Ever feel like your keyboard is taking up too much space on your desk? Maybe you’re tired of bumping into keys you don’t even use when you’re deep in a game. That’s where the magic of a 60% keyboard comes in. These smaller keyboards are becoming super popular with gamers, but picking the right one can feel like trying to win a boss battle with a broken controller. There are so many choices, and it’s tough to know which features really matter for your gaming setup.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a great 60% gaming keyboard. We’ll break down the confusing terms and show you how to find a keyboard that fits your style and budget. Get ready to clear some desk space and level up your gaming experience!
Top 60 Keyboard For Gaming Recommendations
No. 1
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. 2
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. 3
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. 4
Logitech G PRO X 60 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Compact TKL 60% Mechanical Keyboard for Windows PC, LIGHTSYNC RGB, Dual-Shot PBT Keycaps, GX Optical Tactile Switches - Black
- PRO X 60 LIGHTSPEED: This TKL 60% mechanical gaming keyboard is the next generation of the professional wireless keyboard, designed with esports athletes to provide top performance and secure the win
- Size Matters: Maximize your space with zero compromise on performance; compact TKL mechanical keyboard provides more room for mouse movement so that you can focus on the win
- Pro-Grade Tech: Game mode control, standard keyboard layouts with 3P compatibility, media controls and volume roller, and customizable LIGHTSYNC RGB backlit keys via G HUB
- Optical Switches: GX optical switches offer faster actuation and zero debounce delay; choose from tactile or linear switches according to your playstyle
- Customization Is Key: KEYCONTROL technology allows pro-level customization of every key and 5 unique layers to make your small gaming keyboard the quintessential control center
No. 5
AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%, Hall Effect Magnetic Switch, Fast Trigger Mode Adjustable Actuation, 8000Hz Polling Rate, RGB Backlit, Wired Black Keyboard for Laptop/PC Gamer
- Fast Trigger Gaming Keyboard: AULA WIN68 HE magnetic gaming keyboard offers an industry-leading 8,000Hz polling rate and 8x faster response time than traditional mechanical keyboard. Combined with ultra-low latency (0.3ms), it ensures your commands take effect instantly, giving you an edge in the game. The fast trigger keyboard is perfect for gamers and coders, greatly enhancing the gaming experience and work efficiency.
- Hall Effect Keyboard with Magnetic Switch: Equipped with advanced hall effect magnetic switches, the WIN68 HE black gaming keyboard offers adjustable actuation point(0.02mm-3.44mm), and each key can be personalized to the smallest unit of 0.1 mm, providing an ultra-precise keying experience. In addition, press/reset sensitivity can be individually set via software to match the keystroke habits of different people in different types of games
- Customizable Web Driver: The mechanical gaming keyboard is equipped with a professional web driver that allows users to customize RT/SOCD/DKS/MT/TGL functions, key mapping, macro editing, RGB lighting and other settings on windows systems without downloading(This driver does not support MAC, only compatible with Windows system). It provides one-stop management of the keyboard, allowing users to truly experience customization and personalization. Web driver connection: bit.ly/m/AULA
- 16.8 Million RGB Backlit keyboard: The light up keyboard features 16.8 million colors of RGB lighting effects with south-facing LEDs for a better visual experience. 14 preset lighting effects add a great ambience to your games. Lighting effects and brightness can be easily adjusted via driver or FN and key combinations. The backlight can be turned off if not needed
- 60% Compact Wired Keyboard: Designed for professional gamers, the 60% gaming keyboard saves up to 40% of desktop space while retaining the arrow keys and basic function keys. FN and key combinations unlock all keyboard commands. The 68-key wired gaming keyboard with detachable USB cable provides gamers with a more stable connection and greatly enhances the gaming experience. The small size and lightweight design make it easier to carry and perfect for business trip
No. 6
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. 7
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. 8
Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard: Linear Optical Switches - Aluminum Top Frame - Chroma RGB Lighting - PBT Keycaps - Onboard Memory - Snap Tap - Black
- FASTER THAN TRADITIONAL MECHANICAL SWITCHES — Razer Linear Optical switch technology uses optical beam-based actuation, registering key presses at the speed of light (15-30% shorter actuation distance than other linear switches at 1.0 mm)
- ULTIMATE PERSONALIZATION & GAMING IMMERSION WITH RAZER CHROMA RGB LIGHTING — Fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30+ partners; supports 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys from the world’s largest lighting ecosystem for gaming devices
- QUALITY, ALUMINUM CONSTRUCTION — Covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased structural integrity
- OIL-RESISTANT DOUBLESHOT PBT KEYCAPS — Made of textured, high-grade PBT for a more durable and textured finish less prone to long-term grime buildup
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE MACROS — Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands
Choosing Your Perfect 60% Keyboard for Gaming
Are you ready to level up your gaming setup? A 60% keyboard might be just what you need. These compact keyboards ditch the number pad, function row, and arrow keys to give you more desk space. This means more room for your mouse to move freely, a big win for fast-paced games. Let’s dive into what makes a great 60% gaming keyboard.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a 60% keyboard, some features stand out.
1. Switches: The Heart of Your Keyboard
- Mechanical Switches: These are the most popular choice for gamers. They give satisfying clicks and tactile bumps. Different switches offer different feelings.
- Linear Switches (like Red or Black): These are smooth and quiet. They don’t have a bump. They are fast for gaming.
- Tactile Switches (like Brown): These have a small bump you can feel. They offer a good balance for typing and gaming.
- Clicky Switches (like Blue): These make a loud click sound. They feel very satisfying to type on. Some gamers love the sound, others find it distracting.
2. Build Quality: How It’s Made Matters
- Frame Material: Look for keyboards with sturdy frames. Aluminum or a strong plastic makes a keyboard feel solid. It won’t flex when you type hard.
- Keycaps: The little plastic covers on your keys are keycaps. PBT keycaps are better than ABS. PBT is tougher and won’t get shiny over time.
3. Connectivity: How It Connects
- Wired (USB-C): This is the most reliable. It offers the fastest response time, which is crucial for gaming. USB-C is also modern and easy to plug in.
- Wireless (Bluetooth or 2.4GHz Dongle): Wireless is great for a clean setup. A 2.4GHz dongle usually offers better performance than Bluetooth for gaming. Make sure the wireless is low-latency.
4. Features for Gamers
- RGB Lighting: Many gaming keyboards have colorful lights. You can often customize these to match your game or mood.
- N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting: These features ensure that every key press registers, even when you press many keys at once. This is super important for complex game commands.
- Programmable Macros: You can program special key combinations to perform complex actions with a single press. This saves you time and effort in games.
Important Materials
The materials used in a keyboard affect its feel and durability.
- Keycaps: As mentioned, PBT plastic is king. It resists wear and tear better than ABS.
- Switches: The internal mechanisms of mechanical switches are made of metal and plastic. Brands like Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh are well-known for quality switches.
- Keyboard Case: Aluminum offers a premium feel and excellent durability. High-quality ABS plastic can also be good, but it might feel less sturdy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a keyboard great, and others can make it less ideal.
-
Improved Quality:
- Hot-Swappable Switches: This lets you change switches easily without soldering. You can try different switch types to find your favorite.
- Good Stabilizers: These help larger keys (like the spacebar) feel stable and sound good.
- Firmware Updates: Regular updates can improve performance and add features.
-
Reduced Quality:
- Wobbly Keycaps: Cheap keycaps can feel loose and make typing sound bad.
- Poorly Built Case: A flimsy case can flex and feel cheap.
- Laggy Wireless: Unreliable wireless connections can ruin your gaming experience.
- Membrane Switches: While cheaper, membrane keyboards don’t offer the same responsiveness or feel as mechanical ones.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a 60% keyboard is a unique experience.
- More Desk Space: This is the biggest benefit. You have more room to move your mouse. This helps with aiming in first-person shooter games.
- Ergonomics: The compact size can put your arms in a more natural position. This might reduce strain during long gaming sessions.
- Learning Curve: You will need to learn new key combinations. The function row and arrow keys are usually accessed by holding down a ‘Fn’ key. This takes a little getting used to.
- Portability: Their small size makes them easy to carry around. This is great if you game on different computers or attend LAN parties.
- Typing: While designed for gaming, many 60% keyboards are also great for typing once you adjust to the layout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 60% Keyboards for Gaming
Q: What is a 60% keyboard?
A: A 60% keyboard is a smaller keyboard that removes the number pad, function row (F1-F12), and arrow keys to save space.
Q: Why are 60% keyboards good for gaming?
A: They give you more room for your mouse to move. This helps with quick reactions and aiming in games.
Q: What are the different types of mechanical switches?
A: The main types are linear (smooth), tactile (with a bump), and clicky (with a bump and click sound). Each feels different.
Q: Is wired or wireless better for a gaming keyboard?
A: Wired is usually better for gaming because it has faster response times and is more reliable. Wireless with a 2.4GHz dongle can also be good if it’s low-latency.
Q: What does “N-Key Rollover” mean?
A: It means the keyboard can register multiple key presses at the same time. This is important for complex game commands.
Q: Are 60% keyboards hard to get used to?
A: Yes, there’s a learning curve. You’ll need to learn how to use the ‘Fn’ key for functions like arrow keys and F-keys.
Q: What’s the difference between PBT and ABS keycaps?
A: PBT keycaps are more durable and won’t get shiny like ABS keycaps do. They feel better too.
Q: Can I change the switches on a 60% keyboard?
A: Some 60% keyboards are “hot-swappable,” meaning you can change the switches without soldering. This lets you customize your keyboard’s feel.
Q: Is RGB lighting important for gaming performance?
A: RGB lighting is mostly for looks. It doesn’t directly improve your gaming performance, but it can make your setup look cool.
Q: What should I do if my 60% keyboard feels cheap?
A: Check the build quality. Look for a solid frame and good keycaps. If it’s a mechanical keyboard, the switches also play a big role in how it feels.