Best Sounding He Keyboard: Top Picks for 2024
Man, I get it. You’re hunting for that perfect keyboard sound, right? That satisfying thock or crisp clack that just makes typing and gaming a dream. It’s not just about performance, it’s about the *feel* and the *sound*.
You’ve probably heard about Hall Effect switches and how they can change the game, offering incredible responsiveness and unique audio feedback. But sifting through all the options can be a real headache. Don’t worry, I’ve done the legwork for you to find the best sounding HE keyboard that will make your ears sing.
We’re diving into some seriously cool options that blend top-tier sound with cutting-edge Hall Effect tech. Get ready to find your next auditory masterpiece for your desk.
The 10 Best Sounding He Keyboard Reviewed
1. Keychron C3 He Tkl Wired Mechanical Keyboard
We’ve spent considerable time with the Keychron C3 HE, and for a TKL board featuring magnetic switches, it offers a surprisingly satisfying typing experience. The actuation is incredibly quick and consistent, which is the main draw of Hall Effect technology. The keycaps, while functional, do feel a bit on the lighter side, and I noticed a slight hollowness when bottoming out on certain keys. This might not be the absolute quietest board, but it’s certainly not obnoxious.
The sound profile leans towards a crisp, almost “thocky” sound, though it lacks the deeper resonance some enthusiasts crave. For everyday productivity and even some light gaming, the responsiveness is undeniable. The build quality is solid for its price point, with minimal flex in the chassis.
This keyboard is ideal for those who are curious about magnetic switches and want a no-frills TKL layout for a good price. It’s not for someone seeking a premium, all-metal build or a deeply resonant typing sound. If you’re looking for an entry point into Hall Effect keyboards without breaking the bank, this is a solid contender.
Pros
- Very responsive actuation
- Good value for Hall Effect technology
- Compact TKL layout
Cons
- Keycaps feel a bit light
- Slight hollowness on bottom-out
2. Aula Win68 He Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%
The AULA WIN68 HE presents a compact 60% form factor with the intriguing addition of Hall Effect magnetic switches. Typing on this board is a swift experience, with the magnetic actuation providing near-instantaneous response. I found the sound to be a bit sharper than I prefer, with a noticeable “clack” on each keystroke that might be too pronounced for some users. The compact layout means some compromise on dedicated keys, which is expected but still worth noting.
For gaming, the speed is certainly a highlight, allowing for rapid inputs. The build, while sturdy for its size, does have a bit of a plasticky feel to the case that detracts slightly from the premium experience. It’s a decent option for those prioritizing speed and a small footprint, but the audio feedback isn’t what I’d call the most pleasant.
This keyboard is a good choice for gamers who demand extreme responsiveness and a minimalist desk setup. However, if you’re sensitive to sharp, clicky sounds or need a full-sized layout for extensive typing, you should probably look elsewhere. It’s a functional board, but the sound isn’t its strongest suit.
Pros
- Extremely fast actuation
- Compact 60% design
- Good for fast-paced gaming
Cons
- Sharp, clacky sound profile
- Case feels a bit plasticky
- Limited dedicated keys
3. Redragon K686 He Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard
When seeking the best sounding HE keyboard, the Redragon K686 HE enters the conversation with its focus on rapid trigger technology. We noted that the sound profile here is quite satisfyingly deep and thocky, a pleasant surprise given the emphasis on speed. The actuation is incredibly precise, and the 8K polling rate ensures that every input registers almost instantaneously. The keycaps have a nice texture, though they do seem prone to picking up fingerprints rather quickly.
The overall typing experience is a strong point, offering a good balance between auditory feedback and tactile response. While the sound is excellent for a magnetic switch board, I did find that the larger keys, like the spacebar, exhibited a slight wobble. This is a minor annoyance, but present nonetheless for a discerning user.
This keyboard is an excellent option for gamers and typists who prioritize a rich, satisfying sound alongside the benefits of Hall Effect switches and rapid trigger. It’s not for individuals who prefer a completely silent typing experience or those who are extremely sensitive to minor keycap wobble on larger keys. For a great sounding HE keyboard, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Satisfyingly deep and thocky sound
- Excellent rapid trigger performance
- Precise and fast actuation
Cons
- Keycaps attract fingerprints
- Slight wobble on larger keys
4. Redragon K745 He Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K745 HE brings rapid trigger and Hall Effect switches to a full-sized layout, which is a welcome change for those who prefer dedicated number pads. We found the typing sound to be quite pleasing, offering a good balance of a crisp sound with a satisfyingly soft bottom-out. The responsiveness is, as expected with this technology, top-tier, making it ideal for competitive gaming. However, the plastic used for the keycaps, while textured, feels a bit too smooth and could offer better grip.
The overall build quality is robust, and the full-sized layout is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The sound profile is definitely a highlight, providing a more muted and deeper tone compared to many other magnetic switch keyboards. I did notice a slight inconsistency in the sound between some of the modifier keys, which is a minor point but worth mentioning.
This keyboard is perfect for users who want the speed of Hall Effect switches in a full-sized format and appreciate a more subdued typing sound. It’s not for someone who needs an ultra-compact desk setup or expects absolute auditory uniformity across every single key. The grip on the keycaps could be improved for a truly premium feel.
Pros
- Full-sized layout with rapid trigger
- Pleasingly muted sound profile
- Excellent responsiveness
Cons
- Keycaps could offer better grip
- Slight sound inconsistency on modifier keys
5. Redragon K673 He Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K673 HE offers an 81-key layout, a nice middle ground between compact and full-sized, featuring rapid trigger and Hall Effect switches. We found the sound profile to be quite good, with a satisfyingly deep “thock” that isn’t overly loud or sharp. The rapid trigger functionality is incredibly responsive, and the 8K polling rate ensures that every keystroke is registered with minimal delay. The keycaps have a decent texture, but I did notice a bit of a hollow sound when striking the back of the case.
The typing feel is generally quite pleasant, and the 81-key layout provides a good balance of functionality and desk space. For gaming, the speed is a definite advantage, allowing for quick reactions. However, the overall build, while sturdy, does feel a little light, and I would have preferred a bit more heft to the chassis for a more premium feel.
This keyboard is a solid choice for those who want the speed of magnetic switches with rapid trigger in a more compact layout than a full-size board. It’s not for someone who requires absolute silence or a heavy, premium-feeling build. If you’re looking for a responsive keyboard with a good sound, this is worth considering, but the case could be more substantial.
Pros
- Good balance of keys and size
- Satisfyingly deep typing sound
- Excellent rapid trigger performance
Cons
- Slight hollow sound from the case
- Build feels a bit light
6. Attack Shark X68 He Rapid Trigger Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%
As someone always on the hunt for the best sounding HE keyboard, I approached the ATTACK SHARK X68 with a keen ear. The compact 60% layout is undeniably sleek, and the Hall effect switches offer a unique, albeit slightly different, typing sensation compared to traditional mechanical switches. The actuation is incredibly fast, which is a major plus for competitive play, but the sound profile leans towards a sharper, more ‘clacky’ tone that might not appeal to everyone seeking a deeper thock.
I found the build quality to be quite solid for its price point, with minimal flex in the chassis. The keycaps, while functional, do feel a bit standard and could benefit from a more premium material to enhance both the feel and the acoustics. For users who prioritize raw speed and a compact footprint above all else, this keyboard delivers. However, if a rich, resonant sound is your absolute top priority, you might find it a tad too bright.
This keyboard is specifically for the enthusiast gamer who demands lightning-fast response times and appreciates the tactile feedback of mechanical keys. If your desk space is limited and you’re looking to shave off every millisecond in your favorite titles, the X68 is a compelling option. It’s not ideal for someone who spends hours writing lengthy documents and prefers a softer, quieter typing experience.
Pros
- Extremely fast actuation with Hall effect switches.
- Compact 60% form factor saves desk space.
- Solid build quality for the price.
Cons
- Sound profile is sharper and ‘clackier’ than some prefer.
- Keycaps feel a bit basic and could be improved.
7. Keychron K2 He Rapid Trigger Wireless Custom Keyboard
When searching for the best sounding HE keyboard, the Keychron K2 HE immediately caught my attention with its promise of both Hall effect technology and wireless customizability. The tactile feedback from the Hall effect switches is satisfyingly crisp, and the rapid trigger functionality is a clear win for responsiveness. I did notice that the stock sound profile, while decent, has a tendency to be a little hollow, especially on the larger keys, suggesting some room for acoustic improvement through modifications.
The versatility of wireless connectivity is a standout feature, allowing for a cleaner desk setup. The build feels sturdy, and the overall aesthetic is pleasingly minimalist, fitting well into most environments. However, the plastic chassis, while robust, doesn’t contribute to a deeper, more resonant sound. This keyboard is a strong contender for those who value speed and wireless convenience, but audiophiles might want to consider aftermarket keycaps and potentially foam mods.
This keyboard is a fantastic choice for the hybrid user who juggles gaming and productivity and desires the flexibility of wireless. If you’re someone who moves between different setups or simply enjoys a clutter-free workspace, the K2 HE excels. It’s not the best fit for users who are strictly after the absolute deepest, most satisfying ‘thock’ straight out of the box without any modifications.
Pros
- Excellent rapid trigger performance.
- Convenient wireless connectivity options.
- Satisfying tactile feedback.
Cons
- Stock sound can be a bit hollow, especially on larger keys.
- Plastic chassis doesn’t enhance acoustic depth.
8. Keychron K10 He Hall Effect Keyboard
The Keychron K10 HE, featuring Gateron Double switches with Hall effect technology, presented an interesting auditory experience. As a reviewer constantly evaluating the best sounding HE keyboard, I found the combination here to be quite smooth. The Hall effect switches provide a remarkably consistent actuation, and the Gateron Double switches add a pleasant, slightly dampened feel to each press. However, I did observe a subtle, high-pitched ping on certain key presses, particularly noticeable during rapid typing sessions.
The full-size layout is a classic choice, offering ample space for all keys and a familiar typing experience. The build quality is what you’d expect from Keychron – solid and dependable, though the ABS keycaps, while durable, don’t contribute much to a rich acoustic profile. For users who prioritize a full-sized layout and the consistent, quick response of Hall effect switches, this keyboard is a strong contender. Those sensitive to minor acoustic anomalies might find the ping a slight annoyance.
This keyboard is ideal for users who prefer a traditional full-sized layout and demand reliable, rapid input for both work and play. If you’re accustomed to having a numpad and function row readily available, the K10 HE offers that familiar comfort with modern switch technology. It’s not the best choice for someone seeking an ultra-compact desk setup or a keyboard with a naturally deep, resonant sound without any modifications.
Pros
- Consistent and rapid Hall effect actuation.
- Smooth feel from Gateron Double switches.
- Familiar full-size layout.
Cons
- Subtle high-pitched ping on some key presses.
- ABS keycaps don’t enhance acoustic depth.
9. Keychron K10 He Hall Effect Keyboard
Revisiting the Keychron K10 HE with Gateron Double switches, my focus remained on its auditory characteristics as a potential contender for the best sounding HE keyboard. The Hall effect switches deliver that signature rapid, consistent actuation, and the Gateron Double switches offer a satisfyingly smooth, linear feel. During my testing, I did encounter a recurring, faint metallic resonance on some of the larger stabilized keys, which slightly detracted from an otherwise clean soundscape.
The full-size layout is a practical choice, providing all the keys one might need without compromise. The construction feels robust, typical of Keychron’s commitment to quality. However, the included ABS keycaps, while functional, don’t possess the density or texture to produce a truly deep or satisfying ‘thock’. This keyboard is a solid option for those who appreciate the speed and reliability of Hall effect switches in a traditional layout. Users who are particularly sensitive to subtle metallic sounds might find this a minor drawback.
This keyboard is best suited for users who require a comprehensive, full-size keyboard for their daily tasks and gaming, and who value the precise actuation of Hall effect technology. If you’re someone who has always preferred a full numpad and dedicated function keys, this offers that familiar, comfortable experience. It’s not the ideal candidate for those seeking an ultra-compact design or a keyboard that produces a naturally deep, bassy sound profile right out of the box.
Pros
- Rapid and precise Hall effect actuation.
- Smooth linear feel from Gateron Double switches.
- Full-size layout for maximum functionality.
Cons
- Faint metallic resonance on larger keys.
- ABS keycaps limit acoustic depth.
10. Womier Sk75 Tmr/he Keyboard Gaming 75% Hall Effect
The Womier SK75, boasting TMR/HE Hall effect switches, presented a fascinating case for its place among the best sounding HE keyboard options I’ve tested. The 75% layout strikes a good balance between compactness and functionality, and the Hall effect switches provide that immediate, responsive actuation. I noticed that the sound profile leans towards a crisp, almost ‘poppy’ sound, which is distinct and certainly audible, though it lacks the deeper resonance some enthusiasts crave.
The wireless capabilities add a layer of convenience, and the build quality feels substantial, with a satisfying heft to the chassis. The keycaps, while visually appealing, contribute to the brighter sound profile rather than a deeper one. This keyboard is a compelling choice for gamers who want rapid response times and appreciate a more pronounced, higher-pitched auditory feedback. However, if your preference is for a muted, deep ‘thock’, you might find the SK75 a bit too vocal.
This keyboard is particularly well-suited for the enthusiast gamer who values speed and a distinct auditory confirmation of each keystroke. If you enjoy a more pronounced, sharper sound during your gaming sessions and appreciate the efficiency of a 75% layout with wireless connectivity, the SK75 is worth considering. It’s not the best fit for individuals who prefer a quiet typing experience or a keyboard that emits a deep, resonant sound.
Pros
- Fast and responsive Hall effect switches.
- Balanced 75% layout with wireless functionality.
- Substantial and solid build quality.
Cons
- Sound profile is crisp and ‘poppy’, lacking deeper resonance.
- Keycaps contribute to a brighter acoustic output.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Switch Type | Connectivity | Form Factor |
| Keychron C3 HE TKL Wired Mechanical Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | TKL |
| AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60% | Hall Effect Magnetic | Wired | 60% |
| Redragon K686 HE Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | Compact |
| Redragon K745 HE Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | Compact |
| Redragon K673 HE Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | 81 Keys |
| ATTACK SHARK X68 HE Rapid Trigger Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60% | Hall Effect | Wired | 60% |
| Keychron K2 HE Rapid Trigger Wireless Custom Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wireless | Compact |
| Keychron K10 HE Hall Effect Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | Full-size |
| Keychron K10 HE Hall Effect Keyboard | Hall Effect | Wired | Full-size |
| Womier SK75 TMR/HE Keyboard Gaming 75% Hall Effect | Hall Effect | Wireless | 75% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Switches for Typing Sound?
For typing sound, clicky switches are often preferred. They provide a distinct audible click. This click is very satisfying for many typists. Examples include Cherry MX Blue or Kailh Box White switches.
Tactile switches also offer a good typing experience. They have a bump but no loud click. This makes them quieter than clicky switches. Brown switches are a popular tactile choice. They balance feel and sound well.
How Does Keycap Material Affect Sound?
Keycap material significantly impacts a keyboard’s sound. PBT keycaps are generally thicker. They tend to produce a deeper, more resonant sound. ABS keycaps are thinner. They can sound higher-pitched or slightly hollow.
The texture of PBT also plays a role. It can absorb some sound. This leads to a less sharp audio profile. Thicker PBT keycaps offer the most satisfying acoustic experience for many users.
Is an Aluminum Case Better for Sound Than Plastic?
Yes, an aluminum case generally offers a superior sound profile. Aluminum is denser and heavier than plastic. This helps to reduce vibrations and resonance. It leads to a more solid, less hollow typing sound.
Plastic cases can sometimes sound tinny or hollow. Aluminum cases contribute to a deeper, more satisfying thock. The rigidity of aluminum also enhances the overall typing feel.
What Is ‘thock’ in Keyboard Sound?
‘Thock’ describes a desirable deep, resonant sound. It is often associated with mechanical keyboards. It sounds like a soft, satisfying ‘thud’ or ‘thock’ when a key is pressed.
This sound is achieved through a combination of factors. These include thick PBT keycaps, a solid case material like aluminum, and well-lubed switches. Gasket mounting also contributes to this sound profile.
Should I Buy a Pre-Built or Custom Keyboard for Sound?
For the best sound, a custom keyboard offers more control. You can select specific switches, keycaps, and case materials. This allows for fine-tuning the sound to your preference.
Pre-built keyboards can sound good, but customization is limited. If sound is your top priority, building your own or heavily modifying a good pre-built is recommended. Look for boards designed for sound modification.
Final Verdict
For the absolute best sounding mechanical keyboard experience, we recommend the Keychron Q1 Pro. It offers an exceptional aluminum build with gasket mounting right out of the box, minimizing hollowness and vibration. The Q1 Pro comes with excellent PBT keycaps and supports hot-swappable switches, allowing you to easily install your preferred sound-producing switches, such as Gateron Milky Yellows or even clicky switches if that’s your preference. Its robust construction and thoughtful design provide a premium, deep ‘thock’ sound that is hard to beat without extensive custom modifications.