The best gaming keyboards don’t always need to be full-size. Tenkeyless (TKL) options can be just as great if not better, especially for those tight on gaming desk space or who want to take their keyboard on the go to a LAN party or tournament. So, if you’re okay with losing that number pad, consider a TKL mechanical gaming keyboard, like our favorite the Higround Basecamp 65. Even if that’s not for you, we’ve found three others; one is bound to fit your needs.
TKL mechanical gaming keyboards offer all the features you expect, only they have a smaller footprint. You can still enjoy customizability, programmability, RGB lighting, and more. Sure, you might sacrifice dedicated buttons for macros and media control, but if those aren’t deal breakers, you might want to make the switch. From the best high-end gaming keyboards to budget offerings all in a compact form factor, check out our tested and researched picks for the best TKL mechanical gaming keyboards.
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: White Flame Linear | Features: RGB lighting, programmable macros, arrow keys | Size: 13.89" x 6.02" x 1.85"
Pros:
Cons:
Keeping things even more compact than your typical TKL option, the Higround Basecamp 65 sticks with a 65% layout, so you lose the function keys (F1-F12). But most people won’t miss those keys while the smaller footprint, stunning design, and top-tier performance are worth the sacrifice.
The build of this keyboard is magnificent with a sturdy aluminum or polycarbonate frame featuring a dual silicone material to help with both sound dampening and weight. Inside the frame rests pre-lubed linear switches for a buttery-smooth typing experience. If you’re after a different feel, those switches are hot-swappable, and the tools for swapping are even included in the box. A 1,000Hz polling rate also means this wired keyboard will be perfectly responsive during all the heated action.
The Basecamp 65 is available in various styles, from fan favorites like Naruto and Yu-Gi-Oh! to more universal designs. But no matter which you choose, there’s RGB lighting ready to shine through. That lighting is fully customizable, though admittedly the software to make those changes and program macros is a little lackluster compared to other keyboards. Still, if you’re after a quality TKL keyboard ready to game, this is it.
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Switches | Features: Detachable wrist rest, five onboard profiles, dedicated media keys, hot-swappable PCB, 8,000Hz polling rate, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 12.6" x 6.1" x 0.9"
Pros:
Cons:
Razer’s BlackWidow V4 75% rocks a 75% layout, meaning you still get all the function and dedicated arrow keys as a traditional TKL option, albeit in a slightly more compact form factor. A configurable multifunction roller and two media buttons are even squeezed in to make the most of the available space on the board, while the up to 8,000Hz polling rate, N-key rollover, and anti-ghosting ensure it’s ready for gaming.
However, where the Black Widow V4 75% really shines is its hot-swap PCB. The keyboard already comes with Razer’s own Orange Tactile Mechanical Switches that feel great and come with transparent tops to let the impressive RGB lighting shine through. But you can easily swap out those switches for a different five-pin or three-pin set without soldering, which makes this option the perfect entry point for novice keyboard hobbyists. Razer’s impressive Synapse software also allows simple macro customization, key binding, and RGB lighting effects.
On top of those switches are ABS keycaps; we wish Razer had gone with the more durable PBT. Still, those keys all rest inside a gasket-mounted FR4 plate for a bit of flex while typing, while two layers of foam and pre-installed tape mod ensure a great sound straight out of the box.
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: HyperX Red, Blue, Aqua | Features: Three onboard profiles, adjustable keyboard angles, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 14.1" x 5.2" x 1.4"
Pros:
Cons:
TKL mechanical options don’t always need to cost a fortune, and the best budget gaming keyboard for the job is HyperX Alloy Origins Core, a similar, compact version of the HyperX Alloy Origins. It keeps with the traditional TKL design, so you won’t need to worry about cramped keys, and it has a build quality that punches far above its low price tag.
The Alloy Origins Core offers a solid, weighty aluminum case that houses your choice of Red, Blue, or Aqua Hyper X mechanical switches. No matter which switches you opt for, you’re in for the smooth, precise, and responsive typing experience needed in games. However, we have to fault the keycaps on those switches, as they have a bit of rattle and almost immediately attract an unpleasant shine. Luckily, it’s easy and inexpensive to swap them out for something better.
There is no shortage of gaming features on this gaming keyboard with essentials like N-key rollover and anti-ghosting. Hyper X’s NGENUITY software means simple custom keymappings and per-key adjustments to the stunning RGB lighting. You can even save up to three profiles on board, making for simple adjustments when switching between game types.
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: OmniPoint 2.0 | Features: Adjustable key actuation, five onboard profiles OLED screen, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 14” x 5.04” x 1.65”
Pros:
Cons:
Sticking with the traditional TKL design, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL still squeezes in a handy OLED screen that can display everything from different profiles and GPU stats to notifications. Flanking the display are two dedicated media keys for even more control.
The customizable OLED is nice, but that’s just the start of how you can personalize the keyboard to you and your games, as it’s fully programmable and the SteelSeries’ OmniPoint 2.0 switches have an adjustable actuation with tuning to the nearest 0.1mm. A great example of how this could be helpful is using a light press for walking and firmer for running on the same key. Dual actuation is also possible, and we can’t forget the stunning per-key RGB lighting to round it out.
If you’re worried about the responsiveness of the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL, don’t be. It’s superbly fast and ready to deliver in just about any game. The aluminum plate and PBT keycaps also ensure durability, so you’ll be good to take this keyboard just about anywhere. This option is wired, but there's a wireless model that's one of the best wireless keyboards.
Before you start your search for the best keyboard, you must set your budget. TKL options are available for various prices with many selling for just as much as their full-size counterparts. There are some great budget options for under $100, but the average price for the best TKL mechanical gaming keyboards hovers around $125-200. By going for the cheaper variety, you’ll often lose out on customizability, wireless connectivity, and sometimes RGB lighting.
Next, you need to consider the design. Of course, you’ll skip the number pad on TKL options in favor of a compact form factor. Standard TKL options offer 87 keys, including direction arrows, and everything is spaced out like a full-size keyboard. A 75% option shrinks the size but maintains almost all the same keys as a traditional TKL. 65% is where we see the loss of the F row but still have directional arrows. 60% is the smallest option we’d recommend getting for gaming, and with this option, the directional arrows go, too. The keyboard design you choose depends on desk space, whether you want a travel keyboard, and how cramped you prefer your keys.
You can’t forget the features of your TKL keyboard. Given our picks come with mechanical switches, there will be satisfying feedback and reliability, but you need to determine your preferred feel. Luckily, if you want to switch up that feel, many keyboards come with hot-swappable switches. Some options even take the customizations further by letting you adjust the actuation force and travel distance. Different styles and sizes of keycaps cover those switches; PBT keycaps are our favorite thanks to their durability. Key programmability for macros and key bindings can also give you an edge in certain games.
Beyond that, a polling rate above 1,000Hz is important for a responsive gaming keyboard. Wireless or wired must also be considered. Luckily, both perform similarly, as long as the wireless option comes with a 2.4GHz dongle. Since you’re after a gaming keyboard, some flashy RGB lighting is always a nice touch.
Clearly, you don’t lose out on anything but a number pad—and maybe a few dedicated macro keys and media controls—when opting for a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard over a traditional keyboard.
Yes. TKL keyboards are just as great and feature-rich as their full-size counterparts. In fact, the smaller form factor means you have more room for gaming mouse movements on your gaming desk, and it allows you to rest your arms in a more natural position when your fingers are hovering over the keys instead of being slightly to the left. Once you get into 75% and under options, the keys may be more cramped together, but some players prefer that style.
A TKL keyboard loses the number pad seen in a full-size keyboard but keeps the rest of the keys and spacing intact. So, you’ll get about 87 keys, including the directional arrows and some function keys, all contained within three columns of space. A 75% keyboard takes those three columns of space and consolidates them into one column for a smaller form factor. You generally don’t lose keys with a 75% option over a TKL. Getting into 65% and 60% keyboards, more keys disappear, including the entire function row (F1-F12).
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TL;DR – These are the Best Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboards:
TKL mechanical gaming keyboards offer all the features you expect, only they have a smaller footprint. You can still enjoy customizability, programmability, RGB lighting, and more. Sure, you might sacrifice dedicated buttons for macros and media control, but if those aren’t deal breakers, you might want to make the switch. From the best high-end gaming keyboards to budget offerings all in a compact form factor, check out our tested and researched picks for the best TKL mechanical gaming keyboards.
1. Higround Basecamp 65
Best TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Overall
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: White Flame Linear | Features: RGB lighting, programmable macros, arrow keys | Size: 13.89" x 6.02" x 1.85"
Pros:
- Compact, unique design
- Buttery-smooth, hot-swappable switches
Cons:
- Mediocre software
Keeping things even more compact than your typical TKL option, the Higround Basecamp 65 sticks with a 65% layout, so you lose the function keys (F1-F12). But most people won’t miss those keys while the smaller footprint, stunning design, and top-tier performance are worth the sacrifice.
The build of this keyboard is magnificent with a sturdy aluminum or polycarbonate frame featuring a dual silicone material to help with both sound dampening and weight. Inside the frame rests pre-lubed linear switches for a buttery-smooth typing experience. If you’re after a different feel, those switches are hot-swappable, and the tools for swapping are even included in the box. A 1,000Hz polling rate also means this wired keyboard will be perfectly responsive during all the heated action.
The Basecamp 65 is available in various styles, from fan favorites like Naruto and Yu-Gi-Oh! to more universal designs. But no matter which you choose, there’s RGB lighting ready to shine through. That lighting is fully customizable, though admittedly the software to make those changes and program macros is a little lackluster compared to other keyboards. Still, if you’re after a quality TKL keyboard ready to game, this is it.
2. Razer BlackWidow V4 75%
Best Customizable TKL Mechanical Keyboard
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Switches | Features: Detachable wrist rest, five onboard profiles, dedicated media keys, hot-swappable PCB, 8,000Hz polling rate, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 12.6" x 6.1" x 0.9"
Pros:
- Hot-swappable switches
- Great feel when typing
Cons:
- Slightly cramped layout
Razer’s BlackWidow V4 75% rocks a 75% layout, meaning you still get all the function and dedicated arrow keys as a traditional TKL option, albeit in a slightly more compact form factor. A configurable multifunction roller and two media buttons are even squeezed in to make the most of the available space on the board, while the up to 8,000Hz polling rate, N-key rollover, and anti-ghosting ensure it’s ready for gaming.
However, where the Black Widow V4 75% really shines is its hot-swap PCB. The keyboard already comes with Razer’s own Orange Tactile Mechanical Switches that feel great and come with transparent tops to let the impressive RGB lighting shine through. But you can easily swap out those switches for a different five-pin or three-pin set without soldering, which makes this option the perfect entry point for novice keyboard hobbyists. Razer’s impressive Synapse software also allows simple macro customization, key binding, and RGB lighting effects.
On top of those switches are ABS keycaps; we wish Razer had gone with the more durable PBT. Still, those keys all rest inside a gasket-mounted FR4 plate for a bit of flex while typing, while two layers of foam and pre-installed tape mod ensure a great sound straight out of the box.
3. HyperX Alloy Origins Core
Best Budget TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: HyperX Red, Blue, Aqua | Features: Three onboard profiles, adjustable keyboard angles, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 14.1" x 5.2" x 1.4"
Pros:
- Solid case and switches
- Excellent NGENUITY software
Cons:
- Underwhelming keycaps
TKL mechanical options don’t always need to cost a fortune, and the best budget gaming keyboard for the job is HyperX Alloy Origins Core, a similar, compact version of the HyperX Alloy Origins. It keeps with the traditional TKL design, so you won’t need to worry about cramped keys, and it has a build quality that punches far above its low price tag.
The Alloy Origins Core offers a solid, weighty aluminum case that houses your choice of Red, Blue, or Aqua Hyper X mechanical switches. No matter which switches you opt for, you’re in for the smooth, precise, and responsive typing experience needed in games. However, we have to fault the keycaps on those switches, as they have a bit of rattle and almost immediately attract an unpleasant shine. Luckily, it’s easy and inexpensive to swap them out for something better.
There is no shortage of gaming features on this gaming keyboard with essentials like N-key rollover and anti-ghosting. Hyper X’s NGENUITY software means simple custom keymappings and per-key adjustments to the stunning RGB lighting. You can even save up to three profiles on board, making for simple adjustments when switching between game types.
4. SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL
Best RGB TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Interface: Wired | Key switch options: OmniPoint 2.0 | Features: Adjustable key actuation, five onboard profiles OLED screen, per-key RGB lighting | Size: 14” x 5.04” x 1.65”
Pros:
- Switches have adjustable actuation
- Handy OLED screen
Cons:
- Switches aren’t hot-swappable
Sticking with the traditional TKL design, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL still squeezes in a handy OLED screen that can display everything from different profiles and GPU stats to notifications. Flanking the display are two dedicated media keys for even more control.
The customizable OLED is nice, but that’s just the start of how you can personalize the keyboard to you and your games, as it’s fully programmable and the SteelSeries’ OmniPoint 2.0 switches have an adjustable actuation with tuning to the nearest 0.1mm. A great example of how this could be helpful is using a light press for walking and firmer for running on the same key. Dual actuation is also possible, and we can’t forget the stunning per-key RGB lighting to round it out.
If you’re worried about the responsiveness of the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL, don’t be. It’s superbly fast and ready to deliver in just about any game. The aluminum plate and PBT keycaps also ensure durability, so you’ll be good to take this keyboard just about anywhere. This option is wired, but there's a wireless model that's one of the best wireless keyboards.
How to Choose the Best Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Before you start your search for the best keyboard, you must set your budget. TKL options are available for various prices with many selling for just as much as their full-size counterparts. There are some great budget options for under $100, but the average price for the best TKL mechanical gaming keyboards hovers around $125-200. By going for the cheaper variety, you’ll often lose out on customizability, wireless connectivity, and sometimes RGB lighting.
Next, you need to consider the design. Of course, you’ll skip the number pad on TKL options in favor of a compact form factor. Standard TKL options offer 87 keys, including direction arrows, and everything is spaced out like a full-size keyboard. A 75% option shrinks the size but maintains almost all the same keys as a traditional TKL. 65% is where we see the loss of the F row but still have directional arrows. 60% is the smallest option we’d recommend getting for gaming, and with this option, the directional arrows go, too. The keyboard design you choose depends on desk space, whether you want a travel keyboard, and how cramped you prefer your keys.
You can’t forget the features of your TKL keyboard. Given our picks come with mechanical switches, there will be satisfying feedback and reliability, but you need to determine your preferred feel. Luckily, if you want to switch up that feel, many keyboards come with hot-swappable switches. Some options even take the customizations further by letting you adjust the actuation force and travel distance. Different styles and sizes of keycaps cover those switches; PBT keycaps are our favorite thanks to their durability. Key programmability for macros and key bindings can also give you an edge in certain games.
Beyond that, a polling rate above 1,000Hz is important for a responsive gaming keyboard. Wireless or wired must also be considered. Luckily, both perform similarly, as long as the wireless option comes with a 2.4GHz dongle. Since you’re after a gaming keyboard, some flashy RGB lighting is always a nice touch.
Clearly, you don’t lose out on anything but a number pad—and maybe a few dedicated macro keys and media controls—when opting for a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard over a traditional keyboard.
Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard FAQ
Are TKL keyboards good for gaming?
Yes. TKL keyboards are just as great and feature-rich as their full-size counterparts. In fact, the smaller form factor means you have more room for gaming mouse movements on your gaming desk, and it allows you to rest your arms in a more natural position when your fingers are hovering over the keys instead of being slightly to the left. Once you get into 75% and under options, the keys may be more cramped together, but some players prefer that style.
What’s different between a TKL and a 75% keyboard?
A TKL keyboard loses the number pad seen in a full-size keyboard but keeps the rest of the keys and spacing intact. So, you’ll get about 87 keys, including the directional arrows and some function keys, all contained within three columns of space. A 75% keyboard takes those three columns of space and consolidates them into one column for a smaller form factor. You generally don’t lose keys with a 75% option over a TKL. Getting into 65% and 60% keyboards, more keys disappear, including the entire function row (F1-F12).
Continue reading...
