Best Quiet (Silent) Keyboard for Typing

Selecting the best quiet keyboard for typing is essential for those seeking a noise-free and comfortable typing experience.

Whether you’re working in a shared office space, a public area, or simply at home, a silent keyboard can significantly reduce distractions and maintain a peaceful environment. This is particularly important for people who type for extended periods, like writers, programmers, or office workers.

The ideal quiet keyboard combines silent keystrokes with ergonomic design, ensuring both reduced noise and comfort during use. Additionally, these keyboards come with various features like wireless connectivity, durability, and compatibility with different operating systems, catering to a wide range of user preferences.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top options in the market, focusing on their key features, benefits, and suitability for different types of users. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end model, our comprehensive overview will help you find the perfect silent keyboard for your typing needs.

Top 8 Best Silent or Quiet Keyboards for Typing and Other Uses

Quiet keyboards are perfect for shared spaces, late-night work, or anyone who prefers a softer typing sound.

In this list, we’ve gathered the top 8 silent keyboards that are great for typing and other activities, offering a peaceful and comfortable experience without the loud clicks and clacks of traditional keyboards.

Products	Price
Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard	Check on Amazon
Corsair K55 PRO LITE RGB Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard	Check on Amazon
Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard	Check on Amazon
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard	Check on Amazon
Apple Magic Keyboard	Check on Amazon
Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard	Check on Amazon
Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard	Check on Amazon
MOFII Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo	Check on Amazon

Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated | Keys: Spherically Dished, Tactile | Backlight: Smart Illumination, Single Color | Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C | Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Rechargeable: USB-C, Up to 10 Days/5 Months with Backlight Off | Warranty: 1 Year Limited Hardware.

The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard emerges as a top contender in the realm of quiet office keyboards. Its blend of ergonomic design and advanced features positions it as a suitable choice for professionals seeking a balance of comfort and functionality.

Design and Build

The MX Keys boasts a sleek graphite finish, giving it a modern and professional look. It’s crafted to provide comfort and stability, featuring a low-profile key design that’s both ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing. This makes it stand out against competitors like the Microsoft Surface Keyboard, which, while sleek, lacks the same level of ergonomic detailing.

Tactile Typing Experience

One of the standout features of the MX Keys is its spherically dished keys that align with the shape of fingertips. This design not only reduces typing noise significantly, making it ideal for quiet office environments, but also enhances typing precision and comfort.

Smart Illumination

The keyboard includes a smart illumination feature with hand proximity detection and automatic backlighting. This thoughtful addition is particularly useful in varying light conditions, a feature not commonly found in other office-centric keyboards like the Dell KM717.

Multi-Device Connectivity

Logitech’s MX Keys supports connectivity with up to three devices, including compatibility with a range of operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. This flexibility is a significant advantage over many other keyboards that often have limited OS compatibility or device connection options.

USB-C Rechargeable

The keyboard’s USB-C rechargeable feature is both modern and practical. With up to 10 days of power on a full charge (or 5 months with backlighting off), it surpasses many of its rivals like the Apple Magic Keyboard, which has a shorter battery life.

Performance

In terms of performance, the MX Keys excels in providing a quiet, responsive typing experience. The increased key stability and tactile feedback allow for efficient typing without the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the Flow cross-computer control feature enhances productivity, allowing seamless typing across multiple devices.

Verdict

The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard is an exceptional choice for office use, especially for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience without sacrificing functionality. Its ergonomic design, multi-device compatibility, and smart features set it apart from its peers, making it a worthwhile investment for any professional workspace.

Corsair K55 PRO LITE RGB Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Corsair K55 PRO LITE | Keys: Membrane | Backlight: RGB | Macro Keys: 6 | Media Controls: Yes | Anti-Ghosting: Yes | Key Rollover: Selective | Dust/Spill Resistance: IP42 | Software: Corsair iCUE

For those in search of a quiet yet effective wired keyboard for typing, the Corsair K55 PRO LITE RGB Gaming Keyboard is a standout choice. It uniquely combines gaming efficiency with typing comfort, making it versatile for various uses.

Design and Build

The K55 PRO LITE boasts a sleek black design, complemented by dynamic five-zone RGB backlighting. This not only adds a touch of style to your workspace but also enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The keyboard’s IP42-rated dust and spill resistance ensures durability, making it a reliable option for long-term use.

Quiet and Responsive Keys

What sets the K55 PRO LITE apart is its quiet and responsive keys. Unlike many mechanical keyboards that are often loud and clicky, this membrane keyboard offers a quieter typing experience, ideal for office environments or late-night gaming sessions.

Dedicated Macro and Media Keys

The six dedicated macro keys are a bonus for gamers and professionals who love shortcuts. These keys can be easily programmed through the CORSAIR iCUE software, streamlining your workflow. Additionally, the dedicated media keys allow for easy access to volume control and media playback, a handy feature that is often overlooked in other keyboards.

Dynamic RGB Backlighting

The customizable RGB backlighting is not just for aesthetics. It allows users to create an environment that suits their mood or setup. This feature, combined with the keyboard’s overall design, gives it an edge over other quiet, wired keyboards like the Logitech K120 or the HP K1500, which lack such personalization options.

Performance

In terms of performance, the K55 PRO LITE excels in both gaming and typing. The tactile feedback of the keys, combined with their quiet nature, makes for a comfortable and efficient typing experience. The anti-ghosting and selective key rollover features ensure that each keystroke is registered accurately, which is crucial during intense gaming sessions or fast-paced typing.

Verdict

The Corsair K55 PRO LITE RGB Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for those who need a quiet keyboard for typing but don’t want to sacrifice gaming functionality. Its combination of style, comfort, and durability, along with its customizable features, puts it ahead of its competitors in the same category. Whether for gaming, work, or general use, the K55 PRO LITE is a versatile and reliable keyboard that won’t disappoint.

Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless | Keys: Membrane, Quiet | Backlight: Single Color | Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth, USB | Compatibility: Windows 10/11, Chrome OS, macOS 10.15+, iOS 11+, iPadOS 13.4+, Android 7+ | Number of Keys: 96 | Special Features: Integrated Phone and Tablet Stand, Easy-Switch between Devices.

The Logitech K780 stands out as an ideal wireless silent keyboard for typing and office use. Its versatility and ease of use make it a top choice for professionals who need a seamless transition between multiple devices.

Design and Build

The K780 features a sleek, white speckled design that fits elegantly in any modern workspace. The integrated phone and tablet stand is a thoughtful addition, offering the perfect angle for typing and reading on multiple devices. This design aspect sets it apart from many traditional keyboards that lack such convenience.

Multi-Device Connectivity

One of the most impressive features of the K780 is its ability to connect with up to three devices via USB or Bluetooth smart wireless connection. The easy-switch button allows for effortless switching between devices, a feature that is not commonly found in other wireless keyboards like the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard.

Comfortable Typing Experience

The keyboard offers a full-size layout with large, quiet keys and a convenient number pad. Its silent typing capability is particularly beneficial in office settings, where minimizing noise is often appreciated. Compared to other silent keyboards like the Jelly Comb Wireless Keyboard, the K780 provides a more tactile and responsive typing feel.

Wide Compatibility

Logitech’s K780 shines in its wide compatibility, supporting a range of operating systems including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, iOS, and Android. This makes it a versatile choice for users who work across multiple platforms, unlike keyboards such as the Apple Magic Keyboard, which is primarily optimized for macOS and iOS.

Battery Life

While the battery life is not explicitly stated, users can expect a long-lasting performance typical of Logitech’s wireless keyboards. This aspect is crucial for office users who prefer a keyboard that does not require frequent charging.

Verdict

The Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a silent, wireless keyboard for office use. Its multi-device functionality, comfortable typing experience, and broad compatibility make it stand out in the crowded market of wireless keyboards. For professionals who juggle between computers, tablets, and smartphones, the K780 offers an unmatched level of convenience and efficiency.

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard Review

Keyboard: SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming | Keys: Whisper Quiet Gaming Switches, Tactile & Silent | Backlight: 10-Zone RGB Illumination | Connectivity: USB-A | Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox Series S/X, PS4, PS5 | Number of Keys: 104 | Special Features: IP32 Water Resistant, Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest, Dedicated Multimedia Controls.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard emerges as a premier choice for gamers seeking a quiet yet effective gaming keyboard. Its unique blend of features caters to the needs of gamers who prioritize both performance and minimal noise.

Design and Build

The Apex 3 sports a sleek design with a ‘Whisper Quiet – Tactile & Silent’ color scheme, setting it apart in aesthetics. The addition of a premium magnetic wrist rest offers enhanced comfort during long gaming sessions, a feature that is not always standard in gaming keyboards like the Razer Cynosa Chroma.

Whisper Quiet Gaming Switches

One of the standout features is the whisper-quiet gaming switches. These switches ensure nearly silent operation, ideal for late-night gaming sessions, making it a superior choice over louder mechanical keyboards such as the Corsair K55.

IP32 Water Resistance

The IP32 water resistance is a significant advantage, safeguarding against accidental liquid spills. This feature adds a layer of durability and reliability, not often found in other gaming keyboards like the Logitech G213.

10-Zone RGB Illumination

Gamers who appreciate aesthetics will love the 10-zone RGB illumination. The keyboard offers gorgeous color schemes and reactive effects, elevating the gaming experience. This aspect of customization is more extensive than what’s found in some competitors like the HyperX Alloy Core.

Dedicated Multimedia Controls

The dedicated multimedia controls on the Apex 3 allow gamers to adjust volume and settings on the fly, a convenience that enhances the gaming experience. This feature is particularly useful and not always present in similar gaming keyboards.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Apex 3 excels in providing a silent yet tactile feedback, essential for gaming. The anti-ghosting feature ensures that every keystroke is registered, which is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios.

Verdict

The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a quiet gaming keyboard. Its combination of silent switches, water resistance, customizable RGB lighting, and ergonomic design makes it a standout in the gaming keyboard market. It’s an ideal keyboard for those who want to enjoy gaming without disturbing others, offering a balance of style, comfort, and functionality.

Apple Magic Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Apple Magic Keyboard | Keys: Low-Profile, 78 Keys | Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C | Compatibility: Mac with macOS 11.3+, iPad with iPadOS 14.5+, iPhone and iPod touch with iOS 14.5+ | Special Features: Wireless, Rechargeable, Lightweight | Color: White | Backlight: Single Color.

The Apple Magic Keyboard is often lauded as one of the quietest keyboards for Mac users. Its wireless, sleek design and enhanced typing experience make it a top choice for those in the Apple ecosystem.

Design and Build

The Magic Keyboard’s minimalist white design is both elegant and functional. With just 78 keys, it is compact yet offers all essential functions. Its lightweight nature stands out compared to bulkier alternatives like the Logitech K750 Solar Keyboard for Mac.

Wireless and Rechargeable

A standout feature is its wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and USB-C, offering a clutter-free workspace. The rechargeable battery, lasting about a month or more on a single charge, surpasses many competitors like the Logitech MX Keys, which offers up to 10 days of battery life.

Compatibility

Specifically designed for the Apple ecosystem, it is compatible with a wide range of Apple devices, including the latest iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This level of compatibility is unmatched by other keyboards like the Microsoft Surface Keyboard, which is more Windows-focused.

Quiet Typing Experience

The Magic Keyboard provides a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. It’s quieter than many traditional keyboards, ideal for office environments or shared spaces, outperforming louder mechanical keyboards like the SteelSeries Apex Pro.

Lightweight and Portable

Its lightweight design makes it highly portable, a significant advantage for users who work on the go. This feature sets it apart from heavier, less mobile keyboards.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Magic Keyboard excels in providing a silent and smooth typing experience. Its low-profile keys require minimal effort, reducing typing noise significantly compared to other keyboards.

Verdict

For Mac users seeking the quietest keyboard, the Apple Magic Keyboard is an excellent choice. Its blend of design, functionality, and compatibility with Apple devices makes it a superior option in its category. Its wireless, rechargeable nature, and quiet typing experience make it ideal for both office and personal use, especially for those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard, WS2-00025 | Keys: 105, Multimedia | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Compatibility: Windows 8.1/10, Mac OS 10.10.5+, Android 4.4.2-5.0 | Special Features: Sleek Design, Optimized Feedback, Bluetooth 4.0 Required | Color: Silver | Backlight: Single Color.

The Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard, WS2-00025, emerges as a stellar choice in the mid-range quiet keyboard segment. Its sleek design and seamless performance make it a strong contender for office and personal use.

Design and Build

The keyboard sports a sleek, simple silver design, a perfect complement to Microsoft Surface devices. Its solid build quality offers a premium feel under the fingers, setting it apart from other mid-range keyboards like the Logitech K380, which has a more plastic feel.

Compatibility

It’s compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 10/8.1/8, Mac OS, and Android, offering versatility similar to the Apple Magic Keyboard but with broader compatibility beyond Apple devices.

Quiet Typing Experience

The Surface Keyboard provides optimized feedback and return force, ensuring quiet typing. This feature makes it ideal for shared workspaces, offering a quieter typing experience compared to louder mechanical keyboards like the Razer BlackWidow.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity ensures a reliable wireless connection, eliminating the clutter of wires. This is a step above many budget keyboards that still rely on older wireless technologies or wired connections.

Long Battery Life

Multimedia Keys

With its dedicated multimedia keys, the Surface Keyboard stands out for those who appreciate quick access to media controls, a feature not always available in mid-range keyboards.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard excels with its quiet, responsive keys and long-lasting battery life. Its compatibility with various operating systems and the reliable Bluetooth connection make it a versatile choice for diverse users.

Verdict

For those in search of a mid-range quiet keyboard, the Microsoft Wireless Surface Keyboard is an excellent option. Its blend of design, functionality, and compatibility makes it a strong competitor in its price range. It’s an ideal choice for users looking for a quiet, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing keyboard for both office and personal use.

Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Review

Keyboard: Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard | Keys: Low-Profile, Scissor-Kick | Connectivity: 2.4G Wireless via Nano USB Receiver | Compatibility: Universal with USB Port | Special Features: Stainless Steel Material, Rechargeable Battery, Quiet Typing | Battery Life: 6 Months on a Single Charge (Based on 2 hours non-stop use per day) | Dimensions: 16.9 x 4.9 x 0.6 inches | Weight: 14.9oz.

In the realm of budget-friendly keyboards, the Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard shines as a top contender, especially for programming and typing. Its combination of price, features, and design makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a quiet keyboard under $50.

Design and Build

The Arteck keyboard’s stainless steel build exudes a heavy-duty feel, a notable feature in its price bracket, setting it apart from plastic counterparts like the AmazonBasics Wireless Keyboard. Its ultra-slim and lightweight design (16.9 X 4.9 X 0.6 inches; 14.9oz) ensures portability and ease of use, which is ideal for programmers and typists who value a compact setup.

Ergonomic Design

The low-profile keys provide quiet and comfortable typing, a must-have for long coding sessions and extensive typing work. This ergonomic design is on par with more expensive models like the Logitech K380 but at a more accessible price point.

Easy Setup

Its plug-and-play setup with a nano USB receiver is straightforward, ensuring quick and easy installation, a step above some budget keyboards that may require additional software or drivers.

Long Battery Life

The built-in rechargeable lithium battery, lasting 6 months on a single charge, is impressive for its price range. This longevity surpasses many competitors, such as the HP Wireless Elite Keyboard, which often have shorter battery lives.

Functionality

The keyboard offers a full-size layout with a number pad and dedicated hotkeys, enhancing productivity. This feature set is particularly beneficial for programmers who frequently rely on shortcuts and number inputs.

Performance

The Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard delivers a solid performance with its quiet, responsive keys and reliable wireless connectivity. Its durability and the tactile response of the keys are commendable, especially when compared to other keyboards in the sub-$50 category.

Verdict

For those in search of an affordable yet efficient keyboard for programming and typing, the Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard stands out as an excellent choice. Its blend of ergonomic design, ease of use, and battery life, coupled with its budget-friendly price, makes it a highly recommended option for both professional and personal use.

MOFII Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo Review

Keyboard and Mouse Combo: MOFII Wireless | Color: Purple Colorful | Connectivity: 2.4G Wireless via USB | Special Features: One USB Receiver, Auto Power Saving, Hotkeys and Media Keys | Design: Ergonomic, Candy Color Style.

The MOFII Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo, with its vibrant purple color and ergonomic design, stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet keyboard and mouse combo. Its unique style and functionality make it a compelling option for users who value aesthetics as well as performance.

Design and Aesthetics

The keyboard and mouse feature a sweet and cute mixed color scheme, offering a unique visual appeal that sets it apart from standard combos like the Logitech MK345. This playful design can add a touch of personality to any workspace.

One USB Receiver

The convenience of having a single USB receiver to drive both the keyboard and mouse simplifies the setup process, a feature not always seen in other combos like the HP Pavilion Wireless Keyboard and Mouse 800.

Auto Power Saving

The intelligent power-saving chip in both the keyboard and mouse ensures long battery life by entering a power-save mode when inactive. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who forget to turn off their devices, and it outperforms some combos like the Dell Wireless Keyboard and Mouse (KM636) in power efficiency.

Wide Compatibility

The combo’s compatibility with a wide range of Windows and Mac OS versions makes it a versatile choice for various users, similar to the Microsoft Wireless Desktop 900 but with added style.

Performance

In terms of performance, the MOFII combo excels with its quiet and responsive keys and mouse clicks. This makes it suitable for shared workspaces or quiet environments, offering a more silent operation compared to noisier counterparts like some mechanical keyboard combos.

Verdict

The MOFII Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo is a top pick for those in search of a quiet, stylish, and efficient keyboard and mouse set. Its unique color scheme, combined with user-friendly features and wide compatibility, makes it a standout choice for both personal and professional use. Whether for yourself or as a gift, this combo is sure to delight any user.

Buying Guide for Quiet or Silent Keyboard for Typing

When looking for the best quiet keyboard for typing, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get a product that meets your needs in terms of comfort, functionality, and noise reduction.

Switch Type

The switch mechanism under each key greatly impacts the noise level. Membrane keyboards use a rubber dome design that absorbs sound on each keypress, making them quieter than mechanical keyboards. Mechanical keyboards have more noise but some feature silent switches like Cherry MX Silent Red or Black that have noise dampening features to reduce clicking and clacking while still providing tactile feedback.

Key Feel and Ergonomics

Look at the key travel distance and actuation force to find a keyboard that feels comfortable to type on for extended periods. Short throw, linear switches are usually best for frequent typists. An ergonomic design including a wrist rest also prevents bottoming out keys which makes noise.

Build Quality and Durability

High-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum alloy or ABS plastic make for sturdy, noise-minimizing keyboard constructions. Keycaps also matter – double shot injection molded keycaps last longer than pad printed keys that fade over time. Durable boards withstand heavy use without creaking.

Connectivity

Wired keyboards have reliable connectivity while wireless keyboards like Bluetooth provide more flexibility in placement. Note that wireless keyboards need recharging and may have connection lag. Radio frequency (RF) wireless often has lower latency than Bluetooth.

Noise Level

The noise level produced during typing is a key consideration for a silent keyboard. Mechanical keyboards tend to be louder than membrane keyboards because of their clicky switches. However, the switch type, material quality, and structural design all contribute to noise levels:

• Linear mechanical switches like Cherry MX Red or Black produce less noise without the audible click of tactile switches. They offer a smooth, quieter keypress.
• High-quality plastics and proper internal bracing reduce resonance and echo that amplify sound.
• Solid keyboards that don’t creak or rattle keep noise to a minimum.
• Look for keyboards marketed as ‘whisper-quiet’ or ‘silent’ for models optimized for lower decibel levels.

Keyboard Layout

The keyboard size and layout also affect noise control. Compact and tenkeyless keyboards without a number pad allow you to place the keyboard further away to distance any noise. Removing accessory keys also eliminates excess clicking.

Isolated or split keyboards have spaces between key clusters to prevent accidental presses and reduce noise. Columnar stagger key arrangements may also help reduce noise by having keys separated instead of in straight rows. Consider these keyboard layout factors as well when evaluating options.

Prioritize keyboards specifically designed to minimize noise for the quietest typing experience.

Sound Dampening

Sound dampening capabilities are an important factor to reduce noise. Mechanical keyboards can be modified with O-rings, lubricants, noise-clipping pads, and other dampeners to absorb sound.

Pay attention to keyboards that come pre-installed with these noise-reducing modifications for the quietest experience out of the box.

Internal sound-absorbing padding and high-quality keycaps also minimize echo and high-pitched sounds. Evaluate sound dampening features when selecting a quiet keyboard.

Price, Brand and Warranty

Higher priced keyboards often have better build quality, but affordable options are also available. Stick with well-known, reputable brands and check warranty coverage.

Additional Features

Keyboards with backlighting, programmable keys and media controls allow you to adjust noise levels, music etc. without interrupting workflow. Ensure any extra software and features are compatible with your OS.

Final Words

In conclusion, for those seeking a quiet typing experience, several notable keyboards stand out. Consider the Logitech MX Keys for its tactile feel and wireless connectivity, the Apple Magic Keyboard for its sleek design and compatibility with Apple devices, or the Corsair K55 for its gaming-oriented features with quieter keys. Each of these options offers a blend of quiet performance, comfort, and functionality to suit a variety of needs.