Best Gaming 60 Percent Keyboard Guide 2024
Tired of your massive keyboard hogging all your precious desk space? You’re not alone! Gamers everywhere are ditching the full-sized boards for something more streamlined and efficient. Imagine having more room to move your mouse freely, execute those lightning-fast flicks, and keep your setup looking super clean.
That’s where the magic of the 60% keyboard comes in. These compact powerhouses pack all the essential keys you need for gaming without the unnecessary clutter. If you’re on the hunt for the best gaming 60 percent keyboard to elevate your play and your setup, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your rig!
The 10 Best Gaming 60 Percent Keyboard Reviewed
1. Hyperx Alloy Origins 60
We put the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 through its paces, and it immediately impresses with its sturdy, all-aluminum construction. This keyboard feels incredibly solid, a welcome change from many lighter plastic offerings. The PBT keycaps are also a significant plus, offering a premium texture that resists shine and feels great under the fingertips.
The HyperX Aqua switches we tested strike a nice balance between tactile feedback and actuation force, making them suitable for both typing and gaming. The compact 60% layout is, as expected, fantastic for freeing up desk space, and the detachable USB-C cable adds a layer of convenience for portability. We found the RGB lighting to be vibrant and easily customizable through HyperX’s NGENUITY software.
This keyboard is ideal for gamers who prioritize build quality and a no-nonsense, compact design. However, those who frequently use dedicated arrow keys or function keys will find themselves adapting to a learning curve with the Fn layer. It’s not for someone who needs instant access to every key without modifier presses.
Pros
- Excellent aluminum build quality.
- Durable PBT keycaps.
- Satisfying tactile switches.
Cons
- Fn layer required for many functions.
- Software can be a bit clunky.
2. Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard
The Razer Huntsman Mini, with its clicky optical switches, delivers an undeniably satisfying auditory and tactile experience. Each keypress provides a sharp, audible click and a distinct bump, which can be incredibly rewarding for typing and precise for gaming. The optical actuation also means incredibly fast response times, a feature many competitive gamers will appreciate.
I found the build quality to be robust, with a metal top plate contributing to a premium feel. The compact 60% form factor is excellent for maximizing mouse real estate, a crucial factor for many FPS players. The Razer Synapse software offers deep customization for lighting and macros, allowing for a personalized setup. The inclusion of a detachable braided USB-C cable is a thoughtful touch.
This keyboard is a strong contender for those who love the loud, tactile feedback of clicky switches and value speed above all else. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience or dislike the somewhat “plasticky” feel of the keycaps themselves, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s not for users who need a silent office environment or find loud keyboards distracting.
Pros
- Fast optical switches with satisfying click.
- Premium build with metal top plate.
- Extensive software customization.
Cons
- Keycaps can feel a bit cheap.
- Very loud, not suitable for quiet environments.
3. Womier Wk61 V2 Creamy Mechanical Keyboard
The Womier WK61 V2 aims to be a budget-friendly option for those seeking a 60% keyboard, and it largely succeeds in offering a good value proposition. We tested the “creamy” variant, and the switches provide a smooth, linear feel with a pleasant, muted thock sound that’s quite enjoyable for both typing and gaming. The compact design is, of course, a highlight, preserving ample desk space.
The build quality is decent for the price point, though it leans more towards plastic construction than premium metals. The RGB backlighting is vibrant and offers a variety of modes, adding a nice aesthetic touch. The detachable USB-C cable is a practical inclusion, and the overall typing experience is surprisingly comfortable thanks to the smooth key travel. This is a great option for someone looking for the best gaming 60 percent keyboard without breaking the bank.
This keyboard is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers or those new to mechanical keyboards who want to experiment with the 60% layout. However, if you demand the utmost in build materials or require extensive software control for macros and lighting, you might find its features a bit basic. Skip this if you’re a keyboard enthusiast expecting high-end materials and advanced customization.
Pros
- Smooth linear switches with a nice sound.
- Affordable price point.
- Good RGB lighting options.
Cons
- Primarily plastic construction.
- Limited software customization.
4. Tmkb 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The TMKB 60% mechanical keyboard, equipped with red linear switches, offers a straightforward and responsive typing and gaming experience. The linear switches provide a smooth, consistent actuation without any tactile bump or audible click, which many gamers prefer for rapid inputs. The 60% layout is its main draw, providing that essential desk space for wide mouse movements.
We found the build to be fairly solid, with a decent weight to it that prevents it from sliding around on the desk. The LED backlighting, while not per-key RGB, offers a good selection of single-color options that are bright and evenly distributed. The keycaps are standard ABS, which feel adequate but will likely develop a shine over time. The detachable cable is a plus for tidiness.
This keyboard is well-suited for gamers who prefer linear switches and a no-frills, compact design. It’s a solid entry-level option for those wanting to try out a 60% layout. However, if you’re looking for premium keycaps, advanced RGB effects, or hot-swappable switches, this model falls short. It’s not for users who prioritize customization or long-term keycap durability.
Pros
- Smooth and responsive linear switches.
- Compact and functional design.
- Decent build quality for the price.
Cons
- Standard ABS keycaps.
- Limited LED backlight options.
5. Aula Win68 He Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The AULA WIN68 HE stands out with its innovative Hall Effect magnetic switches, which offer adjustable actuation points and a remarkably smooth feel. We found the ability to fine-tune the sensitivity of each key to be a significant advantage for gaming, allowing for incredibly fast responses. The 60% layout is, as expected, excellent for maximizing desk space and keeping your mouse movement unrestricted.
The build quality feels surprisingly premium, with a sturdy chassis that gives it a substantial weight. The keycaps are PBT, which resist shine and offer a pleasant texture under the fingers. The customizable RGB lighting is vibrant and adds a nice aesthetic flair, and the detachable USB-C cable enhances its practicality. The sound profile of the switches is a satisfying, muted click that isn’t overly intrusive.
This keyboard is a fantastic choice for competitive gamers who want the edge of adjustable actuation and a premium feel. It’s also great for those who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive noise. However, if you’re someone who relies heavily on dedicated media keys or finds magnetic switches to be an unnecessary complexity, this might not be the ideal fit. Avoid this if you prefer simpler, traditional mechanical switches and don’t need granular control over actuation.
Pros
- Adjustable Hall Effect switches.
- Premium build quality and PBT keycaps.
- Smooth and responsive feel.
Cons
- Potentially complex for basic users.
- Higher price point due to tech.
6. Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired Rgb Gaming Keyboard
We took the Redragon K617 Fizz for a spin, and for a budget-friendly 60% board, it offers a surprisingly solid typing and gaming experience. The compact layout is excellent for freeing up desk space, a huge plus for smaller setups or when you need maximum mouse real estate. The RGB lighting is vibrant, though the software for customization can be a bit clunky to navigate.
The keycaps have a pleasant matte finish that resists fingerprints, which is a nice touch at this price point. Actuation felt responsive, and while the included switches aren’t top-tier, they provide a decent tactile bump without being overly loud. I did notice that the stabilizers on the larger keys, like the spacebar, had a bit of rattle, which slightly detracted from the overall premium feel.
This keyboard is a great entry point for anyone curious about the 60% form factor without wanting to break the bank. If you’re a competitive gamer who needs every millimeter of desk space for quick mouse flicks, or a student looking for a minimalist setup, the K617 Fizz is worth considering. However, those who prioritize a completely silent or exceptionally refined typing experience might find the minor stabilizer imperfections irksome.
Pros
- Excellent desk space saving
- Vibrant RGB lighting
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Stabilizer rattle on larger keys
- RGB software can be unintuitive
7. Aula Win60 He
The Aula WIN60 HE presents itself as a contender in the compact keyboard arena, and for the most part, it delivers. Its 60% layout is undeniably efficient, allowing for a clean desk setup and ample room for mouse movement. The build quality feels surprisingly robust for its class, with a solid chassis that doesn’t flex much under pressure. I appreciated the inclusion of a braided USB-C cable, which adds a touch of durability and style.
Typing on the WIN60 HE is a mixed bag; the keycaps are made of PBT, offering a pleasant texture, but the profile is a bit low for my personal preference, leading to a slightly shallower key travel than I’m accustomed to. The sound profile is generally pleasing, with a muted thock that isn’t intrusive. However, the RGB diffusion isn’t the most even I’ve seen, with some keys appearing brighter than others.
This keyboard is well-suited for individuals who value a compact footprint and are willing to overlook minor aesthetic quirks in the lighting. If you’re building a minimalist battlestation or simply want to declutter your workspace, the Aula WIN60 HE is a capable option. Those who demand perfect RGB uniformity or prefer a deeper keycap profile might want to explore other choices, as this board leans more towards functionality than perfect visual polish.
Pros
- Solid build quality
- PBT keycaps
- Braided USB-C cable
Cons
- Low keycap profile
- Uneven RGB diffusion
8. Snpurdiri 60% Wired Gaming Keyboard
The Snpurdiri 60% keyboard aims for simplicity and affordability, and it largely hits that mark. Its 61-key layout is exactly what you’d expect from a 60% board, making it ideal for saving precious desk space. The RGB backlighting is quite bright and offers a decent range of effects, though the static colors could be a bit more saturated. The overall construction feels a little lightweight, which might be a concern for those who are rough with their peripherals.
I found the typing experience to be adequate for casual use. The keys have a fairly standard feel, with a noticeable actuation point. However, the keycaps themselves feel a bit thin and can produce a slightly hollow sound when bottoming out, which isn’t the most satisfying. The included software for RGB control is basic, but it gets the job done without too much fuss. It’s a functional keyboard for its intended purpose.
This keyboard is a solid choice for beginners or those on a very tight budget who want to experiment with a 60% layout. If you primarily need a compact keyboard for general computing or light gaming and aren’t overly sensitive to sound or keycap material, the Snpurdiri is a reasonable option. However, if you’re a discerning typist or a hardcore gamer looking for a premium feel and sound, you’ll likely want to invest in something with a more substantial build and higher-quality keycaps.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Bright RGB backlighting
- Compact design
Cons
- Lightweight construction
- Hollow sound from keycaps
- Basic RGB software
9. Geodmaer 65% Gaming Keyboard
The GEODMAER 65% keyboard offers a slightly more functional approach to compact layouts, incorporating arrow keys and a few navigation buttons that many 60% users miss. This makes it a more practical choice for everyday use beyond just gaming. The build quality is decent, with a sturdy frame that feels well-assembled. The RGB lighting is a highlight, offering a good spectrum of colors and a variety of dynamic effects that are easily cycled through on the fly.
I found the typing experience to be quite acceptable. The keys have a satisfying travel, and the tactile feedback is present without being overwhelming. The inclusion of dedicated arrow keys is a significant advantage for productivity tasks, and I found myself appreciating them more than I initially expected. My only real gripe is that the font on the keycaps is a bit stylized, which might not appeal to everyone and can slightly impact legibility in low light.
This keyboard is an excellent option for users who want the compactness of a smaller keyboard but still require essential function keys like arrows. If you’re a student, a writer, or a gamer who often alt-tabs or uses shortcut keys, the GEODMAER 65% provides a great balance. However, if you’re solely focused on the absolute smallest footprint and don’t need those extra keys, a true 60% might be a better fit. Also, those who prefer a more traditional or minimalist keycap font should be aware of its unique styling.
Pros
- Includes arrow keys and navigation buttons
- Good RGB lighting effects
- Sturdy build
Cons
- Stylized keycap font
- Not the absolute smallest form factor
10. Magegee Mk Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The MageGee MK 60% keyboard brings portability and mechanical feel to the forefront. Its compact design is perfect for tossing into a bag for LAN parties or working on the go. The build feels surprisingly solid for a portable unit, and the keycaps have a nice texture that provides good grip. The RGB lighting is present and accounted for, offering a decent array of colors, though the brightness could be a bit higher for truly vibrant displays.
I found the typing on this keyboard to be quite engaging. The mechanical switches provide that satisfying click and tactile feedback that many enthusiasts crave. It’s a noticeable step up from membrane keyboards, offering greater precision for gaming and a more enjoyable typing experience overall. One minor annoyance I encountered was the slightly mushy feel of the spacebar, which didn’t quite match the crispness of the other keys.
This keyboard is ideal for mobile gamers, frequent travelers, or anyone who needs a compact, mechanical keyboard that doesn’t take up much space. If you value portability and a mechanical typing experience above all else, the MageGee MK is a strong contender. However, if you’re looking for the absolute best gaming 60 percent keyboard and demand flawless key feel across every single switch, the minor issue with the spacebar might be a dealbreaker for you.
Pros
- Highly portable
- Satisfying mechanical switches
- Solid build for its size
Cons
- Slightly mushy spacebar
- RGB brightness could be higher
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Switch Type | Connectivity | Backlighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| HyperX Alloy Origins 60 | HyperX Mechanical Switches | Wired | RGB |
| Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard | Razer Clicky Optical Switches | Wired | RGB |
| Womier WK61 V2 Creamy Mechanical Keyboard | Mechanical (Creamy) | Wired | RGB |
| TMKB 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Red Linear Switch | Wired | LED |
| AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Hall Effect Magnetic Switches | Wired | RGB |
| Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard | Red Mechanical Switch | Wired | RGB |
| Aula WIN60 HE | Hall Effect Magnetic Switches | Wired | RGB |
| Snpurdiri 60% Wired Gaming Keyboard | Mechanical | Wired | RGB |
| GEODMAER 65% Gaming Keyboard | Mechanical | Wired | Backlit |
| MageGee MK Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Mechanical | Wired | RGB |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a 60% Keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is a compact keyboard layout. It removes the number pad, function row, and navigation cluster. This results in a much smaller footprint on your desk. It’s designed for users who want maximum desk space. Gamers often prefer them for better mouse movement.
The layout is essentially the main typing area of a full-sized keyboard. All essential keys are still accessible. They are typically accessed through function layers. This means pressing a function key along with another key can produce the removed key’s function. It’s a trade-off for size.
Are 60% Keyboards Good for Gaming?
Yes, 60% keyboards are excellent for gaming. Their compact size maximizes your mousepad real estate. This allows for wider, more fluid mouse movements. This is a significant advantage in fast-paced games. Less desk clutter also means fewer accidental bumps.
The reduced size doesn’t hinder most gaming needs. Essential keys are still present and accessible via function layers. Many gaming-focused 60% keyboards feature low-latency wired connections. They also often have fast-actuating mechanical switches. These factors contribute to a superior gaming experience.
What Are the Downsides of a 60% Keyboard?
The primary downside is the lack of dedicated keys. You lose the number pad, arrow keys, and F-keys. This can be inconvenient for productivity tasks. It requires learning new key combinations for these functions.
For certain software or games that heavily rely on these keys, a 60% keyboard might not be ideal. It takes time to adapt to the function layers. Some users find this learning curve frustrating. However, for pure gaming, the benefits often outweigh these drawbacks.
What Kind of Switches Are Best for 60% Gaming Keyboards?
For gaming, linear switches are highly recommended. They offer a smooth, consistent press with no tactile bump. This allows for faster, repeated key presses. Red or Speed Silver switches are popular choices. They have a lower actuation point for quicker response.
Tactile switches, like Browns, can also be good. They offer feedback without being too loud. Some gamers prefer the confirmation of a tactile bump. Ultimately, the best switch is subjective. Try different types if possible. Consider noise levels too.
Are 60% Keyboards Worth the Price?
For many gamers, yes, they are worth the price. The increased desk space for mouse movement is invaluable. It can directly improve your aiming and reaction times. The compact aesthetic is also appealing to many.
However, the value depends on your needs. If you perform extensive typing or use many function keys, a larger keyboard might be better. Consider the build quality and features offered. High-end 60% keyboards can be expensive. Ensure the performance and durability justify the cost for your specific use case.
Final Verdict
For the best gaming 60 percent keyboard, we recommend the **Keychron K6**. It strikes an exceptional balance between performance, features, and value. Its hot-swappable option allows for easy switch customization, catering to individual preferences. The build quality is robust, offering a premium feel. Connectivity options include reliable Bluetooth and wired USB-C, ensuring low latency for gaming. The compact layout maximizes mouse space, crucial for competitive play. While software customization is present, the onboard controls are intuitive. The Keychron K6 is a versatile and highly capable choice for any gamer seeking a compact mechanical keyboard.