Diving Deep into Mechanical Keyboard Typing Sounds

Mechanical keyboards have taken the tech world by storm, not just for their functionality and durability but also for the unique and satisfying sounds they produce. For enthusiasts and casual users alike, the sound of a mechanical keyboard can enhance the typing experience, making it more enjoyable and personalized. In this blog post, we'll dive into the different types of sounds mechanical keyboards can make, such as the thocky, clacky, creamy, clicky, hollow, pop, and muted sounds. Plus, we'll introduce you to an exciting way to customize your keyboard with unique keycaps from tzunabee.com.

The Symphony of Mechanical Keyboard Sounds

Thocky Sound

The "thocky" sound is characterized by a deep, resonant noise that many typists find incredibly satisfying. This sound is often associated with switches like the Cherry MX Blacks or the Gateron Inks. The thocky sound is usually achieved with heavier switches and can be enhanced with modifications such as lubing the switches and adding dampening foam inside the keyboard case.

Clacky Sound

The "clacky" sound is the high-pitched, crisp noise that typifies many traditional mechanical keyboards. This sound is often produced by tactile or clicky switches like the Cherry MX Blues or Razer Greens. The clacky sound is more pronounced and sharp, making each keystroke distinctly audible.

Creamy Sound

The "creamy" sound offers a smooth, muted auditory experience. This sound is typically produced by linear switches such as the Gateron Milky Yellows or the NovelKeys Creams. The creamy sound is less abrasive and can be described as a soft, consistent hum, providing a more soothing typing experience.

Clicky Sound

The "clicky" sound is a distinct, sharp noise that provides clear auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound is produced by clicky switches like the Cherry MX Blues or Kailh Box Whites. Clicky switches are popular among typists who enjoy a pronounced sound that confirms every key press.

Hollow Sound

The "hollow" sound is achieved by keyboards with less internal dampening, often producing a more echoey, resonant sound. This can be due to the keyboard's construction or the absence of sound-dampening materials.

Pop Sound

The "pop" sound is a sharp, popping noise that can be achieved with certain tactile switches combined with specific keycap materials. This sound is often desired for its distinctive and satisfying auditory feedback.

Muted Sound

The "muted" sound is often produced by switches with built-in dampeners or O-rings, creating a quieter, less intrusive typing sound. This sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.

Customize Your Keyboard Sound with Tzunabee Keycaps

The sound of your mechanical keyboard can be greatly influenced by the type of keycaps you use. At Tzunabee.com, we offer a wide range of custom keycaps that not only enhance the aesthetics of your keyboard but also contribute to its unique sound profile. Here are a few ways custom keycaps can change your keyboard's sound:

Material Matters

Keycaps come in various materials such as ABS, PBT, and POM. Each material affects the sound differently:

• ABS Keycaps: Tend to produce a higher-pitched, louder sound.
• PBT Keycaps: Known for their durability and often result in a deeper, more muted sound.
• POM Keycaps: Offer a unique combination of smooth texture and a balanced sound profile.

Profile and Thickness

The profile and thickness of the keycaps also play a significant role:

• Thicker Keycaps: Typically produce a deeper, more resonant sound.
• Keycap Profile: From OEM to SA profiles, the shape and height of keycaps can change the acoustics, affecting the overall sound.

Keycap Profiles and Their Sound Characteristics

OEM Profile

OEM profile keycaps are the most common and have a standard height with a sculpted design. They produce a balanced sound that isn't too deep or too sharp. The sound can be slightly higher-pitched due to the thinner walls compared to some other profiles.

Cherry Profile

Cherry profile keycaps are shorter than OEM and have a sculpted shape. They are known for producing a deeper, more thocky sound, especially when made from thicker PBT or ABS plastic. This profile is popular for its comfortable typing feel and pleasing acoustic properties.

SA Profile

SA profile keycaps are tall with a spherical top. They tend to produce a louder, more resonant sound due to their height and thicker walls. The shape and material of SA keycaps often amplify the acoustics, creating a pronounced clack.

DSA Profile

DSA profile keycaps have a uniform, low-profile shape with a spherical top. They tend to produce a softer, more muffled sound due to their uniform height and generally thinner construction. This profile is great for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

XDA Profile

XDA profile keycaps are similar to DSA but with a larger surface area on top. They produce a soft and balanced sound that is slightly more muted than OEM or Cherry profiles. The uniformity and large surface area contribute to a quieter typing experience.

MT3 Profile

MT3 profile keycaps are sculpted with a high profile and a concave top. They are designed to provide a vintage feel and produce a deep, thocky sound. The thicker walls and unique shape of MT3 keycaps enhance the resonance, making them a favorite for those seeking a rich acoustic experience.

KAT Profile

KAT profile keycaps are medium height with a sculpted design and a large surface area on top. They produce a balanced, deep sound due to their thickness and material. This profile is designed to provide comfort and a pleasing acoustic experience.

ASA Profile

ASA profile keycaps are similar in height to SA but with a more rounded top. They offer a deep, resonant sound that is slightly more muted than SA, providing a satisfying typing experience with a unique acoustic profile.

NP Profile

NP profile keycaps are medium height with a concave top, designed to emulate vintage keyboards. They produce a thocky, rich sound, combining the best elements of Cherry and SA profiles to create a unique auditory experience.

MDA Profile

MDA profile keycaps are medium height with a uniform, spherical top. They produce a balanced and soft sound, offering a comfortable typing experience. The shape and height contribute to a slightly muted sound compared to higher profiles.

MOA Profile

MOA profile keycaps are medium height with a slightly rounded top and sculpted design. They produce a soft, resonant sound that is balanced and pleasing to the ear. The unique shape enhances the acoustic properties, making each keystroke satisfying.

How Modding Helps Improve the Sound

Lubing Switches

Applying lubricant to the mechanical switches can reduce friction and noise, resulting in smoother and quieter keystrokes. Lubing can transform a scratchy, loud switch into a buttery smooth and pleasantly quiet one.

Adding Dampening Foam

Inserting foam inside the keyboard case can absorb vibrations and reduce the hollow sound that some keyboards produce. This mod can significantly deepen and soften the overall sound profile.

Using O-Rings

O-rings are small rubber rings placed on the keycap stems to cushion the impact when the key is pressed. This reduces the sound of the keycap hitting the switch housing, resulting in a quieter typing experience.

Switch Films

Switch films are thin pieces of material placed between the top and bottom housing of a switch. They help tighten the housing and reduce wobble, leading to a more consistent and refined sound.

Custom Keycaps

Choosing the right keycap material, profile, and thickness can greatly influence the keyboard's sound. Experimenting with different keycap sets allows users to find the perfect combination that produces their desired sound.

Conclusion

Exploring the sounds of mechanical keyboards is a delightful journey that combines auditory pleasure with tactile satisfaction. Whether you prefer the deep thock, the crisp clack, the smooth creaminess, the distinct click, the hollow resonance, the sharp pop, or the muted quiet, there's a sound profile out there for everyone. And with custom keycaps from Tzunabee.com, you can further personalize your typing experience to match your unique style and sound preference. Visit Tzunabee.com today to discover our wide selection of custom keycaps and elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.

Happy typing!