13 Best Low-Profile Keyboards: Ultimate Guide for 2024
Keycaps 101
Posted by:
carson-rutz
Sep 29, 2024
Low-profile keyboards are a modern take on traditional mechanical keyboards, prioritizing a slimmer design and reduced key travel. The shorter keycap height and lower-profile switches contribute to a more ergonomic typing experience, reducing strain on your wrists. And now, let's explore the 13 best low-profile keyboards on the market today.
Switch Type (s): Gateron Low-profile Mechanical (KS-33)
Keycap Material: PBT
Lighting: RGB
Programming: VIA/QMK
Connectivity: Wireless 2.4G, Bluetooth 5.0
Dimensions (WxDxH): 12x5.2x0.59’’
Weight: 1.31 lbs
Pros:
Excellent build quality
Comfortable typing experience
Quiet switches
Customizable RGB backlighting
Affordable price
Cons:
Limited keycaps options
No wrist rest
The NuPhy Air75 V2 is an excellent low-profile keyboard with customizable switches, premium build quality, and flexible connectivity. The keyboard features unique, flat keycaps made of durable PBT plastic. While their unusual profile might require an adjustment period, the ample key surface area and spacing aim to reduce typing errors. The matte finish adds a touch of elegance, but the lack of shine-through legends limits visibility in low-light conditions.
Moreover, it is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It offers flexibility with its dual wireless connectivity options, like Bluetooth for energy-efficient, multi-device pairing, and 2.4GHz for high-performance gaming.
2. Logitech MX Keys S: Best Typing Low-Profile Keyboard
The Logitech MX Keys S is a great mid-range keyboard offering a premium typing experience. Its scissor-switch design provides a quiet, satisfying typing experience, similar to a laptop keyboard. The keyboard's quiet operation sets it apart from most mechanical keyboards. The high-quality construction and spherical keycap profile contribute to a comfortable and precise typing experience.
However, the Logitech MX Keys S isn’t designed for gaming. It’s best suited for everyday tasks like browsing the web and working on documents. If you need a smaller, more portable keyboard, the Logitech MX Keys Mini is a great alternative.
The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is a budget-friendly option for a full-sized, low-profile keyboard. While it may not offer the same premium feel as the Logitech MX Keys S, it still provides a decent typing experience. With its quiet operation and Powered by AAA batteries, this keyboard offers a clean, cable-free desktop experience. If you're concerned about battery life, it’s estimated to last up to 24 months.
However, its lack of backlighting and limited Bluetooth functionality may be drawbacks for some users. If you prefer a wired keyboard or don't need Bluetooth connectivity, consider the Dell KB216. It's a similar, affordable option with a straightforward design and no need for batteries or charging.
4. Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s: Best Cheap Low-Profile Keyboard
The Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s is a quiet, portable Bluetooth keyboard suitable for office use. Its slim design and quiet keys make it ideal for working in shared spaces. It offers multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth, providing a seamless experience. Powered by AAA batteries, it boasts a long battery life of up to 24 months, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
While the Logitech Pebble Keys 2 is well-built, its Bluetooth connection isn't ideal for gaming. It may be suitable for casual gaming, but its high latency and low update rate make it less than optimal for fast-paced or competitive titles.
5. Corsair K100 AIR: Best Gaming Low-Profile Keyboard
Has a maximum polling rate of 8000 Hz when connected with its cable
Dongle is compatible with both PS4 and PS5 consoles
Cons:
Available only in tactile switch type
Expensive
Keycaps wear quickly
Flat key profile prone to typos
Metal top attracts dust
Dimly lit secondary key labels
Prone to debris accumulation under keycaps
Complex switch design may damage keycaps during removal
The Corsair K100 AIR is a top-tier low-profile gaming keyboard designed for serious gamers and programmers. Its sleek design and cutting-edge features, including sub-1ms wireless connectivity, Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches, and customizable RGB lighting, make it a standout choice. Moreover, some key features for gamers include ultra-fast response times, an ergonomic design, and a high polling rate, both wired and wireless, ensuring smooth and accurate input, even in low-light conditions.
Besides, thanks to its low-profile switches, the K100 AIR’s slim profile allows for easy placement under a monitor stand. However, this design makes it difficult to clean debris that may accumulate under the keycaps, which are not replaceable.
6. Keychron K5 Max: Best Ultra-slim Low-Profile Keyboard
Switch Type (s): Gateron Low profile 2.0 Mechanical
Keycap Material: PBT
Lighting: RGB
Programming: QMK/VIA
Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4Hz, USB-C
Dimensions (WxDxH): 16.5 x 4.7 x 0.9”
Weight: 1.6 lbs
Pros:
Ultra-slim design
Customizable layout
Durable build quality
Cons:
Relatively expensive
May not be a long-lasting battery life
The Keychron K5 Max is an ultra-slim mechanical keyboard that prioritizes style and performance. Its ultra-slim design and customizable layout make it ideal for users who value a minimalist workspace. It also offers a comfortable typing experience without a wrist rest. The pre-lubed stabilizers and switches contribute to a quiet and consistent typing feel. Additionally, users can customize their experience by remapping keys, adjusting backlighting settings, and creating custom profiles using web-based or downloadable configuration software.
This keyboard is great for gaming at a casual or competitive level. They boast excellent build quality and offer impressive latency performance over a 2.4GHz connection. The true 1000Hz polling rate, both wired and wireless, ensures precise and accurate keystrokes. However, the stock keycaps without shine-through legends can be difficult to read in darker environments.
7. Redragon AZURE K652: Best Slim & Style Low-Profile Keyboard
Connectivity: USB-C wired, Bluetooth 3.0/5.0 & 2..4Ghz wireless
Dimensions (WxDxH): 5x12.67x0.94”
Weight: 1.76 lbs
Pros:
Sleek, compact design
Hot-swappable switches
Customizable RGB lighting
Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired)
Affordable price
Cons:
Stock keycaps could be better
Stabilizers may need tuning
Build quality feels a bit flimsy
Driver software could be improved
The Redragon AZURE K652 boasts vibrant RGB lighting, quality keycaps, and an extra set of keycaps. It offers reliable connectivity with three modes and a dedicated slot for the 2.4GHz receiver. The keyboard seamlessly switches between Windows and Max, and a charging LED indicator keeps you informed. Moreover, its -35% ultra-thin design, achieved through low-profile keycaps and switches, provides a comfortable typing experience without sacrificing mechanical feel.
However, the Redragon AZURE K652 suffers from poor build quality and a hollow typing sound. The stabilizers rattle despite pre-lubrication, and the switches feel inferior to Cherry MX Brown. Additionally, customizing the keyboard is challenging due to the tightly mounted switches.
8. Logitech G915 Lightspeed: Best High-End Low-Profile Keyboard
Switch Type (s): Low Profile GL (Tactile, Clicky or Linear)
Keycap Material: ABS plastic
Lighting: RGB
Programming: Yes
Connectivity: USB and Bluetooth
Dimensions (WxDxH): 15.2 x 5.8 x 0.9”
Weight: 2.26 lbs
Pros:
High-speed wireless technology
Superior build quality
Unparalleled typing comfort
Cons:
No wrist rest
Average typing quality
Prone to typos
Limited device compatibility
Bulky and heavy
Poor color accuracy
The Logitech G915 Lightspeed is a high-end, low-profile gaming keyboard with a premium price tag. The keyboard is meticulously crafted with a focus on user experience. The aluminum volume wheel offers precise control, while the soft-touch media buttons provide tactile feedback for intuitive operation.
Moreover, the Logitech G915 is a versatile keyboard suitable for various tasks. For office use, its low-profile design and light tactile switches provide a comfortable typing experience, though the short key travel may lead to typos.
As a gaming keyboard, it excels with low-profile switches offering quick response times and low latency. Dedicated media controls and macro keys enhance the gaming experience. For programmers, the customizable macro keys improve efficiency. However, the limited macro assignment options and short key travel may impact typing accuracy.
The stabilizers may require tuning to eliminate rattling
The Royal Kludge N80 is a popular wireless mechanical keyboard that offers a sleek, ergonomic design and customizable RGB backlighting. Its wireless connectivity ensures freedom of movement, while the hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization to suit your preferences. The built-in OLED display and knob provide intuitive control over various settings, including brightness, volume, and custom macros. With its long-lasting battery life and reliable wireless connection, the N80 delivers a seamless typing experience, making it ideal for both work and play.
However, the N80 does have some drawbacks. Its plastic build quality might not feel as premium as metal options, and the stabilizers may require tuning to eliminate rattling. Additionally, the stock ABS keycaps can be prone to shine over time. Despite these minor issues, the Royal Kludge N80 remains a great budget-friendly wireless keyboard option for those who prioritize functionality and style.
10. Tecware Phantom L: Best Budget Gaming Low-Profile Keyboard
18 preset lighting modes and per-key customization with up to 16.8 million colors
Cons:
Noisy
Not ergonomic
Not hot swappable switches (soldered-on switches)
Limited stock
The Tecware Phantom L is a fantastic option for those seeking a budget-friendly, low-profile mechanical keyboard. Its solid build quality ensures stability and durability, minimizing wobble during use.
Combined with customizable 18M RGB lighting, and Outemu switches with short actuation and travel distances offer a satisfying typing and gaming experience. The keyboard's customizable RGB lighting allows for personalized setups, while the macro recording and game mode features enhance gaming performance. The affordable price point makes it even more appealing to budget-conscious consumers. typing and gaming experience.
However, a key limitation is that the switches are soldered onto the PCB, making them difficult to replace. While this design offers stability and lower production costs, it limits customization options. If you prefer the flexibility of hot-swappable switches, you may want to consider other keyboard options.
11. Lofree Flow84: Best Programming Low-Profile Keyboard
Switch Type (s): Lofree x Kailh Phantom; Ghost; Wizard
Keycap Material: PBT
Lighting: White backlight and RGB sidelight
Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
Dimensions (WxDxH): 12.4x4.9x0.9”
Weight: 1.25 lbs
Pros:
Extremely slim and thin design
Easy to customize and hot-swap
Gasket mount design to bring soft & cushioned
Durable aluminum-alloy design for long-term use
Cons:
High price
Limited switch options
Bluetooth wireless connectivity only
No software customization
Weak 2000mAh battery
The Lofree Flow84 is a testament to the fusion of form and function. Their minimalist design and premium build quality are undeniably impressive. The Kailh switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, making them a joy to use. A compact, minimalist keyboard is visually appealing and offers a satisfying typing experience due to its Kailh switches and comfortable low-profile keycaps.
Besides, the Flow84's 75% layout, akin to many laptops, offers essential keys in a compact form. Its sleek design, satisfying tactile switches, and comfortable keycaps enhance the typing experience. While lacking native software, Karabiner Elements enables customization on Mac. The lightweight, sturdy build ensures stability during use.
However, the battery life is insufficient for extended use, and the limited customization options and lack of software support can be disappointing for tech-savvy users. Additionally, the high price tag may deter some potential buyers.
12. Fnatic Streak65 LP: Best Gaming 65% Low-Profile Keyboard
Wireless connectivity would be a welcome addition.
Software capabilities could be expanded.
Visible screws detract from the aesthetic.
The Fnatic Streak65 is a fantastic small 65% keyboard designed particularly for esports gamers. It's a beautifully compact, low-profile keeb with a wonderful design that looks unique without seeming overly gamey.
With an all-aluminum case that makes it light and sturdy, its build is of the best quality. Plus, it boasts PBT keycaps with premium, long-lasting legends. The Kailh low-profile switches used by the Streak65 also have excellent sound and feel.
As a bonus, there is a lot of cushion inside the keyboard, which substantially improves the acoustics.
Without a doubt, the Streak65 is one of the best low-profile keyboards which stands apart from the competition thanks to Fnatic's excellent attention to detail.
13. Roccat Vulcan TKL: The Ultimate Compact Low-Profile Keyboard
Transparent switch housing for better illumination
Cons:
No extra wrist support
Take a look at the Roccat Vulcan TKL if a number pad is not really needed on your keyboard.
This may be a much better replacement for the full-sized Vulcan as it allows users to choose between red (linear) and brown (tactile) switches without having to pay extra for a palm rest version.
The additional detachable USB-C cable is a significant improvement over the full-sized Vulcan.
Also, you have the Roccat Swarm program for adding new macros and changing key mappings.
Additionally, this keyboard includes a complex mixer-style media management configuration for when you need to manage music and gaming sounds.
You will swiftly change the volume in this way without having to take your eyes off the game.
Summary
Unquestionably, low-profile keyboards are still very rare but they have come to stay. Despite the fact that they are yet novel, their slim and light form makes them an excellent solution for heavier ones.
If you’re interested in the low-profile space but aren't yet committed to a particular form factor, our reviews for the best low-profile keyboards would be a great place to start.
With the top 10 best low-profile mechanical keyboards we’ve reviewed above, we hope you will find a true partner to accompany you during every game or daily typing.
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