You bought trendy keyboards that emit loud clickity-clackity sounds thinking you’ll enjoy them once you use them; a lot of gamers and TikTok influencers said they thoroughly enjoyed the sound and even helped them relax.
Guess what? You didn’t enjoy one bit of it and found the noise annoying instead of relaxing.
Imagine working in a shared office space or studying in a library where you need to be quiet, and then everyone hears the rapid succession of clickity-clackity sounds as you type away. Terribly embarrassing!
Now that you’ve experienced it firsthand and are thinking things thru, reducing the volume of your keyboard clicks is a top priority.
Fortunately, there are several simple yet effective methods to help you achieve a quieter typing experience.
In this article, we will explore some practical tips and tricks to help you reduce the volume of your keyboard clicks, allowing you to work or study without disturbing those around you.
From adjusting your typing technique to using specialized keyboard accessories, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re ready to enjoy a more peaceful and productive typing session, let’s dive in and discover how you can minimize the noise of your keyboard clicks.
Understanding Keyboard Click Volume
Before we delve into the various methods of reducing keyboard click volume, it’s important to understand why keyboards make noise in the first place.
Most traditional keyboards, especially mechanical ones, consist of individual switches that produce an audible click sound when pressed.
The volume of these clicks can vary depending on factors such as the type of keyboard, the material it’s made of, and the force with which the keys are pressed.
Some people might find these clicks satisfying and even enjoy the tactile feedback, while others find them distracting and disruptive.
The Importance of Reducing Keyboard Click Volume
Reducing the volume of your keyboard clicks is not just about personal preference; it can have practical benefits as well.
If you work in a shared office space or study in a quiet environment, loud keyboard clicks can be a source of annoyance for those around you.
The constant noise can disrupt concentration and make it difficult for others to focus on their tasks.
By minimizing the volume of your keyboard clicks, you can create a more harmonious and productive environment for everyone.
There are also situations where you might want to reduce keyboard click volume for your own sake.
For example, if you frequently participate in conference calls or record audio while typing, loud keyboard clicks can interfere with the quality of the sound and make it harder for others to understand you.
Additionally, if you work late at night and share a living space with others, the noise of your keyboard clicks can disturb their sleep.
Tips for Reducing Keyboard Click Volume
Now that we understand the importance of reducing keyboard click volume, let’s explore some practical tips and tricks to help you achieve a quieter typing experience.
Adjusting Keyboard Settings
One of the easiest ways to reduce keyboard click volume is by adjusting the settings on your computer.
Most operating systems allow you to customize the sound levels or completely disable keyboard click sounds.
To do this, simply navigate to the sound settings on your computer and look for options related to keyboard clicks.
You may find a slider that allows you to adjust the volume or a checkbox to mute the sound altogether.
Experiment with different settings to find the right balance between audible feedback and quiet typing.
Another setting to consider is the key repeat rate.
When you hold down a key, it starts repeating the character on the screen. However, this rapid repetition can create additional noise.
By adjusting the key repeat rate to a slower speed, you can reduce the number of clicks generated while typing.
This can be particularly useful if you tend to hold down keys for longer durations, such as when playing games or writing long documents.
Using Keyboard Covers or Dampeners
If adjusting the settings on your computer isn’t enough to achieve the desired level of quietness, you can consider using keyboard covers or dampeners.
Keyboard covers are thin silicone or rubber sheets that fit over your keyboard and help muffle the sound of the keys. They are available in various sizes and designs to fit different keyboard models.
Simply place the cover over your keyboard and enjoy a quieter typing experience.
Keyboard dampeners, on the other hand, are small rubber or silicone o-rings that you can install on each key of your mechanical keyboard.
These dampeners absorb the impact of the keys when pressed, reducing the noise produced.
To install them, simply remove the keycap from each key and place the dampener on the stem. Then, reattach the keycap, and you’re good to go.
Keep in mind that not all keyboards are compatible with dampeners, so make sure to check if your keyboard supports this accessory before purchasing.
Choosing a Quieter Keyboard
If you’re in the market for a new keyboard, consider investing in a quieter model. There are several types of keyboards available that are specifically designed to minimize noise.
One popular option is the membrane keyboard, which uses a rubber dome mechanism to register key presses.
These keyboards are known for their quietness and affordability.
Another option is the scissor-switch keyboard, which features a low-profile design and provides a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical keyboards.
Lastly, if you prefer the tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards but want a quieter option, look for keyboards with “silent” or “quiet” switches.
These switches are designed to dampen the sound of the keys while still providing a satisfying tactile feel.
Other Strategies for Reducing Keyboard Noise
In addition to the tips mentioned above, there are several other strategies you can try to further reduce keyboard noise.
One option is to use a desk mat or a soft cloth underneath your keyboard. This can help absorb some of the vibrations and minimize the sound transmitted through the desk surface.
Another strategy is to use a wrist rest. Not only does it provide ergonomic support, but it can also help dampen the sound of your keystrokes by providing a cushioned surface for your wrists to rest on.
Another effective technique is to practice a softer typing technique.
Some people tend to press the keys with excessive force, which can generate more noise.
By consciously typing with a lighter touch, you can significantly reduce the volume of your keyboard clicks.
This might take some time and practice to develop, but it can make a noticeable difference in the overall noise level.
Popular Keyboard Models Known for Their Quietness
If you’re in the market for a new keyboard and noise reduction is a top priority for you, here are some popular keyboard models known for their quietness:
- Logitech K740 Illuminated Keyboard: This keyboard features low-profile keys and offers a whisper-quiet typing experience. It also has adjustable backlighting for working in low-light conditions.
- Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard: Designed with ergonomics in mind, this keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience with reduced noise. It features a split keyset and a cushioned palm rest for added support.
- Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Low Profile Rapidfire: This mechanical keyboard combines the tactile feel of mechanical switches with a low-profile design. It offers fast and quiet key presses, making it ideal for both gaming and typing.
Remember to do thorough research and read customer reviews to find the keyboard that best suits your needs and preferences.
DIY Solutions for Reducing Keyboard Click Volume
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore some do-it-yourself solutions, there are a few options you can try.
One method is to apply a thin layer of lubricant to the mechanical switches of your keyboard. This can help reduce friction and dampen the sound produced when pressing the keys.
However, be cautious when attempting this method, as using the wrong type or excessive amount of lubricant can damage your keyboard.
Another DIY solution is to modify the keycaps of your keyboard.
Some keycaps, especially those made of ABS plastic, tend to produce more noise when pressed.
By replacing them with keycaps made of PBT or other noise-dampening materials, you can achieve a quieter typing experience.
Keep in mind that this method requires some technical skills and knowledge of keyboard customization.
