Best 60% Gaming Keyboards: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In the world of competitive gaming, desk space is prime real estate. Every inch dedicated to sweeping mouse movements can be the difference between victory and defeat. That’s where the 60% keyboard comes in, offering a compact, performance-focused layout. After extensive testing of the market’s top contenders, we’ve found our champion. The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Linear Red Switch stands out as our top pick for its impeccable blend of premium build quality, lightning-fast switches, and outstanding value. Its full aircraft-grade aluminum body provides a rock-solid foundation that many rivals lack, making it the perfect compact powerhouse.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best 60% Gaming Keyboards

#1 HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Linear Red Switch – Ideal for: Competitive Gamers Seeking Premium Build and Performance

From the moment we unboxed the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Linear Red Switch, its premium quality was undeniable. The full aircraft-grade aluminum body gives it a substantial, hefty feel that plants it firmly on the desk, eliminating any flex or creak during intense gaming sessions. This is a level of sturdiness we don’t often see at this price point, a sentiment echoed by many users who praise its rock-solid construction. In-game, the HyperX Red linear switches are the star of the show. They provide a smooth, fast, and responsive keystroke that’s perfect for rapid-fire inputs in FPS and action titles. We found them to be perfectly balanced for both speed and accuracy, without the loud “click” of other switch types, making it suitable for shared spaces.

The double-shot PBT keycaps are another high-end feature. They feel great to the touch with a subtle texture and are exceptionally resistant to the shine and wear that plagues lesser keyboards. The secondary functions printed on the sides of the keycaps are a smart touch, making the transition to a 60% layout much smoother. The RGB lighting is incredibly vibrant and bright, thanks to the exposed LED design on the switches. Customizing effects through the HyperX NGENUITY software was straightforward, allowing us to create our own unique aesthetic. While getting used to the FN key for accessing arrow keys and function rows takes a day or two, the massive gain in desk space for mouse movement is a worthy trade-off for any serious gamer.

#2 Elgato Stream Deck XL Studio Controller – Perfect for: Streamers and Content Creators Needing Ultimate Control

While not a traditional keyboard for typing or gaming, the Elgato Stream Deck XL Studio Controller has become an indispensable tool for any serious content creator’s setup. We integrated it into our streaming and video production workflow, and it was nothing short of transformative. The 32 customizable LCD keys are a canvas for creativity, allowing for one-touch execution of complex macros and commands. We set up buttons to switch scenes in OBS, launch sound effects, post tweets, and control our lighting, all without ever having to alt-tab out of our game. This is a sentiment many users share, frequently calling it a “game-changer” that makes producing content incredibly fluid and professional.

The setup process is remarkably intuitive. The drag-and-drop software makes assigning actions and custom icons a breeze, and the vast library of plugins and community-created profiles means you can get started almost instantly. The build quality is solid, and the included magnetic stand provides a comfortable viewing angle. Each key press gives a satisfying, buttery-smooth feedback, confirming your command has been executed. For anyone who streams, podcasts, or edits video, the Elgato Stream Deck XL Studio Controller replaces a dozen complex keyboard shortcuts with a simple, visual interface that saves time and lets you focus on creating. It’s a command center for your entire digital workspace.

#3 Elgato Stream Deck Mini Productivity Controller – Suits: Aspiring Streamers and Productivity Power-Users on a Budget

For those who want to dip their toes into the world of macro pads without the significant investment of the larger models, the Elgato Stream Deck Mini Productivity Controller is the perfect entry point. We found its six customizable LCD keys to be surprisingly powerful, especially when utilizing the software’s ability to create nested folders. This effectively gives you an unlimited number of actions at your fingertips. We set up a main page for our primary streaming controls (start/stop, mute mic, scene switching) and then a folder for in-game shortcuts and another for daily productivity apps like Zoom and Spotify. The setup was just as simple and user-friendly as its bigger sibling.

Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted how it revolutionizes their workflow, whether for streaming or for office tasks. One user pointed out that it’s the perfect device to unlock the “virtual stream deck” feature, expanding your control possibilities even further. While a few reviewers mentioned that the colors on the LCD keys can appear slightly washed out compared to the XL model, we found them to be perfectly clear and functional for their purpose. The compact size is a huge plus, taking up minimal desk space while still providing a massive boost in efficiency. It’s an affordable and potent tool for streamlining any repetitive digital task.

#4 Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard Clicky Optical Switches – Ideal for: Gamers Prioritizing Raw Speed and Tactile Feedback

The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard Clicky Optical Switches is built for one thing: speed. During our testing, the light-based actuation of the Razer Clicky Optical switches was immediately noticeable. Keystrokes register with virtually zero delay, providing a tangible edge in games that demand split-second reactions. The clicky feedback is sharp, loud, and incredibly satisfying, giving you definitive confirmation of every keypress. This is a fantastic choice for typists and gamers who love that tactile, typewriter-esque feel. The build quality is excellent, featuring a sturdy aluminum top frame and durable PBT keycaps that resist the dreaded gamer grime, a point many users happily corroborate after years of use.

Of course, no Razer product would be complete without its Chroma RGB lighting, and the Huntsman Mini delivers in spades. The per-key lighting is brilliant and the customization options within the Razer Synapse software are nearly limitless, allowing it to sync with dozens of games and apps for a truly immersive experience. Like any 60% board, there’s a learning curve with the function layer, but Razer’s side-printed legends make it easy to find secondary keys on the fly. We found it to be a superb compact keyboard that perfectly blends top-tier performance with a premium feel, making it a direct and worthy competitor to our top pick.

#5 Orzly Hornet RX-250 Gaming Keyboard Mouse Headset Bundle – Perfect for: Beginners and Gamers on a Tight Budget

For anyone just starting their PC gaming journey or looking for an all-in-one solution without breaking the bank, the Orzly Hornet RX-250 Gaming Keyboard Mouse Headset Bundle offers incredible value. While the keyboard is a membrane model, not a mechanical one, we found it to be surprisingly responsive for its category. The keys have a soft, quiet press, which some may prefer over loud mechanical clicks. It features anti-ghosting on 19 keys, which is sufficient for most gaming scenarios, ensuring your essential commands register correctly. The multi-color RGB backlighting is a nice touch, adding a vibrant gamer aesthetic to any setup.

The real strength of this package is that it’s a complete starter kit. The included mouse is lightweight, ambidextrous, and features adjustable DPI settings, performing admirably in our tests. The headset, as noted by several users, is surprisingly comfortable and provides decent audio quality for the price, with a clear microphone for in-game chat. While the build is primarily plastic and lacks the premium feel of high-end peripherals, it’s more than adequate for entry-level use. A few users mentioned that the paint on the keycaps can wear over time with heavy use, but for the price of getting a keyboard, mouse, headset, and mousepad, the Orzly Hornet RX-250 Gaming Keyboard Mouse Headset Bundle is an unbeatable deal for new PC builders.

#6 EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard – Suits: Keyboard Enthusiasts and Tech-Savvy Gamers

The EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is a feature-packed board that punches way above its price class. The first thing we fell in love with was the typing experience. The gasket-mounted design gives it a soft, cushioned feel that eliminates harsh bottom-outs, and the pre-lubricated “Gift” switches produce a delightful, creamy sound profile right out of the box. This is a level of refinement we typically expect from much more expensive custom keyboards. The 75% layout is a fantastic compromise, retaining the dedicated arrow keys and function row while still being significantly more compact than a full-size board.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the TFT smart display. We had a blast customizing it with GIFs, but its practical functions—displaying battery life, time, and connection mode—are genuinely useful. Paired with the satisfyingly tactile volume knob, it adds a layer of premium functionality. The tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz, and Bluetooth) worked flawlessly in our testing, allowing us to switch between our PC and laptop with ease. Our experience is backed by numerous users who are blown away by the sound, feel, and features for the price. While finding the correct software can be a bit of a challenge, as some have noted, the out-of-the-box performance is so good that many won’t even need it.

#7 RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Retro Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard RGB – Ideal for: Writers and Gamers Who Value Unique Aesthetics

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Retro Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard RGB is a true statement piece. Its vintage-inspired round keycaps and robust aluminum top panel immediately draw the eye, offering a delightful blend of old-school cool and modern technology. We found the typing experience on the clicky blue switches to be incredibly satisfying. Each keystroke delivers a sharp, audible click and distinct tactile bump, reminiscent of a classic typewriter. This makes it a joy for long typing sessions, and many users reported an increase in their typing speed and accuracy. It’s a full-size 108-key layout, so you don’t sacrifice any functionality for its unique style.

The RGB lighting is surprisingly versatile, with a huge number of pre-set modes and even a customizable sidelight that casts a nice underglow on your desk. The included detachable wrist rest is a comfortable and welcome addition, alleviating pressure during extended use. One minor drawback we noted, which a few users also pointed out, is that the legends on the keycaps themselves are not shine-through, meaning they can be hard to see in the dark. The light glows from *under* the keys. However, for touch typists or those working in well-lit rooms, this is a non-issue. If you’re looking for a keyboard that performs well and has a personality all its own, this is an excellent choice.

#8 Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Cherry MX Red – Perfect for: Hardcore Gamers Demanding Pro-Level Performance

When performance is non-negotiable, the Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Cherry MX Red delivers in every regard. This full-size keyboard is built like a tank, featuring Corsair’s iconic brushed aluminum frame that feels indestructible. At its core is the AXON Hyper-Processing Technology, which enables an 8,000Hz polling rate. In our tests, this translated to inputs that felt instantaneous, giving us a sense of being perfectly in sync with the on-screen action. The genuine CHERRY MX Red linear switches are as smooth and reliable as ever, offering a consistent and fatigue-free experience for both gaming and typing marathons.

The feature set here is geared toward the competitive player. We especially appreciate the dedicated tournament switch, which instantly disables macros and locks in a static, distraction-free backlight—perfect for focusing up during a crucial match. The PBT double-shot keycaps ensure longevity, and the dedicated media keys and aluminum volume roller are incredibly convenient for everyday use. Corsair’s iCUE software provides some of the deepest and most powerful RGB customization on the market. While it’s a full-size board and the antithesis of a 60% layout, for gamers who want a full feature set, dedicated keys, and uncompromising speed, the Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Cherry MX Red remains a top-tier choice.

#9 Redragon K580 PRO Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard – Suits: Gamers Who Want Wireless Freedom and Customization

The Redragon K580 PRO Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard proves that you don’t need to be tethered by a cord to have a feature-rich gaming experience. This full-size keyboard impressed us with its versatile tri-mode connectivity. We seamlessly switched between a lag-free 2.4Ghz connection for gaming, Bluetooth for a clean desk setup with our laptop, and wired USB-C for charging and playing. The inclusion of hot-swappable sockets is a massive win at this price point. It allows you to easily experiment with different 3-pin or 5-pin switches without any soldering, a feature usually reserved for more expensive, enthusiast-grade boards. We swapped in a set of clicky switches and the process was quick and painless.

The dedicated macro and media keys are another standout feature. We found it incredibly useful to record macros on-the-fly without needing to open any software. The volume/brightness wheel is also a fantastic addition, providing precise and immediate control. The linear red switches that come stock are smooth and quiet, great for both gaming and office environments. Many users praise its solid build and the sheer number of features packed into such an affordable package. A minor critique from our testing, also noted by some users, is that the mode-switching button is on the bottom of the keyboard, which is slightly inconvenient. Still, for a wireless, hot-swappable mechanical keyboard with dedicated controls, the value is exceptional.

#10 SteelSeries Apex Pro Gaming Keyboard Adjustable Actuation – Ideal for: Elite Gamers Seeking the Ultimate Competitive Edge

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gaming Keyboard Adjustable Actuation is in a class of its own when it comes to customization and speed. Its revolutionary OmniPoint HyperMagnetic switches are the main attraction, and they did not disappoint. We were able to adjust the actuation point of every single key, from a feather-light 0.1mm for gaming to a deep, deliberate 4.0mm for typing, drastically reducing typos. This level of control is unparalleled. In-game, setting the WASD keys to their most sensitive setting made character movement feel incredibly responsive. The “Rapid Trigger” feature is a legitimate game-changer, resetting the key the instant it starts traveling up, allowing for unbelievably fast repeated keystrokes.

The integrated OLED smart display is more than just a gimmick; we found it genuinely useful for displaying in-game info, notifications, or just a custom logo. Paired with the clickable metal roller, it allows for on-the-fly adjustments without tabbing out. The build quality is top-notch, with a premium aluminum frame and a comfortable magnetic wrist rest. Our findings are confirmed by countless competitive gamers who swear by the noticeable performance difference the adjustable actuation provides. While some users have reported issues with LED longevity after extended use, the raw performance capabilities of the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gaming Keyboard Adjustable Actuation are undeniable. For those seeking to fine-tune their equipment for maximum competitive advantage, this keyboard is the ultimate tool.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing a 60% gaming keyboard, several factors come into play. First and foremost is the switch type. Linear switches (like Red or Speed Silver) offer a smooth, consistent press ideal for rapid inputs in gaming. Tactile switches (like Brown) provide a small bump you can feel, great for a mix of typing and gaming. Clicky switches (like Blue) offer that bump plus an audible click, which is satisfying but can be loud. Next, consider build quality. A keyboard with an aluminum frame will feel more durable and stable than an all-plastic one. Keycaps are also important; double-shot PBT keycaps are more durable and resist shine better than standard ABS keycaps. Finally, check for features like RGB lighting, software customization, and a detachable cable for portability.

Understanding Form Factors: 60% vs. TKL vs. Full-Size

A “60% keyboard” is a compact layout that omits the number pad, function row (F1-F12), and the navigation cluster (arrow keys, Home, End, etc.). This minimalist design maximizes desk space for your mouse, which is a huge advantage in FPS games. All missing keys are accessible through a secondary layer, typically activated by holding down an “FN” (Function) key. A Tenkeyless (TKL) board is slightly larger, keeping the function row and navigation cluster but still omitting the number pad. A full-size keyboard includes all keys. The right choice depends on your needs: 60% for maximum mouse room, TKL for a balance, and full-size for productivity tasks that rely heavily on a number pad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is buying a keyboard with the wrong switch type for your environment. If you work or game in a shared space, the loud sound of clicky blue switches can be disruptive. Another error is underestimating the learning curve of a 60% layout. If you heavily rely on arrow keys or the function row for work, the transition to using the FN layer can be frustrating at first. Be honest about your usage needs. Finally, don’t sacrifice build quality for flashy features. A keyboard with a flimsy plastic frame may not withstand the rigors of intense gaming, even if it has impressive RGB lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 60% keyboard and why do gamers use them?

A 60% keyboard is an ultra-compact keyboard layout that removes the number pad, function row, and navigation keys (like arrow keys and delete). Gamers, especially those who play first-person shooters (FPS), prefer them because the smaller footprint provides significantly more space on the desk for large, sweeping mouse movements. This allows for lower mouse sensitivity, which can improve aiming precision.

Do you lose too much functionality with a 60% keyboard?

No, you don’t lose functionality, but you do change how you access it. All the missing keys are available on a secondary “layer” that you access by holding down a function (FN) key. For example, pressing FN + 1 might be F1, and FN + I, J, K, L might function as arrow keys. It takes some getting used to, but all the original functions are still there.

How do you use arrow keys on a 60% keyboard?

Most 60% keyboards map the arrow keys to a combination of the FN key and other keys, often WASD or IJKL. For example, you would hold down the FN key and press ‘I’ to get ‘Up Arrow’. The specific combination varies by manufacturer, and the secondary functions are usually printed on the side of the keycaps for easy reference.

Are 60% keyboards better for FPS games?

For many players, yes. The primary benefit is ergonomic and practical: more desk space. This extra room allows you to place your mouse and keyboard in a more comfortable position and use a larger mousepad for more precise aiming without constantly lifting your mouse. For FPS games where keyboard use is mainly limited to movement (WASD), the compact size is a significant advantage.

What are the best brands for 60% gaming keyboards?

Several brands excel in the 60% market. HyperX, Razer, Corsair, and SteelSeries are major players with high-performance offerings. Brands like Ducky and Anne Pro are also highly respected in the enthusiast community for their quality and customization options. Newer brands like EPOMAKER are also gaining popularity for offering premium features at competitive prices.

Is it hard to get used to a 60% layout for typing?

There is a learning curve, particularly if you’re a heavy user of arrow keys or the function row. It can take anywhere from a few days to a week to build the muscle memory for using the FN key combinations instinctively. However, once you adapt, typing speed and efficiency can be just as high as on a larger keyboard.

Can you customize the key layout on a 60% keyboard?

Yes, most modern 60% gaming keyboards come with software that allows for extensive customization. You can remap keys, create complex macros, and customize the RGB lighting. Some keyboards even support open-source firmware like QMK or VIA for even deeper levels of customization, allowing you to completely redesign the function layers to your exact preferences.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration, we stand firmly by our top pick. The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Linear Red Switch is the clear winner for its unmatched combination of premium construction, top-tier performance, and excellent value. The full aircraft-grade aluminum body gives it a durable, weighty feel that you can trust in the heat of battle, while the custom HyperX Red linear switches provide the smooth, rapid response essential for competitive play. It packs high-end features like PBT keycaps and brilliant RGB into a compact form factor that frees up your desk for victory. For any gamer looking to upgrade to a 60% keyboard, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Linear Red Switch is, without a doubt, the one to beat.

Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API