By Frank Fota, LTC, USA (Ret.), VFW Post 3103 Auxiliary

 

There are many mechanical keyboards available with "silent switches.” I am writing on a Corsair K60 mechanical keyboard. These switches are not silent. They have a linear feel when depressed and require 45g of force to actuate each key. The Corsair M60 keyboard uses entry-level Cherry MV gaming switches and costs about $70 at Amazon.com. I also play games using the Corsair K60. Mechanical switches are rated by the force required to activate them (e.g., 45g), the distance to actuation, (e.g., 2mm), and the feel (i.e., linear, tactile, or clicky). Keyboards can often be purchased with your choice of switches. A great website for comparison purposes, reviews, etc. is THE ULTIMATE MECHANICAL KEYBOARD CATALOG. New switches are being developed all the time and new companies are manufacturing keyboards. It is not surprising that the Cherry MV switches I am using are not listed on the webpage linked above. Kensington® has manufactured desktop and mobile device accessories for over 40 years. They announced the production of the wireless QuietType Pro keyboard at the Computer Electronics Show (2023). Kensington® said that this wireless keyboard has, "Almost Silent QuietType Keys – Engineered with Kailh Midnight Pro Silent Tactile Switches and sound dampening pads (<55db) to ensure a responsive and quiet typing experience, the keyboard gives users the ability to type with confidence and peace-of-mind, knowing that they are not distracting others or impacting online or in-person meetings.” The QuietType Pro has an aluminum frame and white backlight. The battery can power the keyboard and backlight at 100% luminance for an amazing 90 hours. Kensington® notes that the keyboard has meeting control keys for camera and audio control. It also boosts four reprogrammable hotkeys for quick access to Windows and macOS shortcuts. The "optional Kensington Konnect™ software enables users to program additional keys, create macros, adjust key mappings, manage profiles, and more – further enhancing productivity and ease-of-use.” At an MSRP of $199, the keyboard is not inexpensive. If you telework or collaborate virtually with other employees, it may be just the keyboard you have been looking for 😊. NOTE: This review is not an endorsement of any product. Caveat emptor.