Have you ever wanted a keyboard that was fully customizable, yet didn’t take up too much desk space? If so, then a 60 percent keyboard might just be the perfect choice for you. As its name implies, a 60 percent keyboard contains only sixty percent of the standard 104 keys found on regular keyboards. It essentially condenses all essential features into a narrow body and can save tons of precious desk real estate in return!
But don’t let its small frame fool you! In this ultimate guide to 60 percent keyboards, we’ll go over everything from why it is increasingly becoming popular amongst professionals and gamers alike to which one is best for your individual needs. With streamlined options such as full-size backlit mechanical keys or even low-profile ones with multiple layouts and customization options – there’s something out there for everyone!
What is 60 Percent Keyboard
60 percent keyboards are mechanical, and each key has its own switch, making it more accurate and responsive when each key is pressed. There are no extra keys on the right side of the keyboard, making it smaller and more ergonomic than most other types of keyboards.
The 60 percent keyboard is a mechanical keyboard with only 60 percent of the keys on a full-size keyboard. Each key uses its own switch — that’s why each key is more accurate compared to a keyboard that uses a membrane switch.
The 60 percent keyboard is as popular as the TKL keyboard (80 percent size), but not as popular as the full-size keyboard. It allows direct access to all the buttons in what is called an alphanumeric cluster. The pure 60 percent keyboard contour size lacks D-pad, F-row, and navigation cluster. Nevertheless, these keys are available, but not in a dedicated form.
The Advantages of 60 Percent Keyboard
60 percent of keyboards measures about 11.5 inches by 4.25 inches. It is much smaller than the Tenkeyless keyboard (TKL). This means it takes up much less space in your bag, which improves its portability. You can easily carry it around with your laptop or another device.
The size of the keyboard leaves enough room on your desk to set up monitor speakers, a large monitor, and a mousepad. There is also enough space on the right to allow you to hold the mouse closer to the keyboard, “at a more ergonomic Angle to the rest of your body.”
60 percent of keyboards are good for customization. It comes with a standard layout, and it is compatible with every custom key set in existence. The keyboard also has several custom cases that make it easy to turn it into something unique.
Since it was more focused on achieving a minimalist look, missing some keys, the manufacturer designed a simple solution, called the programmable layer, to fill in the gaps. This layer usually takes the form of a PN key. When you hold it, the function of each key changes. 60 percent of keyboards have this feature.
You can program layers any way you want with just a few key presses. In addition, you can easily set up the keyboard to record simple macros without installing complex software. The programmable layer enables you to tune and modify the layout to your best preference.
The Disadvantages of 60 Percent Keyboard
Due to its small size, it does not contain dedicated keys such as the F key, number keys, and navigation cluster (D-keys, home keys, delete keys, page down, page up, and print screen). The layout is compressed into a single block, leaving no free sections or gaps. Unfortunately, the exit key doesn’t scroll by itself, as it requires extra space. Even if you could use these keys, they wouldn’t be as functional as a full-size keyboard.
For example, to access the F row key, you must hold down the fn key and press the numbers 1-9 plus symbols to create the rest of the row. In order to do this successfully, your fingers need to be in a certain position. They have to hold FN or PN keys to access different functions, which can be quite challenging to master.
Best 60 Percent Keyboards in the Market
Ducky One 2 Mini
The Ducky One 2 Mini weighs about 590 grams and has a sleek, stylish look. Unlike previous products, it is designed with a metal casing to make it more robust and durable. It connects to the PC via a removable USB Type-C to type-A cable.
As for the keyboard, it comes with a premium Cherry MX switch that comes in blue, red, brown, black, or red. Thanks to its on-off switch, you don’t have to worry about typing noises or shaky keys while playing. Also, in the package, you’ll find free unique keycaps and keyboard pullers in different colors and designs, making it easier for you to swap keys.
In a build quality of service, all keycaps are full PBT dual lenses. This means that the keyboard won’t become tacky after prolonged use, as poorer quality keycaps do.
Razor Huntsman Mini
Faster than traditional mechanical switches: Razer linear optical switch technology uses a beam-based drive that registers keys at the speed of light (drive distance is 15-30percent shorter than other 1.0 mm linear switches) Hertz Ultrapolling.
Ultimate personalization and gaming immersion for Razer chromaticity: Fully syncing with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and devices from more than 30 partners. It supports 16.8 million colors of individually backlit keys.
Quality, Aluminum construction: Covered with matte, aluminum top frame adds structural integrity.
Oil-resistant dual elastic PBT Key cover: By texture, advanced PBT is more durable and a textured finish is less prone to long-term dirt buildup.
Fully programmable macro: Razer Hypershift allows all keys and key combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands.
Hyper X Alloy Origins 65
60 percent compact shape: This super compact keyboard makes more room for your mouse.
All-aircraft-grade aluminum body: The aluminum casing keeps the keyboard structurally stable during intense action.
Double-sided printing PBT keycap: The keycap is designed with durable PBT material, wear resistance, wear resistance, and solvent resistance. Secondary functions are printed on the side of the key cap for quick identification.
HyperX Mechanical Switch: Custom-designed HyperX key switch balances speed and accuracy. They’re also reliable, lasting 80 million keystrokes without loss of quality.
RGB backlight keys with radiant lighting effect: Get brighter, more luminous RGB lighting due to the exposed LED design of the HyperX mechanical switch.
Three adjustable keyboard angles and removable USB-C cable: Two-step keyboard pins allow you to set the keyboard at 3 different tilt angles. The detachable USB-C cable makes this ultra-compact keyboard ultra-portable.
Corsair K65 RGB Mini Gaming Keyboard
Small size, big features: The K65 RGB MINI squeezes big features into a 60percent shape factor and can easily fit into even the most compact Spaces for comfortable gaming.
CORSAIR AXON hyper-processing technology: Transmits input to PC up to 8 times faster than traditional gaming keyboards, with 8,000Hz hype rolling.
100 percent CHERRY MX SPEED RGB Silver Mechanical keys:1.2mm drive range, lightning-fast response time, 4 times faster than a standard CORSAIR AXON mechanical keyboard.
PBT Double gun keycaps: Precision molded keycaps, resistant to wear, fading, and gloss, 1.5 mm thick rigid stability.
Asus ROG Falchion wireless gaming keyboard
Although a bit expensive, the Asus ROG gaming keyboard is a good choice. For one thing, its designers paid great attention to detail. This can be judged by the position of its touch volume slider and battery indicator.
Its battery is arguably one of its best selling points, as it is large enough to last up to 450 hours, that is, if the RGB lighting is turned off. This is a great option, especially for frequent travelers. In addition, it comes with an opaque cover to protect it from wear or damage during travel.
Designed primarily wirelessly, the keyboard connects to your computer via a 2.4GHz USB dongle. However, unlike most wireless keyboards, this one has excellent connectivity, no lag, and is responsive, making it ideal for professional gaming.
Finally, its keyboard, equipped with Cherry MX red switches, is quiet and responsive. Of course, if you don’t like this option, as mentioned earlier, you can also choose to customize it.
Tips to Choose the Perfect 60 Percent Keyboard
Type of Work
There are a wide variety of 60 percent keyboards on the market today, each with a specific function to suit a specific purpose. The first thing you need to think about is what work you are going to do with your keyboard.
There are keyboards designed for games. The best game keyboards contain special game keys to help play computer games. If you need to use a computer for tasks that require long hours of typing, invest in an ergonomic keyboard that gives you a great, comfortable typing experience.
If you need to use numbers, you’d better make sure you have a keyboard with a number pad. Your job largely determines what type of keyboard you should choose so you don’t spend money on the wrong type of keyboard you don’t need.
Switch
When you buy a 60 percent keyboard, the first thing you need to do is check the keyboard strokes. You don’t want a keyboard that feels like a typewriter (which can really kill you). Check and test the feel of the keys. Some keyboards have a sensitive, soft, feathery touch, while others require extra pressure to type.
The mechanism by which keys respond to touch is the “switch”. Rubber dome switches, scissors switches, and mechanical switches are the main types of switches used by most manufacturers. These switches vary greatly in sensitivity, noise levels, and comfort. Know them and choose the right one.
Compatibility
Most keyboards now connect to computers via USB ports. The old PS/2 ports are almost obsolete. The wireless keyboard connects to the system via Bluetooth and, unlike a plug-and-play USB keyboard, can be tricky to set up. Most keyboards require some software installed on your computer to use the function keys. Make sure the keyboard is compatible with your system before actually buying.
Design
Keyboard design and architecture can make a big difference to your computing experience. According to the design, the keyboard can be divided into the standard keyboard, game keyboard, and ergonomic keyboard.
Ergonomic keyboards are designed to allow your hands to be placed naturally and minimize stress by providing proper wrist rest that maximizes comfort. They’re expensive, but they’re worth the money. If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, opt for an ergonomic keyboard.
Those who use a computer in the dark may prefer an illuminated keyboard. Those who value portability may want a flexible foldable keyboard that doesn’t take up much room in the bag. For those prone to accidents, there are liquid-resistant keyboards on the market.
For those who care about comfort, a keyboard with a split-piece design or one with the right wrist pads may be at the top of the list. The DVORAK layout is better for programmers than the standard QWERTY layout. For those who are obsessed with cleanliness, there are washable keyboards.
Wired or Wireless
Both wired and wireless configurations have their own advantages and disadvantages. The wireless configuration reduces the clutter of wires on your desk, but it also has the potential to interfere with other wireless devices.
For gaming, wired keyboards are preferred, as wireless keyboards tend to lag, which hinders gameplay. The wireless keyboard is battery-powered and needs to be recharged or replaced from time to time. This adds to the cost. As a result, keyboards that support wired and wireless configurations are preferred by many who want the best of both worlds.
Price
Prices vary depending on the functions included in the keyboard. Obviously, the more features, the more expensive. Look for a keyboard that fits both your requirements and your budget.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an edge in your business, consider using a 60 percent keyboard. They may be less common than traditional keyboards, but they offer a number of benefits that can help you work more efficiently and productively. With a little practice, you’ll be able to type just as quickly on a 60 percent keyboard as you would on a full-sized one, so don’t let the smaller size intimidate you!
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