What Does "Thocky" Mean?
In the world of mechanical keyboards, "thocky" is an onomatopoetic term used to describe the deep, soft, and muted sound.
Characteristics of Thocky Sound:
- Deep and Full: The key presses down with a smooth, heavy feel, creating a deeper, more grounded tone.
- Muted Impact: The noise is not sharp or piercing; instead, it is soft and cushioned.
- Resonance: It often has a slightly reverberating quality, thanks to the materials and mods used in the keyboard.
Unlike other sounds like the "clack" or "click," which are sharp and higher-pitched, a "thock" has a more muted, soft, yet pronounced depth that evokes a sense of solid, substantial impact.
Switch for Thocky Sound
Are thocky switches tactile or linear?
The type of mechanical switch is one of the most crucial factors in determining whether a keyboard sounds thocky. Generallly, tactile and linear switches are preferred for a deeper thock sound. There is no "clicking" sound when pressing the linear switch and tactile switches.
In addition, by optimising the structure, just like adding a dampening material to reduce the noise when pressing keys, a heavier and softer thocky sound effect can be achieved.
In addition, the material of the switch also affects the sound. High-quality switches are usually made of more durable and stable materials, which may produce a deeper, softer thocky sound when the key is pressed.
Akko Rosewood Switch is designed specifically to deliver a rich, low-pitched typing experience. And Akko Penguin Switch and Akko Fairy Switch provide the thocky sound by adding a silicon pad to the stem legs to reduce the noise.
Keycaps: How to Choose for the Best Thock
keycap material: Are PBT keycaps thocky?
PBT keycaps are the preferred material for thocky sounds. PBT material is relatively denser and thicker, and the sound is deeper.
keycap thickness
The thickness of the keycap is one of the important factors that affect the sound. Generally speaking, the thicker the keycap, the larger its inner cavity, and the deeper the sound.
For example, keycaps made with 5-side dye-sub, such as Piggy Party Keycap Set, are usually thicker and made with a more durable process.
Keycap profile
If you want to get a thocky sound, the SA or Cherry profiles are the good choice. Because they have thicker walls and a rounded shape, contributing to a fuller, more resonant sound.
What Plate for Thocky Sound?
In general, the higher the stiffness, the higher the sound frequency tends to be.
Among the common plate materials, the stiffness ranking from strongest to weakest is as follows:
Steel > Carbon Fiber > Copper > Aluminum > FR4 Glass Fiber > POM Plastic Steel > PC.
For materials with the same mass, the density of each material under the same volume will result in different weights. When combined with their stiffness, a comprehensive comparison can be made.
For the same volume, the ranking of specific stiffness is: Carbon Fiber > Steel > Aluminum > Copper > FR4 Glass Fiber > POM Plastic Steel > PC.
However, the characteristics of the sound depend not only on the material and stiffness of the positioning plate but also on other factors. So we can not simply say that a carbon fiber plate will always produce high pitch or that a PC plate will always result in dull, low pitch.
Related Article: Keyboard Plates: A Quick Guide
Are Plastic Keyboards More Thocky?
Plastic case keyboards produce a hollow, higher-pitched sound. In contract, metal cases such as aluminum keyboards can produce a deeper sound.
With the same condition, the larger mass means less vibration and less sound. Metal cases have a larger mass than the plastic case. And the meta have a higher density and hardness, which can produce more solid feedback and a deeper sound. The plastics have a lower density; plastic keyboards tend to produce a lighter and crisper sound when tapped, lacking the deep resonance of metal.
In addition, metals have good sound conductivity and can effectively transmit the sound energy generated by tapping, making the sound fuller and more powerful. Plastics have relatively poor sound conductivity, and the sound energy generated by tapping will be lost more during the transmission process, resulting in the sound sounding hollow and thin.
What Mounting Style for Thocky Sound?
Mounting style is the way the plate and switches are secured within the case. Different mounting styles provide different sound characteristics. Gasket Mount is a good choice for getting that deep "thump" sound from a keyboard. The switches are mounted on rubber or silicone gaskets, which give them a softer, smoother sound when tapping. This mounting method also reduces echo, making the "thump" sound more focused and powerful.
Related Article: Keyboard Mounting Styles Explained: Find Your Perfect Fit
DIY Modding for a Thockier Keyboard
You can fine-tune your keyboard for the ultimate thock by incorporating some simple mods:
O-rings
Using O-rings placed under the keycaps can effectively reduce the impact and noise when pressing keys. This design not only reduces the sharpness of the tapping sound but also makes the sound deeper and more powerful, improving the tapping experience.
Lubing the Switches
Lubricating the mechanical switches of the keyboard can reduce friction, make the keystroke process smoother, and reduce harsh noise. This method helps to emphasise the deep tapping effect while extending the life of the switch.
Foam Dampening
Adding foam between the PCB and the case can effectively suppress high-frequency vibrations and reduce echoes and noise when tapping. The presence of the foam damping layer makes the sound of the keyboard more concentrated and full and enhances the effect of tapping feedback.
Why Do People Like the Thocky Keyboard?
1. Unique sound experience: The sound of Thocky keyboards is deep and powerful, giving people a strong sense of tapping and satisfaction. This sound is a pleasure for many users and can enhance the immersion when typing or playing games.
2. High quality: Thocky sounds are often associated with high-quality mechanical keyboards. These keyboards usually use high-quality materials and manufacturing processes to ensure the durability and stability of the keyboard. Therefore, choosing a Thocky keyboard is also a pursuit of quality.
3. Less Fatiguing for Long Use: Some find the thocky sound less tiring during extended typing or gaming sessions compared to other sounds, such as the high-pitched clicks of mechanical keyboards.
4. Community and trneds: Among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, Thocky sounds have become a cultural phenomenon. Many users share their own Thocky keyboards and usage experiences to exchange their thoughts and feelings, forming a huge community and cultural circle.
Popular Thocky Keyboards
MU01 Wooden Keyboard
The MU01 wooden keyboard has a deep and powerful sound, which comes from its high-quality wooden case and internal structure design. Every key press is accompanied by a unique resonance, enhancing the user's immersive experience.
Key Features:
If you love the thocky sound of mechanical keyboards but also want something that looks as good as it sounds, the MU01 is the perfect match. Its natural wood construction gives it a unique visual appeal, while its acoustics cater to those who appreciate deep, satisfying keypresses.
MU02 Wooden Keyboard
The MU02 Wooden Keyboard takes the classic wooden keyboard design to the next level, offering a customizable, thocky typing experience that’s ideal for those who enjoy high-quality builds paired with deep, resonant acoustics.
Key Features:
The MU02 wooden keyboard is suitable for both professional typists and casual gamers who pursue an excellent typing experience. Its design strikes a perfect balance between comfort, aesthetics, and performance to meet the needs of different user groups.
Conclusion
A thocky keyboard is the result of a careful combination. To create the perfect thocky keyboard, it’s all about selecting the right switches, keycaps, and case materials. Experiment with mods to fine-tune your sound and find the thock that feels just right for you.
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