Why Are Mechanical Keyboards So Loud And How To Quiet Them Affordably

Mechanical keyboards have earned a loyal following for their tactile feedback, durability, and typing precision. But one of their most noticeable traits—especially in shared spaces—is the noise they produce. The sharp, rhythmic clack of switches can be satisfying for some but disruptive for others. If you’ve ever been asked to “quiet down” while typing, or if you’re simply tired of waking up your household at midnight, you’re not alone. The good news is that mechanical keyboard noise isn’t permanent or unavoidable. With the right knowledge and tools, you can significantly reduce the sound—without spending hundreds on a new board.

The key lies in understanding what causes the noise and applying targeted, budget-friendly modifications. From switch selection to DIY dampening techniques, this guide breaks down the science behind mechanical keyboard acoustics and delivers practical solutions anyone can implement at home.

Why Mechanical Keyboards Are So Loud

The distinctive sound of a mechanical keyboard comes from several sources working in tandem: the switch mechanism, the keycap material, the keyboard housing, and even the surface it rests on. Unlike membrane keyboards, which use rubber domes to register keystrokes, mechanical keyboards rely on individual physical switches under each key. Each press involves multiple mechanical actions—actuation, bottoming out, and rebound—all of which generate sound.

Cherry MX Blue switches, for example, are notorious for their audible click. This is due to an internal mechanism called a “click jacket,” which produces a sharp snapping sound when the key is pressed past the actuation point. Even non-clicky switches like Cherry MX Reds or Browns create noise from the spring tension and plastic-on-plastic contact between components.

Bottoming out—the moment the keycap hits the PCB (printed circuit board) or plate—adds another layer of impact noise. On rigid aluminum cases or thin plastic housings, this creates a hollow or sharp \"clack.\" Similarly, when the key rebounds and the stem returns to its resting position, the spring oscillates and may rattle slightly, contributing to overall auditory output.

“Switch design and housing materials are the two biggest contributors to keyboard noise. It’s not just about the switch type—it’s how the entire system interacts.” — Jordan Lee, Keyboard Acoustics Researcher, Input Devices Lab

Tip: Typing technique affects volume. Lighter keystrokes with less bottoming out can reduce noise by up to 30%.

How to Choose Quieter Switches

The easiest way to reduce keyboard noise is to start with quieter switches. Not all mechanical switches are created equal when it comes to sound. Here’s a breakdown of common switch types and their relative noise levels:

Switch Type	Noise Level	Sound Profile	Affordability
Cherry MX Blue	High	Sharp, clicky, crisp	$$$
Kailh Box White	High	Loud tactile click	$$
Cherry MX Red	Medium	Smooth, linear, moderate clack	$$$
Gateron Yellow	Medium-Low	Linear with soft landing	$$
Zinc Gateron Silent Reds	Low	Dampened linear, minimal noise	$$
Matias Quiet Click	Low-Medium	Tactile with muffled click	$$$

If you're buying a new keyboard or replacing switches, prioritize silent or low-noise variants. Gateron Silent Reds or Yellows feature built-in dampeners inside the switch stem, reducing both bottom-out and spring noise. Matias switches use a unique mechanism that eliminates the traditional click bar, offering tactile feedback without the piercing snap.

For existing keyboards, switch replacement is possible if your board uses hot-swap sockets. For soldered boards, desoldering and resoldering is required—a more advanced mod—but still cost-effective compared to buying a whole new keyboard.

Affordable Modifications to Reduce Noise

You don’t need to replace your entire keyboard to make it quieter. Several low-cost modifications can dramatically improve sound quality. Most require only basic tools and materials available online for under $20.

1. Lubing the Switches

Applying lubricant to mechanical switches reduces friction between moving parts, smoothing out the press and minimizing spring ping and scratchy sounds. Common areas to lube include the switch stem, spring, and housing.

Use a light, non-conductive grease like Krytox GPL 105 or Tribosys 3203. A little goes a long way—one tube can last dozens of switches. Use a small brush or cotton swab to apply sparingly. Avoid over-lubing, which can attract dust and degrade performance over time.

2. Installing O-Rings or Dampeners

Silicone O-rings fit around keycap stems and cushion the impact when keys bottom out. They’re inexpensive (under $10 for a full set) and easy to install. Simply pop off your keycaps, slide an O-ring onto each stem, then reattach the caps.

O-rings do slightly alter the typing feel by reducing travel distance, so experiment with thickness (typically 0.5mm to 1.5mm). Thicker rings offer more noise reduction but may feel mushy to experienced typists.

3. Adding Foam Inside the Case

Hollow spaces inside the keyboard case amplify sound like a drum. Inserting acoustic foam dampens internal resonance and reduces echo. Closed-cell foam sheets cut to size and placed between the PCB and case back can cut high-frequency noise significantly.

This mod requires opening the keyboard, but no soldering. Just unscrew the case, place the foam, and reassemble. Even a $5 foam kit from Amazon can make a noticeable difference.

4. Using a Gasket Mount or Silicone Pad

Some keyboards come with gasket mounts that suspend the PCB on soft silicone, absorbing vibrations. If yours doesn’t, you can simulate this effect by placing a thin silicone pad underneath the PCB before closing the case. This softens impacts and isolates the board from the shell.

5. Replacing Keycaps

Thicker, heavier keycaps made from PBT plastic absorb more vibration than thin ABS caps. Doubleshot PBT keycaps not only last longer but also produce a deeper, more muted sound. Brands like GMK or SA are premium, but budget options from NovelKeys or KTT offer excellent value.

Tip: Combine thick PBT keycaps with O-rings for a dramatic drop in noise without changing switches.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Quiet Your Keyboard on a Budget

Follow this sequence to achieve maximum noise reduction with minimal investment:

1. Assess your current setup. Identify the loudest sources: switch clicks, bottom-out clack, or case resonance.
2. Adjust typing habits. Lighten your keystrokes to avoid bottoming out completely.
3. Add O-rings. Install 1mm silicone dampeners on all keycap stems.
4. Open the case and add foam. Cut foam to fit the backplate and insert it before reassembling.
5. Lube the switches. Disassemble switches (or use switch pullers for hot-swap) and apply lubricant to stems and springs.
6. Upgrade keycaps. Replace thin ABS caps with heavier PBT doubleshot sets.
7. Test and refine. Type for a few days, then adjust—remove O-rings if too mushy, add more foam if echo persists.

Total cost: Under $30 if you already own basic tools. Time required: 2–4 hours, spread over a weekend.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Home Office Transformation

Sarah, a freelance writer living in a studio apartment, loved her mechanical keyboard but kept getting complaints from her roommate during late-night writing sessions. Her board used Cherry MX Blues with thin ABS keycaps—among the loudest combinations possible.

She started by ordering a $7 pack of O-rings and applied them across all keys. That reduced peak noise enough to stop immediate complaints. Encouraged, she bought a $12 acoustic foam kit and installed it inside the case. Next, she purchased a $15 tube of Krytox 105 and lubed all 61 switches over two evenings.

Finally, she replaced her keycaps with a budget PBT set from a third-party vendor. After all mods, her keyboard was nearly 60% quieter based on decibel measurements taken with her phone app. More importantly, her roommate stopped wearing headphones just to watch TV. Sarah achieved professional-grade quietness for under $40.

Do’s and Don’ts of Keyboard Soundproofing

Do	Don't
Use non-conductive lubricants	Apply WD-40 or household oils (they attract dust and degrade plastic)
Start with one mod at a time	Overload switches with too much lube
Try O-rings before switching switches	Use electrical tape inside the case (fire hazard and ineffective)
Keep screws organized during disassembly	Force components that don’t fit—measure twice
Watch teardown videos for your specific model	Ignore compatibility—check switch type and case design first

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a mechanical keyboard as quiet as a laptop?

While you won’t match the near-silent operation of modern laptop keyboards, significant reductions are possible. With lube, foam, O-rings, and quiet switches, a mechanical keyboard can become subtle enough for libraries or shared offices. The goal is functional quietness—not silence.

Will lubing my switches void the warranty?

In most cases, yes. Opening the case or modifying switches typically voids manufacturer warranties. However, many enthusiasts consider this a fair trade for customization. Check your brand’s policy—some, like Logitech or Corsair, are stricter than niche brands like Drop or Varmilo.

Are there completely silent mechanical switches?

Truly silent mechanical switches don’t exist—mechanical action inherently produces some sound. However, “silent” labeled switches (like Gateron Silent Reds) use internal padding to suppress noise by up to 40%. They’re the closest thing to silent while retaining mechanical benefits.

Final Checklist: Affordable Ways to Quiet Your Keyboard

• ✅ Use O-rings to cushion bottom-out impact
• ✅ Add acoustic foam inside the case
• ✅ Lube switches with Krytox or Tribosys
• ✅ Replace keycaps with heavy PBT versions
• ✅ Consider swapping to silent switches (if hot-swap supported)
• ✅ Type with less force to minimize noise naturally
• ✅ Place keyboard on a padded surface or desk mat

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Typing Experience

The loudness of mechanical keyboards isn’t a flaw—it’s a byproduct of their design, one that many users initially embrace. But as work environments evolve and shared spaces become the norm, managing noise becomes a matter of courtesy and comfort. The best part? You don’t need deep pockets or engineering skills to make a real difference.

With simple, proven modifications, you can transform a noisy board into a smooth, quiet typing companion. Whether you’re a night owl, a remote worker, or just someone who values peace, these affordable fixes put control back in your hands. Start small—try O-rings or foam—and build from there. Your ears, your coworkers, and your household will thank you.

💬 Have you successfully quieted your mechanical keyboard? Share your favorite mod or tip in the comments—your experience could help someone find their perfect silent setup!