Table of Contents
Introduction
For many reasons, all of which we’ll get into today in this article, the 60% keyboard has taken the tech industry by storm. These compact 61-key keyboards are great for portability, multi-device use, and saving up space in your setup. They offer significant gaming advantages, which we will also be looking into.
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What makes a 60% keyboard great? What puts it above standard keyboards? Is a 60% keyboard right for you? This list will answer all these questions as we take a close look at the ten very best 60% keyboards. Additionally, we will talk a little bit about what constitutes a good 60% keyboard. Hopefully, you will have found a keyboard that best suits your wants and needs by the end.
What Is a 60% Keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is a mechanical keyboard that only has 60% of the keys that a standard full-size keyboard typically has. Of course, having fewer keys than your average keyboard has the obvious downside of having inherently less functionality. Still, the trade-off allows for functionality in some other areas regarding different aspects, which we’ll also get into later on in this article.
The 60% keyboard has a total of 61 keys in most cases. There are no F row keys, no arrow cluster keys, and of course, no number pad. So, all you have on the board is the alphanumeric zone.
Make sure to also check out our article on the 10 best 60% mechanical keyboard
How Is a 60% Keyboard Better Compared To a Regular Keyboard?
To say that a 60% keyboard is definitively and objectively better than your standard keyboard would be quite an overstatement. After all, a standard keyboard does have more keys than a 60% keyboard. So what could put the 60% keyboard above the standard keyboard in the opinions of so many users around the world?
Compact Size
Well, primarily, it comes down to the compact size. Many gamers, writers, and from-home workers have shown their appreciation for the 60% keyboard for how well the compact size enables their productivity. It also proves resourceful as a part of their setup too.
A 60% keyboard is a fraction of the size of your average keyboard. Still, it retains all the vital gaming keys, so this makes it ideal for gamers who primarily need a keyboard for gaming. The compact size of the board mainly means that the keys are closer together. Hence, many gamers have made claims that due to this, a 60% keyboard is much better for gaming than a standard keyboard as it helps reduce response time.
Because of the compactness and simplicity in the design alongside its clutter-free nature, the 60% mechanical keyboard is also a favorite of many writers, typists, programmers, etc. Those who type a lot also find the design principles of the 60% mechanical board to be more likable for the kind of long-term usage they need.
Feel and Durability
Speaking of long-term usage, the mechanical keys on these boards are different from the kind of membrane keys you would find on a keyboard that has a different layout. The mechanical keys are well-known because the earliest consumer keyboards started out using this mechanic. Since then, manufacturers have introduced other innovations like the membrane keys.
However, the vast consumer consensus has been that the true innovation has been the improvement of these mechanical keys over the decades. The kind of mechanical keyboards produced today are much sturdier and more durable than membrane keys.
They even feel better to type with — who doesn’t love the clicky feel of a mechanical board? Furthermore, they have a lifespan of anywhere from 20 to 50 million keystrokes. Membrane keyboards, in comparison, typically only have a lifespan of a short fraction of that.
Advantages of a 60% Keyboard
Responsiveness
As we just discussed, 60% keyboards are typically mechanical, and mechanical keys have advantages over membrane keys. They definitely feel more pronounced when you type using them. That is because you can actually feel the responsiveness of the keys.
Durability
Mechanical keys last much longer without requiring repairs. Also, any shortcut functions lost because of the lesser keys on a 60% keyboard are compensated for by the same shortcut functions using different keys. Moreover, even if they do get damaged, they are generally easily repairable.
Portability
The 60% keyboard is also smaller. This is great because of the compact layout and how it enables your gaming or typing experience. It also garners positive feedback because of the smaller size and less weight, which enhances the portability of your keyboard.
This makes it easy to travel with the keyboard. You can fit it into any laptop bag or backpack, and it won’t take up much room and won’t weigh your bag down much either. The smaller size also leaves more room for other things on your desktop setup, like a larger mouse pad, for example.
The Picks – 10 Best 60% Keyboard
Now that we’ve covered the groundwork regarding 60% keyboards and established a firm understanding of what it is and its advantages, let’s take a look at some of the best ones to come out in recent years.
EPOMAKER Anne Pro 2
The Anne Pro 2 is an extremely popular wireless 60% keyboard, making it a great product to kickstart this list with. When buying, you get to choose between three different switch types — Cherry, Kailh, or Gateron, and two other color options that are black or white.
The entire keyboard has an RGB backlight like many of the keyboards you’ll see on this list. It is wireless, which is something that not every keyboard on this list has going for it. However, that also means that the Anne Pro 2 is one of the more expensive items on the list. That is with good reason, though; good quality and brand reliability is going to cost you!
Key Features
- 16.8 million RGB light effects
- Software featuring 16 macro settings (each set of macro code up to 300+ characters)
- 1900mAh battery which can withstand up to four connected devices
- Multiple key combination functions
- N-key rollover
- Anti-ghosting
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 BLE
- USB Type-C connection
Pros
- Fast response time is excellent for high-paced gaming
- The arrow key functions have a lot of different uses, including during gaming
- Being able to choose between USB-C and Bluetooth technology is very convenient
- Excellent software with many cool options
Cons
- The setup may seem tricky to some users
- Battery life is somewhat lackluster
Verdict
Our first pick is a great option for most people because it’s widely available, The EPOMAKER Anne Pro 2 is quite renowned, and it stands at a competitive price point for what it offers. This is one of the keyboards on the list you can probably buy without having to look into too much online.
Ducky One 2 Mini
The Ducky One 2 Mini has a confusing name, but what’s quite certain is how this product’s target audience has appreciated it. People consider this keyboard to be one of the best, if not the best gaming keyboard on the market. Professional gamers across the world use it.
You only get one option for key switches — Cherry MX, and that’s fine because that’s the only type you’ll need for optimized gaming. Pair that with multi-function macros and an RGB backlight, and you’ve got yourself a remarkable gaming keyboard. Be wary, though; this is a wired-only option.
Key Features
- Ten different RGB lighting modes
- Ducky Macro 2.0
- Multiple key combination function
- USB Type-C connection
- Three distinct adjustable placement angles
- Cherry MX key switches
Pros
- Excellent macro support via Ducky Macro V2.0
- Superb response time, optimized for gaming
- Arrow key functions aid gaming experience
- Ergonomically friendly
Cons
- No key switch options
- Must plug in for use, no wireless option
Verdict
The Ducky One 2 Mini is another widely renowned and trusted product. If you were set on Cherry MX switches to begin with and do not have a problem with having a wired keyboard, this is the perfect gaming keyboard.
Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2
The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2, also known as the HHKB, is like the iPhone of compact keyboards. Let me explain. The design principles are very slick, minimalist, and boast that stealthy, cool look. It is the kind of design that’ll blend in a gaming or work setup.
This is an excellent design that is further complemented by a strict dedication to precision. You can see this in the build’s symmetry and feel when using the Topre capacitive switch keys, which is also the only option this keyboard comes with (also a very Apple thing to do).
Besides the attention to detail in design and build, it also bears resemblance because this is a high priced keyboard. It will undoubtedly cost you more than a lot of keyboards on this list that may be more functionally capable. So, do you still need more proof that this is the iPhone of 60% keyboards?
Key Features
- Topre capacitive switches
- Near-symmetrical design principles and build quality allow for a very sleek, minimalistic design that will blend into any setup
- Reduced hand and finger fatigue because of the contoured frame
- DIP switches enable users to make use of different key functions and employ their own
- Top-tier PBT used to make the keys, won’t wear off
Pros
- Stealthy, all-black minimal design
- Won’t look stupid if it’s for work
- Works with PC, Mac, and Linux
- Topre switches proven quite worthy in terms of functionality
Cons
- No wireless option
- Very pricey
Verdict
It’s pretty clear who the Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is for. All you minimalistic freaks, you’re about to have a field day with this one. But that’s good. It’s a high-quality product for its target demographic.
Vortexgear Pok3r
![Vortexgear Pok3r 60% Ultra Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - KBC Poker 3-61 Keys PBT Laser Etched Keycaps - PC/Mac/Linux - Programmable [Metal Casing] Linear (Cherry Mx Red, Black)](http://www.fifthgeek.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/image.php?url=aHR0cHM6Ly9tLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20vaW1hZ2VzL0kvNDE4bEY2WWE0cEwuanBn)
Here’s another keyboard that’s popular amongst gamers, programmers, coders, and typists alike. If the last keyboard was like the iPhone of 60% keyboards, think of the Vortexgear Pok3r as your favorite, totally spec-ed out Android smartphone – a powerful, capable, customizable product. How so?
Well, the keyboard is made up of strong aluminum construction, which gives it that sturdy, good quality feel. As for customization, there are four DIP switches on the bottom that let you change the layout of the keys (QWERTY, COLEMAK, or DVORAK). Furthermore, you can even change some of the primary key functions, such as turning your caps lock key into a PN key or even repositioning your PN or FN key to wherever on the board you wish to.
It’s excellent for gaming, too, since it supports N-key rollover with anti-ghosting. Still, it’s missing what perhaps may be a gaming keyboard staple at this point, which is the RGB backlight. I guess they just didn’t want to lean into all that flashy stuff too much, aiming to keep it professional.
Key Features
- Three built-in layouts (QWERTY, DVORAK, and COLEMAK), with every key capable of executing 32 keystrokes
- Robust metal bezel for long term usage
- Detachable micro USB cable for connectivity
- Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux (needs Windows to update)
- Multiple key combination functions
- N-key rollover
- Anti-ghosting
- Top-tier PBT used to make the keys, won’t wear off
Pros
- PBT keycaps that are durable and don’t shine or smooth out over time
- Lots of customizability and programmability
- Durable aluminum build
- Onboard memory with arbitrary programming
- Good for gaming or work
Cons
- No wireless option
- Needs firmware update right out the box
Verdict
The Vortexgear Pok3r does a great job of maintaining a balancing act between retaining a professional, minimal look, and feel. At the same time, it still offers a lot of customizability, which is something that many brands that try to be ‘minimalist’ fail to do.
Redragon K530
I have to say that the Redragon K530 is one BEAST of a keyboard. This compact keyboard has been making a lot of waves, and for good reason, too. Not only is the board aesthetically very pleasing with a beautiful RGB backlight, but it’s also got great functionality.
You have the option to choose between wired and wireless usage. The keyboard has (swappable) brown switches that aren’t as clicky as Cherry MX or blue switches but still provide a tactile response. Redragon made a strong impression with this keyboard, showcasing that they can do it on a big scale too.
Key Features
- RGB illumination builder: millions of different RGB effects, 13 different dynamic presets
- Wireless mode made easy: 3000mAh battery life
- Dual mode switch: USB-C connection
- Hot-swappable brown switches: made to last brown switches rated for 50 million keypresses
- Hassle-free connection with laptops, tablets, and phones
Pros
- Being able to choose between wired and wireless is very convenient
- Switches are swappable in case of damage or need to replace
- The option to switch between three devices is great for multi-tasking
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- ‘Okay’ battery life
- No arrow keys
Verdict
The Redragon K530 is a great multi-tasking keyboard. If you need something to type/game on that is also compatible with various operating systems and devices, this is a great option.
RK Royal Kludge RK61
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 is an excellent entry point option for gamers looking to build a fresh gaming setup. What it boasts is reliable, smooth connectivity and low latency to enable your fast-paced gaming sessions while still retaining a wireless connection.
That’s right, fast responsiveness as well as extended battery life in a cheap, budget-friendly WIRELESS gaming keyboard. This is one that you can’t go wrong with. The only downside? The backlight is fixed to one setting.
Key Features
- 1450mAh battery life enables you to opt more for using this keyboard as a wireless device
- Dual mode switch: USB-C connection
- The original flavor of blue switches
- Iconic tactile feedback
- Single-color, vibrant backlight
Pros
- Budget-friendly, entry-level
- Good battery life with 10+ hours of play
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity has excellent response time and low latency
- Outemu keys are a great variant
Cons
- Setup is a little tricky
- Fixed backlight setting
Verdict
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 is a great entry-level 60% keyboard that will be ideal for any budget-friendly gaming setup. It’ll save you money while retaining great features. It’ll also fit great in your setup and won’t take up too much space, so it’s a great starting point.
Dierya DK63
This one will probably raise the most eyebrows at first, and it gets weirder the more you look into it. However, the DK63 offers excellent functionality, in some ways that other keyboards on this list don’t. Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room.
This is undoubtedly the most flashy keyboard on this list when you look at it from the top. That is because of the beautiful RGB backlight, which is exceptionally vibrant and stands out as probably the nicest backlight on all the keyboards we’ve listed.
Next is compatibility. With the DK63, you can connect to the widest array of computers, ranging from Mac to Windows, Android, and even iOS. This is perhaps the most intriguing feature of the DK63. You can use it as a multi-device keyboard on your entire tech ecosystem, which makes it all the more useful that this is a compact-sized, tenkeyless keyboard.
Key Features
- Multi-device Bluetooth connectivity: This keyboard supports up to three Bluetooth devices simultaneously and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Mac
- Dual mode connection: Bluetooth and wired
- 1900 mAh battery
- Ergonomic design
- Vast RGB color choices to choose from as well as eight different effects
- Comes with an adjustable angle foot, and a USB cable for charging and other connectivity
Pros
- Battery life is really good for long gaming sessions
- The keyboard covers ten meters of range, which is far more than needed
- Compatible with a number of devices, including iOS, something it has over many other keyboards on this list
- Affordable price
Cons
- Paint applications aren’t of the best quality
- Charged using micro USB
Verdict
The Dierya DK63 is a keyboard that’s great if you want to truly immerse yourself in the wireless experience and use a keyboard as a multi-device typewriter and gamepad. It has excellent battery life, reliable and responsive connectivity, and of course, the compatibility makes this keyboard stand out.
MOTOSPEED CK61
In my personal opinion, the MOTOSPEED CK61 is probably the coolest looking keyboard on this list. I mean, just look at it? MOTOSPEED truly went all-in with the design. It looks like tech out of a cyberpunk anime.
The RGB backlight is totally customizable, and the keyboard itself comes in different colors too. The keyboard is wireless, but the connectivity seems to be really smooth with low latency. The Outemu switches are slowly becoming a fan favorite and are a great alternative to Cherry MX. This keyboard is beloved, with fantastic reviews, and for good reason.
My only complaint is that the keys sometimes feel a little shaky in what is otherwise a really efficiently made and beautifully designed compact keyboard by MOTOSPEED.
Key Features
- Multiple key combination functions
- N-key rollover
- Anti-ghosting
- USB 2.0 connection
- Anti-spill design keycaps
- RGB lighting
Pros
- The design is excellent, and the customizability really enables consumers to make it their own
- The anti-spill design gives this keyboard outstanding durability
- Anti-ghosting gives you a good feel while typing
- RGB backlight is insanely customizable with 17 million colors and 19 different effects
Cons
- Keys feel a little shaky at times
- No wireless connectivity
Verdict
The MOTOSPEED CK61 has received many stark reviews, which shows us the type of reception people have given it. MOTOSPEED has built a compact keyboard that endorses everything great about 60% keyboards. The CK61 is a great budget option that looks and feels like it is a well-made product.
DREVO Calibur V2
The DREVO Calibur V2 is the best that DREVO has to offer in terms of compact keyboards, and boy, is it a good offering. While it may lack some aspects when it comes to build quality, it makes up for it with the best gaming keyboard features.
Among these features are N-key rollover and anti-ghosting. It also has a stunning RGB backlight (a gaming keyboard staple, of course) that is not only very vibrant and bright but also has excellent customizability options.
The design principles give this keyboard a very sleek, boxy look, and that’s good for ergonomics. It comes in two style options and features Outemu switches, and you know how we feel about those. The one downside, perhaps, is that it is only compatible with a PC. Still, then again, you’re only ever going to use this keyboard for fast-paced PC gaming.
Key Features
- Multiple key combination functions
- N-key rollover
- Anti-ghosting
- 16.8 million RGB color options to choose from, and each key backlight can be personalized using the DPC downloadable software
- Outemu switches
- ABS-made keycaps
Pros
- The design principles allow for superb ergonomics
- Budget-friendly
- Lots of great gaming features like N-key rollover and anti-ghosting
- Beautiful, vibrant RGB backlight, which is definitely top tier amongst the listed products
Cons
- Build quality might leave something to be desired
- Compatible with PC only
Verdict
The DREVO Calibur V2 does a great job of showcasing the best of what compact keyboards have to offer in terms of gaming enabling features. These aspects might be enough for it to make up for the areas in which it remains lacking. However, it’s clearly not for everyone.
Cooler Master SK621
We thought we’d leave the best for last. Although I don’t say that to stir up controversy, it’s no secret that Cooler Master is one of the best in the industry, and the SK-621 has stellar reviews already. Why is that the case?
Well, the SK621 offers the best bang for your buck, in that you’re getting great features and incredible build quality, all for a relatively reasonable price. Features like wireless and wired hybrid connectivity, 512KB of onboard storage, as well as integrated software to go with it make this keyboard stand out amongst the rest in this list.
Furthermore, the build quality is great, employing high-grade aluminum. It also features the fan-favorite Cherry MX key switches, the ones you simply can’t go wrong with. What more do you need to convince you to go after this one? It’s even got an awesome low-profile design that still retains low backlight color.
Key Features
- Two keycap sets
- Cherry MX switches
- RGB LED backlight is bright and vibrant and features on the fly controls
- The brushed aluminum design gives it a clean, minimal finish that feels great to the touch and retains excellent build quality, all while looking great
- Wireless Bluetooth 4.0
- USB-C connection
Pros
- Satisfying to type on for a long time
- The aluminum build is of really great quality
- Sufficient 512KB of storage for any ‘on the fly’ macros
- The choice between Bluetooth and wired connectivity is convenient
- Low profile design is great for a minimal setup in which you still want a little color to pop
Cons
- Some reviewers report charging issues
- No height adjustment, so it sits just one way
Verdict
Suppose you don’t have the explorative options of trying different things and seeing what sticks and need to make one wise choice that is reliable and durable. In that case, the Cooler Master SK621 is that wise choice.
Head-To-Head Comparisons
We will compare some of the products on the list to help you to assess the differences. They will give you a good idea of what to look for when you make your final decision.
Anne Pro vs Pok3r
Specs
The Anne Pro 2 packs a 1900mAh battery and comes with a USB cable if you want to go wired. The Pok3r is a wired-only option. Anne Pro wins this round.
Features
Anne Pro comes with three different switch options. Meanwhile, the Pok3r only has one — Cherry MX. Not a bad one to choose from, but the added variety is always nice. Both come with anti-ghosting and N-key rollover. This is a challenging round. It might just come down to preference. But the Anne Pro has just a few more features than the Pok3r, in that you get more switch options.
Price
Anne Pro costs around $100, while the Pok3r has a couple of different variants ranging in price. The latter is the pricier of the two options.
Winner
Anne Pro wins for me, with the wireless option being the significant standout benefit.
HHKB vs Pok3r
Specs
Both keyboards are wired-only options, so they’re tied there. There isn’t much to dispute over. Well, so far.
Features
Most of the ‘features’ the HHKB boasts aren’t actual gaming-enhancers or anything, unlike the Pok3r with its N-key rollover and anti-ghosting. Nor does it have a flashy RGB background as the Pok3r does. But it’s crucial here to notice a difference in design and engineering principles.
The HHKB boasts Topre switches, top of the class, just like Cherry MX, and design elements that are meant to be visually and physically pleasing — contoured frame and keys to reduce wrist and finger fatigue. A minimalistic look, that’s what the HHKB is about.
Price
This is where the HHKB may be asking too much of most consumers. You won’t find this keyboard for less than $200.
Winner
Considering how many ‘gaming’ features it doesn’t have, if you’re looking for a ‘gaming’ keyboard, then maybe you should spend the [under] $200 on a Pok3r instead.
Anne Pro 2 vs Ducky One 2 Mini
Specs
The Anne Pro 2 packs a 1900mAh battery and has a wired connection option, too, while the Ducky One is a wired, battery-less keyboard. I’d say the Anne Pro wins because you get both options.
Features
Both feature the Cherry MX switches, although the Anne Pro gives you two other options to choose from as well. Anne Pro comes with anti-ghosting and N-key rollover, and Ducky One comes with neither. Both have lots of RGB effects and software to go with it. In that case, I suppose it’s just preference-based. Anne Pro still gets my money.
Price
The Anne Pro 2 will cost you around $100, while the Ducky One could cost you anywhere from $100 to $200.
Winner
It makes no sense to me to scour the internet for a reasonably priced Ducky One when the Anne Pro 2 is already more appealing and more available.
What To Look for When Choosing a 60% Keyboard?
When choosing a 60% keyboard, there are three main factors to review and take into consideration.
Wired or Wireless
The first is whether to go with a wired or wireless option. Wired keyboards require a direct connection to your device’s USB port. In contrast, wireless keyboards employ 2.4GHz or some version of Bluetooth technology to connect to your device via airwaves.
There are pros and cons to both. Wired connections reduce response time and overall improve consistency and response time while playing. On the other hand, wireless keyboards allow for more portability, as well as inter-connectivity. However, your best bet is probably to opt for a wireless keyboard with dual-mode switch options so that you can switch to a wired connection whenever you’re competitive gaming.
Switches
The next thing to consider is the switches. These are the mechanical springs that are underneath each keycap. All switch types vary in tactility and feel, so it’s really up to you to try the different types out and see what works best for you. Still, typically speaking, the most beloved and most used switch types are Cherry MX and Topre. Others include Outemu, Gateron, etc.
Aesthetics
Finally, it comes down to aesthetics. Of course, the keyboard you buy has to visually meet your tastes and expectations if you’re going to be using it all the time. It can’t be harsh on the eyes. But aesthetics has more to do with than just the visual element.
The design principles of the visual aesthetic also have to be ergonomic enough to where the keyboard is comfortable to use. Factors such as keys placed at bad angles or sharp bezels ultimately result in uncomfortable long-term usage.
Recommendation
As far as the final verdict and our recommendation are concerned, your taste and budget will undoubtedly play a significant role.
Still, if I had to make a top pick, it would likely be the HHKB Professional Hybrid. With such impressive specs all across the board, and a sleek, minimal design, in my opinion, the Happy Hacking Professional is the best option for most consumers. It is a good investment that is going to be well optimized for gaming. However, the design is such that it allows you not to be typecast as a ‘gamer’ with a ‘gaming setup.’
Final words
In conclusion, the 60% keyboard that you end up choosing, the one that is right for you, is mainly dependent on a couple of varying factors. These include what kind of keyboard you need and have the luxury of affording. The overall aim of this article is to help you best gauge precisely that. Even within the constraints of choosing a 60% keyboard specifically, there are various keyboard types to look into. Hopefully, with the help of this article, you can narrow that down and find the ideal product.
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