The desire for a soundproof keyboard perhaps arises from the need to work endlessly without distracting others or be distracted yourself by the clattering sound that regular mechanical keyboards produce. Building your own soundproof mechanical keyboard might seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidelines, it’s an achievable DIY project that’s incredibly rewarding. This article will guide you step by step on how to soundproof your mechanical keyboard.
Understanding Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are favored by those who spend a significant amount of time typing due to their durability, reliability, and tactile response. They come with individual mechanical switches beneath each key that register the keypress. The downside is the noise that emanates from these switches when the keys are pressed. Luckily, there are ways to soundproof these noisy wonders without compromising their performance.
Effective Soundproofing Techniques
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Switch and Keycap Selection: The first step in soundproofing your keyboard is choosing silent key switches. These switches are designed to minimize noise during key press/release. Brands such as Cherry MX and Gateron produce silent versions of their switches which can be adopted.
For keycaps, pick PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) ones. They have a denser material than regular ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps, resulting in less sound transmission. -
Use of Lubricants: To counteract the friction between moving parts, applying a thin layer of lubricant can significantly reduce noise levels. Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 and Tribosys 3204 are recommended for stabilizers and switches.
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Implementing O-Rings: O-rings are small rubber rings placed around the key stem that dampen the sound made by keypresses. While it slightly alters the keypress-depth, it effectively reduces bottoming-out sounds.
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Sound Deadening Mats: Aside from the keys, vibrations can also be produced from the keyboard’s casing. Sound deadening mats, typically made out of foam or rubber, can be inserted in the keyboard casing to absorb and lessen the vibrations.
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Applying Band Aid Mods: This is a popular method amongst enthusiasts for stabilizer noise reduction. Medical bandages or fabric plasters are applied to areas where the stabilizers hit the PCB (Printed Circuit Board).
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Installing Zealencio Silencing Clips: These clips help to dampen both upstroke and downstroke sounds.
The Construction Process
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Assembling the Switches: Start by disassembling your switches. Carefully apply the lubricant to the switches’ springs, stems, and housings. Once lubricated, reassemble the switches.
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Building the Keyboard Frame: With the switches ready, commence assembling your keyboard. Attach sound deadening mats to the inside of your keyboard casing. If your case does not support a mat, consider using Sorbothane strips to absorb vibrations.
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Setting Up the Stabilizers: Prior to attaching stabilizers to the PCB, apply a fair amount of lubricant to them. Adding the band-aid mod can further help in noise reduction.
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Attaching Switches to the PCB: Place your lubricated switches into their correct places on the PCB. Make sure each switch snaps correctly onto the plate, and ensure no pins are bent during the process.
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Keycap and O-Ring Installation: On each keycap stem, install an O-ring before placing it onto the corresponding switch. Note, the O-ring will lessen the key-travel distance, leading to a change in the typing feel.
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Acoustic Cover: For added soundproofing, consider purchasing an acrylic or polycarbonate keyboard cover.
Customizing Your Keyboard
Your keyboard can be further customized using Zealencio Silencing Clips or landing pads—small plastic or foam squares stacked beneath keys for dampening noises.
Maintaining Your Soundproof Keyboard
Mechanical keyboards require regular cleaning to keep them functioning ideally. Remember to remove the keycaps and clean the keyboard and switches with compressed air at regular intervals. Too much lubricant can trap dust, so apply sparingly and only when needed.
In conclusion, creating a soundproof mechanical keyboard is a step-by-step process that requires careful selection of hardware, meticulous application of sound-dampening strategies, and regular maintenance. A quiet and efficient workspace is within reach if you have the right resources, tools, and the desire to create your own soundproof mechanical keyboard. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different mods to find your perfect noise-to-performance ratio.
