Addilyn Frederick
15 min readApr 12, 2024

Are you tired of the traditional layout of computer keyboards? Look no further than the 60 Percent Keyboard, a revolutionary new design that packs a powerful punch in a compact case. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of 60 Percent Keyboards, exploring their features, benefits, and why they’re worth considering for your next purchase. Get ready to experience a fresh perspective on typing!

The Top 10 Best 60 Percent Keyboards

  1. Varmilo Minilo VXT67 Eucalyptus 65% Hotswap Triple Mode RGB Mechanical Keyboard — Experience seamless connectivity and an elegant design with the Varmilo Minilo VXT67 Eucalyptus 65% Hotswap Triple Mode Bluetooth + Wireless 2.4 GHz RGB Mechanical Keyboard, perfect for professionals, gamers, and enthusiasts alike.
  2. Razer RGB Clicky Optical Gaming Keyboard (60%) — Experience lightning-fast gaming with the Razer Huntsman Mini TKL, a portable 60% gaming keyboard featuring Razer Clicky Optical Switches, Doubleshot PBT Keycaps, and Chroma RGB Lighting.
  3. Royal KLUDGE RK61 60% Mechanical Keyboard — 2.4Ghz/Bluetooth/Wired, Wireless Bluetooth, RGB, Coiled Cable — Experience seamless, wireless gaming with the new RK61, featuring 3 modes connectivity, hot swappable RGB backlit keys, and a coiled cable for the ultimate gaming setup.
  4. HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Percent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard — The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 delivers top-tier performance and sleek design with its 60% compact form factor, HyperX mechanical switches, and customizable RGB backlit keys.
  5. Stylish, Waterproof 60% Gaming Keyboard with RGB Backlighting — The Snpurdiri 60 Wired Gaming Keyboard offers a compact, ergonomic design, stable wired connection, and vibrant RGB lighting, making it the perfect choice for both PC and Mac gamers and typists in need of a versatile, portable keyboard.
  6. Womier K61: Customizable Hot-Swappable Gaming Keyboard with RGB Lighting — Experience top-quality gaming with the XVX Womier K61 60% Mechanical Keyboard, where a compact design, RGB dual backlight, and hot-swappable switches make this PC, PS4, and Xbox-compatible keyboard perfect for gamers and typists alike.
  7. HK Gaming GK61 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Optical Switches — Experience ultimate performance and style with the HK Gaming GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, boasting RGB backlit keys, Light Strike optical switches, and a versatile USB-C connection for seamless compatibility with PC and Mac.
  8. Customizable GMMK Mini 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard with Modular Switches — Customize your typing experience like never before with the Glorious GMMK 60% White Ice Mechanical Keyboard — versatile switches, easy keycap and switch replacement, and an elegant aluminum chassis.
  9. RGB Gaming Keyboard with Fast Optical Switches — A sleek and customizable GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, offering full RGB backlighting, fast Gateron Optical Yellow switches, on-the-go Macro recording, and compatibility with multiple devices, perfect for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals.
  10. Stylish MEKO 60% RGB LED Blink Keyboard with Hotswap, Bluetooth, and Kailh Box Brown Caps — The MEKO Blink 60% RGB LED Hotswap Bluetooth Keyboard offers a stylish design, seamless hotswap functionality, and versatile connectivity options for an unparalleled typing experience.

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Reviews

Varmilo Minilo VXT67 Eucalyptus 65% Hotswap Triple Mode RGB Mechanical Keyboard

Varmilo Minilo VXT67 Eucalyptus 65% Hotswap Triple Mode RGB Mechanical Keyboard | Image

The Varmilo Minilo is a compact and versatile mechanical keyboard designed to deliver an exceptional typing and gaming experience. With its sleek and elegant design, the Minilo appeals to professionals, gamers, and enthusiasts alike.

The Eucalyptus color palette draws inspiration from the silver-grey leaves of the eucalyptus, resulting in a vibrant, soft, and gentle color scheme. This keyboard offers three connectivity options — Bluetooth, wired USB, and wireless 2.4 GHz — allowing you to seamlessly switch between them based on your needs. Additionally, it features a 65% enclosure layout, which is compact yet functional, making it highly portable for when you’re on the go.

The technical specifications include triple mode connectivity, a hot-swappable US key layout (ANSI), and RGB backlighting. Overall, the Varmilo Minilo is perfect for those looking for a stylish and practical mechanical keyboard.

Razer RGB Clicky Optical Gaming Keyboard (60%)

Razer RGB Clicky Optical Gaming Keyboard (60%) | Image

The Razer Huntsman Mini, a compact 60% gaming keyboard, is designed for those seeking a different scale of dominance. With its cutting-edge Razer Clicky Optical Switches, it offers lightning-fast actuation perfect for streamlined setups.

The robust casing ensures it withstands long hours of intense gaming, while the clean matte finishing adds to its charm. Plug and play with minimal fuss, and store and activate up to 5 keyboard profiles without software.

Complete with a suite of Razer Chroma RGB lighting effects, this keyboard is a great addition to your gaming setup.

Royal KLUDGE RK61 60% Mechanical Keyboard — 2.4Ghz/Bluetooth/Wired, Wireless Bluetooth, RGB, Coiled Cable

Royal KLUDGE RK61 60% Mechanical Keyboard - 2.4Ghz/Bluetooth/Wired, Wireless Bluetooth, RGB, Coiled Cable | Image

Immerse yourself in the world of mechanical keyboards with the RK Royal KLUDGE RK61 60% Mechanical Keyboard. This compact yet powerful device boasts 61 keys, 2.4Ghz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity options, making it perfect for gamers and office workers alike.

Featuring a sleek design, it’s ambidextrous and offers RGB backlighting to fit your preferences or mood. The device comes with a keycap puller and USB cable, and with its lightweight and rechargeable nature, it’s easy to take on the go. The RK61 is made from robust and durable materials, ensuring its longevity and satisfaction in the long run.

HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Percent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Percent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Image

This HyperX Alloy Origins 60 keyboard might just be the best gaming companion you’ve ever had. I say this because it’s been my constant buddy for the past few weeks, helping me tear through enemy fortresses and level up like a true maestro.

The first thing that caught me off-guard was the petite size of this thing. It’s a 60% form factor, which means it’s nearly a third smaller than your typical full-sized keyboard. It’s perfect for those looking to save a bit of space on their desks — a major plus in my cramped living situation.

The keys themselves are fantastic, thanks to the HyperX mechanical switches. Each press gives you a solid tactile feedback and lightning-fast response times — that competitive edge we all crave. The customizable LED backlighting is a treat too, adding a touch of class to this already top-notch keyboard.

However, what truly sets this keyboard apart is the NGENUITY software. Once you’ve got it running, you could essentially program a small army of complex commands right at your fingertips. It’s an incredibly powerful tool for serious gamers, a real game-changer.

There’s a lot more to love, such as the aircraft-grade aluminum body and resilient keys, but I will leave these details for your own exploration. You’ll need to feel this beauty in person to understand its full charm.

What about downsides? Well, the detachability of USB-C cable might seem like a pain, but in my experience it’s a minor one that gets eased quickly.

In conclusion, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 has proven to be a stellar performance-plus-style combo, providing the tools needed for high octane gaming adventures, and a comfortable, stylish, yet unassuming workspace. Its blend of compact design, stellar switches, intuitive software with LED backlights, and reliable build certainly sets the keyboard apart from the crowd.

Stylish, Waterproof 60% Gaming Keyboard with RGB Backlighting

Stylish, Waterproof 60% Gaming Keyboard with RGB Backlighting | Image

As someone who enjoys gaming and typing on the go, the Snpurdiri 60 Wired Gaming Keyboard has been a fun, compact companion. Although I initially thought it might have switches, the keyboard still works well for me. The 61 keys are perfect for gaming, and the wired connection makes it very stable and responsive.

The ergonomic key height and imitation mechanical technology make it comfortable to use for long gaming sessions. Plus, the RGB backlight color customization is a fun touch!

Overall, it’s a solid little keyboard for an affordable price.

Womier K61: Customizable Hot-Swappable Gaming Keyboard with RGB Lighting

Womier K61: Customizable Hot-Swappable Gaming Keyboard with RGB Lighting | Image

I’ve been using the XVX Womier K61 60% Percent Keyboard in my daily life lately, and I must say it’s quite a unique addition to my home office setup. This compact mechanical gaming keyboard features a full transparent glass panel, making it a fantastic choice for gamers looking to free up a bit of desk space.

One of my favorite aspects of this keyboard is the PBT double-shot keycap. It not only provides excellent oil resistance and hardness but also ensures the light transmittance of the keycap, resulting in a fantastic lighting effect. The full-key, no conflict feature is particularly useful, allowing me to press multiple buttons simultaneously without any conflict or interference.

The keyboard also comes with customizable hot-swappable switches that can be easily changed to cater to individual preferences. The dual RGB backlit keyboard offers various partitioned RGB modes, enhancing the overall gaming and typing experience, especially when working late at night.

Although the keyboard may encounter a flickering issue while connected to MacOS, the easy system update software makes fixing the problem a breeze. Overall, I highly recommend the XVX Womier K61 60% Percent Keyboard for anyone seeking a compact, stylish, and customizable mechanical gaming keyboard.

HK Gaming GK61 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Optical Switches

HK Gaming GK61 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Optical Switches | Image

For the past few weeks, I’ve been using the HK Gaming GK61 Gaming Keyboard, and let me tell you, it has been a game-changer in my daily tasks. The keyboard features a sleek design and comes with a detachable USB-C cable, making it super convenient for gamers and office workers alike. The switch puller and plastic keycap puller are thoughtful additions, especially for those who want to do some easy modifications.

One of the standout features for me was the switch type — the Optical Brown switches. They provide a tactile feeling while typing, and the actuation point of 1.5mm means faster response times. The RGB backlighting is not only visually appealing but also helpful in low-light situations. However, I found the wire to be a bit short, but that’s a minor inconvenience compared to the overall experience.

Additionally, I appreciate the ambidextrous hand orientation and the compatibility with both PC and Mac. The fact that it’s not discontinued by the manufacturer is also a plus. But remember, this keyboard is made in China, so be prepared for potential build quality concerns.

Overall, I’d highly recommend the HK Gaming GK61 Gaming Keyboard to anyone looking for a stylish, high-performance, and budget-friendly addition to their setup. Just be ready to deal with a short wire and a slightly noisy keyboard.

Customizable GMMK Mini 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard with Modular Switches

Customizable GMMK Mini 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard with Modular Switches | Image

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Glorious PC Gaming Race GMMK Compact keyboard, and I must say, it had me at first swipe. This sleek and stylish 60% keyboard was not just a pretty face; it was packed with functionality, allowing for endless customization possibilities.

The included Gateron Brown switches gave my fingers a tactile yet comfortable typing experience, which I truly appreciated after hours of work. The hot-swappable feature is a game-changer, enabling me to switch things up as needed. The addition of the tools for easy swapping and replacement of the keycaps made the process seamless and effortless.

Overall, this modular keyboard gave me the freedom and versatility I was looking for in a mechanical keyboard, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Keep up the great work, Glorious PC Gaming Race!

RGB Gaming Keyboard with Fast Optical Switches

RGB Gaming Keyboard with Fast Optical Switches | Image

I’ve been using the GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for a couple of weeks now, and I have to say it’s truly a gem for any gaming enthusiast. From the moment I took it out of the box, I was blown away by its sleek design and vibrant multi-color LED lighting. Adjusting the backlight using the built-in buttons was super easy, giving my setup a customized feel.

Not only is the GK61 flashy, but it’s also incredibly practical. The 60% layout with 61 keys is perfect for my space-conscious gaming area, and the spill- and dust-resistant feature gave me peace of mind. What really sets this keyboard apart, though, is its compatibility with both Mac and Windows–a feature you don’t often come across nowadays. The detachable USB-C to Type-A cable was a bonus too, as I could swap it out with a longer one without any hassle.

However, I must admit there were a couple of drawbacks. The small form factor meant that I had to adjust my typing habits to some extent, which took some getting used to. Additionally, the wire was a tad too short, prompting me to look for an extension later on.

In conclusion, the GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a fantastic option for those seeking a stylish, practical, and customizable keyboard without breaking the bank. Although it has a few minor quirks, the pros far outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to level up their gaming experience.

Stylish MEKO 60% RGB LED Blink Keyboard with Hotswap, Bluetooth, and Kailh Box Brown Caps

Stylish MEKO 60% RGB LED Blink Keyboard with Hotswap, Bluetooth, and Kailh Box Brown Caps | Image

The Blink 60% RGB LED Hotswap Bluetooth Double Shot ABS Mechanical Keyboard was a delight to use. With its hotswap functionality, I found it incredibly easy to change out keys without needing to take the entire keyboard apart. The Bluetooth connectivity also added to its convenience, allowing me to connect it to my devices seamlessly.

One of the standout features was the RGB backlighting, which not only made the keyboard aesthetically pleasing, but also provided a helpful visual cue for my interactions. The double shot caps, featuring the Kailh Box Brown switches, offered a solid typing experience that was both comfortable and enjoyable.

That said, the product’s size might be a bit narrow for those with larger hands or who need more keys in their keyboard. I found myself reaching for certain keys more often than I would like, which was a minor inconvenience.

Overall, the Blink 60% RGB LED Hotswap Bluetooth Double Shot ABS Mechanical Keyboard offered a great balance of modern features in a sleek design at an affordable price point. Its ease of use and enjoyable typing experience made it a great addition to my daily routine.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for 60 percent keyboards! In this section, we’ll cover the most important features, considerations, and general advice to help you make the best purchasing decision for a 60 percent mechanical keyboard. We encourage you to bookmark this guide and refer to it whenever you need guidance on this product category.

What is a 60 Percent Keyboard?

Also known as a 60% or tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, this type of keyboard features a minimalistic design that lacks dedicated numeric and arrow keys. The primary advantage of a 60 percent keyboard is its compact size, which makes it ideal for gaming setups, office desks, and other limited space scenarios. These keyboards typically offer a more portable and ergonomic experience compared to their full-size counterparts.

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a 60 percent keyboard, there are several key features to consider, including:

  1. Switch Type, 2. Layout, 3. Backlighting, and 4. Build Quality. Here’s a brief overview of each feature and why it matters in your buying decision. For a more in-depth discussion, refer back to this guide or consult expert articles on the subject.

Switch Type

Switch type refers to the mechanical switches used to register keystrokes in a keyboard. There are three main types: Linear, Tactile, and Clicky. Linear switches require less force to activate, offering a smoother and quieter typing experience. Tactile switches require a bit more force and provide a subtle tactile bump when the key registers. Lastly, Clicky switches offer a tactile bump with an audible “click” sound, making it perfect for those who enjoy that classic typing feedback. Your preference for switch types will depend on your personal typing style and desired typing experience.

Layout

60 percent keyboards often come with customizable key layouts, which can be advantageous for gamers, coders, or power users. Look for keyboards that allow you to rearrange keys or include additional media keys, macro keys, or programmable keys for optimal performance across various tasks. Ergonomic designs and key cap profile options are also worth considering for enhanced comfort during extended use.

FAQ

What is a 60 percent keyboard?

A 60 percent keyboard, also known as compact or ultra-portable, is a keyboard with fewer keys compared to a traditional full-sized keyboard. The layout typically includes only essential keys for basic typing and navigation, making it smaller and more portable than a full-sized keyboard. This type of keyboard is particularly popular with travelers, students, and individuals who value space-saving and portable solutions for their computing needs.

Some key features of 60 percent keyboards include a reduced number of keys (about 61–67), split layout, minimal columnar space, and a focus on providing a minimalist and lightweight typing experience. It may take some time to get used to the different layout, but it can offer notable advantages in terms of portability.

What are the benefits of using a 60 percent keyboard?

Using a 60 percent keyboard can provide several benefits that may make it an attractive choice for certain individuals or situations. Some of these advantages include: improved portability due to its smaller size and weight, reduced chance of collision with other keys during typing, increased space on the desk, and a more minimalist and aesthetic design. Additionally, 60 percent keyboards can save energy consumption, as they have fewer electronic components compared to a full-sized keyboard, which may result in longer battery life or less power consumption when using a wired option. However, it’s essential to consider the trade-off of some learning curve when adapting to the new layout.

Furthermore, some users might experience fatigue or carpal tunnel issues due to the compact layout, which could negatively affect their productivity and comfort. So, it’s essential to evaluate your typing habits, preferences, and physical needs before deciding if a 60 percent keyboard is the right choice for you.

How does a 60 percent keyboard compare to a full-sized keyboard?

The primary difference between a 60 percent keyboard and a full-sized one lies in the layout and the number of keys available. A full-sized keyboard, or 101-key layout, offers all the standard keys found on most desktop keyboards, complete with a numeric keypad and a separate block for Function, Ctrl, and Alt keys. In comparison, a 60 percent keyboard has around 61–67 keys, with essential keys arranged in a more compact and compact layout.

This difference in key arrangement and size can have various implications for users. On one hand, the 60 percent keyboard offers reduced portability, ease of use in smaller spaces, and improved energy efficiency. In contrast, a full-sized keyboard provides a comprehensive set of keys with more spacing between characters, which may result in faster typing speeds and enhanced ergonomics. Ultimately, the choice between a 60 percent and a full-sized keyboard depends on personal preferences, work habits, and specific use cases.

What are the most common layout variations for 60 percent keyboards?

There are different layout variations for 60 percent keyboards, but the most common ones include: DCS (Dvorak — Colemak — Stack), ANSI (American National Standards Institute), ISO, and SMD (Surface Mount Diode) layouts. Each of these layouts provides a slightly different arrangement of keys, which may cater to different needs or preferences of keyboard users.

For example, the DCS layout is a rearrangement of the standard QWERTY layout to improve typing efficiency. Colemak is another alternative keyboard layout that focuses on reducing the strain on the wrists and optimizing the typing process. The ISO layout is based on the ISO 9995–2 Standard, featuring a more streamlined look with larger keys for better readability and less visual clutter. Finally, the SMD layout is a modern alternative that makes the keyboard thinner, lighter, and more portable by placing keys underneath the PCB, reducing the overall thickness and weight.

What are some popular alternatives to 60 percent keyboards?

If you are interested in a keyboard with a similar layout and functionality to a 60 percent keyboard but with some additional features or a slightly different design, you can consider alternative keyboards such as the following: 75 percent, 80 percent, and 96-key (or TKL, meaning Touch-Type Keyboard) keyboards.

A 75 percent keyboard, also referred to as a 75/80 percent, boasts a slightly more comprehensive layout than a traditional 60 percent, with a few missing keys like dedicated media keys or arrow keys. An 80 percent keyboard combines elements of both 60 and 75 percent keyboards, usually featuring media keys in a more compact layout. Lastly, TKLs or full-sized keyboards with number pads are 96-keys or higher, providing the more traditional QWERTY layout with a dedicated number pad and a larger footprint.

Can a beginner use a 60 percent keyboard?

While it’s possible for a beginner to use a 60 percent keyboard, it may require some adaptation and adjustment to the new layout. The compressed layout with fewer keys and a different arrangement of keys compared to the standard QWERTY layout can cause some confusion or difficulties for new typists or users unfamiliar with specialized layouts.

If you’re a beginner, it might be wise to start with a more traditional keyboard layout with more keys and a familiar arrangement. As you gain experience and typing proficiency, you can explore alternative or compact layouts like the 60 percent keyboard, which might help you improve your typing efficiency and save space in your setup.

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