Best Quiet Mechanical Keyboard Switches in 2023

Mechanical keyboards have become popular thanks to their superior performance and durability. One of the downsides of these keyboards is the clicky sound they produce when you type, which can distract you and your colleagues.

However, there are silent or quiet mechanical keyboards, thanks to the type of switches they use. This quietness enables you to enjoy the benefits of a mechanical keyboard without the loud clicking sound.

If you are looking for the best quiet mechanical keyboard switches, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss the best quiet mechanical keyboard switches available on the market and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What Are Keyboard Mechanical Switches

Mechanical switches are physical switches that use physical contact to make and break a connection. They control electrical circuits, digital logic signals, or other devices.

Keyboard mechanical switches comprise a base, stem, and spring and come in various designs that determine their noise level.

There are different types of mechanical keyboards. They include:

• Tactile switches: As the name suggests, tactile switches give tactile feedback when you press the key. The tactile feedback indicates that the system has registered your key press.
• Linear Switches: Linear keyboard switches provide a smooth and consistent keystroke with minimum or no tactile feedback. Instead of having a tactile “bump” like a typical mechanical switch, a linear switch moves straight up and down with no noticeable resistance.
• Clicky switches: Clicky keyboard switches are mechanical keyboard switches that produce a “clicky” sound when pressed. These switches are usually louder than other types of mechanical keyboard switches since they have a tactile bump and a distinct “click” sound when you press the switch.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Quiet Mechanical Keyboard Switches

Various factors determine the noise level of a mechanical switch. These factors include:

• Switch Type: Switch type affects the quietness of a mechanical switch. Some switches produce a louder sound when you press the key. Linear switches are the quietest since they do not provide any tactile feedback or noise. Clicky switches are the loudest since they produce a “clicky” sound when you type.
• Actuation force:  Switches with a higher actuation force require you to apply more pressure for the keystroke to register, which can lead to a louder and sharper sound.
• Switch Brand: Some brands produce quieter switches, which can help reduce the mechanical keyboard’s overall noise level.
• Dampeners: Dampeners reduce the sound a mechanical switch produces when you press a key. The dampeners are usually rubber o-rings or foam pieces attached to the stem of the key switch.
• Keyboard Build: Metal construction keyboards produce higher noise than plastic-built keyboards because metal is a better conductor of noise.

Top Ten Quiet Mechanical Keyboard Switches

Choosing the best quiet mechanical keyboard switch can be a challenge. However, we have conducted tests and compiled a list of the top ten best switches. Below are these switches in more detail.

1. Cherry MX Red Switches

The Cherry MX Red keyboard switches are among the most popular on the market. These switches are linear and have a light actuation force of 45 grams. The linear nature of these switches makes them great for typing, gaming, and other activities where speed, silence and precision are essential.

The Cherry MX Red switches offer a smooth and consistent feel, with a tactile bump at the midpoint of the keystroke. The keys’ linear nature also helps minimize the noise they produce while you type. The light actuation force also makes them easy to press and reduces the strain on your fingers.

The Cherry MX Red switches have an MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) rating of over 50 million keystrokes, making them incredibly reliable and durable. Cherry MX red switches are also compatible with most mechanical keyboards, making them an excellent choice for those who want to upgrade their keyboards.

The Cherry MX Red switches offer excellent performance, silence, reliability, and comfort. They are great for typing and gaming and an excellent choice for anyone looking for a smooth and consistent user experience.

Pros

• Cherry MX Red switches require less actuation, making them ideal for fast-paced gaming and typing
• Quieter than other switch types
• Provide a smooth keystroke
• They rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, making them durable

Con

• They provide minimal tactile feedback

2. Kailh Deep Sea Box Silent Switch

The Kailh Deep Sea Box Silent mechanical keyboard switch is a revolutionary new product that provides gamers and typists an unparalleled gaming experience. Featuring a unique box-shaped design, the Kailh Deep Sea Box Silent switch offers just the right tactile feedback that results in a quiet yet responsive and comfortable typing experience. The switch’s box-shaped design also makes it highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 70 million keystrokes.

The Kailh Deep Sea Box Silent mechanical keyboard switch uses a unique switch stem design that is silent, stable and durable. The stems are pre-lubricated to increase the switch’s smoothness, ensuring a silent and consistent performance. The switch also features a travel distance of 3.6mm and an actuation force of 45g. This allows for a fast and smooth typing experience while providing satisfying tactile feedback.

The Kailh Deep Sea Box Silent mechanical keyboard switch is an excellent choice for gamers and typists. It offers a unique combination of tactile and linear feedback and a durable design that is sure to last.

Pros

• It has a unique box design
• They are durable
• Provide the right among of tactile feedback

Con

• A bit expensive compared to other switches

3. Gateron Silent MX Switch

The Gateron Silent MX Switch 5 Pin Transparent Case Black Red Brown is a revolutionary keyboard switch that offers silent operation and enhanced keystroke speed. This is the perfect switch for gamers, typists, and anyone looking for a tactile, low-noise switch. The switch features a 5-pin transparent case with a black, red, and brown stem. The housing is designed to offer maximum durability and stability, while the transparent case offers a unique look.

The switch is designed with Gateron’s patented Silent MX technology, eliminating the sound a switch makes when you press the key. This makes it perfect for gaming, typing, and any other situation requiring a quiet mechanical keyboard. The switch offers a unique tactile feel, bounce, enhanced keystroke speed and response time, making it perfect for competitive gaming and typing.

The Gateron Silent MX Switch 5 Pin Transparent Case switch is compatible with any standard mechanical keyboard. It is easy to install and requires no special tools or knowledge. The switch is backed by Gateron’s limited lifetime warranty, meaning it will remain in good condition for years.

If you are looking for a silent, tactile switch that offers enhanced keystroke speed and response time, the Gateron Silent MX Switch 5 Pin Transparent Case Black Red Brown is perfect. With its durable design and silent operation, this switch will provide years of reliable service.

Pros

• They are durable
• Have a unique design
• It comes in great-looking packaging

Con

• The black bases dull the backlight

4. Cherry MX Silent Black

The Cherry MX Silent Black switch is one of the quietest mechanical keyboard switches available. It offers a unique combination of low noise, fast actuation and a smooth feel. This switch has a dampening system that reduces its noise level. It also has tactile feedback that provides a positive click feel when typing. The switch is rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, making it one of the most reliable switches.

The MX Silent Black switch has a relatively light actuation force of 45g, making it suitable for gaming and typing. The travel distance is 2.2mm, with an actuation point of 1.8mm. This makes it faster than a standard mechanical switch. Its low-profile design allows for a comfortable and silent typing experience.

The switch has a clear casing and black stem, making it an attractive choice for any keyboard. The switches are also compatible with Cherry MX keycaps making it possible to customize your keyboard.

The Cherry MX Silent Black switch is perfect for a quiet but responsive typing experience. It has a unique combination of features that make it suitable for gaming and typing. The low noise, fast actuation and unique features make it an ideal choice for a quiet but responsive typing experience. Whether you’re a gamer or a typist, this switch will surely provide a great experience.

Pros

• Quieter than some of its counterparts
• Comes with a clear casing and black stem making  them attractive
• Have a low actuation force

Con

• A bit expensive

5. Cherry MX Brown

The Cherry MX Brown switch is one of the most popular on the market due to its tactile feedback and quiet operation. The switch is non-clicky, meaning it does not make a loud “click” like other switches. Instead, it has a light tactile bump when you press the switch, which is sufficient to let you know the keyboard has registered the keystroke.

The switch requires 45g of actuation force, which is relatively low for a mechanical switch. Another great feature of the Cherry MX Brown switch is its noise level; it is one of the quietest switches available, making it an excellent option for those who want to keep their gaming or typing noise to a minimum.

The switch also features a Gold Crosspoint contact system, which ensures long life and high accuracy. The switch is also IP56 rated, which means it is dustproof and waterproof, making it an ideal choice if you want a switch that will stand up to the test of time.

Pros

• It has a low actuation point
• Dust resistant
• Durable

Con

• It can become less consistent over time.

6. Kutethy Milky Yellow Gateron Switches 

The kutethy Yellow switches are among the quietest, making them ideal for gaming and typing. The switches feature 45g actuation force that is perfect for gaming and typing. The linear switch design means that the keystroke is always consistent and smooth.

The Yellow switches have a shorter actuation distance of 3.5mm and a higher actuation point making them more responsive, quieter and faster for gaming. The shorter actuation distance also makes them quieter, which is especially beneficial for gaming late at night when you don’t want to disturb anyone else in the house.

The kutethy Yellow switches also have a lifespan of up to 80 million keystrokes, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting. The switches are also coated in a special UV coating to prevent wear and tear and to ensure the switches stay clean and hygienic.

The kutethy Yellow switches are some of the quietest for gaming and typing. They are incredibly responsive and fast, and their long lifespan makes them a great choice for gamers and typists who want a reliable and silent keyboard.

Pros

• Highly durable
• Smooth and quiet typing experience.
• Long-lasting and durable.
• Easy to find and replace.

Con

• Expensive compared to other switch types

7. CN GAMING Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches

The CN GAMING Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches are among the gaming industry’s most popular and sought-after switches. They are designed to provide gamers with a smooth, silent, and incredibly responsive experience. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches feature a lightweight design, with a 50g actuation force that makes them perfect for those who need fast and precise movements.

The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches are made from high-quality plastic housing with a gold-plated contact pad for maximum conductivity. The switch also has an LED-illuminated stem for greater visibility in dark settings. These switches are renowned for their reliability and durability, so you know you’re getting a great product with the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches.

The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches are also one of the quietest. This is due to their milky yellow stem design, which produces a gentle, non-clicky sound when actuated. This makes them perfect for gamers and typists who want to focus on their gaming or typing without any distracting noises. The switches also provide a smooth, consistent feel, which helps to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.

The CN GAMING Gateron Milky Yellow Pro Switches are perfect for gamers looking for a reliable, silent, and responsive gaming switch. These switches provide a smooth, consistent feel, and their LED-illuminated stem makes them perfect to game in low-light settings. They’re also one of the quietest switches available, making them ideal if you don’t want to be distracted by loud clicking sounds.

Pros

• Offers a smooth and linear tactile feedback
• Quieter than other Gateron switch types
• Excellent for gaming and typing

Con

• Not as responsive as other switch types

8. Glorious Panda Switch (Lubed Switches)

The Glorious Panda Switch is a lubed 3-pin switch designed for mechanical keyboards. It features a plate-mounted design, allowing you to attach it to any compatible keyboard easily. The switch is one of the most silent switches on the market, thanks to its lubing and the high-grade materials used in its construction. It provides a smooth, tactile feel ideal for gaming and typing.

The Panda Switch is constructed from high-grade materials. The top cover of INVYR is made of polycarbonate, the lower cover is made of PA66 nylon, the shaft is made of POM, and the spring is made of nickel-plated stainless steel, one of the strongest and most durable switches on the market. It is rated for 50 million keystrokes, so it can easily handle intense gaming and typing sessions. The switch has a light actuation force of 45g, making it suitable for light and heavy typists. Additionally, its 3-pin design ensures it will fit into any compatible keyboard without any issues.

The switch also features pre-lubed construction, which helps reduce friction and noise. This makes it one of the quietest switches on the market, perfect for gamers and typists who want a quiet and responsive switch. The lubing also helps prolong the switch’s lifetime, ensuring it will stay in great condition for years.

The Glorious Panda Switch is one of the best silent switches on the market. Its plate-mounted design and high-grade materials make it durable and reliable, while its pre-lubed construction keeps noise levels to a minimum. It is ideal for gaming and typing, and its light actuation force suits both light and heavy typists.

Pros

• Compatible with a majority of mechanical keyboards
• Durable
• Offers a smooth user experience

Con

• Expensive

 

9. DROP Switch Pack – Aliaz 60G Silent & Tactile

The Drop Switch Pack – Aliaz 60G Silent & Tactile 5-Pin Mechanical Keyboard Switches – PCB Mount & Clear Housing Made by Gateron is a must-have for typists and gamers alike. With their unique design, these switches provide the perfect combination of speed, accuracy, and comfort. The Aliaz 60G switches feature a clear housing and a PCB mount, making them ideal for custom keyboards.

The Aliaz 60G switches are some of the most silent switches on the market. They have unique features, including low-profile housing, a low actuation force, and a short travel distance. This makes them great for those who want an ultra-quiet typing experience and the assurance that they won’t cause a disturbance while working in a shared space.

The Aliaz 60G switches also feature a tactile feel and a medium activation point, making them great for gaming and typing. The tactile feel ensures you feel it when the switch has been activated, while the medium activation point ensures the switch will activate with just the right amount of pressure. This makes them perfect for gamers and typists who need accuracy, speed, and comfort while playing their favorite games.

The Drop Switch Pack – Aliaz 60G Silent & Tactile 5-Pin Mechanical Keyboard Switches – PCB Mount & Clear Housing Made by Gateron is a great choice for a silent switch. With their low-profile housing, low actuation force, and short travel distance, these switches are perfect for typists and gamers alike. The tactile feel and medium activation point make them ideal for gaming, and the clear housing and PCB mount make them perfect for custom keyboards.

Pros

• High-quality build and design, making it a durable and reliable switch
• It offers a smooth and silent operation
• Consistent and tactile feel for a more comfortable typing experience

Con

• They are a bit wobbly

10. Zealios Zilent V2 Tactile Switches

The Zealios Zilent V2 Tactile Switches MX Style 5 pins Mute Blue Switch for Mechanical Keyboard Shafts are one of the most silent switches available. The unique design of these switches makes them ideal if you enjoy a quieter typing experience. The switches feature a unique “mute” feature which reduces the sound of the switch actuation to a whisper while still providing a satisfying tactile feel. The switch also has a 5-pin design with an MX-style stem, allowing for greater customization options. The Silent V2 also has a lifespan of up to 70 million keystrokes, much higher than the industry standard of 50 million.

The Zealios Zilent V2 tactile switches are great for a quieter yet satisfying typing experience. The unique mute feature ensures the keys are almost silent but still provides a satisfying tactile feel. The MX-style stem also allows for greater customization options, letting you customize the feel and sound of the switch to your preference. The switch also has a longer lifespan than the industry standard, giving you more time to enjoy your keyboard. With all these features, the Zealios Zilent V2 is one of the best silent switches available and is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quieter typing experience.

Pros

• It has a higher life span than its counterparts
• Smooth and consistent tactile feedback
• Light and precise actuation force
• Quiet operation

Con

• High cost

Conclusion

The switches highlighted above are among the best quiet mechanical keyboard switches available on the market. They provide you with an efficient and comfortable typing experience while offering silent operation for a distraction-free and focused typing and gaming experience. These switches are ideal for professional and casual use, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a superior-quality keyboard switch.

FAQs

How do mechanical keyboard switches work?

Mechanical keyboard switches use a metal spring and a stem to press against a physical contact point within the keyboard. When the key is pressed, it triggers a circuit beneath it, signaling to the computer that you have pressed it.

How long do mechanical keyboard switches last?

Mechanical keyboard switches usually last between 50-100 million keystrokes, depending on the switch type and quality.

Are mechanical keyboard switches better than membrane keyboard switches?

Yes, mechanical keyboard switches are generally considered more durable, reliable, and comfortable to type on than membrane keyboard switches.

What is the difference between linear and tactile mechanical keyboard switches?

Linear mechanical keyboard switches offer a smooth and consistent feel when typing, while tactile switches provide a bump or tactile feedback when pressed.