Imagine reclaiming valuable desk space without sacrificing typing power. Have you ever looked at your keyboard and thought, “This is just too big”? Many people feel the same way. Full-sized keyboards take up a lot of room, and often, we don’t even use half of the keys!
This is where 60 percent keyboards shine. They strip away the unnecessary parts, like the number pad and function row, to give you a compact and stylish typing experience. But with so many different brands and features, picking the perfect 60 percent keyboard can feel like a puzzle. Which one is best for gaming? Which one is quiet enough for an office? You might feel overwhelmed by the choices, unsure where to start.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! By reading on, you’ll discover the amazing benefits of these smaller keyboards and learn exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the jargon, explain the key differences, and guide you toward finding the 60 percent keyboard that fits your needs and your desk perfectly. Get ready to upgrade your typing game!
Top 60 Percent Keyboards Recommendations
No. 1
MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, MK-Box LED Backlit Compact 68 Keys Mini Wired Office Keyboard with Red Switch for Windows Laptop PC Mac - Black/Grey
- Mini portable 60% compact layout: MK-BOX is a 68 keys mechanical keyboard have cute small size, but with separate arrow keys and F1-F12, Fn function keys you need, can use it for gaming or work while saving space.
- Mechanical red switch: characterized for being linear and smoother, slight key sound has no paragraph sense with minimal resistance, but fast action without a tactile bump feel which makes it easier to tap the keyboard.
- Classic charming blue LED backlit: Customize multiple illuminated LED light effects, supports about 16 backlight modes, press Fn + Ins can control it, FN + ←/→ control backlight speed, FN + ↑/↓ control backlight brightness.
- Full anti-ghosting keyboard: all 68 keys are no conflict, black grey red mash up design, ergonomic suspension double-color injection keycap, double kickstand feet adjustable typing angle and detachable usb cable, both practical and beautiful.
- Extensive compatibility: MageGee MK-Box mechanical keyboards use USB 2.0 connector making it compatible with Windows (2000, XP, ME, Vista, 7, 8), Linux and Mac, plug and play, no drivers or software required.
No. 2
Snpurdiri 60% Wired Gaming Keyboard, 61 Keys RGB Backlit Ultra-Compact Small Gaming Keyboard, for PC/Mac Gamer, Typist, Travel, Easy to Carry on Business Trip(Black-White)
- Classic 60% Compact Design — This 60% gaming keyboard has a small size and it's good for all environnement, business travel games office home use, without Numpad, more practical for Gamers and Typist, give more space to your desktop
- Ergonomic Design and Mechanical Feel — The mini gaming keyboard key height is designed according to ergonomics,and it is not easy to fatigue after long-term use. Using advanced imitation mechanical technology, one of the attractive features is the mechanical feeling.It also belongs to a relatively silent membrane gaming keyboard
- Cool RGB Backlit Effect — The 60% rgb keyboard include 6 backlight effects and 8 backlight color switching. Different RGB setting enriches your typing time. Lighting speed and level can also be adjusted according to your need.Now,Key cap upgraded to double - color injection molding, character transparent luminous
- Simple Elegant Personality — For some small keyboard, if you are tired of monotones, you can choose this elegant and mature black and white matching classic style. In addition,detachable cable makes this portable gaming keboard connecting simple and easy to carry. USB Type-C connection also provide more stable transmission
- After-sales service — We maintain continuous improvement of product quality.For example, the Snpurdiri 60 keyboard is upgraded to two-color injection molding, and the character is transparent.We make every effort to ensure the quality of Snpurdiri 60 keyboard.Your satisfaction and happiness will be our motivation and direction to pursue continuous product upgrades
No. 3
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Wired Gaming Keyboard with Volume Knob, 60% Percent RGB Backlit Mechanical Keyboard Gasket Mount with PBT Keycaps, MDA Profile, QMK/VIA, 66 Keys Hot Swappable Cream Switch, Black
- 【60% Percent Gasket Mount Mechanical Keyboard】: Compact gaming keyboard adopts a gasket structure with five layers of sound-absorbing material. There is poron cotton for buffering between the keyboard PCB board and the casing, which can effectively reduce the noise and vibrate of the keys, optimize the sound of the switches, and provide better typing experience
- 【Metal Volume Knob & Indicator Lights】: The PC gaming keyboard is equipped with a high quality aluminum CNC metal knob. You can quickly adjust the volume of the device by rotating the knob, and press the knob to turn on/off the sound. There are three indicator lights next to the arrow keys, which can make the status of the keyboard clear at a glance. You could see few 60 percent keyboard comes with such good features
- 【Hot Swappable & Custom Pre-lubed Cream Switches】: Hot swappable mechanical keyboard comes with custom pre-lubed cream switch. These linear switches have a unique look, creamy sound and excellent smooth keystroke feel. Creamy and thocky sounding gives you unlimited fun while typing. High quality PCB board compatible with 3pin/5pin switches. You can have a high degree of customization
- 【Dynamic RGB Backlight & QMK/VIA Programmable】: RGB gaming keyboard has more than 20 built-in backlight modes. A variety of dynamic RGB effects, monochrome, and full-color modes allow you to experience the unlimited fun of RGB. You can customize RGB modes and colors through software. The gaming keyboard supports QMK/VIA programming, you can easily redefine your keyboard
- 【MDA Profile PBT Keycaps & Highly Compatible】: PBT keycaps are made of double shot technology, with a matte surface, non-fading, durability and longer service life. MDA Profile keycaps bring better tactile experience and better appearance. PC gaming keyboards compatible with Windows and MacOS, which can works perfectly on all kinds of devices
No. 4
GEODMAER 65% Gaming Keyboard, Wired Backlit Mini Keyboard, Ultra-Compact Anti-Ghosting No-Conflict 68 Keys Membrane Gaming Wired Keyboard for PC Laptop Windows Gamer
- 【65% Compact Design】GEODMAER Wired gaming keyboard compact mini design, save space on the desktop, novel black & silver gray keycap color matching, separate arrow keys, No numpad, both gaming and office, easy to carry size can be easily put into the backpack
- 【Wired Connection】Gaming Keybaord connects via a detachable Type-C cable to provide a stable, constant connection and ultra-low input latency, and the keyboard's 26 keys no-conflict, with FN+Win lockable win keys to prevent accidental touches
- 【Strong Working Life】Wired gaming keyboard has more than 10,000,000+ keystrokes lifespan, each key over UV to prevent fading, has 11 media buttons, 65% small size but fully functional, free up desktop space and increase efficiency
- 【LED Backlit Keyboard】GEODMAER Wired Gaming Keyboard using the new two-color injection molding key caps, characters transparent luminous, in the dark can also clearly see each key, through the light key can be OF/OFF Backlit, FN + light key can switch backlit mode, always bright / breathing mode, FN + ↑ / ↓ adjust the brightness increase / decrease, FN + ← / → adjust the breathing frequency slow / fast
- 【Ergonomics & Mechanical Feel Keyboard】The ergonomically designed keycap height maintains the comfort for long time use, protects the wrist, and the mechanical feeling brought by the imitation mechanical technology when using it, an excellent mechanical feeling that can be enjoyed without the high price, and also a quiet membrane gaming keyboard
No. 5
HyperX Alloy Origins 60 - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Compact 60% Form Factor, Double Shot PBT Keycaps, RGB LED Backlit, NGENUITY Software Compatible - Linear HyperX Red Switch,Black
- [Petite 60% form factor]: Free up more room for your mouse with this supremely compact keyboard.
- [Full aircraft-grade aluminum body]: The aluminum casing keeps the keyboard structurally sound and stable when the action gets intense.
- [Double shot PBT keycaps with side printing]: The keycaps are designed with durable PBT material that is resistant to wear, friction, and solvents. Secondary functions are printed on the sides of the keycaps for quick recognition.
- [HyperX Mechanical switches]: Custom-designed HyperX key switches are balanced for speed and accuracy. They’re also reliable, rated for 80 million keypresses with no loss of quality.
- [RGB backlit keys with radiant lighting effects]: Get brighter, more luminous RGB lighting, thanks to the exposed LED design of the HyperX mechanical switches.
No. 6
Aula WIN60 HE - 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired, Magnetic Switch Hot Swappable, Adjustable Actuation Rapid Trigger Mode, 8000 Hz Polling Rate, RGB Small Keyboard 60 Percent Compact Design for PC
- High-Performance Hall Effect Magnetic Switch Keyboard: The AULA Win60 HE 60% keyboard features advanced, self-developed magnetic switches and a lightweight, non-memory-intensive driver, delivering polling rates of up to 8000Hz for ultra-fast response times. As a hall effect keyboard, it leverages cutting-edge magnetic technology to ensure precise and consistent actuation without physical contact, eliminating wear and tear associated with traditional mechanical switches. This level of performance gives you a competitive edge in gaming with unmatched precision and reliability
- Optimized for FPS Games: Designed for FPS titles like Valorant and CS2, the Win60 HE’s magnetic switches enable faster peeking and quick-stop shooting, enhancing accuracy and positioning. Experience a clear advantage in high-stakes moments with this gaming keyboard
- Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard: Featuring an ultra-low RT step distance of just 0.02mm, the Win60 HE ensures lightning-fast response times, perfect for rapid shooting and complex combos. Stay ahead in intense matches with unmatched speed and precision
- Compact 60% Design: With its space-saving 60% layout small keyboard, the Win60 HE is ideal for gaming, work, or travel. Its compact size saves desk space without sacrificing functionality, making it perfect for gamers and typists alike
- Dynamic RGB Lighting: The Win60 HE features a lower light position design that illuminates PBT keycaps, along with 16.8 million customizable RGB colors. Create stunning lighting effects to match your setup and elevate your gaming atmosphere
No. 7
Wired Portable 60% Mechanical Feeling Gaming Keyboard,RGB LED Backlit Compact 68 Keys Mini Wired Office Keyboard for Windows Laptop PC Mac Gamer, Typist, Travel on Business Trip Black–Grey
- Compact Design :This 60% gaming keyboard has a small size and it's good for all environnement, business travel games office home use, without Numpad, perfect for gamer or typists to use it for home, work, game, travel, or business, etc
- Ergonomic Design and Mechanical Feeling:he mini membrane gaming keyboard key height is designed according to ergonomics,and it is not easy to fatigue after long-term use.you also can adjust backlight brightness and breathing speed by pressing FN+related key according to your real needs
- Multi RGB Backlight Color effect: you also can adjust backlight brightness and breathing speed by pressing FN+related key according to your real needs, providing a immersive lighting show when in dark place, effectively enhance the competitive atmosphere when gaming.
- different backlit control:RGB color,green ,red ,blue,light key:on/off,FN+M=Extrusion,FN+Backspace/Bslash brightness adjustment,four levels 0x0,0x3f,0x7f,0xff,FN+left/right to adjust the flow
- Ergonomics and Mechanical Feel Keyboard:A smaller keyboard provides better structural ergonomics, allowing the body to perform typing tasks in a more natural posture. The ergonomically designed keycap height maintains the comfort for long time use, protects the wrist, and the mechanical feeling brought by the imitation mechanical technology,
No. 8
Womier 60% Percent Keyboard Gaming, WK61 V2 Creamy Mechanical Wired Keyboard Anime, Hot-Swappable RGB Key Board with PBT Keycaps for Windows PC Gamers - POM Linear Red Switch(Black Kanagawa)
- 【Kanagawa Anime 60% Percent Creamy Keyboard】: The theme style makes this 60% keyboard more unique. WK61 mechanical keyboard incorporates super classic Kanagawa anime motifs into the gaming keyboard. The patterns on the front and back echo each other, making each keystroke a pleasure, and the compact 60% layout keyboard is perfect for intense gaming and comfortable typing.
- 【 Multi-Layer Filling Material for Keyboard 】The gaming keyboard has added the Featuring Multi layers of sound-dampening fillings, significantly reduce the sound resonance between the metals and reduce the hollow noise, which provides a richer operating space for keyboard DIY enthusiasts. Pad can maximally absorb hollow sound and provide extra stable typing feeling.
- 【DIY Mini Progarmmable Software Keyboard】: You can personalize your own keyboard layout, shortcut keys, backlight effects, etc. DIY own keyboard. Womier WK61 Mechanical keyboard come with 3 pcs sublimation keycaps that can be replaceable, You can freely match the colors you like. So that you can DIY and do whatever you want.
- 【Hot-Swappable Custom Keyboard】: POM linear red mechanical switch, linear and soft key travel makes every click easy to register. Made to last with switches rated for 50 million keypresses. Type-C USB Cable, High Speed Transmission, More stable transmission. The keyboard is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One so you can have one keyboard for both PC and console gaming.
- 【RGB Rainbow Backlit Keyboard】: WK61 V2 gaming keyboard elevates your PC setup with its vibrant RGB backlighting and PBT pudding keycaps. The north-facing LEDs and cherry profile keycaps ensure a smooth, evenly distributed light effect. With customizable lighting effects, this RGB keyboard adds a dynamic, colorful touch to any setup, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
The Awesome Guide to 60% Keyboards
So, you’ve heard about these tiny keyboards called 60% keyboards, and you’re curious? They’re super popular because they’re small and look cool. This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
What Makes a 60% Keyboard Great? Key Features to Look For
60% keyboards are special because they only have the most important keys. They don’t have a number pad on the side or function keys at the top. This makes them very compact.
What to Look For:
- **Compact Size:** The main thing is how small it is. It saves desk space.
- **Key Switches:** These are the parts under the keys. They make a clicking sound or are quiet. Some are clicky, some are smooth, and some are in between.
- **Build Quality:** How strong and well-made the keyboard feels.
- **Connectivity:** How it connects to your computer. Most are wired, but some are wireless.
- **Customization:** Can you change the keycaps or even the switches?
What Are They Made Of? Important Materials
The keyboard’s case and keycaps are made from different things.
Materials Matter:
- **Case:** The outside part. It can be made of plastic or metal. Metal cases feel more solid and premium. Plastic is lighter and usually cheaper.
- **Keycaps:** These are the tops of the keys you press. They are usually made of ABS plastic or PBT plastic. PBT is generally tougher and doesn’t get shiny as fast.
Making it Good (or Not So Good): Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a 60% keyboard better, and some make it worse.
Quality Boosters:
- **Hot-Swappable Switches:** This means you can change the key switches without special tools. It’s great for trying different feelings.
- **Good Stabilizers:** These help the bigger keys (like the spacebar) feel stable and not wobbly.
- **Durable Keycaps:** PBT keycaps last longer and feel better.
- **Solid Construction:** A keyboard that doesn’t flex or creak when you type feels much better.
Quality Reducers:
- **Cheap Plastic:** A flimsy plastic case can feel cheap.
- **Wobbly Stabilizers:** Bad stabilizers make typing feel bad.
- **Low-Quality Switches:** Some switches can feel mushy or inconsistent.
Who Are These Keyboards For? User Experience and Use Cases
60% keyboards are loved by many people for different reasons.
Who Uses Them and Why?
- **Gamers:** They love the extra mouse space. Less desk clutter means more room for your mouse to move freely.
- **Minimalists:** People who like a clean and tidy desk. The small size is perfect.
- **Typists:** Some people find they can type faster with fewer keys. They learn to use function layers.
- **Enthusiasts:** People who enjoy customizing their keyboards. Hot-swappable boards are a big draw.
Using a 60% keyboard is different at first. You’ll need to learn where the missing keys are. They are usually accessed using a “function layer” key. You press and hold this key, and then press another key to get the number row or F keys.
Frequently Asked Questions About 60% Keyboards
Q: Are 60% keyboards hard to use?
A: They can be a little tricky at first. You have to learn to use function layers for missing keys. But most people get used to it quickly.
Q: Do I lose important keys on a 60% keyboard?
A: You lose the number pad, arrow keys, and function keys (F1-F12) in their usual spots. But you can still access them using a special function key.
Q: What are the best key switches for a 60% keyboard?
A: It depends on what you like! Cherry MX switches are popular. Red switches are smooth, Blue switches are clicky, and Brown switches are in the middle.
Q: Can I use a 60% keyboard for gaming?
A: Yes! Many gamers love them because they give more space for mouse movement. The essential gaming keys are all there.
Q: What is a “hot-swappable” keyboard?
A: A hot-swappable keyboard lets you change the key switches easily without soldering. You can try different switch types.
Q: Are 60% keyboards good for typing?
A: Some people find them great for typing once they learn the function layers. They can help you focus on typing.
Q: What’s the difference between ABS and PBT keycaps?
A: PBT keycaps are usually better. They are more durable and don’t get shiny as fast as ABS keycaps.
Q: Do 60% keyboards come with a backlight?
A: Many do! Backlights can be simple white or colorful RGB lights. This helps you see the keys in the dark.
Q: How do I use the arrow keys on a 60% keyboard?
A: You usually press and hold a “Fn” key, then press keys like WASD or IJKL to use the arrow keys.
Q: Are 60% keyboards expensive?
A: Prices vary a lot. You can find very cheap ones, but higher-quality ones with metal cases and good switches cost more.