Sunzit Mechanical Keyboard Sound Dampening Foam Reduce Bottoming Noise of Keycap Shaft Customized Metal Keyboard Mute Cotton

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This keyboard modification guide is fairly uncomplicated. Taking apart and putting together custom mechanical keyboards is pretty straightforward. All you need for this mod is some good sound-absorbing material, sharp cutting tools, and accurate measurement instruments. The list of tools needed isn’t long, but I have included some optional tools that are more accurate and/or make the task easier.

Today we will be covering the PE Foam mod, a sound-altering solution inspired by Owlabs and the Jelly Epoch TKL. Lubing: Lubricating your switches and stabilizers can reduce friction and, in turn, lower the noise produced during keypresses. Properly lubed switches can also create a smoother and more pleasant typing experience. Mounting Style: How the PCB and plate attach to the keyboard case. Mounting styles that use metal fasteners are frequently more stiff to type on. Other styles, such as gasket mount, use foam strips or rubber o-rings to absorb vibrations from typing to create a softer typing experience that often has the side effect of increased flex. Popular mounting styles include: gasket mount, top mount, tray mount, and friction-fit (o-ring mount). Adjust typing technique: A significant part of keyboard noise comes from how you type. Learning to type with a lighter touch and not bottoming out keys can help reduce noise. Think about the longevity and durability of the dampening foam. Choose materials that will maintain their effectiveness over time.

Types of Keyboard Switch Dampeners

For enthusiasts and professionals, the feel and sound of typing on a mechanical keyboard are not just functional aspects. These are auditory art forms that inspire passion and dedication. However, this audible joy can sometimes turn into a cacophony in shared spaces or quiet environments. Users then look for the perfect balance between the mechanical switch experience and a quieter typing ambiance.

Customization: Sorbothane foam can be cut and shaped to fit specific keyboard layouts and designs. This allows users to tailor the sound-dampening solution to their individual preferences and keyboard models.

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Determine the current noise level of your keyboard. If it's excessively loud, you may want to prioritize materials with excellent sound-dampening properties. Dampening foam is the most common dampening material for keyboard cases, and some custom and prebuilt boards come with case foams. An example is the ever-famous Jelly Epoch Keyboard Kit, which comes with its own Case PORON Foam. The budget-friendly Next Time 75 Barebones Kit also comes assembled with its own polyethylene (PE) case foam. Learn about the pros and cons of each material, including their sound-dampening qualities, flexibility, and durability. Silicone foam dampeners: Similar to O-rings, silicone dampeners can be placed under the keycaps to cushion keypresses and reduce the noise generated when the keycaps hit the switch housing. After placing the foam, press it down firmly and evenly to ensure good adhesion. Use a clean cloth or a roller to apply pressure, especially along the edges.

Choosing which one to go with mainly depends on your budget, what you have on hand, and how much space is inside your keyboard to work with. Determine your primary goal. Are you aiming for a quieter keyboard, a better keypress feel, or both? Viscoelastic properties: Sorbothane is a viscoelastic material, meaning it exhibits both viscous (fluid-like) and elastic (solid-like) properties. This combination allows it to dissipate energy and absorb vibrations effectively. Get your water bottle and cup holder ready, it’s going to be a long one. And make sure it doesn’t spill on your PCB! How do I do PE Mod?

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If you chose not to trim your foam earlier, do so now before re-assembling your board. Step 08 Assemble Keyboard

The only downside to neoprene is that it doesn’t have as good of sound reduction as the first option, but it’s still pretty impressive. Resonance control: Neoprene foam can help control resonances within mechanical keyboards and other devices. It minimizes the risk of unwanted vibrations and the subsequent ringing or echoing sounds associated with resonances. Enhanced focus and productivity: Sound proofing your keyboard noise can contribute to better concentration and productivity, especially in quiet work environments. It allows users to focus on their tasks without the distraction of a noisy keyboard, which can be particularly beneficial for tasks that require deep concentration.

The silicone dampening mod is more complex and time-consuming than case foams. In addition, there aren’t many companies offering pre-made silicone molds for custom keyboards. Also, more complex keyboard builds may not work well with the silicone dampening mod. Because keyboards differ in the amount of space between the PCB and casing, it takes some experimentation to find the ideal quantity of foam. In some cases, the sound improvements are drastic, but in other cases, it might only make a little difference.