Mechanical keyboards, favored by typists and gamers for their tactile feedback and durability, are sometimes noted for their noise levels. Recent innovations have led to the development of quiet mechanical keyboards, blending the satisfying mechanical keystroke with a significantly reduced sound profile.
Here are few key features to consider:
- Key Layout is crucial, regardless of whether you opt for a mechanical keyboard. It’s important to find a layout that fits your computer setup perfectly. Besides the standard full-size keyboards, there are smaller TKL and 60% options available. These are ideal for those with limited desk space or for users who don’t require the additional function keys.
- Switches used in the keyboard are key. Some switches, like the Cherry MX Red, Razer Yellow, and Cherry MX Brown, are designed to be much quieter than others, such as the Cherry MX Blue. Selecting the right switch type can significantly reduce your keyboard’s noise level.
Our guide, complete with a comprehensive “Buying Guide” , is designed to assist you in selecting the ideal quiet mechanical keyboard for your needs.
Best Quiet Mechanical Keyboards 2024
| Best Quiet Mechanical Keyboards | Layout | Switches | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| NPET K10 Gaming Keyboard | Full size | Mechanical feel | Check On Amazon |
| Corsair K55 Mechanical Keyboard | - | - | Check On Amazon |
| RK ROYAL KLUDGE Mechanical Keyboard | 60% | RK Red | Check On Amazon |
| Razer Mechanical Keyboard | TKL | Razer Yellow | Check On Amazon |
| Redragon K582 Mechanical Keyboard | Full size | Redragon Red | Check On Amazon |
| Das Mechanical Keyboard | Full size | Cherry MX Brown | Check On Amazon |
| Logitech Mechanical Keyboard | Full size | Cherry MX Red | Check On Amazon |
| Havit Mechanical Keyboard | TKL | Havit Red | Check On Amazon |
| Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard | - | MX Keys | Check On Amazon |
| Microsoft Surface Mechanical Keyboard | Full size | - | Check On Amazon |
Best Quiet Mechanical Keyboards Reviews
1. NPET K10 Gaming Keyboard
NPET is a pretty recent and a small brand of computer accessories which happens to be offering some of the most affordable keyboards including a few quiet ones.
The NPET quiet mechanical keyboard is present in the 1st position in this list since it is the most affordable option given here which makes it perfect for budget computer setups. Even with an affordable price tag, it uses a full size form factor. Unfortunately, this is a mechanical feel keyboard and not a true mechanical keyboard to keep its price low.
Thankfully, you still get RGB lighting with this quiet mechanical keyboard which looks quite great. And despite being a small and new brand, you still get a 1 year long warranty with it which is always great to have.
Best Features:
- Offers a full size form factor
- Uses mechanical feel switches
- Includes RGB backlighting
- Comes backed by a 1 year long warranty
Pros:
- Extremely affordable and budget friendly keyboard
- Great full-size form factor with RGB lighting
- Decently reliable for the given price with an included warranty
Cons:
- Does not use actual mechanical switches
2. Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT Mechanical Keyboard
When you are talking about computer peripherals, Corsair is a brand which needs no introduction since it offers some of the best performing and highly feature-rich keyboards which also offers a few silent options.
Corsair’s K55 RGB Pro quiet mechanical keyboard is present in the 2nd position in this listicle as it is the best performing option given here. Being a high-end mechanical keyboard, it offers a full-size form factor. And to ensure the best typing experience from this premium mechanical keyboard.
One of the best things about this Corsair keyboard is that it offers amazing looking RGB lighting which is highly customisable. Since this is a high-end and premium keyboard from Corsair, the included 2-year warranty is to be expected.
Best Features:
- Six Dedicated Macro Keys
- IP42-rated protection for durability.
- Detachable Palm Rest
- Dedicated Volume and Media Keys
Pros:
- Holds up well under heavy usage.
- Highly customisable RGB backlighting with various features
- Perfect For Quiet Gaming
Cons:
- Not compatible with KVM switch.
- Confusing layout
3. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Wired Keyboard
Royal Kludge is another brand of keyboards which is quite new and much smaller than others that still manages to be a viable pick thanks to its highly unique offerings when you are talking about mechanical keyboards.
This Royal Kludge RK61 quiet mechanical keyboard is present in the 3rd position in this article because it is the most compact option given here which makes it ideal for smaller desks. To make this possible, this Royal Kludge keyboard uses a much smaller 60% form factor. While it may not use the most premium switches, the included RK Red switches perform fairly decently for the given price.
Even at the given price tag, you still get RGB backlighting with this keyboard which looks quite great. Not only that but you also get a 2-year long warranty with this quiet mechanical keyboard which is not common among other budget options.
Best Features:
- Offers a 60% form factor
- Uses the RK Red switches
- Includes RGB backlighting
- Comes backed by a 2-year warranty
Pros:
- Perfect for compact and tight spaces
- Quite a good typing experience for the given price
- Highly durable and reliable for the given price
Cons:
- Lacks additional function and media keys
4. Razer Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Razer is a highly reputable and well-known brand of computer peripherals which are known to be quite premium while offering the best in class performance even if you are going with their quiet mechanical keyboards.
The Razer Blackwidow TE V2 quiet mechanical keyboard is one of the best options out there for those who are looking for gaming keyboards. In order to offer you great functionality from your keyboard while leaving enough space for your mouse, this keyboard uses a TKL design. Because this is a Razer keyboard, it uses the Razer Yellow switches to ensure that it stays quiet at all times.
If you are familiar with Razer computer peripherals, then you must know that it’s RGB lighting is one of the best in its class. Another great benefit of going with this Razer keyboard is that you get a 2-year warranty with it as well.
Best Features:
- Offers a TKL form factor
- Uses the Razer Yellow switches
- Includes RGB backlighting
- Comes backed by a 2-year warranty
Pros:
- Superb quiet mechanical keyboard for gaming with the perfect form factor
- Best in class RGB backlighting with all sorts of customisation
- High-quality switches for silent yet effective function
Cons:
- Not a budget-friendly quiet mechanical keyboard
5. Redragon K582 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Those of you who are on a budget and want to go with entry level options can also consider Redragon and its offerings especially if you want something practical without paying a premium for the same.
Redragon’s K582 Surara quiet mechanical keyboard is one of the best value for money options out there since you get a lot for your money. Starting with its form factor, this is a full-size keyboard with all the buttons that you need. And while they might not be the best, you do get the Redragon Red true mechanical switches with this quiet mechanical keyboard.
Since Redragon primarily offers gaming peripherals, it’s keyboard also features RGB backlighting. Although, despite having a 1-year long warranty, the build quality of this keyboard is a bit on the average side.
Best Features:
- Offers a full-size form factor
- Uses the Redragon Red switches
- Includes RGB backlighting
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Quite an amazing value for money pick
- Features all of the keys that you need
- Pretty good key switches for the given price tag
Cons:
- Build quality could have been better
6. Das Keyboard 4 Mechanical Keyboard
Das Keyboard is one of the most expensive brands of computer peripherals out there since it offers enthusiast-grade keyboards which are of the best quality in many regards.
This Das Keyboard 4 quiet mechanical keyboard is the option in this list if you are looking for something the best possible typing experience. And to ensure the same, this quiet mechanical keyboard comes with a full-size form factor so that you can easily type on it. Unlike most other quiet mechanical keyboards, this one uses the Cherry MX Brown switches which offer an amazing typing experience while being almost silent.
However, you do not get any backlighting with this keyboard as it is an office keyboard and not a gaming keyboard. That being said, you still get a 1-year warranty with this quiet mechanical keyboard which is to be expected from such a premium brand.
Best Features:
- Offers a full-size form factor
- Uses the Cherry MX Brown switches
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Superb and best in class typing experience
- Includes a handy volume knob and an inbuilt USB hub
- Solid build quality along with a standard form factor
Cons:
- Lacks any form of backlighting
7. Logitech MX Keys Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
If you are familiar with computer hardware and peripherals, then you must have heard about Logitech in the past since it offers all kinds of mice and keyboards including quiet mechanical keyboards as well.
Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard in Graphite offers a fluid typing experience with spherically-dished keys. Automate tasks with Smart Actions shortcuts, illuminated keys adapt to your environment, and enjoy a comfortable work experience. Connect with up to 3 devices across various operating systems, and benefit from USB C rechargeability for extended use. Team up with Logi Options+ for seamless multi-computer functionality. Crafted with recycled materials, it’s an eco-friendly choice.
Best Features:-
- Up to 10 days on full charge
- Multi-Computer Functionality
- Backlit keys
- Fluid Typing
Pros:
- Quite amazing for both work and gaming
- Pretty sturdy build quality
- Uses high-quality switches for a great typing experience
Cons:
- Very limited backlighting options
8. Havit Mechanical Keys Gaming Keyboard
Havit is one of the newer options out there when you are talking about computer peripherals where its offerings like this quiet mechanical keyboard tend to be quite affordable.
This Havit quiet mechanical keyboard is the most affordable option given here which makes it perfect for all those who have budget restrictions. For keeping its price tag low and design unique, Havit uses a TKL design with this quiet mechanical keyboard. As for the switches, you will find HK Red switches inside which perform decently if not the best.
However, you only get backlighting in the Numpad keys of this keyboard and not the main portion of this keyboard. Fortunately, unlike other budget options out there, this one still has a 1-year warranty option.
Best Features:
- Offers a TKL form factor
- Uses the HK Red switches
- Includes white backlighting for Numpad
- Comes backed by a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Premium set of keycaps along with a retro design
- Decent typing experience with the included switches
- Superb affordable keyboard for buyers on a budget
Cons:
- Quite a poor backlighting situation
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Havit
9. Logitech K845 Mechanical Keyboard
Logitech offers even cheaper options for all those who want to go with a mechanical keyboard for their office but don’t want to spend a premium on the same which makes its K series the perfect option.
The Logitech K845 quiet mechanical keyboard is another entry-level offering that includes various features of other Logitech keyboards even at the given price. As this quiet mechanical keyboard is made for office usage, you get a full-size form factor with it. However, it uses TTC brown switches which are not as good as other high-end options out there.
That being said, you still get white backlighting with this keyboard which is still better than nothing. And just like the previous Logitech keyboard, this one also offers a 1 year long warranty for your peace of mind.
Best Features:
- Offers a full size form factor
- Uses the TTC Brown switches
- Includes white backlighting
- Comes backed by a 1 year long warranty
Pros:
- Amazing value for money mechanical keyboard
- Professional looking design and white backlighting
- Fairly durable and strong construction
Cons:
- Not the best switches in terms of typing
10. Microsoft Surface Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard in a sleek silver design that seamlessly combines style and functionality. This keyboard is designed for compatibility with PCs and offers optimized feedback, multimedia functionality, and a durable build. It effortlessly connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, catering to Windows, Mac OS, Windows phones, and Android devices. The streamlined and modern design adds a touch of sophistication to your office setup. With keys designed for efficiency and a lifespan of 500,000 actuations per key, this keyboard provides an enhanced typing experience.
It is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8, Mac OS 10.10.5/10.11.1/10.11.4, Microsoft Windows 10 phones, and Android 4.4.2-5.0. The Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard is ideal for those seeking both style and performance in an office setting. Connect seamlessly with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, and enjoy a reliable 2.4GHz wireless frequency for efficient and convenient usage.
Best Features:
- Wi-Fi (Bluetooth 4.0 or higher support required)
- Sleek and simple with a modern style
Pros:
- Highly feature-rich and practical mechanical keyboard
- High-quality switches for the best typing experience
- Best in class backlighting options with a large number of effects
Cons:
- Can be a bit expensive for some buyers
Buying Guide for the Best Quiet Mechanical Keyboards
When selecting the best quiet mechanical keyboards, it’s important to focus on features that enhance both your typing experience and the overall quietness of the keyboard. Below, we delve into crucial factors to consider:
1. Key Layout
Why It Matters: The layout of a keyboard affects how comfortably and efficiently you can use it. It determines the placement and availability of keys, which can impact your typing speed, accuracy, and overall ergonomics. Choosing a layout that aligns with your typing habits and space requirements is crucial for a satisfying user experience.
What to Look For:
- Full-Size vs. Compact Designs: Decide between a full-size layout, which includes all standard keys including the numeric keypad, and compact designs like Tenkeyless (TKL) or 60% keyboards that omit the numeric pad and possibly other keys for a smaller footprint.
- Customizability: Some keyboards offer customizable layouts or programmable keys, which can be a boon for users with specific needs or those who frequently use macros and shortcuts.
- Ergonomics: Look for layouts that promote comfortable typing postures, possibly including split designs or those with adjustable angles to reduce strain during long typing sessions.
2. Switches
Why It Matters: The type of switches used in a keyboard significantly influences both the tactile feel and the sound level of typing. Quiet mechanical keyboards rely on switches that provide satisfying feedback with minimal noise, making them ideal for environments where reducing sound is important.
What to Look For:
- Switch Type: Mechanical keyboards come with a variety of switch types, each offering different levels of actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound. For quieter keyboards, look for switches specifically designed for low noise, such as Cherry MX Silent Red or Black, or other brands’ equivalents like Razer Yellow.
- Actuation Force and Distance: These parameters define how much pressure you need to apply to register a keypress and how far the key needs to be pressed. Lower actuation force and shorter distance can contribute to a quieter typing experience, as they potentially reduce the impact noise when keys are pressed.
- Durability: The lifespan of switches is measured in millions of keystrokes. Considering durable switches means less noise degradation over time and a consistent typing experience.
3. Form Factor
Why It Matters: The form factor of a keyboard directly affects the amount of desk space it occupies and its portability. It can also impact your typing experience by determining the distance your hands need to travel to reach different keys or functions. Choosing the right form factor is crucial for ensuring that your keyboard fits both your physical workspace and your usage habits comfortably.
What to Look For:
- Size Options: Keyboards come in various sizes, including full-size, Tenkeyless (TKL), 75%, 65%, and 60%. Each offers a different balance between functionality and compactness. Full-size keyboards include a numeric keypad, while smaller form factors like TKL and 60% remove the numpad and other keys for a more compact design.
- Portability: If you frequently travel with your keyboard or have limited desk space, smaller form factors like 65% or 60% might be more suitable. They provide the essentials while saving space.
- Usability: Consider how the form factor affects your use. For example, if you frequently use a numeric keypad for data entry, a full-size or TKL keyboard might be necessary.
4. Backlighting
Why It Matters: Backlighting is not just an aesthetic feature; it also enhances usability in low-light conditions, allowing you to see the keys more clearly. For users who work late into the night or prefer dimmer work environments, backlighting can be a crucial feature. Additionally, customizable backlighting can help highlight specific keys or zones on the keyboard, improving efficiency for gaming or workflow shortcuts.
What to Look For:
- Backlight Types: Keyboards may offer single-color backlighting or RGB (multi-color) lighting. While single-color backlights focus on functionality, RGB backlighting provides customization options that can match your setup or mood.
- Brightness Levels: Adjustable brightness is important for finding the right balance in various lighting conditions. It ensures that the backlighting is effective but not distracting.
- Customization Options: Many keyboards with backlighting offer customizable lighting profiles, which can be useful for creating specific layouts for different tasks or games. Look for keyboards with software that allows you to tailor the lighting to your needs.
Quite Mechanical Keyboard – FAQs
Ans: While buying a mechanical keyboard, you will primarily find blue, brown, and red switches to choose from. When compared with each other, a blue switch is going to be the loudest and the most tactile. As for a red switch, it is almost fully silent with a linear feedback. Talking about brown switches, they fall in between since they are slightly tactile with slightly audible feedback as well.
Ans: If you have a mechanical keyboard that offers a backlight, then you would also want to adjust the same as per your liking. For this, you can either use keyboard shortcuts or use companion software if your quiet mechanical keyboard supports the same. In either case, you will be able to adjust things like the brightness, color, and all sorts of lighting effects depending on the keyboard that you have.
Ans: In case you are going with a smaller 60% keyboard, then it will most likely skip on the function key row. Thankfully, if you need, these function keys can still be used via the function shortcut which essentially requires you to press multiple keys for a key combination.
Conclusion
For the best typing experience, consider using a mechanical keyboard. Worried about noise? Check out our selection of the quietest mechanical keyboards below. Each keyboard comes with detailed descriptions of its features to help you make the right choice.
You’ll also find a buying guide and answers to common questions about quiet mechanical keyboards. Here are our top picks:
- Royal Kludge RK61: This compact 60% keyboard is affordable and features RK Red switches for a satisfying typing experience. It comes with RGB backlighting and a 2-year warranty.
- Corsair K55 Pro: If size and budget aren’t an issue, this Corsair keyboard offers premium build quality and customizable RGB backlighting.
- Das Keyboard 4: For those prioritizing typing experience over silence, this keyboard with Cherry MX Brown switches is a great option. It offers tactile feedback and features like a volume knob and built-in USB hub, ideal for office use.
Choose the keyboard that best suits your needs and preferences.
