Getting the most value from a mechanical keyboard is not just about choosing the efficient switches. It’s also about customizing it to provide a quieter or smoother typing experience. One reliable way to achieve this is through sound dampening. This practice also known as soundproofing, refers to treatments performed on mechanical keyboards to reduce sound levels or improve acoustics. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps involved in sound dampening custom mechanical keyboards.
The Need for Sound Dampening
Mechanical keyboards are known for their tactile feedback, but they can also be quite noisy especially in quiet environments. Sound dampening can alleviate excessive noise by reducing resonance or ‘ping,’ most of which comes from plastic parts of the keyboard. Sound dampening also improves the overall feel of the keyboard stroke as it cushions the impact between the switch and the keyboard plate.
Sound Dampening Techniques
1. Lubrication of Switches and Stabilizers
An essential step in sound dampening your mechanical keyboard involves lubricating the switches and stabilizers. This reduces friction between moving parts, leading to smoother keystrokes and thereby reducing noise levels. This should be done carefully with a brush, and while there are different types of lubricants to choose from, Krytox GPL 205 and Tribosys 3204 are highly recommended.
2. O-Rings
O-rings are an affordable solution for sound dampening and are easy to install. They work by limiting the distance that the keycap can travel, reducing the impact when the key hits the bottom. Although they affect key travel distance slightly, the noise reduction effect is noticeable.
3. Foam Padding
Adding foam padding to the case’s inside bottom absorbs a significant amount of sound that would have been reflected off the case. This technique is highly effective and popular in the keyboard community. Shelf liner, neoprene, or sorbothane sheets can be used as foam padding.
4. Band-Aids
This approach might sound unconventional, but applying Band-Aids to the keyboard’s stabilizer contact points is yet another method of sound dampening. The soft material of Band-Aids helps to reduce the impact noise that’s made when the keycap clip hits the PCB.
5. Switch Films
Switch films are thin, non-conductive plastic films that are inserted between the top and bottom housing of the switch. While they’re primarily designed for reducing wobble, they also help to dampen the sound.
6. Case Foam
One of the ways noise gets amplified in a mechanical keyboard is through resonance against the case. Therefore, installing case foam is an excellent choice for reducing this noise.
The Sound Dampening Process
Now let’s delve into the step-by-step process.
1. Start by unplugging your keyboard.
2. Using a keycap puller tool, gently remove all keycaps.
3. Use a switch puller tool to remove all switches.
4. Once the switches and keycaps are removed, pry the case open using a flat-head screwdriver.
5. Once inside, remove the PCB and plate.
6. Apply your choice of foam lining or padding to the inside of the keyboard case.
7. If you’re using O-rings, bands or switch films, apply these now to the appropriate parts of the switch.
8. Reassemble the plate and PCB inside the case.
9. If you’re lubricating the switches or stabilizers, now is the time to do it.
10. Once everything is assembled, reattach all switches and keycaps.
11. Test each key for proper function.
In Conclusion
While it may seem like a daunting task, sound dampening your custom mechanical keyboard can significantly enhance your typing experience. It reduces noise, increases smoothness during keystrokes, and brings an overall premium feel to your typing. With practice, patience, and the right materials, you can easily master this rewarding skill.
