Have you ever felt a satisfying ‘click’ when you type? That’s the magic of a mechanical keyboard! But with so many different types, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. Especially when you’re looking at the smaller, 60% keyboards, it can get confusing. These keyboards are popular because they save space on your desk, which is great if you have a small setup or just like a clean look. But with so many switches, brands, and features, where do you even start? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder if you’re making the right choice for your typing needs.
If you’re curious about the world of 60% mechanical keyboards or are ready to upgrade your typing game, you’re in the right place! This guide is here to break down all the important stuff. We’ll explore what makes a 60% keyboard special and help you understand all the choices you have. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel much more confident about finding a keyboard that feels amazing to type on and looks super cool. Let’s dive in and discover the best 60% mechanical keyboard for you!
Our Top 5 60 Mechanical Keyboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 60 Mechanical Keyboard Detailed Reviews
1. MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 8.7/10
The MageGee MK-Box is a compact, 60% mechanical keyboard designed for both gaming and office use. Its small size saves space, but it still includes essential keys like arrow keys and function keys. It features smooth red mechanical switches for fast typing and a cool blue LED backlight with multiple effects.
What We Like:
- The mini 60% portable layout is great for saving desk space.
- It has separate arrow keys and F1-F12 keys, which is very handy.
- The mechanical red switches are linear and smooth, making typing feel fast and effortless.
- You can choose from about 16 different blue LED backlight modes to customize your look.
- All 68 keys are anti-ghosting, meaning they all work perfectly at the same time.
- The black, grey, and red color scheme with double-color injection keycaps looks really cool.
- It has adjustable kickstand feet so you can find the perfect typing angle.
- The detachable USB cable makes it easy to store and transport.
- It works with Windows, Linux, and Mac computers right out of the box with no extra software needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blue LED backlight is nice, but some users might prefer RGB options.
- While it has dedicated arrow keys, some might miss a dedicated number pad for extensive data entry.
This keyboard offers a great balance of portability, functionality, and style. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact mechanical keyboard.
2. Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.3/10
The Redragon K617 Fizz is a new 60% wired gaming keyboard. It has a fresh look and a great price. This keyboard is compact with 61 keys. It’s designed for gamers who play FPS games and people who need an efficient keyboard for work. The white and grey keycaps give it a clean appearance.
What We Like:
- Slim Fresh K617: This keyboard is small and fits easily on your desk. It is very affordable.
- Hot-Swappable Socket: You can easily change the switches. It comes with quiet red switches that feel nice. It works with almost any other switches, so you can customize it.
- Vibrant RGB: It has many cool RGB lighting modes. You can change the brightness and speed. You can pick the mode that matches your mood or game.
- Pro Software Customizable: You can use the software to create your own lighting effects. You can also set up macros for faster gaming and work.
- Dedicated for FPS Gamer: Its small size gives you more room for your mouse. Your mouse won’t hit the keyboard, so you can play games without worry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included red switches are quiet, but some gamers might prefer a different feel.
- While the hot-swappable feature is great, beginners might find the process of changing switches a little tricky at first.
The Redragon K617 Fizz is a solid choice for gamers and workers. It offers great features for its price and lets you make it your own.
3. Aula WIN60 HE – 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired
Rating: 9.2/10
The Aula WIN60 HE is a 60% mechanical gaming keyboard built for speed and precision. It uses special magnetic switches that make your keystrokes super fast. This small keyboard is great for gaming because it helps you react quicker. It also looks cool with its customizable RGB lights.
What We Like:
- Ultra-Fast Response: The Hall Effect magnetic switches and 8000Hz polling rate mean your actions happen almost instantly. This is a huge help in fast-paced games.
- Competitive Edge: The keyboard is designed for FPS games. It helps you peek and shoot faster, giving you an advantage.
- Rapid Trigger: The super-short RT step distance lets you shoot and perform combos with amazing speed.
- Compact Design: The 60% size saves desk space and is easy to take with you.
- Cool RGB Lighting: You can choose from millions of colors to make your keyboard look awesome.
- Easy Customization: The web-based driver lets you change key settings and macros from any device without downloading big programs.
- Durable Switches: Magnetic switches don’t wear out like regular mechanical switches.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Availability: This keyboard might be hard to find sometimes.
- Web-Based Driver Dependency: While convenient, some users might prefer traditional desktop software.
The Aula WIN60 HE is a powerful and stylish keyboard for gamers who need the fastest response. Its clever design and easy customization make it a top choice for competitive play.
4. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Wired Gaming Keyboard with Volume Knob
Rating: 9.0/10
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 is a compact wired gaming keyboard that packs a punch. It’s a 60% keyboard, meaning it’s small and saves desk space. This keyboard comes with a cool metal volume knob, making it easy to control your sound. You’ll also find a vibrant RGB backlight with many different modes to choose from. It’s designed for gamers and typists who want a great experience.
What We Like:
- The gasket mount design with sound-absorbing layers makes typing quieter and more comfortable.
- The metal volume knob is a fantastic feature for quick sound adjustments.
- It has hot-swappable switches, so you can easily change them to your liking.
- The pre-lubed cream switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing feel with a pleasant sound.
- You can customize the RGB lighting and key functions with QMK/VIA programming.
- The MDA profile PBT keycaps are durable and feel great under your fingers.
- It works with both Windows and macOS.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a 60% keyboard, it lacks dedicated arrow keys and a number pad, which might take some getting used to for some users.
- The software for RGB customization could be more user-friendly for beginners.
This keyboard is a solid choice for anyone looking for a feature-rich, compact mechanical keyboard. It offers a premium typing experience and plenty of customization options.
5. Newmen GM611 Mechanical Keyboard
Rating: 9.5/10
The Newmen GM611 Mechanical Keyboard is a compact and portable 60% keyboard designed for gamers and typists. It features linear red switches, rainbow LED backlighting, and a durable build, making it a versatile option for any setup.
What We Like:
- Its 60% compact design saves desk space.
- The rainbow LED backlighting with 19 effects and adjustable brightness creates an immersive atmosphere.
- N-key rollover and anti-ghosting ensure every command registers accurately.
- Multimedia keys offer quick control over volume and playback.
- The detachable cable makes it easy to take on the go.
- You can customize macros and key bindings with its support software.
- The double-color injection molded keycaps are durable and luminous.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 60% layout might require a learning curve for users accustomed to full-size keyboards.
- The linear red switches may not appeal to those who prefer tactile or clicky feedback.
This keyboard offers a great balance of features and portability. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact mechanical keyboard with customizable options.
Your Guide to the Perfect 60% Mechanical Keyboard
A 60% mechanical keyboard is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a smaller desk setup. It removes the number pad, function row, and arrow keys to give you more space. This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you buy a 60% keyboard, some things really matter.
Switches
Keyboard switches are the heart of your typing experience. They determine how the keys feel and sound. There are three main types:
- Linear: These switches are smooth all the way down. They don’t have a “bump” or a “click.” Gamers often like them because they are fast.
- Tactile: These switches give you a little bump when you press them. You feel the bump, but they don’t make a loud click. They are good for typing and gaming.
- Clicky: These switches make a loud “click” sound when you press them. They also have a tactile bump. Typists who love sound will enjoy these.
Brands like Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh make popular switches. Each brand offers different types of switches.
Connectivity
How does the keyboard connect to your computer? Most 60% keyboards connect with a USB cable. Some offer wireless options like Bluetooth. Wireless is great for a clean desk.
Build Quality
How well is the keyboard made? A sturdy keyboard feels better and lasts longer. Look for metal cases or thick plastic. A heavy keyboard usually means good build quality.
Keycaps
Keycaps are the plastic tops you press. They can be made of different materials. Double-shot PBT keycaps are very durable. They won’t get shiny over time. ABS keycaps are common but can wear out faster.
Customization
Can you change parts of the keyboard? Some keyboards let you swap out switches. Others allow you to change the keycaps. This lets you make the keyboard truly yours.
2. Important Materials
The stuff your keyboard is made of makes a big difference.
Case Material
The case holds everything together. Aluminum is a premium choice. It’s strong and looks good. High-quality ABS plastic is also common. It’s lighter and cheaper.
Keycap Material
As mentioned, PBT plastic is better for keycaps. It resists wear and oil. ABS plastic can feel smoother but gets shiny with use.
Plate Material
The plate sits under the switches. It adds stability. Steel or aluminum plates are strong. Polycarbonate plates can offer a softer typing feel.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a keyboard great, and others make it not so great.
Good Quality Factors
- Solid construction: The keyboard doesn’t flex or creak.
- Smooth key presses: Switches feel consistent.
- Good sound: The keyboard sounds satisfying, not hollow.
- Durable keycaps: They don’t wear out quickly.
- Reliable connection: Wired or wireless works without problems.
Poor Quality Factors
- Wobbly keys: Keys feel loose.
- Scratchy switches: Typing feels rough.
- Hollow or loud pinging sounds: The keyboard sounds cheap.
- Cheap-feeling plastic: The case or keycaps feel flimsy.
- Connectivity issues: Bluetooth disconnects or the cable is faulty.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses 60% keyboards and why?
Gamers
Gamers love the extra desk space a 60% keyboard provides. This lets them move their mouse more freely. Fast switches are also a big plus for gaming.
Typists
Many people who type a lot enjoy 60% keyboards. They can customize the switches for the perfect feel. The compact size can also reduce wrist strain.
Students
For students, a 60% keyboard saves space on a small dorm desk. They are also portable for taking to classes or the library.
Anyone with Limited Space
If your desk is small, a 60% keyboard is a game-changer. It makes your workspace feel less cluttered and more organized.
Learning Curve
It takes a little time to get used to a 60% keyboard. You’ll need to learn keyboard shortcuts for missing keys like the function row. Many keyboards have a “Fn” key that lets you access these functions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a 60% mechanical keyboard?
A: A 60% mechanical keyboard is a compact keyboard that removes the number pad, arrow keys, and function row to save space.
Q: Are 60% keyboards good for gaming?
A: Yes, many gamers prefer 60% keyboards because they offer more mouse space and are very portable.
Q: Do I need to learn new shortcuts for a 60% keyboard?
A: Yes, you will need to learn how to use the “Fn” key and other combinations to access functions like F1-F12 and arrow keys.
Q: What are the most common types of mechanical switches?
A: The most common types are linear, tactile, and clicky switches, each offering a different typing feel and sound.
Q: Is PBT or ABS better for keycaps?
A: PBT keycaps are generally considered better because they are more durable and resist wear and shine longer than ABS keycaps.
Q: Can I change the switches on a 60% keyboard?
A: Some 60% keyboards are “hot-swappable,” meaning you can change the switches without soldering.
Q: Are 60% keyboards noisy?
A: The noise level depends on the switches you choose. Clicky switches are the loudest, while linear switches are the quietest.
Q: What does “hot-swappable” mean for a keyboard?
A: Hot-swappable means you can easily remove and replace the switches by hand, without needing to solder them.
Q: How much desk space does a 60% keyboard save?
A: It saves a significant amount of space compared to a full-sized keyboard, allowing for more mouse movement.
Q: Is a 60% keyboard worth the money?
A: If you value desk space, a clean setup, and a customizable typing experience, a 60% keyboard can be a great investment.
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.