8 Best 40% Mechanical Keyboards in 2025

If you're looking for a compact, space-saving keyboard without sacrificing functionality, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll dive into 8 Best 40% mechanical keyboards in 2025. Whether you're a minimalist enthusiast or a keyboard expert, we've got you covered. Choose top keyboards to meet your specific needs. Join us to explore amazing 40% keyboards now.

Here are the top 8 best 40 keyboards:

Note:

• Prices updated in 2025, may change over time.

• Pre-built keyboards are ready-to-use keyboards that come fully assembled with switches, keycaps, and all necessary components.
• Kit keyboards, DIY (Do It Yourself) kits, typically include the keyboard case, PCB (printed circuit board), and sometimes stabilizers; and they do not include switches or keycaps, allowing you to buy the following additional components such as switches, keycaps, stabilizers for larger keys (spacebar, enter, shift), screwdriver, switch puller, keycap puller,...

1. Keychron Q9 40% Aluminum Barebones Keyboard

The Keychron Q9 is a 40% barebones keyboard kit that requires separate purchases for switches and keycaps, allowing for complete personalization. It features a sleek all-black aluminum body and south-facing RGB lighting, along with internal sound dampening for a premium feel.

The keyboard is fully programmable with QMK/VIA and includes a customizable knob. Additionally, the Q9 is hot-swappable, compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, and works with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a custom 40% keyboard.

2. Koolertron 40% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Koolertron 40% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a highly portable and customizable option, featuring a space-saving 40% layout perfect for minimalist setups. It offers hot-swappable switches for easy customization without soldering and customizable RGB backlighting for enhanced visibility and aesthetics, especially in low-light environments. 

The keyboard is also fully programmable, allowing users to tailor keys and macros to their needs. The 40 keyboard layout can be challenging to adapt to due to its limited keys. However, it offers 36 combination keys using "Shift+", "Alt+", "Ctrl+", and "Win+" for customization. Additionally, the ABS keycaps are less durable than PBT alternatives and may wear out faster, and the lack of Bluetooth keyboard connectivity restricts its wireless usability.

3. KEEBD Reviung 39 II 40% Keyboard

The Reviung 39 MKII is a standout keyboard with QMK/VIA support for key mapping and macro creation, and hot-swappable switches for easy customization. Its compact 40% layout and ergonomic column-staggered design, built with durable FR4 and acrylic materials, cater to minimalists and long-term users. 

Extensive personalization options include key remapping, custom macros, and compatible keycap sets. Additional features like USB pass-through, dedicated media controls, and rear-facing drop lights enhance its functionality and style. Ideal for gamers, office workers, and enthusiasts, the Reviung 39 MKII offers a premium typing experience.

4. Epomaker TH40 40% Keyboard

The EPOMAKER TH40 features a compact 40% layout, removing the number pad, arrow keys, and top row for improved typing efficiency. Its split space bar and central FN key minimize finger travel, boosting speed. Lightweight and portable, it’s perfect for on-the-go use.  

With four programmable layers via VIA software, it’s highly customizable and ideal for multitasking and programming. The gasket mount, Poron foam, and flex-cut PC plate ensure a quiet, comfortable typing experience while reducing fatigue. The TH40 supports Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C for seamless device switching. With full key rollover and customizable RGB backlighting, it’s perfect for fast typing, gaming, and stylish setups.

5. YMDK YMD40 V2 Mini Cute 40 Mechanical Keyboard Kit

Ymdk Ymd40 V2 Mini Cute 40 keyboard is a basic keyboard. A typical Ymdk Ymd40 V2 Mini Cute 40 kit is designed to include: CNC cover plate, C-type PCB, PCB stabilizer, screws, rubber feet, cables and assembly. It is not equipped with switches or installed into a complete keyboard. This type of keyboard connects to the computer via USB, and does not use a wireless connection.

With this keyboard, you can customize the switches according to your preferences and design your own layout. This keyboard also offers a lot of cover options. These things help you create a unique, personal keyboard. 

6. Libra Mini 40% Acrylic Keyboard Kit

Libra Mini 40% Acrylic Keyboard is also a basic keyboard with a unique design. When ordering a set of Libra Mini 40% Acrylic Keyboard you will receive Acrylic Case, Metal Positioning Plate, Split PCB, Cable Arrangement, Screws, Silicone Feet. You will have to prepare your own switches and install them yourself according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Therefore, this type of keyboard is very suitable for those who like to design their own keyboard.

Unlike regular keyboards, the Libra Mini 40% Acrylic Keyboard is designed as a split PCB, meaning that it is essentially two keyboards in one. It also has adjustable levers that can be used to replace the traditional arrow keys. 

Moreover, it features software-programmed PCBs that allow users to perform different actions on four different layers. This makes it a great choice for users who need to use the keyboard for long periods of time, as it can be customized to fit their individual needs.

7. Kprepublic 43 Keys 40% Custom Keyboard Kit

Do you want to create your own keyboard? Kprepublic 43 Keys 40% Custom Keyboard is a great choice for you. All you get when you order it is just a PCB. Therefore, you can customize the color and layout of keycaps and switches according to personal preferences.

Kprepublic 43 Keys 40% Custom Keyboard is made entirely of plastic but still ensures durability. Despite its compact size, this keyboard has large keycaps and six RGB LEDs on the PCB, giving it a unique appearance. It is fully programmable with four layers of programming via QMK firmware, making it a great option for those looking for a custom and wired keyboard.

8. Daisy 40% Custom Keyboard PCB

The Daisy 40% Custom Keyboard PCB is designed for enthusiasts seeking a compact, customizable solution. With its minimalist 40% layout, it allows users to choose from various configurations, including stabilizer options (2u or 6.25u), switch types, and cable and case colors.

It features underglow RGB lighting and is fully programmable via QMK firmware for extensive key customization. Users should test all keys and LEDs before soldering to ensure functionality, as replacements are only available prior to soldering. The PCB also includes user-friendly software for easy flashing and programming.

Related Articles

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• Finding the Best 96% Keyboards
• 15 Best 75% Keyboards For Gaming And Typing

How do 40% keyboards work?

What do we do when we need to type a number on this keyboard? If that is your worry, don’t be so. In order to help you freely use numbers or arrows, a 40% keyboard uses layer design to aid that problem.

The layout of characters you see on the keycaps is the first layer. Numbers, arrows, and special marks are in the second layer. To activate the keys on the second layer, you will need to hold two keys at the same time. It’s similar to how you produce a capital A by holding shift and A.

To fully get how a 40% keyboard works, watch this video below.

How to choose the best 40% Mechanical Keyboard?

Choosing the best 40% mechanical keyboard involves considering several factors specific to this ultra-compact form factor. 

• Cost: Consider a budget, aiming for around $100 for a good quality 40% keyboard. Be aware that brand names and extra features can increase the price
• Switch options: Prioritize switches that provide a comfortable typing feel and are durable. Cherry MX switches are a high-quality, albeit potentially more expensive, option.
• Keycap quality: Choose keycaps made from high-quality materials for longevity and feel. PBT keycaps are generally considered superior to ABS keycaps. If you are looking for the best keycap sets, we've got you covered with the 21 best keycap sets. If you prefer unique artisan keycaps, check out our  Hirosart collections for stunning designs.
• Backlighting: While not essential, backlighting adds aesthetic appeal and can enhance the typing experience.
• Keyboard Layout: Different keyboard layouts, such as QWERTY, QWERTZ, and AZERTY, cater to various typing habits and preferences. It is advisable to test different layouts to find the one that suits you best. 

Among popular 40% keyboard layouts, the ortholinear layout features keys arranged in a grid, which can be more ergonomic but may require some adjustment. The split layout divides the keyboard into two adjustable halves, helping to reduce wrist strain and improve posture. Additionally, the thumb cluster adds functionality by placing thumb-accessible keys near the spacebar.

Conclusion

The world of the best 40% mechanical keyboards is a thrilling one, packed with innovation and customization. From sleek, minimalist designs to vibrant RGB backlighting, these keyboards offer a unique typing experience. We hope this list has inspired you to explore the exciting world of 40% keyboards and find the perfect fit for your needs.

FAQs

Are 40% keyboards good for gaming?

Since most games won’t ask you to use all the keys on the standard keyboard, a 40% keyboard is a good choice. You can access all the necessary keys much faster and easier with a limited layout.

Are 40% keyboards good for typing?

It depends. Typing on a 40% keyboard is faster and less fatigued for sure. However, the minimal layout will need time to get used to and it’s quite annoying for those who need to use function keys most of the time.

Are 40% keyboards good for programming?

We won’t recommend a 40% keyboard for those who prioritize programming comfort. As you need to use symbol keys like an exclamation mark or a number sign a lot, 2 or 3 layers to get them is irritating in some way.

Are 40% keyboards cheap?

Most of the best 40% mechanical keyboards will fall from $40 to $100. However, some exceptions go over $150. In short, they can be cheap, as well as very expensive.

What is the best 40% keyboard for gaming?

For the best gaming experience, we recommend fast-responding keyboards like Redragon K585 DITI.

What is the best 40% keyboard for typing?

The best 40% keyboards for typing would be Vortexgear Core 40% and Planck EZ 40%, since they are both stable and reliably strong to type on.