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The best 60% keyboards offer a compact and minimalist design, removing the numpad, function row, and extra keys to save space without sacrificing essential functionality. Their smaller size typically has 61 keys, 2u x 4, and 6.25u x 1 stabilizers, providing outstanding portability, faster typing speeds, and improved mouse movement. With customizable features, RGB lighting, or ergonomic options, they deliver a comfortable, efficient typing experience and space-saving. Our article introduces the top 60% keyboard of the year, meticulously selected to provide you with the best options.
| Model | Switches | Key Features | Price |
| SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless
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OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagentic Switches |
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$203.99 - $279.99 |
| Keychron V4
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Keychron K Pro Switches |
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$59.00 - $79.00 |
| Everest Mountain 60
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Premium Mountain Switches |
|
$79.99 |
| Kinesis TKO Keyboard
|
Kailh Mechanical Switches |
|
$75.00 - $125.00 |
| Glorious GMMK Compact
|
Glorious Fox linear switches |
|
$79.99 - $119.99 |
| Razer Huntsman Mini
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Razer Analog Optical Switches |
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$89.99 - $99.99 |
| Royal Kludge RK61
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RK Blue, Brown, or Red Switches |
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$49.99 |
| Corsair K65 Pro Mini RGB
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Cherry MX Speed Switches |
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$109.99 |
| Keychron K12
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Keychron Lava Optical Switch or Gateron G Pro Mechanical Switch |
|
$62.30 - $76.30 |
| Lofree Flow
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Kailh Full POM switch |
|
$159.00 |
| Ducky One 3 Mini
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Cherry MX Switches |
|
$94.05 |
| Cooler Master SK622
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Low Profile Switches |
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$80.69 - $104.70 |
Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
Tech Specs:
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless is the pinnacle of customization and speed in the 60% mechanical keyboard category, an unbeatable choice for CSGO players. Its unique feature, the OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches, allows users to fine-tune the actuation point of each key with unparalleled precision. You can set the keypress sensitivity as low as 0.2mm for lightning-fast inputs during intense gaming, or adjust it to 3.8mm for more deliberate typing tasks.
The Apex Pro Mini delivers supreme performance thanks to its Rapid Trigger technology with an impressive 20x faster actuation and 11x faster response than standard switches, effectively eliminating lag and providing a competitive edge. Paired with its robust build quality, including a durable aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame and double-shot PBT keycaps, this keyboard performs at the highest level, making it one of the best 60% keyboards for gaming.
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Tech Specs:
The Keychron V4 is the best 60 percent keyboard for Mac users due to its versatility and customization options. The double-shot PBT keycaps, hot-swappable sockets, and an acoustic silicone pad ensure durability and a comfortable typing experience, while the south-facing RGB LEDs create a stunning visual effect, especially in low-light conditions. Compared to the V1 version, which has a 75% layout and dedicated arrow keys, the V4 is more compact, making it a better option for users who prefer minimalism and portability.
The Keychron V4 is compatible with both QMK and VIA firmware, providing limitless possibilities for key remapping, macros, and shortcuts. While the V1 includes additional options like an ISO layout, the V4 shines for users who seek a smaller, streamlined setup without compromising on performance. With the powerful ultra-low-power ARM 128K Flash 1000 Hz polling rate, combined with its high-quality build and affordable price, this keyboard is a top choice for Mac lovers.
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Tech Specs:
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The Everest 60 keyboard features double-shot PBT keycaps, renowned for their exceptional durability over dye-sub keycaps, ensuring lasting quality. While alphas and modifiers might appear slightly blurry, especially on the caps lock key, the overall keycap construction remains robust.
Besides its arrow keys and the option to attach a detachable numpad, it offers extra keys when needed. In terms of Mountain's Linear 45 switches, they are incredibly smooth as if they were meticulously hand-lubed.
Another plus of this keyboard is its case designed with a silicone layer (at the bottom) and two layers of foam (one below and one above the PCB). Therefore, you won't hear any annoying pinging sounds.
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Kinesis TKO keyboard is highly praised by the keyboard community for its strong construction. The plate is made of aluminum and the keycaps are durable thanks to PBT materials. Moreover, it has four silicon legs that can withstand heavy physical impact to always stay in one place.
You can choose among Kailh BOX Brown, White, or Red switches and those switches are tested to last for 80 million keystrokes. Apart from standard key characters, the manufacturers also print hotkeys on the keycaps, so it saves you time to switch between the manual and the keyboard.
Besides, this keyboard is pretty cool when it has 9 customizable profiles for specialist users. This gives you the freedom and control over the keymap to enhance your keyboard experience.
However, compared to other best 60% keyboards, it’s quite difficult to get updated firmware since this is a softwareless keyboard.
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Among the 10 best 60 percent keyboards, Glorious GMMK Compact keyboard is a hot-swappable one that allows you to change the switches easily. Unlike standard keyboards, you don’t have to desolder and solder the switches to custom them based on your liking.
This keyboard has a solid build with high-quality plastic, Besides, the rubber feet and under pad will prevent it from sliding or tilting due to your heavy typing. Even though it has ABS keycaps, the typing feels on those keycaps and switches are super nice. They do not wobble but are well-balanced throughout the whole key layout.
It’s easy to program keys on this keyboard, and you are also allowed to customize the RGB lighting aside from the pre-setting effects.
The downside of the Glorious GMMK Compact keyboard would be its high latency. This characteristic makes it less desirable for gamers who are into heavy gameplay.
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Tech Specs:
The Razer Huntsman Mini shines as the best mid-range 60 percent keyboard, particularly for gamers who value speed and precision. Typically priced between $89.99 and $99.99, Huntsman is equipped with Razer's Analog Optical switches that deliver outstanding tactile feedback and lightning-fast responsiveness. Despite its small footprint, it offers extensive functionality through secondary functions, allowing access to media controls, function keys, and navigation keys.
For a mid-range keyboard, the Huntsman delivers great performance without breaking the bank, a balance between affordability and high-quality build, accessible to gamers who want top-tier features without splurging on higher-end models. Customization is simplified with Razer's Synapse 3 software, enabling users to program macros and fine-tune per-key RGB lighting. Although it lacks a wrist rest for long typing sessions, its overall performance makes it a top choice in the gaming keyboard world.
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The Royal Kludge RK61 is a top favorite of the best 60% keyboard for Fortnite players on a budget. With solid build quality and responsive performance, it is perfect for gamers looking to enhance their setup without breaking the bank. The RK61’s compact design is easy to carry for gaming on the go, while its hot-swappable PCB allows users to customize their key switches to match their gaming preferences, offering a level of personalization rarely found at this price point.
Despite its budget-friendly price, it features Bluetooth wireless connectivity, providing the convenience of a cable-free setup. However, for competitive gaming, the detachable USB-C cable ensures a lag-free experience, which is crucial for fast-paced games like Fortnite. While the ABS keycaps may wear faster than PBT, they still offer a comfortable typing and gaming experience, making the RK61 a top pick for the best 60 gaming keyboards.
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The Corsair K65 Pro Mini RGB is the best wired 60 percent keyboard for gaming that demands ultra-low latency and top-tier performance. Equipped with OPX optical-mechanical switches, the K65 offers a smooth and linear typing experience, ideal for fast-paced gaming. The compact design doesn't compromise on quality, featuring Corsair Axon Hyper-Processing technology that delivers an 8,000Hz polling rate, ensuring every keystroke is registered with lightning speed and precision, a crucial advantage in competitive gaming.
The K65 has exceptional build quality like sound-dampening foam to minimize typing noise, enhancing the overall gaming experience. While the lack of hot-swappable switches might deter some, the OPX linear switches provide a responsive and tactile feel that many gamers will appreciate. This wired keyboard is perfect for those who prioritize performance and reliability, a superb choice for anyone seeking the best 60 gaming keyboards in the market.
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Tech Specs:
The Keychron K12 is a great pick for those seeking the best wireless 60% keyboard with seamless compatibility for both Mac and Windows users. Its compact design ensures it fits comfortably on any desk while still providing essential functionality through the function layer, including access to arrow keys. The K12 offers both switch options, including a hot-swappable option on optical and mechanical, catering to different typing preferences.
One of the standout features of the Keychron K12 is its impressive battery life, powered by a 4,000mAh battery that can last up to 240 hours on a single charge. This extended battery life makes it a superior choice for users who need a dependable keyboard for long periods without constant recharging. While it may not offer the best performance for fast-paced gaming due to higher Bluetooth latency, the K12 excels in everyday use, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience.
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The Lofree Flow shows up as the best low-profile 60% keyboard, particularly for those who prioritize portability and a smooth typing feel. The ultra-thin keyboard features full POM Kailh switches, which are self-lubricating, offering a silky-smooth keypress that makes long typing sessions comfortable. The gasket design adds a layer of cushioning and noise dampening, while the 10mm aluminum frame ensures durability without adding unnecessary bulk.
The Lofree Flow has a hot-swappable PCB that allows users to easily switch out the low-profile switches to suit their preferences. While the Lofree Flow excels in typing comfort and portability, its performance in gaming is slightly limited by a 22ms of input delay, that more suitable for casual use and less demanding gaming scenarios.
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The Ducky One 3 Mini is the ultimate 60% keyboard for those who value aesthetics. Building on the success of its predecessor, the One 2, this upgraded version features high-quality PBT keycaps that are designed to last for years without fading or developing a greasy shine. The RGB lighting with vibrant colors that bounce beautifully off the white plate, creating a stunning visual effect that can be customized to your liking without needing any additional software.
The One 3 has enhanced build quality and acoustic performance like a thick silicone dampening pad inside the case, which significantly improves the sound by eliminating the hollow case noise often found in other keyboards. The hot-swappable allows users to easily change out switches, with its sleek bezel design and customizable tilt angles, making it the best 60% keyboard for style-conscious users.
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The last keyboard in this list of the best 60% keyboards will be Cooler Master SK622 keyboard. It’s better than other wireless keyboards on the list since the lagging issue in wireless mode is controlled to be minimal. However, clearly, the transmission rate will drop compared to wired mode.
You can choose between aluminum or plastic for the keyboard case. Also, there are TTC Low-profile Red, Blue, or Brown switches to pick from. Overall, the typing feels on the three switch types are nice and firm, making it a good option for those who prioritize typing performance.
Note: If you want to know more about low profile switches, this Low-Profile Switches Guide is for you.
The best feature of the Cooler Master SK622 is the 32-bit ARM Cortex processor. Thanks to it, you won't need to install extra software for personal programming. It has the ‘On the fly’ system that controls macro programming and lighting changing. Hence, you can set up everything quite easily and quickly.
Visual effects on this keyboard can enhance your gaming experience. Take a look and feel it yourself.
Here are a few other exceptional best 60 percent keyboards worth considering for their unique features and performance:
A 60% keyboard can be a great choice for those who value a minimalist setup or need a portable option. The compact design saves desk space and allows for easier transportation, ideal for gaming, programming, and general productivity on the go. Elite gamers often prefer 60% or TKL keyboards because they focus on essential commands, allowing for quicker access to critical keys during gameplay. The absence of a numpad and function row also encourages the use of shortcuts and hotkeys, which can streamline workflow for experienced users.
However, the 60% keyboard is not without its drawbacks. For users who rely heavily on the numpad, function keys, or dedicated arrow keys, the smaller layout might feel restrictive and less intuitive. Learning to navigate these missing keys through shortcuts can take time and may not be as efficient for everyone. Additionally, those unfamiliar with hotkeys might find the transition challenging.
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Build quality
There are two things you should notice:
Keycaps
Keycaps are a critical component in determining the overall feel, sound, and aesthetics of your keyboard, especially for a 60% layout. When selecting keycaps, consider factors such as material, profile, and compatibility. PBT keycaps are highly recommended due to their durability and resistance to shine, providing a superior typing experience. Some beautiful keycaps you may like include HK Gaming Dye Sublimation keycaps, HyperX Pudding keycaps, Razer PBT, or YMDK Double-Shot Rainbow keycaps.
Many 60% keyboards allow for easy keycap customization, so you can mix and match styles to create a unique look that suits your preferences. Whether you prioritize functionality or visual appeal, investing in quality keycaps can significantly enhance your keyboard experience. Ready to upgrade your keyboard's appearance with our handmade keycaps? Explore Hirosart's artisan keycaps collection to find high-quality, unique options that elevate your setup.
Features
You will make a smart choice when buying a 60% keyboard by understanding its features and benefits. Here are some features you need to consider:
Wired or wireless
Wired or wireless connectivity affects the convenience and flexibility of using the keyboard. Wired keyboards provide a stable connection and do not require batteries, ensuring uninterrupted usage.
On the other hand, wireless keyboards offer freedom of movement and a clutter-free workspace. Both types have different pros and cons. If you are not sure what to choose between them, let's check our detailed comparison to make better decisions.
Comfort
Comfort is a key consideration when selecting a 60% keyboard, especially given its compact design. Although these keyboards often lack built-in wrist rests or ergonomic features, they can still provide a comfortable typing experience. Factors such as the typing angle and the keyboard’s overall thickness play a significant role in comfort.
Some users may prefer the sleek feel of a low-profile keyboard, while others might opt for the stability and support of a full-height model. Choosing the right keyboard depends on your personal preference and how it aligns with your ergonomic needs.
Gaming Performance
Gaming performance is an important factor for those considering a 60% keyboard. These keyboards are popular among gamers for their low latency and reliable connections, which are essential for fast-paced gaming. The compact design also allows for greater mouse movement, which is especially beneficial in competitive gaming. Whether you’re a dedicated gamer or just someone who values a responsive and stable keyboard, a 60% layout can enhance your overall experience, making both gaming and everyday tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
Related article:
A 60 percent keyboard is the smallest keyboard type, therefore, saves the most space on your working table. Of course, it has its advantages and disadvantages so you should consider them carefully before choosing.
After that, if you decide to have one, the top 10 best 60 percent keyboards above may help you choose easier. Enjoy reading!
Tags:
The best 60% keyboards offer a compact and minimalist design, removing the numpad, function row, and extra keys to save space without sacrificing essential functionality. Their smaller size typically has 61 keys, 2u x 4, and 6.25u x 1 stabilizers, providing outstanding portability, faster typing speeds, and improved mouse movement. With customizable features, RGB lighting, […]
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