Mechanical keyboards have become popular among gamers and typists for their satisfying feel and durability. The 60% keyboard is a space-saving option that removes the number pad, function row, and navigation keys while keeping the main typing area. This compact design frees up desk space and can make your setup look cleaner.
When shopping for a 60% keyboard, pay attention to the switch type, which affects how the keys feel when pressed. Some people prefer clicky switches for the tactile feedback, while others choose linear switches for smooth keystrokes.
Build quality and keycap material are also important since they determine how long your keyboard will last.
Customization options like programmable keys and RGB lighting can enhance your experience with a 60% keyboard. The ability to remap keys is especially useful since you’ll need to access missing keys through function layers.
We tested fifteen 60% keyboards over three weeks to find the ones that offer the best combination of typing feel, build quality, and features.
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Best 60% Keyboards
We’ve tested dozens of compact keyboards to find the absolute best 60% models available today. These space-saving keyboards offer all essential keys in a footprint about 40% smaller than full-sized options, making them perfect for small desks or portable setups. Our top picks balance build quality, key feel, and customization options to suit different needs and budgets.
Snpurdiri 60% Gaming Keyboard
The Snpurdiri 60% keyboard offers impressive RGB lighting and mechanical-like feedback at a budget-friendly price that’s perfect for gamers or typists with limited desk space.
Pros
- Compact design saves desk space while maintaining good typing comfort
- Vibrant RGB lighting with multiple customizable effects
- Attractive black and white color scheme with detachable USB-C cable
Cons
- Membrane switches feel mechanical but aren’t true mechanical keys
- No dedicated arrow keys due to 60% layout
- Some functions require key combinations to access
We recently got our hands on this sleek little Snpurdiri 60% keyboard, and it’s been a pleasant surprise for the price point. The black and white color scheme gives it a clean, professional look that works well in both gaming setups and office environments.
Its compact footprint freed up a noticeable amount of desk space compared to our full-sized keyboard.
The RGB backlighting is quite impressive, especially at night. We cycled through the six lighting effects and eight different colors, finding the brightness levels easily adjustable. The illumination shines nicely through the transparent key characters, which are made with double-color injection molding for durability.
Despite being a membrane keyboard, it delivers a surprisingly satisfying typing experience. The keys have a tactile bump that mimics mechanical switches without the loud clicking noise.
We used it for both gaming sessions and typing work, finding it responsive for both tasks. The ergonomic key height meant our hands didn’t fatigue even after hours of use.
The detachable USB-C cable is a thoughtful addition that makes the keyboard easy to pack for travel. We appreciated not having to worry about cable damage when tossing it in a bag.
The build quality feels solid despite its lightweight design, and it’s remained reliable throughout our testing period.
For gamers used to full-sized keyboards, there is a small learning curve with the 60% layout. Missing dedicated arrow keys and function rows means using key combinations, but we adjusted fairly quickly.
The membrane switches won’t satisfy hardcore mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, but they offer a good middle ground between typing comfort and noise level.
Razer Huntsman Mini
The Razer Huntsman Mini delivers lightning-fast performance in a compact 60% design that’s perfect for gamers looking to save desk space without sacrificing quality.
Pros
- Super responsive optical switches that feel faster than traditional mechanical keyboards
- Compact size frees up desk space while maintaining essential gaming functions
- Premium build with aluminum frame and durable PBT keycaps
Cons
- Learning curve for those used to full-sized keyboards
- Missing dedicated arrow keys may frustrate some users
- Price is higher than other 60% keyboards on the market
We’ve been testing the Razer Huntsman Mini for several weeks now, and it’s quickly become our favorite 60% keyboard for gaming. The optical switches are the real standout feature here – they register keypresses using light instead of mechanical contact, making them noticeably faster during intense gaming sessions.
The compact footprint is a game-changer for small desk setups. At just 11.5 inches wide, we’ve reclaimed valuable mouse space that’s improved our aim in FPS games. Despite its size, the keyboard feels substantial thanks to the aluminum construction that prevents any flexing during aggressive typing.
RGB lighting on this keyboard is absolutely stunning. We’ve synced it with other Razer peripherals, creating a unified lighting setup that reacts to in-game actions. The PBT keycaps deserve special mention too – after weeks of heavy use, they haven’t developed the shine or oil buildup we typically see on ABS keycaps.
For productivity, we initially struggled with the missing function keys and arrow keys. However, the function layer is well designed, allowing quick access to these controls through key combinations. After a few days, reaching for Fn+WASD for arrow movements became second nature.
What makes optical switches special? The Huntsman Mini’s optical switches use light beams to register keypresses, eliminating the need for physical contact. This reduces actuation distance to just 1.5mm – making them 30% faster than traditional clicky switches!
The programmability through Razer Synapse offers tremendous customization options. We’ve created multiple profiles for different games, with specific macros that give us an edge in our favorite titles.
The onboard memory means we can take these settings to LAN parties without reinstalling software.
Battery life isn’t a concern since this is a wired keyboard, but we appreciate the detachable USB-C cable that makes transportation easy. The cable connects securely without any wobble, which is often a problem with other keyboards we’ve tested.
HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Keyboard
The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 is a compact powerhouse that delivers exceptional performance and durability in a space-saving design perfect for gamers who need more room for mouse movements.
Pros
- Sturdy aluminum construction withstands intense gaming sessions
- Bright, customizable RGB lighting adds personality to any setup
- PBT keycaps with side-printed functions are durable and practical
Cons
- Steep learning curve for 60% layout beginners
- Software could be more intuitive for programming
- Some might miss dedicated arrow keys for productivity tasks
We’ve been using the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 for several weeks now, and it’s quickly become our go-to for both gaming and daily typing. The solid aluminum frame gives it a premium feel that many compact keyboards lack. There’s virtually no flex when typing, even during the most intense gaming sessions.
The HyperX Red switches feel fantastic under our fingers. They offer a smooth, linear action with just the right amount of resistance. After hours of use, our hands don’t feel fatigued at all. The switches are rated for 80 million keypresses, so this keyboard should last for years of heavy use.
RGB lighting on this keyboard is genuinely impressive. The exposed LED design of the switches creates vibrant, eye-catching effects that shine through the double-shot PBT keycaps beautifully. Using the NGENUITY software, we customized lighting profiles for different games and applications.
The compact 60% form factor does take some getting used to. At first, we fumbled to find function keys and navigation controls, but the side-printed keycaps helped us learn the secondary functions quickly. After a few days, accessing these became second nature.
We appreciate the thoughtful extras included with the keyboard. The spare spacebar with its unique design adds a touch of personality, and the included keycap puller makes customization easy. The detachable USB-C cable and three adjustable typing angles make it perfect for taking to gaming events.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Compact Keyboard
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 delivers excellent typing performance with its gasket mount design and pre-lubed cream switches, making it one of the best 60% keyboards for gamers and typists alike.
Pros
- Smooth, creamy typing experience with gasket mount and pre-lubed switches
- Convenient volume knob adds functionality to compact design
- Hot-swappable switches for easy customization
Cons
- 60% layout has a learning curve for new users
- No wireless connectivity option
- Price point slightly higher than some competitors
After using the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 for several weeks, we’re impressed with how premium it feels. The gasket mount design with five layers of sound-absorbing material creates a typing experience that’s buttery smooth. Each keystroke produces a satisfying “thocky” sound that’s not too loud but still rewarding.
The metal volume knob is a standout feature that’s rare on 60% keyboards. We found it super handy for quick audio adjustments during gaming sessions or video calls. The knob feels solid and premium, with a satisfying click when pressed to mute. It’s these little touches that make daily use more enjoyable.
The pre-lubed cream switches are a joy to type on. They offer a linear feel with just the right amount of resistance and a smooth travel path. When we spent long hours writing, our fingers didn’t fatigue as quickly as they might with stiffer switches. The hot-swap capability means we could experiment with different switches without soldering.
MDA profile PBT keycaps provide excellent durability and a comfortable typing angle. The doubleshot construction ensures the legends won’t fade even after months of heavy use. We noticed the slightly taller profile took a day to adjust to, but ultimately improved our typing accuracy.
RGB lighting adds a fun element to the keyboard. The customization options through QMK/VIA software allowed us to program macros and create personalized lighting schemes. Setting up game-specific profiles was straightforward, though the software has a slight learning curve.
For a 60% keyboard, the R65 doesn’t compromise on functionality. The arrow keys are smartly included in the compact layout, which we found essential for document navigation. At just 1.41 pounds, it’s light enough to toss in a bag but still feels solid on the desk.
DIERYA T68SE Compact Keyboard
The DIERYA T68SE offers exceptional value with its premium feel, quiet red switches, and compact design that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.
Pros
- Surprisingly high quality build for the price
- Quiet red linear switches perfect for office or late-night use
- Includes arrow keys despite 60% form factor
Cons
- Limited Mac OS compatibility
- Some functions require learning key combinations
- White color shows dirt more easily
We recently got our hands on the DIERYA T68SE, and it’s quickly become our favorite budget-friendly 60% keyboard.
Despite its affordable price point, this keyboard feels solid with a nice weight that keeps it firmly in place during intense typing sessions.
The 68-key layout strikes a perfect balance between saving desk space and maintaining functionality. Unlike true 60% keyboards, the T68SE includes dedicated arrow keys and a delete key, which makes everyday tasks much easier.
We found this hybrid approach ideal for both work and gaming.
The linear red switches are a standout feature. They offer a smooth, consistent keystroke without the loud clicking that can annoy coworkers or family members.
The keys have just the right amount of resistance and don’t require much force to actuate, which made our hours of typing less fatiguing.
Blue LED backlighting adds a nice touch to the clean white design. We were impressed with the 19 different lighting modes that can be easily adjusted for brightness and speed.
The backlight is bright enough to be useful in dim environments without being distracting.
Connectivity is straightforward with the USB-C cable providing a stable connection. During our testing, we experienced zero input lag or dropped keystrokes, even during fast-paced gaming sessions.
The anti-ghosting feature works as advertised, allowing multiple key presses simultaneously.
For those new to compact keyboards, there’s a brief learning curve to master the function key combinations, but we adjusted within a day or two.
While it works with Windows and Linux seamlessly, Mac users should note that some functions aren’t fully compatible.
Buying Guide
Finding the right 60% keyboard can be tricky with so many options out there. We’ve created this guide to help you focus on what really matters when shopping for your perfect keyboard.
Key Switch Types
The switches in your keyboard affect how typing feels and sounds. There are three main types to know about:
- Linear switches feel smooth when you press them
- Tactile switches have a small bump you can feel
- Clicky switches make a clicking sound and have a bump
Try before you buy! If possible, test different switch types to see what feels best for your typing style.
Build Quality
A good 60% keyboard should feel solid and last for years. Look for keyboards with metal or thick plastic cases that don’t flex when you type.
Keycap Material
Keycaps come in different materials that affect durability and feel:
| Material | Durability | Feel |
| PBT | High | Textured, non-shiny |
| ABS | Medium | Smoother, can become shiny |
| Double-shot | Very high | Varies by material |
Connectivity Options
Consider how you want to connect your keyboard. Wired connections are reliable, while wireless offers freedom but needs battery charging.
Programmability
The best 60% keyboards let you reprogram keys and layers. This makes up for the missing keys that full-size keyboards have.