Letβs be honest - we love the feel of a mechanical keyboard, but not everyone around us loves the sound. Whether you're working in an office, studying at a library, or just trying not to wake up the whole house, finding a quiet mechanical keyboard can make all the difference. In this guide, weβll break down what makes a keyboard quiet and share some of the best options that combine performance with peace and quiet.

1. Wordrunner
AtFreewrite, weβve spent years designing tools that help writers stay focused, andWordrunner is one of the most exciting keyboards weβve ever built. Wordrunner isnβt the quietest keyboard out there, but itβs worth your attention because it brings characteristics that no other keyboard offers, especially for serious writers.
One of the most unique features we are proud of is the 8-digit mechanical Wordometer. It physically tracks your word count in real time as you type. Whether youβre working on a short article or a full novel, you can actually see your progress, even when the keyboard is powered off. This real-time feedback changes the way you write, keeping you motivated to hit your daily goals without stopping to check a screen.
Besides the Wordometer, Wordrunner comes with a built-in sprint timer to keep your sessions productive, a set of redesigned function keys tailored for writers, and a die-cast aluminum body that feels rock-solid. It also supports both wired and wireless connections, and it can switch between up to four devices with a simple keystroke. Add in a multi-directional media joystick and customizable macro keys, and youβve got a writing tool that is built to last for millions of words.
Key Characteristics:
-
8-digit mechanical Wordometer that tracks word count live
-
Sprint timer to stay focused during writing sessions
-
Customizable writer-focused function keys
-
Solid die-cast aluminum body for long-term durability
-
Wired and wireless connectivity with easy device switching
-
Multi-directional joystick for fast media control
Excited? We are too. See everything Wordrunner has to offer and secure yours early onKickstarter.
2. Logitech MX Mechanical
The Logitech MX Mechanical is built for people who love the feel of mechanical keyboards but prefer a quieter environment. It combines a smooth typing experience with low-profile keys that make less noise compared to traditional mechanical keyboards. The design focuses on comfort and simplicity, making it a good choice whether you are working from home, in an office, or in a shared space.
What makes this keyboard different is the focus on user-friendly features without overwhelming you with complicated options. You get mechanical keys that feel responsive but donβt produce loud clicks, and it even has smart backlighting that adjusts automatically to your surroundings. Plus, it connects to multiple devices, which is great if you often switch between a laptop, tablet, or desktop.
Key Characteristics:
-
Low-profile mechanical keys for quieter typing
-
Three switch types to match different typing preferences
-
Smart backlighting that adapts to lighting conditions
-
Can connect to up to three devices at once
-
Built with recycled plastic and aluminum for better sustainability
-
Available in full-size or compact layouts to fit different desk setups
3. Kensington QuietType Pro
The Kensington QuietType Pro is a mechanical keyboard designed for people who work in shared or quiet environments. It focuses on reducing typing noise while still giving you the solid, precise feel that mechanical keyboards are known for. The build is clean and simple, and it includes a comfortable wrist rest to help you stay relaxed during long hours of typing.
What makes the QuietType Pro stand out is its attention to both comfort and quietness. It comes with meeting control features and can be customized through software to match your workflow. Whether you are in an office or working from home, this keyboard is built to help you stay productive without the usual noise and distractions.
Key Characteristics:
-
Very quiet mechanical switches designed for low-noise typing
-
Full-size layout with a built-in wrist rest for extra comfort
-
Clean, professional look that fits modern workspaces
-
Customizable keys and settings through Kensington software
-
Good for both Windows and macOS users
-
Designed for long typing sessions without extra strain
4. be quiet! Light Mount
The be quiet! Light Mount is a mechanical keyboard built for people who want a quiet experience without giving up speed or precision. It uses specially designed silent switches and has multiple layers inside to reduce noise, making it a good fit for gaming or working without bothering others around you. The build quality feels solid, and the keyboard has a clean look with bright but even lighting across all keys.
What really sets the Light Mount apart is the extra touches that improve both comfort and function. It includes a media wheel and a few dedicated keys for quick controls, which can be handy if you often switch between tasks. The customizable lighting also adds a bit of style without being too flashy, giving you a keyboard that looks good and stays quiet.
Key Characteristics:
-
Silent mechanical switches for a quieter typing experience
-
Three layers of soundproofing to block out extra noise
-
Solid build with a comfortable, clean layout
-
Media wheel and dedicated macro keys for easy control
-
Even per-key lighting with customizable effects
-
Designed for both gaming and everyday work
5. NZXT Function 2
The NZXT Function 2 is designed for people who want a fast, responsive keyboard without a lot of noise. It features smooth optical switches and a thoughtful design that focuses on performance and comfort. Whether you're gaming or working, this keyboard provides a consistent and quiet experience that keeps distractions low. The wrist rest and full-size layout make long sessions more comfortable without feeling bulky.
What stands out about the Function 2 is its focus on sound dampening and smooth keystrokes. The switches are pre-lubricated to reduce friction and noise, and the build includes layers that absorb unwanted sounds. Add in the ability to easily swap switches and customize the lighting, and you get a keyboard that adapts to your preferences without being flashy or overwhelming.
Key Characteristics:
-
Smooth, lightweight optical switches for fast and quiet typing
-
Sound-dampening layers to minimize noise
-
Detachable wrist rest for added comfort
-
Hot-swappable switches for easy customization
-
Per-key RGB lighting that can be personalized
-
Strong aluminum top plate for a solid feel
6. Epomaker HE68
The Epomaker HE68 is a small and simple mechanical keyboard that fits well on any desk without taking up much space. Itβs designed for people who want quiet typing and a smooth feel. This keyboard focuses on giving you a clean experience with fewer distractions, which makes it a solid option for gaming, work, or casual use.
One of the standout things about the HE68 is how you can adjust how sensitive the keys feel, helping you find the right balance between speed and comfort. It also keeps noise down thanks to extra layers inside that soften the sound. The RGB lighting adds a nice touch without being too flashy, making it easy to match with your setup.
Key Characteristics:
-
Compact layout that saves desk space
-
Adjustable key sensitivity for a customized feel
-
Quiet typing experience with sound-dampening design
-
Comfortable and smooth keystrokes
-
Simple and soft RGB lighting
-
Wired connection for stable use
7. IQUNIX EZ60
The IQUNIX EZ60 is a compact, high-quality mechanical keyboard built for people who want precision and durability without a lot of extra noise. Its magnetic switches let you fine-tune how each key feels, offering a more personalized typing or gaming experience. With its compact size, itβs a solid option for anyone who needs to save desk space but still wants a keyboard that feels stable and premium.
What sets the EZ60 apart is the attention to small details. It uses a gasket mount design that gives each key a softer and quieter press. The aluminum case adds a nice weight and makes the keyboard feel sturdy without being bulky. Itβs a simple, no-nonsense keyboard focused on delivering a consistent and satisfying experience day after day.
Key Characteristics:
-
Compact 60% layout that saves desk space
-
Magnetic switches with adjustable sensitivity
-
Gasket mount design for a softer, quieter feel
-
Durable aluminum case with a solid build
-
Smooth and consistent key presses
-
Simple wired connection for stable use
8. MonsGeek M1W SP
The MonsGeek M1W SP is a mechanical keyboard built for people who want flexibility without extra noise. Itβs compact but still keeps important keys like function rows and a volume knob, so you donβt feel like youβre missing anything. This keyboard supports wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connections, making it easy to use with different devices without much hassle.
What makes the M1W SP stand out is its combination of a solid aluminum body and a soft gasket mount design, which together create a quiet and smooth typing experience. The keycaps are made from durable materials to resist wear, and the battery lasts long enough to get through days of use without needing constant charging. Itβs a simple, practical keyboard that focuses on comfort and stability.
Key Characteristics:
-
75% layout for a balance between compact size and full functionality
-
Multi-mode connection with wired, Bluetooth, and wireless options
-
Soft gasket mount for quieter and more cushioned keystrokes
-
Aluminum case for a sturdy and premium feel
-
Long battery life for extended wireless use
-
Comfortable keycaps designed to resist shine and wear
9. MSI Strike 600
The MSI Strike 600 is made for people who want a keyboard that keeps noise to a minimum without giving up a solid typing feel. It uses silent tactile switches and has several layers of material inside that help block out extra sounds. This makes it a good choice for anyone who types a lot at night, works in shared spaces, or just prefers a quieter setup.
One thing that makes the Strike 600 stand out is the attention to comfort and style. It has an aluminum top that feels sturdy and looks clean, along with an adjustable design that lets you find a comfortable angle. Media controls and customizable lighting add some extra convenience without overcomplicating things.
Key Characteristics:
-
Quiet typing experience with silent tactile switches
-
Multi-layer sound dampening to reduce noise
-
Strong aluminum top for durability and a sleek look
-
Comfortable keycap design and adjustable keyboard feet
-
Easy-to-use volume and media controls
-
Customizable per-key RGB lighting for a personalized setup
10. Keychron V6 Max
The Keychron V6 Max is a full-size mechanical keyboard built for people who want a mix of performance, comfort, and customization. It offers quiet, smooth typing and gives users the flexibility to connect through Bluetooth or a wired option. The design focuses on reducing typing noise while maintaining a comfortable, soft keystroke feel, thanks to its gasket mount build and sound-dampening layers.
What makes the V6 Max stand out is how much you can personalize it. From key remapping to lighting and switch swaps, itβs made for users who like to fine-tune their setup. It also works easily with both Mac and Windows, making it a versatile pick for anyone looking for a quiet yet powerful keyboard for work or casual use.
Key Characteristics:
-
Full-size layout with a clean and solid design
-
Gasket mount for a softer, quieter typing feel
-
Triple connection modes: wired and wireless
-
Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux systems
-
Customizable key layouts and lighting through easy-to-use software
-
Quiet switches paired with durable PBT keycaps
Conclusion
Choosing the quietest mechanical keyboard doesnβt have to mean giving up on a good typing experience. Whether you're working in a shared office, writing late at night, or just prefer a quieter environment, there are plenty of solid options to pick from. Keyboards like the Logitech MX Mechanical, NZXT Function 2, and the Kensington QuietType Pro are designed to lower noise without losing the feel and precision mechanical keyboards are known for.
In the end, the right quiet keyboard is the one that matches your needs - whether itβs focused on silence, comfort, or a little extra functionality to make your workday easier.
FAQ
What makes a mechanical keyboard quiet?
Quiet mechanical keyboards usually have special switches that dampen the noise when keys are pressed and released. Some also include extra layers of sound-absorbing materials inside the keyboard.
Are silent mechanical keyboards good for gaming?
Yes, many quiet keyboards are built with fast, responsive switches that are great for gaming. They provide a quieter experience without slowing down your reaction time.
How do silent switches differ from regular mechanical switches?
Silent switches use dampeners and different internal designs to reduce the sound of both the keypress and the return. They feel similar but are much softer and quieter than standard mechanical switches.
Is it possible to make a mechanical keyboard quieter?
Yes, you can add o-rings to keycaps, lube the switches, or even replace switches with quieter ones if the keyboard supports hot-swapping.
Do quiet mechanical keyboards feel different from loud ones?
They usually have a softer, more cushioned feel. You still get the satisfying feedback of a mechanical keyboard but without the sharp click or clack.