Nowadays, 40% keyboards are the least common model of keyboard you will find anywhere. That is because most buyers find the inherent nature of the keyboard a massive turn-off due to the different limitations existing when using it. However, while 40% keyboards might be hard to find or not as popular as other keyboards, they serve specific purposes thanks to some keys.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks for the best 40% mechanical keyboards in 2023!
If your search for the best 40% keyboard on Amazon brought you here, you are truly fortunate because we will provide you with the best-researched 40% keyboards on Amazon. Furthermore, if you haven’t heard about what 40% keyboard is all about, the article will precisely explain everything. Moreover, you will discover the best 40% keyboard that you can use for any purpose. So, without further ado, let’s begin.
What is a 40% keyboard?
A 40% keyboard contains 40% of the keys found in a standard keyboard. It is a compact keyboard that has in total about 40 to 45 keys. The name is a description of its size compared to the standard or full-sized keyboard. Hardly will you see the 40% keyboard on the market as they are custom produced or made specifically for mechanical keyboard hobbyists.
Why do keyboard users love 40% Mechanical Keyboard?
For typists who don’t use the NUMPAD frequently, the 40% keyboard serves as a better option because it removes the need for additional space that a regular-sized keyboard needs. 40% keyboards come in different designs and are available based upon request from keyboard manufacturers. Notwithstanding the situation around them, most buyers take advantage of the small size and use it for their day-to-day activity.
1. DIERYA DK61E 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Best Overall
We assume that the DIERYA DK61 60% keyboard can serve a 40% keyboard, so we include it on our list. The keyboard is perfect if you are an ardent gamer or want a compact layout keyboard to save some desktop space. However, as a 60% keyboard, it lacks the arrow keys, number pad, and function row keys.
The keyboard has PBT plastic with double hot injected keycaps, making the keyboard last longer. Additionally, it has 5 pre-programmed RGB lighting modes. Nevertheless, the software allows you to customize the color settings to your choice.
The 5 pre-programmed RGB lighting modes include:
- RGB
- Full green
- Cycling spectrum
- Glorious waterfall
- Windmill
Why is this the best 60% mechanical keyboard?
The DIERYA DK61E 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has an IPX4 certified circuit board that is waterproofed. So you can enjoy yourself freely as your play game and work without any concern of food particles falling on the keyboard.
The waterproof circuit board makes it easier to clean the keyboard from any particle. Additionally, the keyboard adopts the hot-swapped Gateron optical switches. Thus, you can comfortably swap the switches without desoldering or buying a new keyboard.
The keyboard comes in an ergonomic design that offers long-term comfortable use. The design allows you to minimize fatigue when playing gaming for an extended period. Additionally, the special padding adds stability to the keyboard. The PBT construction helps improve the durability of the keyboard.
2. Redragon K585 DITI Wireless – Runner Up
Redragon K585 DITI Wireless 40% keyboard is the runner-up for the best keyboard. Equipped with 2.4 GHz wireless data transmission, you don’t need a cable as you can place it anywhere on your desktop.
Furthermore, the inbuilt 3000mAh battery provides long-lasting durability, which supports up to 15-20 hours of usage without any interruption. With only 10 hours of fast charging, you can enjoy your online activity with this keyboard effortlessly. You can recharge the keyboard using the detachable USB-C cable.
The iconic mechanical keyboard is audible and clicky, with satisfying physical feedback that allows you to master the tempo of the battlefield.
The Redragon K585 DITI Wireless 40% keyboard comes with 7 programmable macro keys, multiple binding commands and can be activated instantly. You can assign single or multiple keystrokes to any macro key as you save the profile. You don’t have to reprogram or reassign the keys when you want to use them next time around. Save your precious time by saving your profile.
Finally, it is ergonomically designed with a detachable wrist-rest section, which is connected using magnets. The wrist-rest allows you to support your wrist when using the keyboard and provides better comfort. Everything looks perfect with the Redragon K585 DITI wireless 40% keyboard, although it is pretty expensive. However, it is worth having if you don’t like changing in-game settings.
3. Dye-Sub Top Print DSA Profile PBT Keycap – Budget Pick
40% keyboards might not be as common as a full-sized keyboard, but hardly can you do without the Dye-Sub Top Print DSA Profile PBT keyboard that is legendary for never fading. The keycap thickness is made of PBT material and about 1.4mm. The keyboard comes with one puller and a DSA profile that allows you to use it according to your predefined profile.
The keyboard is your best option if you have space consideration. Unfortunately, the keyboard doesn’t have Bluetooth features, even though it is made of a quality plastic material. However, it is lightweight, which means you can easily carry it wherever you go.
Overall, the Dye-Sub Top Print DSA Profile 40% keyboard is a great deal with nice keycaps. A little fix of the modifier icons and sharpening the legends can make the keysets even better.
4. YMDK Carbon Laser-Etched Top Print
This 40% keyboard is not a keyboard you will frequently see as only a few manufacturers produce it. However, the YMDK Carbon Laser-Etched Top Print 40% keyboard is a unique 40% keyboard with different user customization options. It is the perfect keyboard for any keyboard enthusiast that considers aesthetics over everything else.
It allows you to choose from four different keyboard layouts, granting you the opportunity to customize the keyset. Interestingly, you can customize the keyboard to improve your comfort and typing. Furthermore, it comes with four programmable layers with different color options. It means you can pick out whatever you need or want.
Overall, the YMDK Carbon Laser-Etched Top Print keyboard is one of the best 40% keyboards available on the market. If you are thinking of building your first custom keyboard, this keyboard offers you that. However, the keyboard kit lacks keycaps, stabilizers, and switches. Nevertheless, you can purchase them without shipping fees for as low as $23.00, which is quite reasonable for a 40% keyboard.
Furthermore, the keyboard is one of the cheapest 40% keyboards that come with carbon top print. The keycap is only the keyset for Planck Preonic Niu40 and is made of PBT. The thickness of the keypad is around 1.5mm. If you are new to typing or want your kids to learn the art of tying, the YMDK Carbon Laser-Etched Top Print 40% keyboard is what you need to get started. The engraved, printed print on the keyboard makes it look extremely beautiful.
Conclusion
We’ve compiled the best 40% keyboards available on the market with their unique features. There are several 40% keyboard kits, but most production of those kits has been discontinued for specific reasons. Whether you want a keyboard kit or a pre-built keyboard, a 40% keyboard can be the distinctive keyboard, and you can give it a try.
Indeed, a 40% keyboard is available for everyone because 40% keyboards are very cheap, and they come with distinct features. However, a good 40% keyboard also contains dual-function keys. Today, 40% keyboards are hard to find, but it is worth investing if you find a good one.
If you want an alternative to a full-sized keyboard, then 40% keyboards are the best alternative. You can check our review on the best 60% keyboard on Amazon as well. Notwithstanding, the 40% keyboards we mentioned here will give you value for your money. Do you think we have missed any 40% keyboard worth including in our list on the best 40% keyboard on Amazon? We would love to hear from you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 40% keyboards good?
40% keyboards are good, but it also depends on what you want to use them for. For instance, if you are a writer or typist who doesn’t use the numerical pad frequently, then 40% keyboards are your best option. This is so because they get rid of space that most standard keyboards require.
How many switches are in a 40% keyboard?
Normally, 40% keyboards have 40 to 50 keys, depending on the keyboard configuration. Remarkably, most 40% keyboards lack the function row key and number keys, giving users more space to work. In addition, 40% keyboard designs display creativity and more variation compared to 60%. Furthermore, most 40% keyboards are split between ortholinear or ergonomic layouts and are highly programmable.
How do you use a 40% keyboard?
There is no special way of using a 40% keyboard. You can use it as you would use a 60% keyboard, a 65% keyboard, or a standard keyboard. However, 40% keyboard offers additional space for areas where space is a major issue.
Is a 40% keyboard too small?
The 40% keyboard is probably the most common mini configuration keyboard. From the name itself, it means it occupies little space compared to the standard keyboard. The 40% keyboard offers everyone the opportunity to use between 40-49 keys for any activity. However, depending on the keyboard, some come with a broader spacebar than a single letter key.
What is the point of a 40% keyboard?
The symbols, arrows, and number keys are accessible by holding one of the function keys on the keyboard. Using a 40% keyboard can vastly reduce hand movements and result in greater efficiency during the work.
