How to Choose a Mechanical Keyboard for Use in the Workplace or Office

Points to Note When Using a Mechanical Keyboard in the Workplace or Office

When choosing a keyboard for use in the workplace or office, not just a mechanical keyboard, it is important to pay attention to "sound" and "light."

If the office is always noisy with colleagues talking or phones ringing, it may not be an issue, but in a quiet office environment, even small sounds can disturb your colleagues' concentration or become a nuisance.

Also, a keyboard that lights up like a gaming keyboard can be unpleasant for colleagues sitting next to or across from you, as the flashing lights can be distracting.

When choosing a keyboard for use in the workplace or office, it is best to consider these points of "sound" and "light."

How to Choose a Mechanical Keyboard That Won't Disturb Others with Noise

When people think of mechanical keyboards, they may imagine "clacky and noisy keyboards," but in fact, there are products that use "silent switches" which are quieter than typical keyboards.

Mechanical keyboard switches come in three types:

1. Linear
2. Tactile
3. Clicky

Linear switches are the quietest, while clicky switches are the loudest. If you plan to use a mechanical keyboard in the workplace or office, choose a linear switch.

Linear switches include:

1. Red switch
2. Silent red switch (pink switch)
3. Silver switch
4. Black switch

How to Choose a Mechanical Keyboard That Won't Annoy Others with Light

Next, the point to be careful about is "light."

Mechanical keyboards are popular among gaming users, so there are many models with lighting features.

However, not all mechanical keyboards are flashy; in fact, there are models that do not light up at all.

Even for mechanical keyboards that light up, some models allow you to adjust the brightness and lighting patterns, or even turn off the lighting altogether. Choose such models and set them to minimize lighting in the workplace or office.

What if You Want to Use Your Current Mechanical Keyboard?

If your current mechanical keyboard is a noisy model but you still want to use it at work or in the office, try soundproofing it.

The two major methods for soundproofing mechanical keyboards are:

1. Silent rings
2. Silent keycaps

Silent rings are a popular method for soundproofing mechanical keyboards. They are rubber rings attached to mechanical switches to reduce the echo sound when keys bottom out. They are highly effective for noise reduction but can significantly change the typing feel.

Silent keycaps are made from materials that reduce echo sounds and have the advantage of not changing the typing feel. However, the effectiveness of soundproofing varies depending on the product quality and the keyboard combination.