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The thock sound is one of the most distinctive aspects of a mechanical keyboard, representing the resonate sound that’s produced when a key is fully depressed and bottomed out. Some mechanical keyboard enthusiasts prefer a softer, more controlled, and less distracting ‘thock’ sound than the standard. This softer sound doesn’t sacrifice tactile feedback or the overall typing experience but provides a more pleasant acoustic environment. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve a softer ‘thock’ sound on your mechanical keyboard.
### Mechanical Keyboard and Thock Sound: A Primer
Before delving into the details, it’s essential to understand what constitutes a mechanical keyboard’s ‘thock’ sound. The sound is primarily generated when the keycap is pressed, and the switch’s stem impacts the keyboard’s base. The sound’s quality can be influenced by several factors such as the keyboard housing, keycaps material, type of switch used, and even the desk or surface where the keyboard is placed.
### Choosing the Right Switches
The first step for achieving a softer ‘thock’ sound on your mechanical keyboard is by selecting the right switches. There are three types of switches: linear, clicky, and tactile.
Linear switches, like Cherry MX Red or Black, have a smooth keystroke without a tactile bump or click sound to signal the keypress. These switches generally provide a quieter sound and are a good starting point for achieving a softer ‘thock.’
Tactile switches, like the Cherry MX Brown, have a small bump in their keystroke to signal the keypress, but without the loud click sound. This bump gives tactile feedback, which some typists prefer, but it can contribute to a louder thock sound.
Clicky switches, like the Cherry MX Blue, have the loudest sound due to a mechanism that creates an audible click when the keystroke is actuated. So if you’re aiming for a softer ‘thock,’ clicky switches should be avoided.
### Switch Modding and Lubrication
Switch modding, particularly lubrication, is one of the most effective methods to achieve a softer ‘thock.’ This involves opening up the switches and applying a thin layer of lubricant to the sliding surfaces of the components.
Make sure to use the correct lubricant for the switch type. Oils are not suitable, as they often result in the switches feeling ‘gummy.’ Thick greases can dull the tactile feedback, while thin greases are generally the preferred choice. Lubricants like Krytox GPL 205 G0 or Tribosys 3203 are commonly recommended by enthusiasts.
When applying the lubricant, less is more. A thin layer on the stems, springs, and bottoms of the switch should suffice. Be careful not to get lubricant on the contacts, as this can lead to switch malfunction. Lubricated switches can significantly reduce the ‘thock’ sound and make for a smoother keypress.
