Mechanical Keyboard Switches Red Vs Blue Is The Clicking Sound Actually Annoying For Coworkers

In open-plan offices and hybrid workspaces, small details can have big consequences. One of the most debated accessories among remote workers, coders, and productivity enthusiasts is the mechanical keyboard. While these devices offer superior tactile feedback and durability, they also bring a contentious side effect: noise. Specifically, the sharp, rhythmic clicking of certain switch types—most notably blue switches—has sparked friction between desk neighbors. But how much of the concern is justified? Are blue switches truly disruptive, or is the annoyance more about perception than decibels? And where do linear red switches stand in this sonic showdown?

This article dives into the technical, psychological, and social dimensions of mechanical keyboard noise. By comparing red and blue switches across measurable metrics and real-world environments, we’ll determine whether your typing style might be bothering others—and what you can do about it.

The Core Difference: Red vs Blue Switches

Mechanical keyboards use individual physical switches under each keycap. These switches vary by design, actuation force, travel distance, and—critically—auditory output. The two most popular variants are Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Blue, often serving as archetypes for entire switch categories.

• Cherry MX Reds are linear switches, meaning they press down smoothly without tactile bumps or audible clicks. They require 45cN of force to actuate and are favored by gamers and typists who prefer quiet, consistent keystrokes.
• Cherry MX Blues are tactile and clicky. They feature a noticeable bump during depression and produce a distinct “clack” due to an internal mechanism that snaps when the key is pressed. They require 50cN of force and are beloved by typists who enjoy auditory feedback.

The click in blue switches isn’t just louder—it’s sharper and higher-pitched, which makes it more attention-grabbing than broadband noise like typing on a laptop.

Tip: If you're in a shared workspace, consider switching to linear (red) or silent variants—even if you love the feel of blues.

Noise Level Comparison: Measured Data vs Perception

It's not enough to say \"blues are louder.\" We need context. Independent acoustic tests using sound meters in controlled environments show clear differences:

Switch Type	Average Decibel (dB)	Tonal Quality	Typing Style Impact
Cherry MX Blue	50–55 dB	Sharp, high-frequency click	Louder with aggressive typing
Cherry MX Red	40–43 dB	Soft thud, no click	Consistent volume regardless of force
Laptop Keyboard (e.g., MacBook)	35–38 dB	Dull, muffled tap	Minimal disruption
Office Background Noise	45–50 dB	Low hum, HVAC, distant speech	Masking potential

At first glance, the difference seems modest—just 7–10 dB. However, human hearing perceives loudness logarithmically. A 10 dB increase sounds roughly twice as loud. More importantly, pitch and rhythm matter. The repetitive, staccato nature of blue switch typing creates a patterned sound that the brain registers as intentional or intrusive, unlike ambient noise.

“Even at moderate volumes, rhythmic, tonal sounds like keyboard clicks are more likely to disrupt concentration than continuous background noise.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Cognitive Psychologist specializing in workplace acoustics

Real-World Impact: A Mini Case Study

Jamie works as a UX designer at a mid-sized tech startup with an open-office layout. When she upgraded to a mechanical keyboard with blue switches, her productivity soared. She loved the precision and feedback. But within a week, two colleagues mentioned they were having trouble focusing during deep work sessions.

One teammate, Raj, explained: “It’s not loud, but it’s… insistent. Like someone tapping a pencil, but constant. I find myself syncing my thoughts to the rhythm, which breaks my flow.”

Jamie didn’t believe it at first—she barely noticed the sound herself. So she conducted a simple test: she borrowed a colleague’s red-switch keyboard for three days and asked nearby teammates to note any difference in distraction levels.

The result? Two out of three said they felt a noticeable improvement in concentration. One even joked, “I didn’t realize how much I was counting her keystrokes until they stopped sounding like Morse code.”

Jamie switched back to a quieter setup—not because blues were objectively unbearable, but because minimizing friction in a collaborative environment mattered more than personal preference.

Why Some People Are More Sensitive Than Others

Noise sensitivity varies widely. Research in environmental psychology shows that factors such as neurodivergence, task type, and personality influence how people react to repetitive sounds.

• ADHD and Autism Spectrum: Individuals with sensory processing differences may find rhythmic clicking especially jarring or overwhelming.
• Deep Work Tasks: Writing, coding, or analytical thinking requires sustained attention. Interruptions—even subtle ones—can cost up to 23 minutes of recovery time per disruption (per a University of California Irvine study).
• Personality Traits: Introverts and those high in neuroticism tend to report greater irritation from uncontrolled noise sources.

Moreover, cultural norms play a role. In Japan, for example, public silence is highly valued, and many office workers use ultra-quiet keyboards or even fingerless gloves to reduce noise. In contrast, Silicon Valley startups often embrace a louder, more dynamic atmosphere where keyboard clatter blends with casual conversation.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether your keyboard bothers others, ask directly—but frame it constructively: “I’ve heard some people find mechanical keyboards distracting. Do mine seem disruptive?”

Practical Solutions: How to Use Mechanical Keyboards Respectfully

You don’t have to sacrifice performance for peace. Here’s how to balance personal preference with workplace harmony.

Step-by-Step Guide to Minimizing Keyboard Noise in Shared Spaces

1. Assess Your Environment: Is your workspace open-plan, cubicle-based, or private? The more shared the space, the higher the need for discretion.
2. Test Sound Levels: Use a free decibel meter app (like Sound Meter or Decibel X) to measure your typing volume at typical speed. Compare it to ambient noise.
3. Try O-Rings or Dampeners: Rubber O-rings placed under keycaps can reduce bottom-out noise by up to 15%. They don’t affect the click itself but soften the overall impact.
4. Switch to Quieter Alternatives: Consider:
   • Cherry MX Reds or other linear switches
   • Silent variants (e.g., Cherry MX Silent Red)
   • Optical switches with dampened housings
5. Use a Desk Mat or Foam Layer: Placing a thick rubberized mousepad or foam under the keyboard absorbs vibrations and reduces resonance through desks.
6. Adopt Lighter Typing Habits: Many users over-press keys. Training yourself to type with less force significantly reduces noise, especially on clicky switches.
7. Go Wireless and Mobile-Friendly: Use a quieter keyboard for office days and reserve the clicky one for home.

Checklist: Is Your Keyboard Office-Friendly?

• ☑ Does your keyboard exceed 45 dB during normal typing?
• ☑ Does it produce a sharp, repetitive click?
• ☑ Are you in a shared or quiet workspace?
• ☑ Have coworkers expressed discomfort—or avoided mentioning it?
• ☑ Do you value team focus over personal auditory feedback?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, it’s worth considering a quieter alternative.

FAQ: Common Questions About Keyboard Noise and Coworkers

Are red switches completely silent?

No switch is truly silent, but reds are significantly quieter than blues. They lack the intentional click mechanism and produce only a soft thud when keys bottom out. For near-silent operation, look for “silent” versions like Gateron Silent Red or Logitech’s Romer-G Tactile.

Can I use a blue switch keyboard at home without issues?

Absolutely. In private settings, there are no social constraints. Many typists report increased satisfaction and typing accuracy with blue switches due to the strong tactile and auditory feedback. Home use is where clicky keyboards shine.

Do all blue switches sound the same?

No. While Cherry MX Blue set the standard, clones and alternatives vary. Kailh Box Whites are louder and crisper; Gateron Blues are smoother and slightly quieter. Some brands add internal padding or use different stem materials to tone down the sound.

Expert Insight: The Social Contract of Shared Workspaces

“In knowledge work, cognitive load is precious. Small, persistent distractions accumulate. Using a loud keyboard in a quiet office is like wearing strong perfume in a small elevator—it might be pleasant to you, but it’s imposed on everyone else.” — Marcus Bell, Workplace Design Consultant at FlowSpace Labs

Bell emphasizes that professional environments rely on mutual respect. “We accept headphones, dimmed lights, and ergonomic chairs as part of individual comfort. But comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of others’ focus. The best workplaces encourage self-awareness.”

Conclusion: Balancing Performance and Politeness

The debate over red vs blue switches isn’t just about specs—it’s about social awareness. Blue switches aren’t inherently bad, nor are red switches the only acceptable choice. The real issue is context. In a private home office, go ahead and enjoy every satisfying clack. But in a shared workspace, the responsibility shifts. What feels empowering to you might be grating to someone three feet away.

Technology should enhance productivity, not create friction. With a wide range of mechanical switches available—from silent linears to muted tactiles—there’s no need to choose between performance and professionalism. A simple switch (literally) can preserve both your typing joy and your coworkers’ concentration.

💬 Have you experienced keyboard-related tension at work? Or found the perfect quiet-yet-responsive switch? Share your story in the comments—your insight could help others strike the right balance.