If you’re into the world of compact keyboards, you’ve probably come across 60%, 65%, and 75% layouts. But what do these numbers mean? And more importantly, which one is the right fit for you?
I know the struggle! I’ve tested all of them, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a gamer, a programmer, or just someone who types a lot, choosing the right size can make or break your experience.
Oh and just remembering that this topic here may seem useless but seriously, pay attention, the size of the keyboard matters a lot, seriously
In this ultimate guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about 60%, 65%, and 75% keyboards, including their pros, cons, and who they’re best for.
Plus, I’ll throw in some cool recommendations, links to more in-depth guides, and even some personal insights to help you make the best decision.
What Are 60%, 65%, and 75% Keyboards?
Before we get into the details, let’s break it down in simple terms:
- 60% Keyboard: Ultra-compact, no function row, arrow keys, or numpad.
- 65% Keyboard: Compact like 60%, but keeps arrow keys.
- 75% Keyboard: Slightly bigger, keeps function row and arrow keys but ditches the numpad.
These sizes are great alternatives to full-sized keyboards, especially for people who want a more streamlined desk setup. But each one serves a different purpose, so let’s explore them one by one.
60% Keyboards – The Ultimate Compact Experience
A 60% keyboard is the smallest of the three. It removes the function row (F1-F12), arrow keys, numpad, and additional navigation keys (like Home, End, and Page Up/Down). This results in an ultra-compact form factor that saves a ton of desk space.
Pros:
- Extremely compact and portable
- Great for gaming – less distance for mouse movement
- Minimalist aesthetic
- Lightweight – easy to carry around
Cons:
- No dedicated arrow keys (often replaced with FN layer shortcuts)
- Steep learning curve – especially if you’re used to full-sized keyboards
- Limited for productivity – programmers, writers, and office users may find it lacking
Who Should Use a 60% Keyboard?
- Gamers who need more mouse space
- Minimalists who want a clean setup
- People who type casually and don’t need function keys often
🔗 Want to know more about how keyboard layouts affect gaming? Check out this post: The Role of Keyboards in Competitive Esports
65% Keyboards – The Perfect Balance?
A 65% keyboard is essentially a 60% layout with arrow keys and a few extra function keys. This slight increase in size makes it more versatile, while still keeping the compact form factor.
Pros:
- Arrow keys included – easier navigation
- Still compact and portable
- Great for gaming AND productivity
- Less of a learning curve compared to 60% keyboards
Cons:
- No numpad – bad for accountants and data entry users
- Fewer dedicated function keys
Who Should Use a 65% Keyboard?
- Writers and coders who need arrow keys
- Gamers who still want a compact layout but don’t want to sacrifice arrow keys
- Office users who don’t need a numpad but still use function keys occasionally
🔗 If you’re serious about typing comfort, check out: How Mechanical Keyboards Help Reduce Hand Fatigue
75% Keyboards – Compact Yet Feature-Packed
A 75% keyboard is a step up from 65% and is closer to a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, but still compact. It keeps the function row (F1-F12), dedicated arrow keys, and a few extra function keys.
Pros:
- More function keys available
- Arrow keys and navigation keys included
- Still compact but has more usability
- Great for productivity
Cons:
- Not as portable as 60% or 65% keyboards
- Takes up more desk space
Who Should Use a 75% Keyboard?
- Programmers and writers who use function keys frequently
- Productivity-focused users
- Those who need a small footprint but still want more keys
🔗 Want to compare all keyboard sizes? Check out this article: The Best Keyboards for Different Professions
Conclusion: Which One is Best for You?
Choosing between 60%, 65%, and 75% keyboards comes down to your needs. If you want pure minimalism and portability, go with a 60% keyboard. Need a bit more functionality without sacrificing size? 65% is your best bet. And if you still want a compact form factor but need function keys for productivity, a 75% keyboard is ideal.
So there’s not much to say about that, in my opinion this is an article that you can read and not take into consideration when buying a keyboard.
My personal recommendation? If you’re a gamer, go for 60% or 65%. If you type a lot or code, 75% will serve you better. But hey, it all comes down to personal preference!
💬 What keyboard layout do you prefer? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!
See More
- The Most Sought-After Vintage Keyboards for Collectors
- Keyboard Sound Tests: Why They Matter
- Mechanical Keyboards in Pop Culture: Movies, TV Shows & Games
📌 FAQs
🔽 Are 60% keyboards good for gaming?
✅ Yes! Their compact size allows for more mouse space, making them great for FPS games.
🔽 Is a 75% keyboard better than a TKL?
✅ It depends! If you need a smaller footprint but still want function keys, 75% is better. If you need a larger layout, TKL is ideal.
🔽 What is the most versatile compact keyboard?
✅ A 65% keyboard strikes the best balance between size and functionality.
📢 If you liked this article, don’t forget to share it! And check out more posts at Keyboards Technology! 🚀
