Part 1: Understanding The Basics
Mechanical keyboards, known for their distinct tactile feedback, are a favorite among gamers, programmers, and writing enthusiasts. The acoustic, tactile feedback they offer is satisfying but might not always sound pleasing to every user. Therefore, upgrading your mechanical keyboard’s acoustics is an effective way to personalize your typing experience. Here’s how you can do it.
Firstly, let’s delve into understanding the different kinds of noises made by a mechanical keyboard. Typically, these noises result from its keycaps, its switches, its stabilizers, and its plate and case. Each of these components contributes to the overall acoustic of a keyboard.
1. Key Noise: The noise produced when a keycap is struck and bottoms out onto the switch.
2. Switch Noise: In mechanical keyboards, the switch is the source of the auditory and tactile feedback. The type of switch, whether linear, clicky, or tactile, affects the acoustics.
3. Stabilizer Rattle: Ensures larger keycaps like spacebar, enter, or shift, maintain balance. Rattle occurs when these stabilizers are loosely fitted or inadequately lubricated, causing unwanted noise.
4. Case Ping: The hollowness inside the case creates an echo or a pinging noise that resonates each time a keystroke is made.
Part 2: The Mechanical Keyboard Acoustic Upgrade
Now that we know what causes these noises, we have several techniques to improve these sound issues.
A. Replace The Keycaps
Different keycap materials impact the overall keyboard acoustics. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are generally thin and create a higher-pitched sound compared to PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps, which are thicker and provide a deeper acoustical profile.
B. Lubricate The Switches
Applying a premium quality lubricant to the switches can significantly decrease friction, providing a smoother typing experience and a lessened noise output. Be cautious with the lubricant’s quantity; an over-lubricated switch can hinder performance.
C. Dampen The Plate And Case
Sound dampening materials, such as foam or rubber, affixed inside the keyboard case can reduce both echo and resonance. Another upgraded plate material to consider could be polycarbonate or a half-plate design to shift the pitch, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound.
D. Tune The Stabilizers
Tuning the stabilizers incorporates both lubing and band-aid mods. Lubing the stabilizers reduces friction while the band-aid mod, using a thin piece of fabric or plastic, helps reduce plastic-on-plastic contact noise.
Part 3: The Upgrade Guide:
Tools you might need: keycap puller, switch puller, brush set for lubrication, screwdriver, lube, band-aid, scissors, tweezers, and foam for case dampening.
Step 1: Disassemble The Keyboard.
Use the keycap and switch puller to remove the keycaps and switches.
Step 2: Begin With The Stabilizers.
Clip the stabilizers to remove excess plastic that leads to a mushy bottom-out feel. Apply lubricant on the stabilizer stems and housings to reduce friction and noise. Use band-aids to muffle the sound of stabilizers hitting the PCB.
Step 3: Apply Sound Dampening Materials To The Case.
Cut foam or rubber to the shape of your keyboard’s interior. Place it inside the case and secure it with adhesive if needed.
Step 4: Lubricate The Switches.
Apply a thin coat of lubricant to the side rails, the stem, and the base of the switch housing.
Step 5: Replace The Keycaps.
Choose the best material that suits your typing preferences. ABS and PBT are popular choices.
Step 6: Reassemble The Keyboard.
Once all components have been optimized for better acoustics, reassemble the keyboard by reverse sequential order from which it was taken apart.
Regular maintenance and timely upgrades can enhance a mechanical keyboard’s acoustical properties. By following the steps above, you will reduce unwanted noise and transform your mechanical keyboard into a more pleasing and personalized device. Following reputed tech blogs, communities, or social media groups for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can offer more ideas on how to upgrade your keyboard acoustically. Happy typing!
