel of vintage typewriters. This makes them satisfying for some typists but potentially disruptive in quiet settings. In contrast, Cherry MX Reds are linear switches favored by gamers and writers who prefer silent, uninterrupted keystrokes.

Sound Comparison: Blue vs Red Switches

The primary concern in an office environment is noise. Even subtle sounds can accumulate and become distracting when multiple people are working nearby. To evaluate suitability, we must consider both decibel output and perceived intrusiveness.

Cherry MX Blue switches produce a high-pitched \"click\" at every keystroke due to an internal metal bar snapping into place. Independent audio tests show that typing on Blue switches averages between 50–65 dB—comparable to normal conversation levels. Over hours of continuous typing, this repetitive clicking can be grating to others, especially in libraries, meeting rooms, or quiet zones.

In comparison, Cherry MX Reds register around 40–50 dB during regular use. Without any intentional acoustic design, their operation is much quieter because they lack the click mechanism entirely. The only sound comes from the keycap hitting the top housing and bottoming out, which can be further reduced with dampening materials like O-rings or foam mods.

Tip: If you're unsure about switch noise, try using a keyboard tester tool or visit a local electronics store with demo units before purchasing.

Real-World Office Scenario: A Case Study

Consider Sarah, a software developer working in a hybrid office setup. Her team shares a large open space with six other colleagues. Initially excited about her new mechanical keyboard with Blue switches, she quickly noticed side glances and comments like “Is that a typewriter?” after just two days. One teammate even asked if she could mute her keyboard during video calls.

After switching to a model with Red switches, the ambient noise dropped noticeably. Teammates reported improved focus, and Sarah found she could type faster without subconscious hesitation caused by self-consciousness over noise. Interestingly, her typing accuracy also improved slightly—likely due to reduced mental fatigue from worrying about disturbing others.

This scenario illustrates that while personal preference matters, environmental awareness plays a crucial role in professional settings.

Typing Experience and Performance Differences

Beyond volume, the typing experience varies significantly between Blue and Red switches, influencing long-term comfort and efficiency.

Cherry MX Blue switches have a 50g actuation force and a distinct tactile bump at 2.4mm of travel, followed by a sharp click. This feedback helps typists know exactly when a keystroke is registered, reducing errors. Many writers and coders appreciate this precision. However, the effort required to reset the key after each press can lead to finger fatigue over extended sessions.

Cherry MX Red switches require only 45g of force and offer uniform resistance throughout the stroke. Their linearity allows for rapid double-taps and smoother rollover—ideal for fast typists and gamers. Because there’s no tactile interruption, users often develop a lighter touch, minimizing both noise and strain.

Feature	Cherry MX Blue	Cherry MX Red
Switch Type	Clicky	Linear
Actuation Force	50g	45g
Actuation Point	2.0 mm	2.0 mm
Total Travel Distance	4.0 mm	4.0 mm
Tactile Feedback	Yes (with click)	No
Audible Click	Yes	No
Average Noise Level	50–65 dB	40–50 dB
Best For	Typists who enjoy feedback; home use	Gamers, fast typists, office environments

“While Blue switches deliver unmatched tactile confirmation, their sound profile makes them poorly suited for collaborative workspaces. In professional environments, discretion should outweigh sensory preference.” — James Lin, Ergonomic Equipment Consultant

Alternatives and Modifications for Quieter Typing

If you love the feel of mechanical keyboards but need to maintain a quiet workspace, several alternatives and modifications exist.

Quieter Switch Options

• Cherry MX Brown – Offers tactile feedback without the click. Slightly louder than Reds but far less intrusive than Blues.
• Cherry MX Silent Red – A variant of the Red switch with built-in dampeners that reduce noise by up to 30%.
• Gateron Yellow or Milky switches – Often used as smoother, quieter alternatives to Blues and Reds with similar performance.
• Zilent or Kailh Low-Profile switches – Designed specifically for low-noise operation in compact designs.

Noise-Reduction Techniques

Even with louder switches, modding can help minimize disruption:

1. O-rings – Rubber rings placed under keycaps to cushion impact and reduce bottom-out noise.
2. Keyboard foam – Inserted inside the case to absorb internal echoes and hollow sounds.
3. Keycap material – PBT plastic tends to produce a deeper, less shrill sound than ABS.
4. Desk mat or wrist rest with padding – Helps dampen vibrations transmitted through the surface.

Tip: Combine Silent Red switches with a foam-lined case and PBT keycaps for one of the quietest mechanical experiences possible.

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

Selecting the appropriate switch involves more than just preference—it requires assessing your environment and usage patterns. Follow this process:

1. Evaluate your workspace – Is it open-concept, shared, or private? Private offices allow more flexibility; shared desks demand restraint.
2. Assess your typing habits – Do you type lightly or slam keys? Heavy typists amplify noise regardless of switch type.
3. Determine primary use – Writing, coding, gaming, or data entry? Gamers benefit from linear speed; editors may prefer tactile cues.
4. Test before buying – Use online sound comparison videos or visit retailers with live demos.
5. Consider switch modularity – Some keyboards support hot-swappable switches, letting you change types later without soldering.
6. Consult coworkers informally – Ask if occasional keyboard noise bothers them—this builds empathy and prevents conflict.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Blue switches really too loud for the office?

Yes, in most standard office environments, Cherry MX Blue switches are considered too loud. Their consistent clicking creates a rhythmic distraction that many find irritating, particularly during phone calls, recordings, or deep-focus tasks. While acceptable in private offices or homes, they’re generally discouraged in shared spaces.

Can I use Blue switches if I type softly?

Typing softly reduces noise, but the inherent click mechanism still produces a sharp sound. Even light touches generate noticeable audio, especially in quiet rooms. It’s unlikely to eliminate complaints entirely, so proceed with caution.

Do Red switches wear out faster than Blue?

No. Both Cherry MX Red and Blue switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes. Durability is nearly identical. Wear depends more on hygiene, dust exposure, and usage intensity than switch type.

Checklist: Is Your Keyboard Office-Friendly?

• ✅ Does it use linear or non-clicky tactile switches (e.g., Red, Brown, Silent variants)?
• ✅ Is the overall typing sound below 50 dB?
• ✅ Have you added internal foam or O-rings to reduce resonance?
• ✅ Are keycaps made of dense material like PBT?
• ✅ Have you tested it in your actual workspace with others present?
• ✅ Would you be comfortable hearing this keyboard eight hours a day?

Final Recommendation: Prioritize Respect Over Preference

While Cherry MX Blue switches offer a satisfying, retro-inspired typing experience, their loud, repetitive clicking makes them unsuitable for most office environments. The constant auditory feedback may boost your rhythm, but it risks disrupting concentration, inviting complaints, or creating tension among colleagues.

Cherry MX Red switches, on the other hand, strike an ideal balance: responsive enough for precise input, smooth enough for long sessions, and quiet enough to respect shared silence. When paired with thoughtful accessories and proper technique, they deliver performance without intrusion.

In professional settings, the best keyboard isn’t necessarily the one that feels best to you—it’s the one that lets everyone else stay focused too.

💬 Have you experienced noise issues with mechanical keyboards at work? Share your story or solution in the comments to help others choose wisely.