Shopping for a quality keyboard in an ever-increasing market that is saturated with different options can be confusing. Furthermore, with several categories that comprise different switches, keys, and features, it becomes even more dreadful. Nowadays, the best gaming keyboards are not the same you would use for other activities. These keyboards take different forms and shapes compared to the standard keyboard.
Are you thinking of buying a 60% keyboard? What keyboard would you buy? With a saturated market of diverse keyboards, it is never easy to streamline your choice. However, we have research and compiled the best 60% keyboard for your use. This review comprises important features, pros, and cons. Before looking at these keyboards, you need to understand what the 60% keyboard is all about.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks for the best 60% mechanical keyboards in 2021!
What is a 60% keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is a standard keyboard with 40% of its keys removed. The keys removed include the arrow keys, top row of F keys, navigation cluster, and the number pad. It’s more like a compact laptop keyboard, except for the fewer keys it has. Today, the 60% keyboard acts as a gaming accessory that can compete with the best gaming keyboards on the market.
The 60% keyboards come with a Function (Fn) key that you can use to unlock secondary or tertiary keys. It means you can still get your navigation keys, arrow keys, and number pad keys depending on the particular 60% keyboard you want to purchase. However, it doesn’t mean anything is lacking on the 60% keyboard since it can do whatever a standard keyboard is designed to do.
What are 60% keyboards good for?
If you work with numerical data, use navigation keys for word processing, or use the F keyboards as shortcuts when playing games, the 60% keyboard isn’t designed for you. However, newer features of 60% keyboard allow high-end mechanical switches beneath the keys to allow better gaming and typing experience. Furthermore, these keyboards are made of premium material and include RGB lighting and rechargeable batteries.
If you want to save space on your desk, investing in a 60% keyboard is your way out. The keyboard can improve your gaming experience due to its high-end switches, and in addition, it is easy to carry along because of its lightweight and compact design.
1. Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard – Best Overall
Our first review of the best 60% keyboard is the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard, which has similar features to the Huntsman TE. The keyboard is a new release from Razer that is a renowned manufacturer of quality keyboards.
It features a typical layout with double-shot shine-through PBT keycaps. Interestingly, you can choose between white or black colors, including different switch options.
The switches are designed for fast reaction and available in purple and linear options. Both options have light spring force and fast actuate points with a detachable USB-C cable located at the top right side. The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% gaming keyboard is ideal for gamers that desire fast reaction time, speed, and best performance. Additionally, it has 7 preset lighting effects programmed on the board.
To use the custom RGB effects, you need to use the Razer Chroma Studio all the time. However, you cannot store RGB profiles, but it allows you to store macro profiles. If you have used any Razer keyboard, you would recognize the look, feel, and software advantages.
The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% keyboard doesn’t lack any feature as the compact form factor opens a new door for better products. Furthermore, the keyboard is made of aluminum and covered with a matte. The aluminum top frame gives room for increased structural integrity.
Why is this the best 60% mechanical keyboard?
The unique software support and features make the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% keyboard an appealing option for all Razer fan gamers who want a 60% design. The keyboard offers everything you need for a reliable 60% keyboard for your gaming and typing activities.
2. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Wired 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Budget Pick
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 wired 60% keyboard is one of the best affordable keyboards with several unique features. The size makes it a great gaming keyboard you can buy at a low price.
Besides this, the multiple device Bluetooth capabilities offer much more for people who prefer a wireless keyboard. You can connect your tablet or phone; it is highly compatible with iOS, Mac, Android, and Windows operating systems.
The keyboard is made of Doubleshot ABS plastic and has a sturdy build. It looks polished and compact when you look at your desktop and easy to carry around. The Royal Kludge wired keyboard has 3 switches, including brown, blue, and red. Everything you need in a 60% keyboard is embedded inside the Royal Kludge keyboard.
3. ANNE PRO 2, 60% Wired/Wireless Mechanical Keyboard – Best Wireless 60% Keyboard
One of the most popular 60% wired/wireless mechanical keyboards available in the market is the Anne Pro 2. The primary reason for its popularity is its long-lasting battery on a single charge with Bluetooth 4.0 feature. You can plug it in while in use, and it doesn’t require any connection using Bluetooth. However, to conserve the battery lifespan, it has an auto-sleep feature.
Additionally, the keyboard is well-built with a sleek design. Even though it is made of a plastic frame, it has an excellent appearance with PBT keycaps with a matte finish. The Doubleshot shine through makes it hard for the keys to fade after frequent use. You can fully program each key and customize the RGB lighting to your choice. The Anne Pro 2 keyboard is available in several Gateron switches with different Kailh and Cherry MX switches.
Despite the enticing features, the keyboard has poor ergonomics, which is a major concern for most users. Additionally, it doesn’t have a palm rest when typing or in use. It has a 60% layout that allows you to change the keycaps without any trouble. Furthermore, the keyboard includes several color keycaps that allow you to customize. It comes with a keycap puller to make it easier to switch keycaps.
The magical Fn button makes it easier to use the function keys (F1-F12) while gaming. You can take advantage of the Bluetooth connectivity feature that allows you to connect up to 4 devices. Remarkably, you can switch the connection seamlessly back and forth.
4. Redragon K530 Draconic – Best Budget-Friendly 60% Keyboard for Gaming
If you want the perfect keyboard that is small enough to be portable in size, programmable, wireless, cheap, and mechanical with switches, the Redragon K350 Draconic 60% Compact RGB Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is the best answer. Redragon has made wireless connection easy via a 3000mAh long-lasting battery capacity and Bluetooth 5.0 connection. It is reliable and has a hassle-free connection to devices such as tablets, laptops, and any phone supporting Bluetooth.
It comes with hot-swappable brown switches compatible with most switches. The brown switch offers little-bump and noise tactile feedback that enables you to master your game to victory. Redragon K350 is the first generation Redragon wireless keyboard specifically designed for people who prefer precise typing and pro-grade gaming performance.
Hardly can you resist the RGB illumination builder that has 13 dynamic presets on the board. You have millions of effects and color options at your disposal. Furthermore, it also offers dual switch-mode – you can switch from wired to wireless mode using the mode switch button on the side. Additionally, the USB-C cable allows you to go wired when playing competitive games.
5. EPOMAKER SK64S – Best Minimal 60% Keyboard
Another remarkable 60% keyboard you can get for your typing and gaming adventure is the EPOMAKER SK64S Hot-Swappable keyboard that comes with mouthwatering features. It’s one of the compact mechanical keyboards that includes four different arrow keys and equipped with Gateron Optical Switches. You can use the optical switches to replace the switches without any issue with soldering. Additionally, it allows you to customize the keyboard according to your design.
Furthermore, it offers different connection modes, including wireless and wired modes. The Bluetooth 5.1 allows you to connect any Bluetooth-enabled device to it effortlessly. With an inbuilt battery capacity of 1900mAh, it ensures you use the keyboard for a long period.
It supports both Mac and Windows operating systems. You can easily switch from Mac to windows layout. If you want a stable and convenient connection, you can use the USB-C connection. You can reprogram any key on the EPOMAKER SK64S to add layers or create custom macros. To personalize your typing experience, you can expand as many as three FN keys.
6. Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional2 (White)
Everything is absolutely lovable about the Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2. It has a bottom case with steam that runs across it. The steam makes the keyboard feel bumpy, depending on where your fingers are placed.
Additionally, the classic design and top-grade PBT keys cannot be ignored. The keyboard utilizes the Topre electrostatic capacitive switch that helps remove key chatter. More importantly, it provides maximum tactility, comfort, and keystroke precision.
The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional has a unique layout that is different from other keyboards. For instance, the Ctrl key is positioned where the Caps lock is located because of its design. If you want a 60% keyboard that offers reliability, speed, and accuracy, you have everything in the Happy Hacking Keyboard. Remarkably, programmers designed the keyboard for their fellow programmers.
The keyboard can pair a maximum of four devices with long-lasting battery life. The compact design contributes to why this keyboard is popular in recent times. Similarly, the well-spaced keys make it easy to punch every key without stretching your hands. Your typing session can take a new turn because the keyboard reduces repetitive stress when typing.
7. KEMOVE Shadow Wired/Wireless
KEMOVE 60% keyboard is your classic compact 61 keys layout keyboard with the solid build quality, exquisite appearance, and powerful functions. The compact layout allows you to have more desktop space and the best FPS gaming option to consider. With many features and an affordable price tag, you can’t go wrong by including it in your accessories.
It comes with hot-swappable sockets that make it easier to switch between different switches, meaning you don’t have to solder and desolder the switches. Additionally, this keyboard edition comes with an updated 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect up to 3 devices. You can also switch between these devices using the keyboard macros.
The keys are strategically positioned for easy control; the FN key is stationed at the right corner with the arrow keys closer. The bezel design helps repel hair and dust from the keyboard case. Furthermore, at the top right side is the detachable USB-C port for easy access.
With the onboard memory, you have access to different bright RGB effects and custom RGB. The KEMOVE software allows you to arbitrarily remap the keys, assign macros or commands. Additionally, inside the keyboard box comes a keycap puller, along with a switch puller and several Gateron switches. The keyboard is the best fully 60% programmable keyboard in the market for your typing and gaming experience.
Conclusion
There are several reasons to consider switching to a 60% mechanical keyboard. Whatever the situation might be, always remember, there is always a tradeoff between size and convenience. Nevertheless, if you want a keyboard that offers a balance between size and convenience, a 60% keyboard is a perfect choice.
In this write-up, we have unveiled some of the best 60% keyboards available in the market. We understand that when it comes to choosing a 60% keyboard, it poses a huge challenge. Interestingly, you don’t have to break the bank as we have analyzed the best affordable keyboards with excellent features that can get the job done.
Frequently Asked Question
What does 60% mean on a keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is a keyboard that contains 60% of the standard keyboard. It lacks the numerical pad, arrow keys, and navigation key cluster you would find in your standard keyboard. The benefit of having the keyboard is the small form factor, which outweighs the lack of functionality.
Are 60% keyboards worth it?
If you like playing fast-paced games and type frequently, 60% keyboards are worth every investment. Additionally, they offer the best productivity when used during gaming. Furthermore, if you want to save a lot of space around your desk, 60% keyboards offer you such an option. You can efficiently work around them thanks to their lightweight and compact design.
What is the smallest 60% keyboard?
There are a lot of keyboards that fit this description, but the best smallest 60% keyboards for your gaming adventure are Anne Pro 2, Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB, Ducky One2 Mini, and HyperX Alloy Elite.
Why are 60% keyboards so expensive?
60% keyboards are so expensive because they have individual switches for each key. Besides this, they also produce responsive and accurate keypresses, which is better for typing and playing fast-paced games.
How do you use F keys on 60% keyboards?
To use the F keys on 60% keyboards, you must hold down the FN key and press the function key you want. However, to close your window quickly, you need to use the ALT+FN+4.
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