Review: Das Keyboard’s Professional Model S Quiet is a mechancial keyboard that won’t annoy your coworkers

Das Keyboard promotes the sound of their peripheral more than anything—their tagline is “The Mechanical Keyboard That Clicks.” Now they’re going after the market that craves the sweet benefits of a mechanical keyboard but can’t stand the constant commotion that comes with it. Meet the Professional Model S Quiet: The quietest mechanical keyboard around.

In the beginning keyboards were loud, mechanical and everlasting (IBM Model M anyone?). Soon a cheaper solution came and took the click-clack away with plastic and a domed-shaped membrane.

Yet, like all good fads the mechanical keyboard came back into style for typing enthusiasts and gamers alike. It’s now a must have—and with the Das Professional Model S Quiet you don’t have to choose between an awesome keyboard and not annoying your coworkers (though some consider that a benefit).

The video below compares the IBM Model M to the Das Keyboard rival, competing for the most “clicky” keyboard. It gives you an idea of the click that they strive for—but can quickly get on your cubicle neighbors nerves. The Professional Model S Quiet’s sound is nearly undetectable in comparison.

The keyboard uses Cherry MX Red key switches to keep the keyboard mechanical but silent, literally no louder than its squishier nemesis. The keys themselves are smooth and concaved, perfectly spaced for some comfy and accurate typing. After using the keyboard for just a few days I could feel the difference in my accuracy and speed.

The keyboard is going to be using up two USB ports so you’d best free up some USB real estate. Fear not, they have a good excuse—one powers the keyboard while the other powers two USB 2.0 ports located on the right side of the keyboard, perfect for easily plugging in those flash drives and phones.

Other basic features include media controls such as using the “function” key to adjust the volume, pause/play, stop and switch tracks. There’s also an instant “sleep” button for putting your PC to rest quickly.

Finally, the keyboard supports full n-key rollover (with the included PS/2 adapter attached, 6-key when using USB) for the high-end chasers. This means every key is scanned independently which makes every key press detectable despite how many keys are being pressed at one time. This is great for gamers who will find themselves holding down buttons to sprint (shift-key) forward (w-key) while reloading (r-key) while checking their map (m-key). You need to mutate a few more arms to fully take advantage of this feature.

The keyboard feels great, doesn’t forgo any of the benefits a mechanical keyboard but manages to keep its decibels significantly lower. If you’re the kind of typist who is nostalgic for the clicky days of yore, you’d best check out their non-quiet models for the loudest keyboards around, but if you like your peace and quiet you’ll love the investment.

The Professional Model S Quiet keyboard is available through the Das Keyboard website for $149.