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Although some people may consider mechanical keyboards to be too noisy, others find the sound pleasing, and there are some mechanical keyboards that produce minimal noise. In this article, we delve into the reasons why certain mechanical keyboards are loud, provide a comparison of the average decibel levels of everyday sounds versus mechanical keyboards, and offer suggestions on how to reduce the noise level of your mechanical keyboard.

What is the Volume Level of Mechanical Keyboards?

On average, mechanical keyboards produce a sound range of 50 to 60 decibels (dB) when typing, according to PC World. However, some mechanical keyboards can be much louder, reaching levels of 78 dB or higher during intense keystrokes. In comparison, membrane keyboards typically produce 40 to 50 dB but can peak at 72 dB. To provide some context, normal conversations fall within the 60 to 70 dB range, while vacuum cleaners produce approximately 75 dB (Yale University). Therefore, mechanical keyboards are typically quieter than conversations but can be as loud as vacuum cleaners when used aggressively.

For those who believe that mechanical keyboards are excessively loud, it is worth noting that the average office environment produces a volume level of 60 to 65 dB, making mechanical keyboards quieter than most workplaces. Additionally, many individuals wear headphones while working, either to listen to music or to block out the noise of their surroundings.

Noise	Average Decibels
Normal Conversation	60 – 75 dB
Office Environment	60 – 65 dB
Mechanical Keyboards	50 – 60 dB
Membrane Keyboards	40 – 50 dB

What Causes Mechanical Keyboards to Be Noisier Than Membrane Keyboards?

The primary factor behind the increased noise level of mechanical keyboards is the type of keyboard switches used. Unlike membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards employ mechanical switches that offer superior accuracy, durability, and longevity (some Cherry MX switches are rated for over 100 million keystrokes).

Mechanical switches are popular among writers, programmers, and esports professionals due to their superior performance. There are three primary types of mechanical keyboard switches available:

1. Tactile switches: These switches produce a bump when pressed, along with a dampened click.
2. Linear switches: These switches offer smooth, quiet keystrokes without any bumps or clicks, and can be virtually silent.
3. Clicky switches: These switches produce an audible click sound along with tactile feedback when pressed.

At one end of the spectrum, linear switches such as Cherry MX Silent Red are nearly noiseless. At the other end, clicky switches such as Cherry MX Blue are intended to be loud. Tactile switches such as Cherry MX Brown fall in the middle of the spectrum in terms of noise production.

Switch	Average dB	Max dB
Cherry MX Blue	64 dB	78 dB
Cherry MX Brown	59 dB	74 dB
Cherry MX Silent Red	52 dB	64 dB

What Are Some Additional Factors That Contribute to the Sound Level of Mechanical Keyboards?

Apart from the type of keyboard switches, there are other factors that can influence the noise level of mechanical keyboards, including:

1. Keycaps: Some keycaps produce a distinctive clacking sound when they hit the bottom of the keyboard.
2. Case: Certain keyboard cases feature sound-dampening foam to reduce noise, while others do not.
3. Work Surface: Hard surfaces like metal or wooden desks can amplify keyboard sounds.

For a demonstration of the typical and maximum decibel levels of keyboards with different switches, please refer to the following video.

How to Reduce the Noise Level of Mechanical Keyboards

Although mechanical keyboards are known for their audible clicking sounds, there are several ways to make them quieter. Here are five methods to consider:

Switch to Quieter Switches

Replace the keyboard’s existing switches with quieter mechanical switches that are compatible with the keyboard. Tactile switches such as Cherry MX Brown produce less noise than clicky switches, while linear switches such as Cherry MX Silent Red and Cherry MX Silent Black are among the quietest mechanical switches available.

Apply Lubricant to Switches and Stabilizers

Lubricating the switches and stabilizers can reduce friction and rattle, which can make mechanical keyboards noisy. Mechanical keyboard lubricant is available on Amazon.

Install O-Rings on Keycap Stems

Place rubber O-Rings around keycap stems to dampen the sound when they bottom out. Thinner O-Rings preserve the tactile feel of the keyboard but retain some noise, while thicker O-Rings reduce more sound but can make keystrokes feel mushy.

Add Sound-Dampening Foam to the Case

If the keyboard does not already have it, add sound-dampening foam between the plate and the Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The foam will absorb some of the sound, reducing the noise produced by each keystroke.

Use a Desk Mat

Sound waves reverberate on hard surfaces, which is why using a desk mat is one of the easiest ways to reduce the noise from a mechanical keyboard. With a desk mat under the keyboard, the sound of typing will be absorbed and dampened by the mat.

Mechanical Keyboards: Tactile and Auditory Feedback Preferred by Many

For many people, the combination of tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical keyboards is what makes them appealing. The satisfying click gives them confidence that their keystrokes have registered, which can improve speed and accuracy. Clicky switches are perfect for those who prefer the loudest mechanical keyboards.

Although mechanical keyboards are louder than membrane keyboards, they typically aren’t louder than a typical office environment. However, if the noise bothers colleagues, roommates, or partners, there are options to make mechanical keyboards quieter. Switching to silent switches, using O-Rings, adding sound-dampening foam or a desk mat can reduce the noise level while still enjoying the benefits of a mechanical keyboard.

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