60% keyboards are an excellent option for gamers who want a compact and powerful gaming experience. These little keyboards give gamers plenty of room to flick around their mouse in fast-paced FPS games or have a bit of desk space for other PC accessories. In general, 60% keyboards and mini-keyboards have taken off in the last couple of years, with more and more companies starting to produce high-quality options. This is great for gamers, but it does make the decision process a bit harder than it used to be.
The Best Gaming Keyboards Under $50
Gaming keyboards don't have to cost an arm and a leg, and some of the best gaming keyboards can even be found for under $50.
Whether people are looking for a 60% keyboard that is the perfect gaming companion or just a small form factor keyboard that is great for work and play, there is a perfect 60% keyboard out there for everyone. The Best War Games has curated a guide to the best 60% keyboards, offering indenting buyers a wealth of options to consider.
Updated on September 4th, 2024 by Michael Akuchie: Since its last publication, two new products, the Kinesis gaming TKO mechanical keyboard and the MageGee portable 60% mechanical gaming keyboard have been added to offer shoppers more options to consider when shopping for compact keyboards for a more comfortable typing experience.
The Best War Games's Picks for the Best 60% Keyboards in 2024
Razer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard
- Brand
- Razer
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- RGB
- Media Controls
- No
- Num Pad
- No
The Razer Huntsman Mini boasts Razer Linear Optical switch technology, which utilizes optical beam-based actuation for key presses at the speed of light. This results in a 15-30% shorter actuation distance of 1.0 mm compared to other linear switches.
For an enhanced gaming experience, this keyboard offers ultimate personalization with Razer Chroma, syncing with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from over 30 partners. This enables support for 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys. Designed with quality in mind, the Huntsman Mini features a matte, aluminum top frame that increases structural integrity and durability.
- Switch Type
- Razer Optical
- Number of Keys
- 61
- Dimensions
- 1.5 x 11.6 x 4.1 inches
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Light optical switches
- Removable cable
- 5 onboard memory profiles
- Doesn't feel very durable
- Loud typing noise
The Huntsman Mini is Razer's first 60% keyboard after getting many requests for it from social media, and they hit out of the park on their first try. This keyboard does not give gamers a lot to gripe about at all. The Huntsman Mini is perfect for any gamer who wants a powerful, compact keyboard that feels excellent for gaming and typing.
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With a choice of linear, clicky, and tactile optical switches from Razer, gamers can pick the switch that best suits their needs. All three options have an excellent feel, and thanks to the optical design, every key press feels nice and smooth. Gamers who also plan to use this keyboard for everyday use might want to stay away from the linear switch, as it is pretty easy to make typos with such a light actuation point.
While this keyboard is not a budget keyboard per se, it is relatively affordable for its performance and overall feel. Plus, for a wired-only keyboard, it is always nice to see a removable cable, because there is nothing worse than having to replace a full keyboard just because of a faulty cable.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61
- Brand
- RK ROYAL KLUDGE
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- Multi-zone RGB
- Media Controls
- No
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- RK Blue, Brown, or Red
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is a small, 60% compact gaming keyboard that includes everything from RGB to mechanical switches. It's one of the very few options out there for mechanical keyboards on a budget, but their house brand "RK" blue, brown, and red switches stand out when playing games. This is a hot-swappable keyboard, meaning users can swap out the key switches with ease.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Number of Keys
- 61
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Xbox
- Dimensions
- 11.5W x 4.02L x 1.57H inches
- Keycaps
- ABS
- Wrist rest
- No
- Solid build quality
- Hot-swappable PCB
- Tri-mode connection options
- The thicker build can cause wrist strain
- Can't set macros for gaming
The Royal Kludge RK61 is an underrated 60% keyboard with excellent build quality, fantastic gaming performance, and a hot-swappable PCB for just $50. Whether gamers are looking to get their first mechanical keyboard or just an affordably priced one, the RK61 is a perfect option.
At this price point, many keyboards are not made to last the test of time, but the RK61 feels incredibly durable. Despite its small frame, it feels hefty and does not move around the desk when typing on it, but it is still easy enough to pack up and game on the go if needed.
Like the Razer Huntsman Mini, gamers can choose linear, tactile, and clicky switches when purchasing the RK61. All three of these switches offer an excellent typing and gaming experience. However, unlike the Huntsman Mini, the RK61 has a hot-swappable PCB, so gamers can swap the default switches for any five-pin Cherry mount switch they want. Whether in wired or wireless mode, the RK61 feels excellent to game with every keypress being responsive, and there is very little noticeable latency.
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless
- Wireless
- Yes
- Backlight
- Per Key RGB
- Battery
- 30 hours (Wireless) / 40 hours (Bluetooth with default lighting)
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic Switches
The Apex Pro Mini Wireless is built to create more space on desks for game-winning swipes while retaining all the capabilities of a full-size keyboard with its side-printed secondary actions. SteelSeries claims the Apex Pro Mini is the world's fastest and most advanced keyboard, and it performs effortlessly for all undertakings, whether gamers need the quickest keystrokes in gaming to destroy the competition, or deliberate presses for typing accuracy. Gamers can adjust the actuation point to the nearest 0.1mm for absolute customization.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Number of Keys
- 87
- Dimensions
- 11.53 in x 4.02 in x 1.59 in
- Charging
- USB-C
- Polling rate
- 1,000 Hz
- Adjustable, precise Omnipoint switches
- 2.4GHz dongle uses a USB-C port
- Clear, colorful RGB
- Expensive
- Loses stability when angled feet are up
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini sits at the opposite end of the spectrum of 60% keyboards to the RK61. This keyboard is absolutely jam-packed with special features, lightning-fast wireless connection, and fantastic build quality. However, all of those features and flashy designs are reflected in the price tag. When it comes to 60% keyboards, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini is an excellent option for gamers not concerned by their budget who simply want the most advanced keyboard.
The biggest selling point of the Apex Pro Mini is the Omnipoint adjustable switches. These switches allow gamers to fine-tune the amount of pressure that activates a key press. This feature is pretty revolutionary for most keyboards, though there are now a few companies making something similar, like the Razer Huntsman Analog. Regardless, with a couple of button presses, these switches make it incredibly easy to switch from fast-paced gaming with very light actuation points to work mode with heavier ones, so it's harder to make typos.
Despite mostly being made of plastic, the Apex Pro Mini has excellent build quality. The rubber feet on the bottom of the keyboard are very stable while typing, although if the angled feet are out, some of that stability is lost. However, it would be nice to have a slot for the USB-C dongle to sit on the keyboard when not in use.
Corsair K65 Pro Mini RGB
- Brand
- Corsair
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- Yes
- Media Controls
- No
- Num Pad
- No
The Corsair K65 Pro Mini RGB packs many of the features of high-end gaming keyboards into an amazingly compact 65 percent form factor. Corsair uses OPX optical-mechanical switches for a linear and smooth typing experience. Small but insanely quick, the K65 Pro Mini RGB takes advantage of CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing to register commands without latency. Since smaller keyboards can virtually disappear if they are also quiet, the K65 Pro Mini RGB stacks sound-dampening foam drown out typing noise.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Switch Type
- Optical-mechanical
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Mac
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- Up to 8000 Hz
- Fast optical switches
- Solid components
- Well-designed layout for a small form factor
- Sound dampening is ineffective
- On the pricier side
Despite all the improvements to wireless technology, there is still nothing better than a good wired keyboard in some cases. The Corsair K65 Pro Mini is an excellent option for gamers who want a wired 60% keyboard that provides ultra-low latency gaming and a fantastic typing experience.
In The Best War Games's Corsair K65 Pro Mini review, we found the included Corsair OPX switches to be incredibly responsive and tactile. The higher actuation point of these switches makes this keyboard a joy to type with, but when it comes to gaming, it can get a bit tiresome. Unlike the Royal Kludge RK61, this keyboard is not hot-swappable, and it is only available with the OPX linear switch, so for fans of clicky or tactile switches, this is probably not the best option.
Because the K65 Pro Mini is a wired keyboard, it can provide an impressive polling rate of 8,000Hz. Some gamers might say this polling rate is a bit excessive, but for those gamers with superhuman reflexes who need the fastest keyboard they can always rely on, that 8,000Hz polling rate is very much appreciated.
Keychron K12
- Wireless
- Yes
- Backlight
- Per-Key RGB Lighting
- Media Controls
- No
- Battery
- Up to 72 hours (With RGB Lighting) Up to240 hours (Backlight off)
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- Gateron G Pro Mechanical / Keychron Optical / Keychron Mechanical
Keychron K12 is a compact 60% layout white backlight Bluetooth wireless mechanical keyboard made for Mac and Windows. Thanks to its compact size, this keyboard can fit easily on any desk, and users can still have access to arrow keys through the use of the function layer. The K12 comes with either Gateron blue or brown switches. For Mac users, the Windows and alt keys can be swapped out for a Mac-specific layout.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Number of Keys
- 61 keys
- Compatible Devices
- Windows, macOS
- Wired operation
- Yes
- Dimensions
- 293mm x 102mmx30mm
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- Charging
- USB-C
- Keycaps
- ABS
- Wrist rest
- No
- USB Passthrough
- No
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Feels very well-built
- Great typing quality
- Reliable wireless connection
- Not macro-programmable
- The thicker design can be uncomfortable during longer sessions
While the Keychron K12 does not have the best gaming performance, it is one of the best 60% keyboards for gamers looking for an incredibly reliable wireless option. Keychron has made a name for itself over the last couple of years, producing accessible mechanical keyboards that are easily customizable and have an excellent typing experience. And the K12 is a perfect example of why they have received this reputation.
This keyboard comes with a variety of switches to choose from, and like the Royal Kludge RK61, the K12 has a hot-swappable PCB, so this is an excellent keyboard for gamers to dip their toes into the DIY keyboard space without having to build a full keyboard. All the switches that Keychron offers with the K12 by default feel excellent, but The Best War Games recommends the Brown switches for gamers looking for an option with a light touch.
While Mac computers are not the best gaming option, this keyboard comes with a macOS legend to make it much easier to use on Apple devices. While it is a minor inconvenience, sometimes having a Windows key and the control and cmd keys switched can make it super annoying to use a keyboard with the wrong legend. Thankfully, users don't have to worry about that with the K12.
Powered by a 4,000 mAh battery, this keyboard has an impressive battery life of up to 240 hours, much longer than the 30 hours of the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini. However, that extra battery life might be due to the K12's lower performance level. When connected via Bluetooth, the latency can be a bit high for fast-paced gaming, but for general use, it is unnoticeable.
Lofree Flow Mechanical Keyboard
- Backlight
- Per Key White LEDs
- Number of Keys
- 84 keys
- Dimensions
- 316mm x 126 mm x 24.5 mm
- Keycaps
- PBT
- Form factor
- 60%
- Switch options
- Ghost (Linear), Phantom (Tactile), Wizard (Clicky)
The Lofree Flow is one of the thinnest mechanical keyboards on the market, and the only one that uses full POM Kailh switches. These switches self-lubricate, making them smooth and a joy to type on. The gasket design provides enhanced cushioning, even pressure distribution, and some noise dampening for a thocky typing experience. The 10mm aluminum frame houses a 2,000mAh battery that lasts 40 hours of nonstop use and can charge up to full capacity in just 3 hours.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Colorways
- White and Black
- Construction
- Aluminum Frame
- Dampening
- Yes
- Supported operating systems
- Windows and macOS
- Hot-swappable
- Yes
- Battery capacity
- 2,000 mAH
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth and Wired
- Typing angle
- 3.9 degrees
- Weight
- 568 grams
- Excellent typing experience
- Fairly long battery life
- Solid construction with premium feel
- Bluetooth connection is not great for gaming
- Gasket design can cause some keys to be unresponsive
Taking the word compact to another level, the Lofree Flow is an excellent 60% keyboard for anyone who wants a keyboard that can easily be taken everywhere and anywhere and provides a superb typing experience. Gamers after a buttery smooth keyboard that is not too loud but offers a very tactile feeling will love the Lofree Flow.
In The Best War Games's Lofree Flow review, we found that both the Phantom and Ghost low-profile switches have incredibly smooth travel that makes typing for longer periods comfortable. However, the Phantoms have a lighter actuation point, which does make it easy to make some typos.
Despite being incredibly low-profile, this keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB like the Keychron K12, so gamers can swap out the Lofree switches for whatever low-profile keyboard switches they want. However, the incredibly slim profile makes finding compatible switches more complex than a standard-size keyboard. The Best War Games recommends sticking with the three switch options from Lofree for the best results, but other low-profile switch options are out there.
The Lofree Flow is an amazing keyboard that is a joy to use, but its performance does fall a bit short when it comes to gaming. The Flow has about 22ms of input delay when connected via Bluetooth or wired connection. However, the input lag is barely noticeable for typing and daily computer use. In slower-paced games and non-competitive games, this input latency wasn't a huge detriment, but the inconsistent signal was a bit frustrating at times.
Roccat Magma Mini Gaming Keyboard
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- 5 Zone Programable RGB, 10 LEDs
- Switch Type
- Membrane
- Number of Keys
- 87
- Dimensions
- 12.12 x 5.20 x 1.44 inches
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
The Roccat Magma Mini features a small and compact 60% form factor. This design helps free up desktop space and is excellent with a large mousepad. It features a five-zone Aimo RGB Lighting, complemented by a translucent top plate. The keyboard has an IP33 rating, making it durable against accidental spills. Its membrane keys are quiet but responsive. The Easy-Shift button enables an additional function layer for the keys.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Wired operation
- UBS-A
- Polling rate
- 1,000 Hz
- Lightweight and compact form factor
- Water and dust-proof
- Quiet typing experience
- Must use Function key to access arrow keys
- Wire isn't removable
In the realm of 60% keyboards, most of the options are going to mechanical, and while that is great for some gamers, people who want a quieter typing experience or just like the feeling of membrane switches more, are usually out of luck. Thankfully, the Roccat Magma Mini is an excellent 60% keyboard with some of the best membrane switches on the market.
Using mechanical-like rubber dome membrane switches, the Magma Mini offers gamers the best of both worlds: a responsive and satisfying typing experience that is also incredibly quiet. Gamers with young children or who are otherwise in a shared space will absolutely love this bright, capable keyboard.
As far as gaming performance is concerned, the Magma Mini delivers on-par latency and experience for a keyboard at this price point. It doesn't quite punch above its weight class like the Royal Kludge RK61, but it is a ton of fun to game with, especially considering it is only $50. The 1,000Hz polling rate is standard on gaming keyboards nowadays, and it delivers stable and consistent latency. However, gamers who want a more competitive edge might want to consider a keyboard like the Corsair K65 Pro Mini.
KINESIS Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard
- Backlight
- RGB
- Number of Keys
- 63
- Supported operating systems
- PC, Mac
- Hot-swappable
- Yes
- Connectivity
- USB-C
- Brand
- KINESIS
Built with gaming and coding in mind, the Kinesis TKO keyboard aims to deliver a wholesome experience every time it's used. Featuring a 60% layout that translates to a compact design, users will find it easier to reach keys while gaming or working. For gamers, the keyboard’s RGB lighting effects are excellent for increasing the appeal of their setup. Instead of a conventional space bar, the Kinesis keyboard offers a triple space bar layout which you can reserve for the space function or assign other actions.
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Cones with swappable keys
- Ergonomic design reduces the risk of wrist strain
- Software is tricky to use
Ergonomic keyboards are designed to provide a more natural and comfortable typing experience. The Kinesis TKO white keyboard comes with a 60% layout that makes it easier for users to reach the most important keys while playing Fortnite or rounding off a late-night work task. A significant part of its ergonomic offerings is the triple space bar system. Instead of a traditional single space bar, the Kinesis keyboard has three thumb keys that have been programmed to perform space action when pressed. Although it's a default setting, you can customize one or two of the three buttons to handle other tasks, if desired.
If you're looking for customization, this is the perfect keyboard for it. The main keys are removable, so you can use the extra keys to personalize the feel of WASD, the most important keys used for directional input in gaming. Unlike many keyboards which adopt a 5 degree slope, thereby putting you at risk of experiencing wrist pain, the Kinesis keyboard comes with a zero degree slope, which improves blood circulation in your wrists and lowers the risk of strain. Not only does the keyboard feature a compact design, but it also comes with a travel case that lets you take it along on business trips and vacations. If you like RGB lighting, then this keyboard has a dozen RGB lighting effects that you can customize to match the mood of your set-up.
MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Backlight
- 15 modes
- Number of Keys
- 68
- Brand
- MageGee
- Wireless
- No
- Num Pad
- No
The MageGee 60% keyboard is a perfect blend of portability and affordability, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a compact keyboard that's not too expensive. As expected, it comes with a 60% layout, which brings all the important switches together for an improved gaming and work experience. It also offers broad compatibility with Windows, Linux, and Mac. Buyers also get LED backlight.
- Switch Type
- Mechanical Red Switch
- Layout
- 60%
- Incredibly affordable
- Comes with LED backlight
- Compatible with multiple PC operating systems
- Keyboard has a louder sound level than others
If you're looking for an affordable yet competent 60 % keyboard, then it's worth checking out the MageGee portable keyboard. It has a compact design, made possible by the 60% layout, yet contains the key switches that you can use to gain a competitive advantage in gaming or typing fast while working. It also provides incredible tactile feedback thanks to the mechanical blue switches that make typing feel more relaxing than ever. You can rest assured that the keyboard can not interpret multiple keys pressed at once thanks to anti-ghosting.
While it may not offer RGB lighting, it does feature some form of lighting. The blue LED backlight it comes with has up to fifteen backlight modes which you can customize as desired. You don't have to worry about compatibility as the MageGee keyboard supports a USB 2.0 connector, which works just fine with Windows, Linux, and Mac systems. What's more, there's no software or driver update required as it's on a plug-and-play basis. It's worth mentioning that some users have noted that the keyboard has a slightly louder sound level than other more expensive options, especially in quiet areas.
Key Factors For Choosing The Best 60% Keyboards
Picking out the best 60% keyboard is easy for players who take a moment to consider what they're looking for and what places a keyboard a cut above the rest.
- Comfort: Comfort is critical to enjoying any keyboard, regardless of the form factor. Because of the smaller form factor, 60% keyboards don't typically have built-in wrist rests or ergonomic shapes. That doesn't mean they can't be comfortable, though. The typing angle and overall thickness also play into the comfort of a keyboard. Some gamers might like a thinner, low-profile keyboard, while others like full-height keyboards.
- Gaming Performance: Most people looking at 60% keyboards are typically looking for them to game with, and even if they are not looking to game, having a keyboard with low latency and a stable connection also makes everyday tasks much more enjoyable.
- Switch Type: 60% keyboards are pretty much all mechanical at this point, especially in the gaming space, so picking out what switches work best is also crucial to picking out a great keyboard. Linear, Clicky, and Tactile are the three main types of switches to choose from. However, remember that some mechanical keyboards are hot-swappable, so gamers don't have to be stuck with one type of mechanical switch.
Whether people are looking for a 60% keyboard that is the perfect gaming companion or just a small form factor keyboard that is great for work and play, there is a perfect 60% keyboard out there for everyone.
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FAQ
Q: Why do people like 60% keyboards so much?
60% keyboards have many advantages over the larger form factor keyboards. Its smaller size makes it easy to use regardless of the desk space available, especially while gaming, where having enough room for the mouse to move around is crucial.
Q: Are 60% keyboards good for everyday use?
Outside of gaming, 60% keyboards are super helpful for people who enjoy a smaller form factor. With the keys being much closer together compared to a full-size keyboard, 60% keyboards can be used much more efficiently. Of course, there is a bit of a learning curve for gamers coming from a larger keyboard when first moving down to a 60% keyboard.