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

Mechanical keyboards have earned a loyal following among typists, programmers, and gamers for their tactile feedback, durability, and precision. But one of the most common complaints—especially in shared workspaces or quiet environments—is their noise level. The sharp, clicking sound that many users love can be disruptive to others. So, what makes mechanical keyboards so loud, and more importantly, what can you do about it? This article breaks down the mechanics behind the noise and offers proven, actionable solutions to make your keyboard quieter without sacrificing performance.

The Physics Behind the Noise

The sound produced by a mechanical keyboard comes from multiple sources: the switch mechanism itself, the keycap hitting the top housing, the stem colliding with the bottom of the switch, and even the case resonance. Unlike membrane keyboards, which use rubber domes to register keystrokes, mechanical keyboards rely on individual physical switches under each key. Each press involves several moving parts interacting, and each interaction produces sound.

When you press a key, the stem moves downward, compressing the spring and actuating the switch. As it bottoms out, the plastic stem hits the base of the switch housing—a sound known as \"bottoming out.\" On the rebound, the spring pushes the stem back up, and if the keycap strikes the top plate or case, that adds another layer of noise. In addition, different switch types produce varying levels of sound based on their internal design.

“Switch design is the single biggest factor in keyboard acoustics. Linear, tactile, and clicky switches each have distinct sound profiles due to internal components like bumpers and torsion bars.” — Daniel Park, Keyboard Acoustics Researcher at Input Labs

Switch Types and Their Sound Levels

Not all mechanical switches are created equal when it comes to noise. The three primary categories—linear, tactile, and clicky—each generate different auditory experiences:

• Clicky switches (e.g., Cherry MX Blue, Kailh Box White): These are the loudest. They include an additional component called a “click bar” that snaps into place during actuation, producing a sharp, audible click. This is intentional feedback designed to signal key registration.
• Tactile switches (e.g., Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Clear): These provide a bump in resistance mid-press but lack the deliberate click. They’re quieter than clicky variants but still produce noticeable sound due to the bump mechanism and bottoming out.
• Linear switches (e.g., Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow): Smooth from top to bottom with no bump or click. Generally the quietest stock option, though they can still be noisy if bottomed out forcefully.

Tip: If noise is a concern, avoid clicky switches entirely. Opt for linear or silent tactile variants specifically engineered for reduced sound.

Key Factors That Amplify Keyboard Noise

Beyond switch type, several design and usage factors contribute to overall keyboard volume:

1. Bottoming Out: Hitting the key all the way down increases impact noise significantly. Typing harder than necessary amplifies this effect.
2. Case Material and Design: Plastic cases can resonate and amplify sound. Metal plates or dense ABS housings may reduce vibration, while thin or hollow designs often make keyboards louder.
3. Mounting Style: Top-mounted or tray-mounted keyboards tend to be stiffer and noisier. Gasket-mounted or foam-damped builds absorb vibrations better.
4. Lack of Dampening: Stock keyboards often lack internal foam, silicone pads, or switch mods that suppress echo and reverberation.
5. Keycap Material: Thinner, cheaper ABS keycaps can rattle and produce higher-pitched sounds. PBT keycaps are denser and generally quieter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Quieting Your Mechanical Keyboard

Reducing keyboard noise doesn’t require replacing your entire setup. With careful modifications and adjustments, you can dramatically lower sound output. Follow these steps in order for best results:

Step 1: Install Switch Lubricant

Lubing your switches reduces friction between moving parts, smoothing the keystroke and minimizing high-frequency noise. Focus on the stem rails and spring. Use a light lubricant like Krytox GPL 105 or Tribosys 3204. Note: lubing voids warranties and requires disassembly.

Step 2: Add O-Rings or Silicone Dampeners

O-rings fit around keycap stems and cushion the top-out impact. They slightly alter feel but effectively reduce clatter. Choose 0.25mm to 0.5mm thickness for subtle dampening without mushiness.

Step 3: Apply Bottom-Out Pads

These small foam or silicone stickers attach inside the switch housing to cushion the stem when it reaches the bottom. They reduce the “thock” sound of bottoming out and protect switch longevity.

Step 4: Install Internal Case Foam

Adding foam inside the keyboard case eliminates hollow echo. Closed-cell foams like EVA or neoprene work best. Cut to fit the interior cavity beneath the PCB. Even a thin layer makes a noticeable difference in sound quality.

Step 5: Upgrade to Silent Switches

If modding isn't feasible, consider replacing stock switches with silent variants. Brands like Gateron Silent Reds, Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile, or Kailh Silent Blacks feature built-in dampeners that cut noise by up to 40% compared to standard switches.

Step 6: Use a Soft Landing Mat or Desk Pad

Place your keyboard on a padded surface like a mousepad with a gel base or a dedicated desk mat. This absorbs vibrations transmitted through the desk, reducing ambient noise.

Comparison Table: Noise Reduction Methods

Method	Noise Reduction	Difficulty	Cost	Reversibility
Switch Lubrication	High (up to 30%)	Advanced	$$	Limited
Bottom-Out Pads	Medium (15–20%)	Easy	$	Yes
Internal Case Foam	Medium-High (20–25%)	Easy-Moderate	$	Yes
Silent Switches	Very High (35–40%)	Moderate	$$$	Yes (if hot-swappable)
O-Rings	Low-Medium (10–15%)	Easy	$	Yes
Typing Technique Adjustment	Variable (up to 25%)	None	Free	Always

Real-World Example: The Home Office Transformation

Consider Mark, a software developer working remotely from a shared apartment. His Cherry MX Blue keyboard was a productivity tool but became a point of tension with his partner, who worked late-night shifts. After receiving complaints about the constant clicking, Mark researched quieter alternatives. He started by installing case foam and bottom-out pads—simple, low-cost mods he completed in under an hour. Next, he switched to Gateron Silent Browns and adjusted his typing to avoid bottoming out. The result? A 60% reduction in perceived noise, confirmed using a decibel meter app. His partner noticed the difference immediately, and Mark retained the tactile feedback he relied on for coding accuracy.

Tip: Combine multiple quieting methods for cumulative effects. One mod helps, but layered solutions yield the best results.

Checklist: How to Quiet Your Mechanical Keyboard

Use this checklist to systematically reduce your keyboard’s noise level:

• ✅ Identify your current switch type—avoid clicky switches in quiet environments.
• ✅ Test your typing force—practice lighter keystrokes to minimize bottoming out.
• ✅ Add case foam to eliminate internal echo.
• ✅ Install bottom-out pads to cushion keystroke impact.
• ✅ Consider switching to silent-rated switches if your board supports hot-swap.
• ✅ Lubricate switches for smoother, quieter travel (if experienced).
• ✅ Replace thin keycaps with thicker PBT sets for reduced rattle.
• ✅ Place the keyboard on a padded surface to absorb vibrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make any mechanical keyboard quiet, or do I need a special model?

Most mechanical keyboards can be made significantly quieter with modifications like foam, dampeners, and switch upgrades. However, keyboards with gasket mounts and dense cases tend to respond better to acoustic tuning. Hot-swap support also makes switch replacement easier.

Do silent switches feel different from regular ones?

Silent switches typically feel slightly softer due to integrated dampeners. For example, a Gateron Silent Red has a cushioned bottom-out compared to a standard Red. Most users adapt quickly, and the tactile consistency remains intact.

Is it worth lubing my switches if I just want a quieter board?

Lubing reduces both friction and high-pitched “ping” noises, resulting in a smoother, deeper sound profile. However, it’s time-consuming and irreversible without reassembly. If you're not comfortable desoldering or handling small parts, start with foam and dampeners instead.

Final Thoughts and Action Plan

The loudness of mechanical keyboards is not a flaw—it’s a byproduct of their precision engineering and user feedback design. But in environments where silence matters, the noise can become a liability. The good news is that with today’s customization options, you don’t have to choose between performance and peace. From simple foam inserts to advanced switch modifications, there are scalable solutions for every skill level and budget.

Start by assessing your current setup: identify the noisiest elements, experiment with typing technique, and implement low-risk mods like case foam and bottom-out pads. As you gain confidence, explore silent switches or lubrication for even greater refinement. Every adjustment brings you closer to a keyboard that feels great and respects your surroundings.

🚀 Ready to transform your typing experience? Pick one quieting method from this guide and apply it this week. Share your results in the comments—your journey could inspire others to find their perfect silent stroke.