Imagine a world where your desk is clutter-free, and your gaming or typing experience feels more focused. Does that sound amazing? Many people dream of having a cleaner workspace. But when it comes to choosing a 60% keyboard, it can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. You might wonder if it’s worth giving up some keys, or which one will actually feel good to use. It’s easy to get lost in all the different features and brands.
This is where we come in! We know that picking the perfect 60% keyboard can be a challenge. You want something that fits your style, works great, and doesn’t break the bank. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel much more confident about what makes a great 60% keyboard and how to find the one that’s just right for you. Get ready to discover the awesome world of compact keyboards!
Our Top 5 60 Keyboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 60 Keyboard Detailed Reviews
1. MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.4/10
The MageGee MK-Box is a compact 60% mechanical keyboard that packs a punch for both gaming and work. Its small size makes it super portable, but don’t let that fool you – it still has all the keys you need, like arrow keys and function keys. The black and grey design with red accents looks cool, and the blue LED lights add a nice touch for late-night sessions.
What We Like:
- Mini 60% layout saves desk space and is easy to carry around.
- Mechanical red switches offer a smooth typing experience with fast responses, perfect for gaming.
- The blue LED backlighting has many cool effects you can change to suit your mood.
- Full anti-ghosting means every key press is registered, even when you’re mashing buttons.
- The keyboard is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac right out of the box.
- It has adjustable feet to find the most comfortable typing angle.
- The double-color injection keycaps are durable and look great.
What Could Be Improved:
- The red switches are linear, which some people might not prefer if they like a clicky or tactile feel.
- While the LED lights are nice, they are only blue, limiting color customization.
This keyboard is a solid choice for anyone wanting a compact, versatile mechanical keyboard. It balances functionality and style well for everyday use.
2. Aula WIN60 HE – 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired
Rating: 9.3/10
The Aula WIN60 HE is a small, 60% mechanical gaming keyboard built for speed and precision. It uses special magnetic switches that don’t wear out and a super-fast polling rate, making it great for competitive gaming, especially first-person shooter (FPS) games. Its compact design saves space, and you can customize the colorful RGB lights and key functions easily through a web browser. The rapid trigger feature lets you react instantly in games.
What We Like:
- Ultra-Fast Performance: The Hall Effect magnetic switches and 8000Hz polling rate provide incredibly quick responses, giving you an edge in fast-paced games.
- Great for FPS: Designed to help with quick movements like peeking and stopping, which is crucial for games like Valorant and CS2.
- Rapid Trigger: The very small actuation distance allows for lightning-fast key presses and combos.
- Space-Saving Design: The 60% layout is perfect for any desk, making it easy to move around or just keep your workspace tidy.
- Customizable RGB: You can create cool lighting effects with 16.8 million colors to match your style.
- Easy Customization: The web-based driver lets you change keybinds, create macros, and adjust lighting without downloading big programs.
- Durable Switches: Magnetic switches reduce wear and tear, meaning they should last longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: For some, the 60% layout might take a little time to get used to, as some keys are accessed with function layers.
- Wired Only: The keyboard is wired, which might be a limitation for those who prefer wireless setups.
This keyboard offers top-tier gaming performance in a compact package. It’s a fantastic choice for gamers who demand speed and want a highly customizable experience.
3. MageGee AIR68 Wireless Hall Effect Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 8.7/10
The MageGee AIR68 is a white, 60% wireless gaming keyboard that packs a punch for serious gamers. It uses special magnetic switches that let you react super fast. You can even change how sensitive the keys are. Plus, it looks awesome with its RGB lights and has a huge battery so you can play for a long time without plugging it in.
What We Like:
- The Hall Effect magnetic switches give you pro-level speed. They don’t wear out quickly.
- Rapid Trigger technology with 0.01mm accuracy means your actions happen instantly.
- The 8000Hz polling rate makes your keyboard respond 8 times faster.
- You can customize everything with the powerful software.
- It connects in three ways: Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and wired.
- The 6000mAh battery lasts a really long time.
- It’s hot-swappable, so you can change switches easily.
- Full anti-ghosting ensures every key press is registered.
- The RGB lighting and lightbox look amazing.
- The compact 60% design saves space and the PBT keycaps are tough and feel great.
What Could Be Improved:
- The software only works with Windows.
- The 60% layout might be too small for some users who need dedicated keys.
The MageGee AIR68 is a fantastic choice for gamers seeking speed and customization. Its advanced features and long battery life make it a top contender.
4. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Wired Gaming Keyboard with Volume Knob
Rating: 9.2/10
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Wired Gaming Keyboard is a compact powerhouse for gamers and typists. It packs a lot of features into its small 60% size, making it a great option for anyone who wants a powerful keyboard without taking up too much desk space. This keyboard boasts a premium build and a focus on a satisfying typing experience.
What We Like:
- The gasket mount design with five layers of sound-absorbing material makes typing quieter and smoother.
- The metal volume knob is super handy for quick adjustments and muting.
- It comes with pre-lubed Creamy switches for a fantastic, smooth feel and a satisfying “thocky” sound.
- You can easily swap out the switches to customize your typing experience.
- The RGB backlighting offers tons of cool effects to personalize your setup.
- QMK/VIA compatibility means you can reprogram keys and create custom layouts.
- The MDA profile PBT keycaps are durable, feel great, and won’t fade.
- It works with both Windows and macOS, making it very versatile.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 60% layout might take some getting used to if you’re used to a full-sized keyboard, as some keys are accessed with function layers.
- While it has a volume knob, some users might prefer dedicated media keys.
Overall, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 is an excellent choice for a feature-rich and customizable mechanical keyboard. It delivers a premium typing and gaming experience in a compact package.
5. MageGee Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking for a keyboard that’s small, stylish, and ready for anything? The MageGee Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard is here to help. This tiny keyboard packs a punch with its cool RGB lights and a “mechanical feeling” that gamers and office workers will love. It’s perfect for your desk because it doesn’t take up much space. Plus, it’s built to handle spills, so you can enjoy your snacks and drinks worry-free.
What We Like:
- The awesome RGB backlight lets you choose from many colors and modes. It makes gaming at night super cool, even in the dark. You can even change how bright the lights are and how fast they blink.
- Its 60% compact layout is super practical. It saves tons of desk space, which is great for gaming and typing.
- The circuit board is IPX4 waterproof! This means accidental spills won’t ruin your keyboard. Just wipe it clean.
- It feels like a mechanical keyboard, but it’s actually a membrane keyboard. This “mechanical feeling” makes typing and gaming more enjoyable and less tiring.
- It works with lots of devices like Windows PCs, Macs, PS4, and Xbox One. It’s easy to set up and use for gaming, work, or travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual can be a bit confusing for some key operations.
- While it has a mechanical feel, it’s not a true mechanical keyboard.
This MageGee keyboard is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a compact, stylish, and durable keyboard. It brings a lot of fun and functionality to your setup.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect 60% Keyboard Adventure
So, you’re thinking about diving into the world of 60% keyboards! These compact powerhouses are a fantastic choice for gamers, typists, and anyone looking to save desk space. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look For: Key Features of a 60% Keyboard
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
1. Layout and Keycaps
- Compact Size: This is the defining feature! A 60% keyboard removes the number pad, function row, and navigation keys. This makes it super small.
- Keycaps: These are the little plastic covers you press. Look for durable materials like PBT. They feel great and last a long time. ABS keycaps are common but can get shiny over time.
- Stabilizers: Good stabilizers make your larger keys (like the spacebar) feel smooth and prevent wobbling.
2. Switches
- Mechanical Switches: Most 60% keyboards use mechanical switches. They offer a satisfying click or a smooth press.
- Types of Switches:
- Linear: Smooth and quiet, good for gaming. Think Cherry MX Red.
- Tactile: You feel a little bump when you press the key, good for typing. Think Cherry MX Brown.
- Clicky: You hear a loud click, very satisfying for some typists. Think Cherry MX Blue.
- Hot-Swappable Switches: This is a cool feature! It means you can easily change out switches without soldering. This lets you try different switch types.
3. Build Quality and Materials
4. Connectivity and Extra Features
- Wired vs. Wireless: Many 60% keyboards connect with a USB cable. Some offer Bluetooth for wireless freedom.
- RGB Lighting: Lots of these keyboards have fancy lights! You can usually change the colors and patterns.
- Programmability: Some keyboards let you reprogram keys or create custom shortcuts. This is great for making the keyboard work exactly how you want it.
Important Materials to Consider
The materials used in a keyboard greatly affect its feel and how long it lasts.
Keycaps
- PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate): This plastic is tough and doesn’t get shiny easily. PBT keycaps offer a textured feel that many people love. They are generally considered higher quality.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): This is a common plastic. It’s less expensive but can become smooth and develop a shine with heavy use.
Case Materials
- Plastic: Most budget-friendly keyboards use plastic cases. They are lightweight and affordable.
- Aluminum: Higher-end keyboards often feature aluminum cases. These feel more premium, are very durable, and can help reduce keyboard noise.
Factors That Affect Quality
What makes one 60% keyboard better than another?
Improving Quality
- High-Quality Switches: Brands like Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh make excellent switches.
- Durable Keycaps: PBT keycaps are a big plus.
- Solid Case Construction: A sturdy case, especially aluminum, makes a keyboard feel more premium and sound better.
- Good Stabilizers: Well-lubricated and sturdy stabilizers prevent annoying rattle.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: This adds versatility and longevity.
Reducing Quality
- Wobbly Case: A flimsy case can make typing feel cheap.
- Poorly Made Stabilizers: Rattling spacebars are a common annoyance.
- Low-Quality Keycaps: ABS keycaps that wear down quickly can be disappointing.
- Cheap Switches: Some generic switches might feel inconsistent or break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 60% keyboard is more than just a tool; it’s an experience!
Who Uses Them?
- Gamers: The compact size frees up mouse space, which is crucial for fast-paced games.
- Typists and Programmers: Many find the minimalist layout leads to less hand movement and a more focused typing experience.
- Students and Office Workers: Saving desk space is a big win for smaller workspaces.
- Enthusiasts: People who love customizing their gear often gravitate towards 60% keyboards because they are easier to modify.
What’s the Experience Like?
- Learning Curve: You’ll need to learn to use the “Fn” key to access missing keys like F1-F12 and arrow keys. This usually becomes second nature quickly.
- Ergonomics: The smaller footprint can lead to a more natural arm and wrist position.
- Aesthetics: 60% keyboards often look very clean and modern on a desk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 60% Keyboards
Q: What does “60%” mean for a keyboard?
A: It means the keyboard is about 60% the size of a standard keyboard. It doesn’t have the number pad, arrow keys, or function row. You use a special “Fn” key to access these.
Q: Are 60% keyboards good for gaming?
A: Yes! Many gamers love them because they give you more room for your mouse to move freely.
Q: Is it hard to get used to a 60% keyboard?
A: There’s a small learning curve at first. You’ll need to remember to use the “Fn” key for some functions. Most people get used to it within a few days.
Q: What are the best switches for a 60% keyboard?
A: It depends on what you like! Linear switches are good for quiet gaming, tactile switches are great for typing, and clicky switches offer a loud, satisfying sound for typing.
Q: What is a hot-swappable keyboard?
A: A hot-swappable keyboard lets you change the switches without needing to solder them. This is great if you want to try different switch types later.
Q: Are PBT keycaps better than ABS keycaps?
A: PBT keycaps are generally considered better because they are more durable and don’t get shiny as easily as ABS keycaps. They also have a nicer texture.
Q: Can I use a 60% keyboard for programming?
A: Absolutely! Many programmers find the minimalist layout helps them focus and type faster once they get used to it.
Q: Do all 60% keyboards have RGB lighting?
A: No, not all of them do. Some have basic backlighting, some have full RGB, and some have no lighting at all. It depends on the model.
Q: How much do 60% keyboards usually cost?
A: Prices can vary a lot! You can find basic ones for around $50, while premium, customizable models can cost $200 or more.
Q: Will a 60% keyboard save me desk space?
A: Yes, that’s one of their biggest advantages! Their small size frees up a lot of room on your desk.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.