I was looking into getting a ‘silent’ NCR-80 for a relative [they requested one], and here’s what I ended up with:
That’s a standard dark gray case. Carbon Fibre plate. OUTEMU Silent Lemon/Lime switches (lubed). TX stabilizers.
It’s a soldered build, because I didn’t want those switches getting away.
It’s actually very quiet, mainly thanks to the switches. These are the best silent light tactiles you can get right now, although they may have minor QC issues.
NCR-80 is still a hollow build, but this one has the optional NCR-80 foam [all types]. The CF plate isn’t that loud, although I think aluminium is better for silent switches. It’s very light, hardly adds any weight to the case. Nor does the dampening material. It’s almost as light as a standard NCR-80.
I used Shenpo PBT beige + cream keycaps and some lavender accents in order to save money. But they seem kind of crooked to me. Do they let down the build? Honestly, the stabilizers promote a little more N/S/E/W wobble than expected, but I think it’s mainly the keycap stems.
A finishing touch: the LED indicators are purple:
Overall, it is a successful silent build. Although I don’t think NCR-80 is inherently quiet. Aurora with dampening is quieter. And from user accounts, HMKB TKL may be quieter as well.
Maybe Cannonkeys Earl Grey Lavender could achieve the same effect, with more consistency?