Most people understand that mechanical keyboards make more noise.
But they do not know how loud they can get or what makes them so noisy.
This article explores how switches affect the level of noise, the pros and cons of loud keyboards, and what you can do to dampen the noise.
So what makes mechanical keyboards so loud?
Mechanical keyboards are loud because of the mechanical keyboard switches that register each key press. This is unlike the rubber dome construction of membrane or non-mechanical keyboards – these
There are different types of mechanical switches available, each of which produces different amounts of noise.
But regardless of the type of switch you choose for a mechanical keyboard they will always be louder than your average membrane keyboard.
What are the different types of keyboard switch?
While all mechanical keyboards make at least some noise, the level depends on the type of switches the manufacturer uses.
These come in three basic varieties:
- Linear switches
- Tactile switches
- Clicky switches
And these switches are different enough to each other that the same keyboard can have a completely different feel depending on the type of switch used.
Switches also come in different colors to indicate certain performance styles (and levels of noise).
Linear keyboard switches
Linear keyboard switches are the simplest of the different type of switches.
They feel the same throughout the typing process, meaning there is no difference from the moment you press the key to when you bottom out.
Linear switches are also the quietest option, and there is no tactile feedback or noise associated with them.
Most of the noise from keyboards with linear switches comes from repeatedly bottoming out on the key presses.
This is where the key presses register, usually in the middle of the keystroke, but you won’t hear it with a linear switch.
Tactile keyboard switches
A tactile keyboard switch provides more tactile feedback when you hit the actuation point. You usually notice a small bump when pressing the key down, and this gives you physiological feedback that the key press has taken place.
Although this occurs at a psychological level more than a conscious one.
This makes it easier to stop the keystroke before bottoming out, but the “bump” is accompanied by a small click. Each key press makes a clicking noise when it registers.
Tactile keyboard switches cover the middle ground between quiet feedback and loud, clicky feedback.
Clicky keyboard switches
A clicky keyboard switch provides an extra click sound when you hit the actuation point, much louder than the one offered by the tactile switches.
People who like loud keyboards usually prefer clicky keyboard switches, and they do not mind the extra indicator that the press registered.
But loud clicky keyboards are rarely popular in the workplace or in shared living spaces – the noise is simply too much for some people to bear.
Keyboard Switch Colors
Keyboard switches come in different colors to indicate the type of switch and the actuation force required to fully depress a key.
The most popular keyboard switch colors in order of actuation force are:
- Red switches (45g – linear)
- Brown switches (45g – tactile)
- Blue switches (50g – clicky)
- Black switches (60g – linear)
- Clear switches (65g – tactile)
- Green switches (80g – clicky)
This list also indicates the noise generated by each type of switch in ascending order.
The benefits of loud mechanical keyboards
While the benefits of loud mechanical keyboards are not the result of massive testing, there is plenty of circumstantial evidence to support their:
- Satisfying sounds
- Traditional keyboard experience
- Improved typing times
As long as you can handle the clicking noise, a mechanical keyboard might offer up little audible rewards as you push through your work.
The feel of the keyboard is similar to a typewriter, and this offers a more traditional typing experience.
Anyone who feels an affinity or fondness for vintage or retro items will enjoy the more tactile experience you enjoy when using a mechanical keyboard.
Both of these benefits help with your typing speed, believe it or not.
The tactile and audio feedback lets you know you’ve fully depressed the key.
The disadvantages of loud mechanical keyboards
The most noteworthy disadvantage of a mechanical keyboard is the amount of noise they generate.
While some people don’t mind it or can get used to it, not everyone is going to be okay with the noise coming from your keyboard.
Depending on the situation, this can lead to:
- Avoiding work because you don’t like the keyboard
- Decreased co-worker performance
- Headaches and other tension reactions
Even if the sound does not bother you, you might need to look to other options if you work close enough to bother your coworkers.
At worst, swap out your clicky switches for some linear ones instead.
Wrapping things up
Mechanical keyboards are loud, but the level of noise varies depending on the switch type, switch color, and how much force you use when typing, gaming, etc.
You can swap out the loud clicky switches for quieter linear ones.
But at worst you can use a membrane keyboard is that means being able to keep the peace in your home or office.
