Recently, I came across a story about an office worker who was struggling to focus because a colleague used a loud, clicky mechanical keyboard. Even with headphones on, the typing noise came through and became a daily source of stress. At first glance, this may sound like a small issue—but in modern open-office environments, where people work closely together, small sounds can quickly add up and impact productivity and well-being.
This example highlights a broader question that many workplaces face today: How do we balance someone’s preference for a clicky keyboard with the need for a quiet, comfortable workspace for everyone?
Why Do People Love Clicky Keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards—especially clicky switches like blue switches—are popular for several reasons:
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Faster, more accurate typing: The tactile feedback and audible click help many users type more efficiently.
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Satisfying typing feel: Some people find typing more enjoyable with a mechanical keyboard, which can motivate them to work longer and more comfortably.
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Customization and ergonomics: Mechanical keyboards often offer better durability, layouts, and personalization options.
For users who type for hours every day, these benefits can make a real difference.
Why Noise Matters in a Shared Office
While clicky keyboards can feel great, the sharp, repetitive sound can be distracting in shared environments such as open offices.
Noise can:
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Disrupt concentration
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Increase stress levels
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Reduce overall productivity
Everyone has different sensitivity levels, and what feels normal to one person might be overwhelming to another.
Finding the Middle Ground: Practical Solutions
Instead of an “either-or” debate, workplaces can explore balanced solutions that respect both productivity and peace.
1. Switch to Quieter Keyboard Options
Not all mechanical or tactile keyboards are loud. Users can consider:
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Quieter switch types (e.g., red or brown switches)
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Silent switch variants
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Dampening accessories like O-rings
These options preserve typing comfort while reducing noise.
2. Workspace Zoning
Companies can create:
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Quiet zones for deep-focus work
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General areas where collaboration and normal keyboard sounds are acceptable
This aligns work style with the right environment.
3. Practicing Office Etiquette
A polite conversation can go a long way:
“Hey, I love the sound of your keyboard, but I’ve been having trouble focusing. Maybe we can find a solution together?”
Respectful communication reduces tension and opens the door to compromise.
4. Employer Support
Companies can support both sides by:
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Providing silent keyboard options
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Offering noise-cancelling tools
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Allowing flexible seating arrangements
This helps create a fair and comfortable workspace for everyone.
Silent Alternatives for Shared Offices
For those who still enjoy a premium typing experience but want to stay considerate of coworkers, silent keyboards are an excellent solution.
Two upcoming options designed specifically for quieter office environments are:
🔇 PERIBOARD-636 (wireless) and PERIBOARD-536 (wired) – Silent Scissor Keyboard
A slim profile keyboard featuring ultra-quiet scissor keys, providing a soft and comfortable typing feel suitable for open offices.
Both the UK and DE layout versions of these models will be available to the market after Christmas, making them ideal options for teams planning to refresh their office equipment in the new year.
