Full-sized keyboards have been relevant in the industry for a long time. Yet, many programmers, gamers, and even writers prefer 60 percent keyboards over regular-sized ones. If you are one of those who want to suit up their desk with a compact-sized keyboard, we have compiled a list of the best 60 percent keyboards available in the market.
This recent trend of going minimal and, let’s say, saving some space on the desk made these compact 60 percent layout keyboards very popular among gamers, programmers, and even regular typists. A typical 60 percent keyboard offers everything a full-sized keyboard offers, minus the number pad and function keys. Typically, a 60 percent keyboard has 62 keys, making it compact enough to fit into any desk setup without taking up too much space. On top of that, you can easily carry them in your backpack.
Regardless of their compact size, these 60 Percent Keyboards don’t fall short on the typing experience and usability. They are equally comfortable, ergonomic, and easy to use as their regular-size ones. Plus, you can get these keyboards with mechanical keys and features like RGB lighting, with multiple connectivity options.
A 60 percent keyboard isn’t for everyone since it has flaws, like cramped arrow keys and the lack of a Numpad. Hence, before jumping to the list, let’s see the features you should consider to help you compare and get the best keyboard for yourself.
What is a 60% Keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is a compact keyboard layout that’s around 60% the size of a traditional full-sized keyboard. These keyboards typically have around 60-64 keys:
- Letters keys (A-Z)
- Number keys (1-0)
- Modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.)
- Arrow keys
- Function keys
60% keyboards achieve the small footprint by eliminating the number pad and navigation keys like Page Up/Down, Home, End etc. Many also combine the function row (F1-F12) onto other keys accessed via a Function (Fn) key.
This compact layout allows fitting a fully functional keyboard in around 60% of the space. The result is a highly portable and space-saving keyboard perfect for use with limited desk areas.
Things to Consider Before Buying 60 Percent Keyboards:
Like every good keyboard, if it doesn’t type well, it isn’t worth it regardless of the features. Here are a few things to look out for before you make a purchase decision:
- Keyboard Key Switches: As a keyboard enthusiast, a keyboard with mechanical switches is hands-down the best thing you can present yourself. The majority of the 60 percent of keyboards that we are covering here have mechanical switches. Therefore, it brings down to what kind of switches you want on your keyboard.
- Backlit Keys: The second feature to focus on is whether you want some RGB lighting under your keys or not. Generally, Gamers prefer these flashy RBG backlights under their keys to match the vibe of their gaming setup. However, having a backlight is good in dark environments, in general. It is always good to have some backlighting under keys. If you are a gamer, you can always go with a keyboard with an RGB backlight. But, if you don’t like all the flash, you can buy a keyboard with a single color option.
- Connectivity Options: Lastly, consider what kind of connectivity options you want on your keyboard. Whether you want a wired keyboard or a wireless one? A wired keyboard will provide a fast response, with an always visible wire on your desk. While a wireless one is easy to carry around, but might not be suitable for work that requires fast key response.
The middle ground here is to get a keyboard with both connectivity options to fit both kinds of use. But keep in mind that this might cost you some extra bucks.
Best 60 Percent Keyboards
Here is a list of some of the best 60 percent keyboards from which you can buy.
1. Razer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard
The Huntsman Mini by Razer is one of the best 60 percent Gaming Keyboard on this list. This keyboard is ideal for minimalist gaming setups where desk space is a top priority. For a competitive gamer, it can be the best compact keyboard available in the market. Razer Huntsman Mini uses Razer’s Optical switches. And Razer claims that these switches are one of the fastest to register clicks.
Huntsman Mini is exceptional in speed and comfort. And it also comes with illuminating RGB on individually backlit keys. In addition, Huntsman Mini comes with wired connectivity, which makes it fast and responsive. Looking for a premium product, this can be the best pick for you. You can buy this product by clicking on the product image or the link below.
2. Kraken Pro 60 BRED Edition RGB Keyboard
The next keyboard on our list is from Kraken. Kraken Pro 60 BRED Edition RGB Keyboard is a classy red and black keyboard with RGB lights, setting the mood for work and gaming. Based on my experience, the silver speed switches are comfortable and depress very fast. This keyboard gives you good typing speed along with comfort, making it my favorite on the list.
In terms of connectivity, it is a wired keyboard, which includes both USB and USB Type-C. The keyboard comes with RGB lights, a classic design, compatible with multiple devices, including PC and gaming consoles. But unlike most Keyboards in this list, this keyboard is made of a plastic frame.
With that said, even with a plastic build, the Kraken keyboard has decent build quality. Suppose you are on a budget and want a 60 percent gaming keyboard with RGB right? You can’t go wrong with this offering from Kraken. You can buy the Kraken pro 60 by clicking on the product image or the link below.
3. RK Royal Kludge RK61 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
RK Royal Kludge is one of the keyboard manufacturers that makes budget-friendly, durable, and sturdy keyboards. Their RK 61 is a popular 60% keyboard with ultra-low latency wireless transmission using BT 5.1 for seamless wireless connectivity. It also comes with a Micro USB wired connection. The dual connectivity option also makes it a portable compact keyboard, which you can bring with you inside your backpack on the go.
This keyboard comes with single LED backlighting, which means you have to settle with only one colored backlight, as opposed to the glory of the mighty RBG backlighting. Therefore, it gives a more subdued look than other keyboards. But it can be a boom for those who don’t like all that rainbowed flash.
The RK 61 comes with 61 keys which gives more space for mouse movement. RK 61 comes in two frames, along with Bluetooth and wired connectivity and comfortable mechanical keys. Besides, you can connect it to 3 devices simultaneously with shortcut keys for easy switching between connected devices. Therefore, if you are looking for something you can easily carry and don’t have RGB lights, RK 61 is a decent choice.
4. Newmen GM610 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Newmen G610 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has everything you need as a gamer or a programmer. Since it uses USB Type-C, you can use it with a variety of devices. In addition, you can also connect it using Bluetooth for a seamless wireless connection. In BlueTooth mode, you can connect it with multiple devices. This Newmen wireless Mechanical keyboard has breathing RGB backlit keys, which gives this keyboard a unique character and style.
With multiple connectivity options, comfortable keys, and 20 different modes for the RGB lights, you can never go wrong with this keyboard. However, it isn’t the best keyboard in terms of build quality. Unless you want to play hard on your keyboard, the cost of this keyboard makes it a good buy.
5. Redragon K630 Dragonborn Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard
Redragon has been making computer accessories for gamers for a while. Their Redragon K630 Dragonborn Wired RGB Keyboard is a paradise for those of you who want a well-built, inexpensive, and compact gaming keyboard.
K630 comes in a 61 keys layout and uses hot-swappable Red switches on the board. That explains why they are targeted towards gamers, specifically. On the connectivity side, you only get a wired connection to your PC and enjoy gaming with your buddies.
With that said, K630 has a great design, comes in a gamer’s friendly Red switched with software-controlled RGB backlighting, and good sturdy build on a budget. If you are on a budget and want an excellent wired 60 percent gaming keyboard, you can never go wrong with Redragon K630.
6. KINESIS Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard
Kinesis is one of the brands that make high-quality 60 percent mechanical keyboards. They have KINESIS Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard that comes in an aluminum body with three different switch variants. The best-selling one is obviously with the Red switches, though you can also get one with brown or white switches.
It uses high-quality PBT Keycaps and comes with hot-swappable mechanical switches. All this adds up to its premium look; hence it is a bit pricey. It comes with dual-tone RGB lighting with 12 different customization modes.
KINESIS is also offering a limited edition travel case with this keyboard, with 8 extra switches and a key switch removal tool. All these features and add-ons make the keyboard the best deal for you if you are looking for RGB, mechanical, ergonomic, or a gaming 60% keyboard.
7. Corsair K65 RGB Mini Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Looking for an excellent Mechanical gaming keyboard that covers all the aspects you need? The Corsair K65 RGB Mini Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is all that you need. The keyboard comes with Cherry MX mechanical key switches and AXON hyper-processing technology. Therefore, it gives a fast response to clicks. The per-key RGB lighting increases the fun ad the experience. Besides, it comes with a detachable USB Type-C cable connection with the fantastic build quality. The 1.5mm PBT keycaps provide excellent stability while using the keyboard.
Considering the benefits of this keyboard: Cherry MX Keyswitches, RGB backlighting, and AXON hyper-processing technology that makes the keyboard fast. Next, it has molded keycaps that resist the keyboard from fading. All these features coming into one keyboard make it a great deal you don’t want to miss out on. Based on my experience, this will be a smart buy if you want a mechanical gaming keyboard.
8. Ducky One 2 Mini 60 Percent Keyboard
Ducky is known for its premium products. They have gained massive respect in the gaming community for their top-notch quality. The Ducky One 2 Mini is one of the best 60 percent gaming keyboards that use the Cherry MX switches.
Even though it is on the pricey side, Ducky One 2 Mini has some fantastic features to compensate for that. The customizable RGB backlighting helps in personalizing the keyboard. Ducky also gives extra keys which you can use to change the keyboard according to our preferences.
The diverse and comprehensive features of the keyboard make it one of the best deals. At the same time, the Premium quality switches take your gaming experience to the next level. It comes with RGB backlighting with superior double-shot PBT keycaps. However, not having any additional ports is the only con of the keyboard. With these many features, it can be a good option.
9. DIERYA DK63 Wireless 60 Percent Keyboard
Finding a good 60 percent keyboard with dedicated Arrow keys is like finding a needle in a haystack. With DIERYA DK63 Wireless Keyboard, you get dedicated arrow keys with mechanical switches at a very affordable price.
The DIERYA DK63 Wireless, 60% keyboard comes with a massive 1900 mAh battery and will last longer than most wireless options in the competition. Alongside that, you are getting BT 5.1 on board with multi-device connectivity, which allows you to switch between connected devices easily. Apart from wireless, it also has USB C-type interface.
On the good side, DK63 is compatible with almost all of your devices and has ASB keycaps and tactile brown switches. It also has 7 lights RGB effect to match up with that gamer-y vibe.
While the price of the keyboard and what it offers at the price range is also unbeatable, which brings us to the only con: no DIP switches, if you are on a tight budget and want a keyboard with decent features, DIERYA DK63 is worth every penny.
60% Keyboard Benefits Over Full Size
The main benefits of 60% keyboards compared to full size include:
- Saves Desk Space – Compact size takes up much less room for mouse movement. Great for small desks.
- Highly Portable – Small footprint makes throwing in bags easy for coding or gaming anywhere.
- Ergonomic – Keeping hands closer together may help avoid shoulder and wrist strain issues.
- Minimalist Aesthetic – Plain 60% styling provides a clean modern look.
- Shortcut Focused – Higher reliance on function layers pushes you to use more efficient shortcut combinations.
While full size keyboards are still preferred by those needing a number pad or maximum keys, 60% boards offer some excellent perks for certain users.
60% vs 65% Keyboard Comparison
The main difference between 60% and 65% keyboards is that 65% boards retain the full arrow key cluster in the bottom right while still eliminating the number pad.
Having dedicated arrow keys on a 65% keyboard helps with navigation and moving around documents or code easily. But 60% boards condense the arrows into a compact row accessed by pressing Function.
Here’s a general comparison between 60% and 65% keyboards:
- 60% – True minimalist size great for portability. No number pad or navigation keys.
- 65% – Slightly wider footprint to preserve arrows. Better for office use while still compact.
Which size you choose comes down to how important easy access to the arrow keys is versus achieving the smallest possible footprint. Many touch typists accustomed to function layers happily use 60% boards.
Are 60 Percent Keyboards Good for Gaming?
For gaming, 60% keyboards provide some nice benefits but also have some disadvantages:
Pros:
- Compact size saves desk space for big mouse movements
- Lightweight and portable to take to LAN parties
- Tactile switches enhance feedback for precise in-game actions
- Customizable layers efficiently position shortcuts
Cons:
- Lack of dedicated macro keys like bigger boards
- Missing F-row removes access to game functions like leaderboards
- Condensed arrows/navigation can hamper usability in some games
- No number pad removes binding options
60% keyboards can certainly deliver a great gaming experience with the right switch choice, RGB backlighting and programmable layers. But hardcore gamers often still prefer full size or tenkeyless boards.
Casual gamers that appreciate the compact layout will enjoy gaming on a 60% board. But high level MMO or MOBA players may find the lack of extra keys detrimental.
Do You Need Number Pad for Coding?
A number pad is not strictly necessary for coding on a keyboard. Here are some pros and cons of having one:
Pros of Number Pad:
- Easily enter numerical data
- Execute calculations with num pad math keys
- Added space for number-related hotkeys
Cons:
- Requires moving hand from home position
- Takes up desk space on right side
- Not widely used in most programming languages
While a number pad can provide some convenience for data entry, it generally sees limited use in programming. Lingering on a number pad also promotes poor coding posture.
Most developers happily work on 60 to 75% boards without a num pad. But it comes down to personal preference. Having a separate standalone number pad you can pull out when needed offers a good compromise.
Do You Need Function Keys for Coding?
Like number pads, function keys like F1-F12 are not mandatory for programming:
Pros of Function Keys:
- Execute IDE commands and shortcuts
- Quick access to tools like debug and terminal
- Used often in editor programs like Photoshop
Cons:
- Take up space on compact boards
- Many shortcuts can be remapped to layers
- Usage depends on coding languages and IDEs
If your workflow makes heavy use of function keys, a 65% or larger board is recommended to have dedicated access. However, many modern coders employ shortcuts and layers that reduce reliance on function keys.
You can be highly productive coding on 60% boards by taking advantage of layers. But those accustomed to frequent function key use will likely prefer at least 65% for easy access.
Are 60% Keyboards Good for Typing?
For typing, 60% keyboards provide some ergonomic benefits but can have a learning curve:
Pros:
- Shoulder-width spacing promotes good posture
- Requires less lateral hand movement
- Function layers can improve shortcut use
Cons:
- Condensed arrow cluster can hinder navigation
- Missing keys like Page Up/Down require adjustments
- Unlearning old habits around function keys
Many touch typists that adopt 60% boards find their words per minute actually increases thanks to the efficient home row-focused layout. But it takes time to adapt muscle memory around modifier layers.
Minimalists that embrace learning 60% function layers will love them for typing. But expect an adjustment period switching from a full size board, especially if you rely heavily on certain missing keys.
Do You Need Arrow Keys for Programming?
Here’s an overview of whether arrow keys are beneficial for coders:
- Navigating code lines – Useful but can be replaced by shortcuts
- Moving through text in editors – Helpful but not mandatory
- UI element selection – Helpful in IDE visual designers
- Debugging – Stepping through code aided by arrows
- Accessibility – Important for devs who rely on arrows over shortcuts
Many programmers work efficiently without dedicated arrows by using shortcuts like Vim or remapped keys. But others strongly prefer having direct access to arrows for quickly moving around.
Fordevelopers that regularly use arrow keys, a 65% or larger keyboard is best. But the minimalist 60% size works fine if you can adapt to compact arrow layers. Personal preference is key.
60% Keyboard FAQs
Q: What 60% keyboard has the fastest switches?
For pure speed, optical switches like those on the Razer Huntsman Mini register key presses at the speed of light for insanely fast and accurate input.
Q: What are some good 60% gaming keyboards?
Top choices for gaming include the Razer Huntsman Mini, Ducky One 2 Mini, Keychron K6, Royal Kludge RK61, and Anne Pro 2.
Q: Is a 60% keyboard good for typing?
60% keyboards are good for typing once you adapt to compact arrow and function layers. The efficiency can increase words per minute. But expect a learning curve at first.
Q: How many keys are on a 60% keyboard?
A typical 60% keyboard has between 60-64 total keys.
Wrapping Up: Best 60 percent keyboards that you can buy right now!
These were our top picks regarding the best 60 percent keyboards. The objective of a 60 percent keyboard is to offer you a different experience while saving some space on your desk. And we hope this guide will help you decide on the best compact-sized keyboard for your need. If otherwise, here are a few of our recommendations to help you choose your first 60 percent keyboard.
- Looking for a gaming keyboard that comes with fast depress keys and multiple connectivity options, the Newmen GM610 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard can be the best option. If budget is not an issue, you can go for this product.
- The second product I will recommend is the Razer Huntsman Mini 60 percent gaming Keyboard. The use of premium quality switches and the build of the product is what made us recommend this keyboard. Thus, making it the best 60 percent gaming keyboard that you can buy for your money.
- The last recommendation I have for you is KINESIS Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard. Coming with red switches at an affordable rate makes it a good option for silent typer. The dual-tone RGB lighting and 12 different modes make it classy. Besides, it has tools and extra switches, which is also one reason for recommending this.
