If you have ever tried to record a YouTube video or podcast episode while using a mechanical keyboard, you might have noticed that the sound of your keyboard can be distracting to your viewers or listeners. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that you can take to reduce the noise of your mechanical keyboard and improve the quality of your audio recordings.
Step 1: Choose the Right Switches
Before you cover your keyboard with towels or purchase expensive sound-dampening equipment, it's worth considering the type of switches that your keyboard uses. Different switches have different levels of loudness and tactile feedback, so choosing the right switches for your needs can make a big difference in reducing keyboard noise.
If you want a quieter keyboard, opt for switches that have a lower actuation force, such as Cherry MX Red or Brown switches. These switches require less force to activate and produce less sound than switches with higher actuation forces like Cherry MX Blue or Green switches.
Step 2: Add Dampening Material
If you are still experiencing keyboard noise after choosing the right switches, you can also try adding dampening material to your keyboard. There are a variety of different materials that you can use to dampen sound, including foam, rubber, and adhesive-backed neoprene.
To add dampening material, you will need to disassemble your keyboard and apply the material to the underside of each keycap. This can be a time-consuming process, but it can significantly reduce keyboard noise and improve the overall sound quality of your recordings.
Step 3: Position Your Microphone
The position of your microphone can also have a big impact on the amount of keyboard noise that is picked up in your recordings. To minimize keyboard noise, position your microphone as close to your mouth as possible while still maintaining a comfortable distance.
You can also position your microphone in a way that minimizes the distance between the microphone and the keyboard. For example, if you have a boom arm, you can position the arm so that the microphone is directly above your keyboard. This will allow your microphone to pick up your voice while minimizing the amount of keyboard noise that is captured.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce the amount of keyboard noise that is picked up in your recordings. Remember to choose the right switches, add dampening material to your keyboard, and position your microphone in a way that minimizes the distance between the microphone and the keyboard. With a little bit of effort, you can improve the sound quality of your recordings and create a more professional listening experience for your viewers and listeners.
