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Quiet mechanical keyboard switches are designed to reduce the noise level of typing and gaming, which can be beneficial for streamers, office workers, or anyone who prefers a quieter environment.
| Keyboard switches | Special Features | Price |
| Gateron Silent Red
|
|
$0.49 |
| Cherry MX Silent Switch
|
|
$1.2 |
| ZealPC Healios
|
|
$0.97 |
| Gateron Silent Black
|
|
$0.49 |
| ZealPC Zilent
|
|
$0.97 |
| Romer G
|
|
$1.2 |
| WS Silent Linears
|
|
$0.42 |
| Cherry MX Speed
|
|
$1.2 |
| Kailh Deep Sea
|
|
$0.53 |
| Kailh BOX Silent Pink
|
|
$0.82 |
| Gateron Silent Yellow
|
|
$0.51 |
| Matias Quiet Linear
|
|
$0.75 |
| Matias Quiet Click
|
|
$0.75 |
| Alps SKCM Cream and White
|
|
$0.4 |
| Gazzew Boba U4
|
|
$0.65 |
| Durock Silent Linears
|
|
$0.69 |
| Gecko Silent linear switches
|
|
$0.6 |
| Akko Haze Pink Silent Switch
|
|
$0.31 |
Prices have been updated in September 2023. Prices may change from time to time
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Bottom out force | 45g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubed |
| Spring weight | 45g |
| Price | $0.49 per switch |
With a very fast key input (2.0 mm) and light operating force (45g), Gateron Silent Reds among the best silent linear switches give a bump-free and smooth experience.
This not only gives gamers an edge with quick multiple entries in the heat of the battle but also reduces typing fatigue when used for long periods of time. The Silent Reds, on the other hand, have some scratching and don't feel very premium out of the box.
All in all, its combination of tactile feedback, quietness, and ease of use makes the Gateron Silent Red switch a popular choice among gamers, typists, and officers alike.
Pros
Cons
If you are using a regular switch and want to switch to Silent Reds, this insightful comparison will truly help you know if Gateron Silent Red is the right choice.
| Cherry MX Silent Red | Cherry MX Silent Black | |
| Switch Type | Linear | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45g | 60g |
| Bottom out force | 62g | 83g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.9 mm | 1.9 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.7 mm | 3.7 mm |
| Lubrication | Factory-lubricated | Factory-lubricated |
| Spring weight | Moderate | Heavier |
| Price | $1.2 per switch | $1.2 per switch |
The Cherry MX Silent series has two popular variants, the red and black quiet switches. Cherry is the world’s gold standard for mechanical keyboard switches. They’ve done a decent job with these quiet mechanical switches.
The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch type, as the Silent Red, and is equipped with rubber dampers and thick housing to reduce the sound of plastic components touching each other. The black switch has a 60g actuation force, unlike Cherry MX Silent Red’s 45g. The higher actuation force is better for people who want smooth feedback and quiet switches that are not hyper-responsive to single taps.
Nonetheless, the Cherry MX Silent series boasts some of the best and quietest keyboard switches.
Pros
Cons
Cherry MX Silent Red switch has many similarities to the original one but has a lighter spring. If you don't notice that, this video sound test below will help you compare.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | N/A |
| Bottom out force | 63.5g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.97 per switch |
ZealPC provides products with a steeper price point compared to Cherry MX and Gateron. However, if you’re looking for the quietest keyboard switches on the market, ZealPC is perfect for you. Their Healios model is a silent switch with an actuation force of 67g.
Moreover, it is equipped with a silencing bumper which significantly reduces the bottoming out sound and even the up-stroke sound, giving you a quiet typing experience. Considering the quality and sound performance, ZealPC’s linear silent switch is one of the best options for pro-gamers.
Pros:
Cons
Some may not like this suppressed sound, but maybe you are a fan of these best silent mechanical switches. Let's listen to the sound that ZealPC Healios switches produce below.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Bottom out force | 70g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubed |
| Spring weight | 60g |
| Price | $0.49 per switch |
Gateron Silent Black seems to be like the Reds, but with a stronger operating force. These are linear switches with a 60g actuation force and a 70g bottom-out force, giving them a medium feel. It is neither too light nor too heavy.
Gateron Silent Black switches nearly feel contactless, but some scratches still exist if pushed in at a certain angle.
In terms of sound, the Gateron Silent Blacks are somewhat louder than others, despite having dampening cushions to decrease noise.
Pros:
Cons
While still producing a small amount of noise, Gateron Silent Black switches are the most silent switches, effectively managing to reduce noise. Not convinced? Then watch the below sound test between Gateron Silent Black vs regular Yellow.
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | N/A |
| Bottom out force | 62g / 65g / 67g / 78g |
| Pre-travel Distance | N/A |
| Total Travel Distance | N/A |
| Lubrication | Factory-lubricated |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.97 per switch |
ZealPC Zilent is another silent switch series by the mechanical key switch manufacturer. The Zilent is a tactile switch and the crown jewel of quiet mechanical keyboard switches, unlike the previous entry.
The keys have an actuation force of 62grams and an actuation distance of 4mm. Even though tactile switches make a distinct typing and feedback sound, the large actuation force combined with the switch housing design produces one of the quietest keyboard switches in the global market.
In addition to the thick switch housing, which dampens the noise, the Zilent silent switch has an additional layer of rubber silencers and a strong stem which improve the performance of the key while significantly reducing the typing sound.
Pros:
Cons
Here is a sound test of ZealPC Zilent V2 stock and lubed. You may still hear some inconsistent noise but consider which keyboard to put your switches on.
| Romer G Linear | Romer G Tactile | |
| Switch Type | Linear | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 45g | 45g |
| Bottom out force | 60g | 60g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.5 mm | 1.5 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.2 mm | 3.2 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A | N/A |
| Price | $1.2 per switch | $1.2 per switch |
Logitech is famous in the world of gaming for its range of products, such as keyboards, mechanical key switches, and headphones. Their Romer G switches are among the best options for regular gamers who frequently play hack and slash games or genres requiring button smashing. The Romer G switches are highly responsive and create little sound.
While the sound is louder than the GX quiet switches, as advertised, it’s still not on a level that feels annoying. Watch the video above to get a better understanding. The Romer G switches are viral for durability and generally last north of 70 million strokes.
If you’re looking to customize a quiet keyboard, the Romer G switches are one of the best options. They have a depth of 3mm, making them one of the most responsive keys ever to be manufactured!
Pros
Cons
Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of the Romer-G switches sound test? Look no further! Click the below video to enjoy their great sound.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | N/A |
| Bottom out force | 63.5g |
| Pre-travel Distance | N/A |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.5 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubed |
| Spring weight | 62g / 65g / 67g / 78g |
| Price | $0.42 per switch |
Wuque WS Silent Linear switches don't utilize the typical silicone dampeners most silent switches opt for. Instead, they use small cutouts on the stem railings to help soften the sound of the switch.
This contributes to a more sharp bottom-out and return while yet keeping a very quiet profile. You can work all day coding and writing with these ear-friendly switches. Some users said that they forgot they were even typing!
Pros:
Cons
Does the cutout perform better than silicone dampers in minimizing noise? This sound test below will give you an answer.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Bottom out force | N/A |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.2 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.4 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubricated |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $1.2 per switch |
The Cherry MX Speed offers quiet switches for people not satisfied with the heavy feel of the Silent MX Red and Black switches. Unlike them, the MX Speed is exceptionally lightweight and comes in a neutral color. Like all Cherry MX switches, they also come in an RGB option if you’re looking to upgrade your keyboard’s look.
The quiet switches have a depth of 4mm, offering a shorter actuation distance than the MX Reds. However, they do have a life cycle of 50 million strokes like their heavier counterparts. Additionally, the MX Speed has a shorter actuation point rating (1.2 mm) than the standard 2mm rating on the Cherry MX Red.
Pros:
Cons
Although Cherry MX Speed switches are rated to sound quite noisy, you should experience their sound right here in this video as it can match your audio taste.
| Switch Type | Linear | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 50g | 45g |
| Bottom out force | N/A | N/A |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.8 mm | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.6 mm | 3.6 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A | N/A |
| Price | $0.53 per switch | $0.53 per switch |
The name Kailh Deep Sea may give you the quietest sound from the ocean floor. Yes! These switches are the most silent switches producing a muffled sound, but with a pleasant "crackly and thocky" sound (particularly the space bar).
The reason is, the bottom housing of the Kailh Deep Sea switches has a thin layer of sound-dampening material, while small pieces of sound-dampening material sit hidden inside the top housing.
With very light 45g actuation force, Kailh Deep Sea switches feel stiff but quick, and not mushy at all. Smooth and well-balanced. And that’s key!
Pros:
Cons
Kailh Deep Sea switches bring good value for money, don't they? But before opening your wallet, take time to watch a short review and sound test below.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 35g |
| Bottom out force | 45g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.8 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.6 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.82 per switch |
The Kailh BOX Silent Pink is a linear silent switch and a popular customization option for keyboard enthusiasts. The Kailh BOX series offers one of the quietest keyboard switches, courtesy of their unique design. Besides the thick switch housing and use of quality materials, the components of the BOX Silent Pink keys are coated with silencing rubber dampers that drastically reduce the sound.
The actuation force is a measly 45g, while the travel distance for the key switch is 3.6mm. This results in a highly responsive yet silent switch that can muffle any loud sounds!
Pros:
Cons
Still confusing? This insightful review video will tell you whether Kailh BOX Silent Pink is a good investment and suit your taste or not.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Bottom out force | 60g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | No |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.51 per switch |
Gateron is undeniably the cradle of the . Gateron Silent Yellow, besides Reds and Blacks, offers smooth typing experience but with a medium feel.
They are perfect for shared or noise-sensitive areas because of their silent construction, which minimizes noise emissions thanks to rubber pads and dampened sliders.
Pros:
Cons
Gateron Silent Yellow switches are the gateway to a harmonious typing experience, offering a symphony of silence that enhances your focus and elevates your environment. Let's experience the typing sound right here.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 35g |
| Bottom out force | 35g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.2 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.5 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.75 per switch |
The Matias Quiet Linear series are decent quiet mechanical keyboard switches with a unique stem design. A unique stem design in the world of keyboards is any design not identical to Cherry MX switches.
Moreover, as the name suggests, the Quiet Linear silent switch is a linear design model. The actuation force for the keys is a staggering 40g, even lower than the BOX Silent Pink. What’s more surprising is that you only actually need 35 grams of force to operate the quiet switches.
Additionally, they have a travel distance of 3.5, a compact body, and a thick switch housing design. These factors combine to produce smooth and quiet typing feedback!
Pros:
Cons
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 35g |
| Bottom out force | 35g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.2 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 3.5 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.75 per switch |
Unlike the Quiet Linear, this range of keys is based on tactile design. The Matias Quiet Click series offers the quietest keyboard switches in the tactile category and are popular among custom keyboard enthusiasts. They require an actuation force of 65g and have a short travel distance of 3.5mm.
Consequently, the heavy feel and short distance produce a unique tactile hybrid that is highly responsive yet can muffle out loud typing sounds. The switch housing is also very thick and uses a premium plastic material to suppress sound. It should be noted that you can only use the silent switch with the Alps mount type keycaps and not other types.
Pros:
Cons
Discover the unique sound of Matias Quiet Click right away. With soothing and distraction-free sounds, you'll enjoy a quiet workspace while keeping your keyboard engaged.
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 70g |
| Bottom out force | N/A |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubed |
| Spring weight | Medium |
| Price | $0.4 per switch |
The ALPS SKCM series is another great contender for one of the best in the quiet switches category. The series features key switches in two colors, cream, and white. The actuation force is the main selling point for this option. The SKCM Cream and White switches have a 70g actuation force and a total actuation distance of 3.5mm.
Moreover, the silent switch provides a bumpy typing feedback yet produces a quiet typing sound. The switch housing design is thick and compact, creating one of the best quiet switches on the market!
Pros:
Cons
Alps SKCM Cream and White looks so retro but how they actually sound. The following in-depth video review will be your backstage pass to the best budget silent tactile.
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | N/A |
| Bottom out force | N/A |
| Pre-travel Distance | N/A |
| Total Travel Distance | N/A |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | 62g / 65g / 68g |
| Price | $0.65 per switch |
Pros:
Cons
The Gazzew Boba U4 switches are silent tactiles with impressive bumps! Watch this video to learn more about the incredible features of the Gazzew Boba U4.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Bottom out force | 67g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | Pre-lubricated |
| Spring weight | 62g |
| Price | $0.69 per switch |
Durock Silent Linears are extremely smooth and quiet. These switches are mid-range when it comes to cost. They are lightly pre-lubed from the factory. However, for a total silent experience, we recommend lubing them yourself.
These switches have a nice sound, almost like a slight thock, but it's a dull, soft sound.
You may appreciate the smoky shell of the Daybreak version as it does tone down RGB effects, but if you don't want toned down RGB, get the Durock quiet Dolphins version instead; they are almost the same switch.
Pros
Cons
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 54g |
| Bottom out force | 57.5g |
| Pre-travel Distance | N/A |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | Factory lubed |
| Spring weight | 57.5g |
| Price | $0.6 per switch |
Gecko Silent linear switches (released in late 2022) are a newcomer to the battle for the best silent switches.
There is a super soft, smooth, and marble-like sound when typing. The sound of the topping and bottoming out, though, retains some slight mushiness. The noise mostly comes from housing collisions.
Even so, as for the housing collisions and silent linear stem design, Gecko Silent linear switches are extremely well balanced and provide a medium-deep feeling.
Pros
Cons
While being a freshman, Gecko Silent linear switches have got a lot of attention from keyboard enthusiasts, and this video review will prove that.
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 43g |
| Bottom out force | 58g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 mm |
| Lubrication | N/A |
| Spring weight | N/A |
| Price | $0.31 per switch |
Let Akko silent switches - Best budget silent linear wrap up this list! Akko Haze Pink makes excellent use of the quiet treatment with these switches.
The only thing making a sound right now is the spacebar. Of course, if you want complete quietness, cut some packing foam to size. Furthermore, these switches are ultra-smooth with no scratchiness or inconsistencies.
However, some users may not be a big fan of lightweight switches such as these. Additionally, the actuation point appears to be higher up in the travel, resulting in several typos and really unpleasant times.
Pros:
Cons
Alright! You can see how Akko Haze Pink Silent Switch keep your workspace quiet and boost attention through the following sound test.
| Model | Specs | Prices |
| Razer BlackWidow TE Chroma v2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
|
|
$63.99 |
| Logitech G513
|
|
$129.99 – $149.99 |
| Logitech G610 Orion Red Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
|
|
$73.98 |
| The Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2
|
|
$114.99 |
| SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
|
|
$109.99 |
Want to discover more silent keyboards? This carefully-curated list of the best quietest keyboards is right for you.
Quieter Typing: The most obvious benefit of quiet mechanical keyboard switches lies in minimizing typing noise, making them ideal for shared spaces and environments requiring silence. Some variants offer subtle tactile feedback without the traditional click, providing a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Enhanced Productivity: The quieter typing can lead to less distraction in a shared office, potentially increasing productivity by not disturbing colleagues.
Advantages of Quiet Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Price: Perhaps the only main disadvantage of quiet mechanical switches is that their price tends to be steep. Quiet switches are more expensive, albeit more durable and customizable, than other switches.
Less Auditory Feedback: Some users prefer the audible feedback provided by clicky or tactile switches, as it gives them a sense of confirmation when a key is pressed. Quiet switches lack this auditory feedback, which can be less satisfying for those who rely on it for typing.
Variability: Not all quiet mechanical switches are the same. There is variability in how "quiet" they are, so it's important to try different brands and models to find the level of quietness that suits you best.
Availability: Not all mechanical keyboard models offer a variety of quiet switch options. This limitation can restrict your choice of keyboard if you're specifically looking for quieter switches.
Switch sound refers to the audible noise produced when you press a mechanical or electrical switch. Several factors can affect the sound of a switch, including:
When activated, clicky switches produce distinct "click" noises as a result of an internal mechanism. The tactile feedback produced by tactile switches is more audible and has a discernible bump. In contrast, since linear switches lack tactile bumps and clicks, they produce smoother, softer sounds.
Finding the quietest keyboard switches color? While many brands classify switch type by colors, remember that colors present switches' overall characteristics, not only the sound.
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The choice of plastic or other materials impacts the resonance and timbre of the sound produced. While softer materials may produce a softer, more muted tone, stiffer materials like metal or thick plastic can produce a deeper, more resonant sound.
Additionally, the interior design, such as the housing's shape, can affect sound by altering how vibrations spread within the switch.
Heavier springs transfer more energy when compressed and released, they can generate a deeper, more substantial sound. On the other side, lighter springs could produce a faster and higher-pitched sound.
Furthermore, a switch's springiness affects how quickly a key returns to its resting position after being depressed, which can affect the rhythm and pace of the typing sound.
When more force is used, the key might make more energetic contact with the housing, potentially resulting in a louder and more resonant sound. The force also affects how quickly the key descends into the switch housing, which has an impact on the timing and volume of the sound produced.
Here are 4 tips to make your keyboard switches even quieter:
The most effective way to go first to minimize noise is lubricating the moving elements of your switches. Lubrication minimizes friction between parts, leading to smoother, quieter keypresses. Besides, lubed switches are also refined, which could end up in a quieter typing experience overall.
We bet you are looking for a guide to do this task. Lucky for you! We’ve created a guide on how to lube mechanical keyboard switches most easily and effectively.
Using switch films involves sandwiching thin sheets of material between the parts of the switch. These films stabilize the switch, reducing wobbling and potential noise caused by parts moving against each other during keypresses. By avoiding unnecessary movement, you can produce a quieter and more uniform typing sound.
Still don't know how to film? Our filming switch guide will truly help you.
O-rings or foam rings placed beneath your keycaps can make a noticeable difference in noise reduction.
When a key is pushed, these rings produce a cushioning effect, softening the impact when the key strikes the keyboard's housing. Furthermore, O-rings and foam rings can shorten the key's travel distance, lowering bottom-out noise.
Placing a desk mat or a sound-dampening pad beneath your keyboard can absorb and reduce sound vibrations, especially if your keyboard is on a hard surface like a desk. These mats are designed to minimize the noise that resonates through the desk, resulting in a quieter typing experience.
If you want to bring a peaceful life to your setup, you should avoid the following noisy switches: Cherry MX White, Blue, and Green; Kailh BOX White, BOX Jade, and BOX Navy.
The Cherry MX Brown is the quietest keyboard switch on the market. However, they don’t produce any sound upon actuation, which might be an issue for some people.
Any Razer keyboard equipped with Razer’s Orange Mechanical Switch can be turned into a quiet keyboard. They’re Razer’s quietest keyboard switches, with no clicking and only tactile feedback.
Different companies follow different color standards. However, companies that follow Cherry MX standards use blue switches for loud models and red/black/ brown for quiet switches.
Quiet mechanical keyboard switches are designed to reduce the noise level of typing and gaming, which can be beneficial for streamers, office workers, or anyone who prefers a quieter environment. Keyboard switches Special Features Price Gateron Silent Red Switch type: Linear Lifespan: <50M keystrokes Suitable for: Gaming/Office $0.49 Cherry MX Silent Switch Switch type: Linear […]
