Keys That Won’t Wake The Dead: A Complete How-to For Creating A Muffled Corsair K70

For many gamers, the Corsair K70 is an iconic mechanical keyboard known for its durability, performance, and customizable RGB lighting. However, some users may find the keyboard to be excessively loud, especially during intense gaming sessions or in quiet environments. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make Corsair K70 quieter, allowing you to enjoy your gaming experience without disturbing others.

Identifying the Noise Sources

Before implementing any sound dampening measures, it’s important to identify the primary noise sources on the Corsair K70. These include:

• Keycaps: The plastic keycaps can produce a loud clicky sound upon actuation.
• Switches: The mechanical switches under the keycaps generate a tactile and audible response.
• Stabilizers: The stabilizers on larger keys, such as the spacebar, can rattle or squeak.
• Case: The keyboard’s plastic case can amplify and resonate the noise.

Keycap Modifications

One of the simplest ways to reduce noise is to replace the stock keycaps with quieter alternatives. Consider the following options:

• O-rings: These rubber rings fit under the keycaps and absorb some of the impact, reducing the clicky sound.
• Silent keycaps: These keycaps are designed with built-in noise dampening materials, such as foam or rubber.
• Custom keycaps: You can also purchase custom keycaps made from materials like PBT, which is known for its quieter sound profile.

Switch Lubrication

Lubricating the switches can significantly reduce the noise generated by the actuation and release mechanisms. Use a specialized switch lubricant and apply a thin layer to the following components:

• Stem: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the stem of the switch, where it makes contact with the keycap.
• Springs: Lubricate the springs to reduce the noise produced by their compression and expansion.
• Housing: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the inside of the switch housing to reduce friction.

Stabilizer Modifications

The stabilizers on larger keys can be a major source of noise. Consider the following modifications:

• Lubrication: Lubricate the stabilizers with a thin layer of grease or switch lubricant.
• Clipping: Clipping the stabilizers involves removing a small portion of plastic from the ends, which can reduce rattling.
• Band-Aid mod: This involves placing a small piece of electrical tape or a Band-Aid on the underside of the stabilizer to dampen the noise.

Case Dampening

The keyboard’s case can amplify and resonate the noise generated by the keys and switches. To reduce this, consider the following:

• Sound dampening material: Place a layer of sound dampening material, such as foam or rubber, inside the case.
• Case foam: Purchase a pre-cut case foam insert that fits snugly inside the keyboard’s case.
• Weighting: Adding weight to the keyboard, such as with a wrist rest or heavy keycaps, can help reduce vibrations.

Other Noise Reduction Tips

In addition to the aforementioned modifications, consider the following additional tips:

• Use a headset: Wearing a headset can block out the keyboard noise from your ears.
• Place the keyboard on a soft surface: A soft surface, such as a mouse pad or desk mat, can absorb some of the vibrations and noise.
• Adjust the typing force: Try to type with a lighter touch, which can reduce the noise produced by the keys and switches.

Final Thoughts: Enjoying a Quieter Gaming Experience

By implementing the modifications and tips outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce the noise generated by your Corsair K70 keyboard. Whether you’re gaming late at night or working in a quiet environment, you can now enjoy a more immersive and peaceful experience without disturbing others. Remember, the specific combination of modifications that work best for you may vary depending on your preferences and the specific keyboard model. Experiment with different options to find the optimal solution for your needs.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I make my Corsair K70 completely silent?
A: While it’s not possible to eliminate all noise from a mechanical keyboard, the modifications outlined in this guide can significantly reduce the noise to a whisper-quiet level.

Q: Which method is most effective for reducing noise?
A: Switch lubrication and case dampening are generally considered the most effective methods for reducing noise from a Corsair K70.

Q: Will these modifications affect the performance or durability of my keyboard?
A: Properly performed modifications, such as switch lubrication and keycap replacements, should not negatively impact the performance or durability of your keyboard. However, excessive or improper modifications may potentially cause issues.