Adjusting OBS Settings to Minimize Keyboard Clicks in Your Recordings

Have you ever tried to reduce the sound your keyboard makes during OBS recordings but found that even when you've maximized the suppression level, the clicks are still clearly picked up? This can be frustrating for both streamers and content creators. In this article, we'll explore several strategies to minimize these persistent clicks in your recordings.

Switch to a Quieter Keyboard and a Highly Directional Microphone

One of the most effective methods to reduce the noise coming from your keyboard is to switch to a quieter keyboard. Modern mechanical keyboards often come with features that can help reduce noise, such as rubber keys or clickless switches. Additionally, investing in a highly directional microphone, such as a condenser microphone or a cardioid microphone, can significantly reduce background noise and isolate the sounds you want to capture.

Adjust Your Recording Environment and Technique

When it comes to reducing mechanical keyboard clicks, a few environmental and technical adjustments can make a big difference. First, ensure that your recording environment is as quiet as possible. Using soft furniture and soundproofing materials can help absorb sound and reduce ambient noise.

Another technique is to use a light touch when typing on your keyboard. You don't need to pound the keys; instead, use a gentle, but firm touch to prevent excessive noise while still maintaining smooth keystrokes.

Utilize OBS Filters: Noise Gate and Audio FX

Inside OBS, the built-in audio filters can help you manage unwanted background noise. To address the keyboard clicks, you can add an Noise Gate as an audio filter. This tool can help by muting any sounds that are below a certain volume threshold, effectively silencing background noises like keyboard clicks. Here’s how you can do it:

Switch to the Audio Sources tab in OBS. Select the microphone input you’re using. Click on the Settings icon for your audio input. In the filter section, add a Noise Gate. Stick to the default settings to start with. If you still hear background noise, you can fine-tune the Threshold and Close/Open Threshold settings until the clicks are minimized.

Another useful audio effect in OBS is the Audio FX EQ. By using an equalizer, you can adjust the frequency levels of the audio to reduce specific frequencies that are contributing to the noise, such as the higher frequencies where keyboard clicks typically occur.

Additional Tips for Quality Recordings

To further enhance your OBS recordings, consider the following tips:

Position your microphone close to your mouth but not too close to prevent mouth noise. Use headphones to monitor audio and identify any issues before they become problematic. Run a test recording before your actual session to ensure everything is set up correctly.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the noise from your mechanical keyboard and improve the overall quality of your OBS recordings.