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How to Disable Keyboard Clicking Sounds in Microsoft 365 Apps
Question details
The user needs to stop unexpected keyboard clicking sounds that occur while typing in Microsoft 365 applications.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 (Word, OneNote)
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Typing documents or notes within Microsoft Office applications.
- Observed behavior
- Audible clicking or typing sounds are triggered with every keystroke specifically inside Microsoft 365 apps, which is not the standard system-wide behavior.
Verify whether the clicking sound happens globally across all applications on your computer (like your web browser) or only when typing inside Microsoft 365 apps to narrow down the source.
Use Safe Mode to Identify and Disable Problematic Add-ins
Running Office apps in Safe Mode bypasses add-ins. If the sound stops, an add-in is causing the issue and should be permanently disabled.
Third-party extensions, particularly dictation tools or accessibility add-ins, can sometimes introduce typing feedback sounds into Office apps. Safe Mode helps isolate this behavior.
Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run window.
Type 'winword /safe' (for Microsoft Word) or 'onenote /safemode' (for OneNote) and press Enter.
Type a few sentences in the application to check if the clicking sound persists. If the sound is gone, proceed to the next step.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner, select 'Options', and then click on 'Add-ins' in the left sidebar.
Select 'COM Add-ins' from the Manage dropdown menu at the bottom of the window and click 'Go'. Uncheck the add-ins one by one, clicking 'OK' and restarting the app normally each time to isolate the culprit.
Check Office Audio Feedback and Windows Accessibility Utilities
Built-in Office feedback features or Windows accessibility tools (like Filter Keys) might be generating the typing sounds.
Update Audio Drivers and Test Hardware
Outdated audio drivers or physical keyboard companion software might trigger unwanted typing sounds.
Try WPS Office for a Distraction-Free Typing Experience
If you are frustrated by unexpected behaviors, system sounds, or add-in conflicts in Microsoft 365, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a lightweight, highly compatible, and seamless document editing experience without the clutter of unwanted background utilities.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
- 3. Enjoy Quiet Editing: Open WPS Writer to experience a fast, quiet, and fully compatible environment for all your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my keyboard make a clicking sound only in Word and OneNote?
This typically occurs due to a third-party COM add-in installed specifically for Office, an active accessibility feature, or the 'Provide feedback with sound' setting within Microsoft 365. Testing the application in Safe Mode is the fastest way to determine if an add-in is responsible.
Can Windows system settings cause keyboard clicking sounds in Office apps?
Yes. Windows accessibility features such as Filter Keys, Sticky Keys, or Toggle Keys can play an audible beep when keys are pressed. You can disable these by navigating to Windows Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
How do I turn off 'Provide feedback with sound' in Microsoft Office?
Open any Office application, navigate to File > Options > Ease of Access, and locate the 'Provide feedback with sound' checkbox under the Feedback Options. Uncheck it to mute application-specific audio feedback.
