The quietest mechanical keyboard switches, like Cherry MX Silent Red and ZealPC Zilent V2, reduce typing noise using dampening materials and smooth engineering while retaining tactile feedback or linear keypresses for comfort and versatility.
Mechanical keyboards are loved for their durability, customization, and tactile feel. However, if you’re typing away in a quiet office or gaming late at night, the loud clicking sounds of some mechanical switches can quickly become a problem. Fortunately, not all mechanical switches are noisy. Some are designed specifically for quiet performance while maintaining that satisfying tactile feedback.
This blog dives into the quietest types of mechanical keyboard switches, their noise levels, and how to find the perfect one for your setup.
Why Keyboard Noise Matters?
For many users, the sound of their keyboard plays a crucial role in their overall experience, especially in shared environments like offices, classrooms, or co-working spaces. A loud keyboard might distract colleagues or friends, which is why having a quiet option is key for those who want to maintain productivity and peace.
Mechanical keyboards have surged in popularity, offering versatility and comfort, but their switches can vary wildly in noise production. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of mechanical switches and what makes them “quiet.”
Types of Mechanical Switches:

Mechanical keyboard switches are categorized primarily by their tactile feedback and noise levels:
- Clicky Switches: These are the loudest switches, providing a distinct “click” sound and tactile bump with each keypress. Popular examples include Cherry MX Blue and Razer Green switches.
- Tactile Switches: These offer a noticeable bump without the loud click, making them quieter than clicky switches while still providing satisfying feedback. Cherry MX Brown is a good example.
- Linear Switches: These are smooth and silent (no tactile bump), making them ideal for gaming and quieter environments. Cherry MX Red is a popular linear switch.
While tactile and linear switches are typically quieter than clicky ones, they aren’t completely silent. For users seeking near-silent mechanical keyboards, “quiet” switches are the solution.
What Makes a Switch “Quiet”?
Quiet switches are designed to minimize the noise produced during typing. Key factors include:
- Dampening Materials: Many quiet switches include built-in dampeners (usually rubber or silicone) to reduce the sound when a key reaches the bottom of the press (bottom-out) or returns to its original position (up-stroke).
- Smooth Engineering: These switches use premium materials and advanced engineering to ensure smoother key presses, which reduces noise.
- Actuation Force: Less force required to press the key can result in quieter operation as there’s less impact between the keycap and the switch.
Now, let’s explore some of the quietest mechanical keyboard switches available today.
The Quietest Mechanical Keyboard Switches:
1. Cherry MX Silent Red
- Type: Linear
- Noise Level: Ultra-quiet
- Tactile Feedback: None (linear design)
Cherry MX Silent Red switches are a favorite among gamers and typists seeking silent operation. These switches use built-in dampeners to minimize the noise from both bottom-out and return keystrokes. The linear feel ensures smooth and consistent keypresses.
2. Cherry MX Silent Black
- Type: Linear
- Noise Level: Ultra-quiet
- Tactile Feedback: None (linear design)
Similar to the Silent Red but with a higher actuation force, the Silent Black is perfect for users who prefer firmer key presses. It’s ideal for preventing accidental key presses while still delivering a silent experience.
3. Gateron Silent Red and Silent Black
- Type: Linear
- Noise Level: Ultra-quiet
- Tactile Feedback: None (linear design)
Gateron Silent switches are known for their smoothness and affordability while maintaining noise reduction comparable to Cherry’s Silent range. Silent Black offers a stronger actuation force compared to Silent Red for those who prefer more resistance.
4. ZealPC Zilent V2
- Type: Tactile
- Noise Level: Very quiet
- Tactile Feedback: Noticeable bump
For those who like tactile feedback without the noise, the ZealPC Zilent V2 switches are a premium option. They are designed with rubber dampeners, perfect for offices or shared spaces.
5. Kailh Silent Box Red and Silent Box Brown
- Type: Linear (Red) / Tactile (Brown)
- Noise Level: Very quiet
- Tactile Feedback: None (Red) / Noticeable bump (Brown)
Kailh’s Silent Box series uses a unique design to effectively minimize noise while offering a smooth or tactile typing experience. They’re waterproof as well, adding extra durability.
6. Romer-G Linear
- Type: Linear
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Tactile Feedback: Minimal
Used primarily in Logitech keyboards, these switches are engineered for reduced noise and smooth actuation. They’re great for quiet gaming setups and extended typing sessions.
7. Topre Switches
- Type: Electro-capacitive
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Tactile Feedback: Subtle bump
Topre switches are a unique hybrid between mechanical and membrane keyboard designs. They offer a gentle tactile response and an extremely quiet typing experience, though they typically come at a higher cost.
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Choosing the Best Quiet Switch for You:
When selecting a quiet mechanical keyboard switch, consider the following factors:
- Typing Style: Do you prefer tactile feedback or a smooth linear experience?
- Use Case: For gaming, linear switches are ideal, but for typing or office work, tactile options may suit you better.
- Budget: Premium options like ZealPC Zilents and Topre switches often come with a higher price tag, while Gateron switches provide great value for money.
FAQs:
1. What are the quietest mechanical keyboard switches?
Cherry MX Silent Red, Gateron Silent Red, and ZealPC Zilent V2 are among the quietest switches. They use dampening materials to minimize noise while offering smooth or tactile feedback.
2. Are linear or tactile switches quieter?
Linear switches, like Cherry MX Silent Red, are generally quieter than tactile switches since they lack the tactile bump, reducing noise from actuation and key return.
3. Can quiet switches still provide tactile feedback?
Yes, options like ZealPC Zilent V2 and Kailh Silent Box Brown provide tactile feedback while using dampening materials to reduce noise, making them suitable for quiet environments without compromising feel.
4. Are silent switches suitable for gaming?
Yes, silent switches like Cherry MX Silent Red and Romer-G Linear are ideal for gaming. They offer smooth keystrokes with minimal noise, ensuring focus in quiet settings.
5. How do dampening materials reduce keyboard noise?
Dampening materials like rubber or silicone inside the switch cushion the key press, reducing the noise caused by bottoming out and key return, making switches quieter.
Conclusion:
Quiet mechanical keyboard switches balance functionality with noise reduction, making them ideal for shared spaces or late-night use. With options like Cherry MX Silent Red, ZealPC Zilent V2, and Gateron Silent Red, users can enjoy smooth or tactile keystrokes without disruptive sounds. Whether for gaming or office work, the variety of silent switches ensures there’s a perfect fit for everyone, combining performance, comfort, and quietness.