Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards have long been niche items for mechanical-keyboard enthusiasts and programmers looking to save desk space, but interest from streamers and esports pros has pushed these petite peripherals into the spotlight. TKLs come in a variety of sizes, including models that have 75%, 65%, or 60% of a full-size keyboard layout. (Some keyboard makers classify their TKL offerings by those percentages to differentiate them further.) Major keyboard manufacturers, especially those servicing the gaming world, now craft these reduced-size keyboards, but they’re not all created equal. I (and other experts at PCMag) have tested dozens of them, evaluating everything from typing feel to battery life. Our current top TKL keyboard pick for general use is the Satechi SM1 Slim, while our favorite gaming TKL board is the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard. Read on for all of our recommendations, plus critical advice on understanding the ins and outs of compact keyboards.
Overview
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![Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard]()
Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General UseSatechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
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![Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard]()
Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for GamingAlienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
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![Drop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard]()
Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General UseDrop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard
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![Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for GamingCorsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless
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![Logitech POP Icon Keys]()
Best Budget Tenkeyless KeyboardLogitech POP Icon Keys
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![Sony Inzone KBD-H75]()
Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for EsportsSony Inzone KBD-H75
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![Keychron Q11]()
Best Ergonomic Tenkeyless KeyboardKeychron Q11
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![Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%]()
Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for DIY-ers/TweakersRazer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard]()
Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General UseSatechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard is one of our favorite TKL keyboards. In one compact package, you get satisfying and clicky keys, attractive backlighting, and plenty of connectivity options. The SM1 also happens to be fully compatible with macOS, which makes it an excellent choice for Mac users looking for a mechanical alternative to the Magic Keyboard.
Who It's For
Mac users: One of the many great things about the SM1 Slim is that it makes for a great Magic Keyboard alternative. From its mechanical keys to its price, it's our TKL keyboard of choice for use with Macs.
People who value aesthetics: The Satechi SM1 is a fine-looking keyboard, with a white-and-gray color scheme that looks good against any desk.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting Single-Color Key Switch Type Low Profile Brown Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 84 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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![Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard]()
Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for GamingAlienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard is a 75% keyboard that finds the sweet spot between full-size and tiny, trimming the layout just enough without losing too many features. A gorgeous, all-white keyboard with excellent typing feel by default, it also lets would-be tinkerers enjoy the benefits of hot-swappable switches. Add excellent battery life and top-of-the-line RGB, and the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard is one of the best wireless keyboards you can buy.
Who It's For
People with an eye for design: The Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard is a gorgeous keyboard. Its all-white surface not only helps the RGB lighting pop and shine even brighter, but it's also an uncommon color, which should definitely draw some eyes.
Gamers: The Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard should appeal to gamers who want a keyboard that not only looks good but also offers impressive performance right out of the box.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 83 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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![Drop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard]()
Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General UseDrop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Drop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard offers a remarkable level of customization for its price range, so it's a worthwhile purchase if you're interested in enthusiast-level PC peripherals. This keyboard is notable for its swappable, colorful frames and the lack of labels in the conventional spot on top of the keys. It's a perfect pick for people who don't have a lot of space on their desks but have to do a lot of typing.
Who It's For
People who care about aesthetics: One of the CSTM65's unique quirks is its swappable frame, which opens up plenty of customization options for people who like to personalize their keyboards. RGB lighting can also be adjusted to fit your needs.
People who use Macs and PCs: The keyboard is platform-agnostic, making it a great choice for both.
Specs & Configurations
Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Gateron Yellow KS3 Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 67 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Drop CSTM65 Mechanical Keyboard Review -
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![Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for GamingCorsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless takes everything that works about its full-size cousin and scales it down by about 40%. It includes a range of robust wireless options, an impressive 8,000Hz polling rate, and a compact frame. The keyboard is sure to impress gamers, but it’s also a statement piece, with colorful RGB lighting and a clean, well-built design. It’s one of the best keyboards we've come across, and a superb choice for someone looking for a wireless 65% board.
Who It's For
Gamers looking to cut the cord: The K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless is built around Corsair’s Slipstream tech, which combines a cutting-edge wireless chipset with a performance-optimized firmware stack, delivering tournament-ready wireless speed and reliability.
Tinkerers: It's no surprise the K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless is a perfect pick for gamers looking for a wireless 60% keyboard, but its hot-swappable key switches make it a great board to customize, as well.
Specs & Configurations
Interface Bluetooth Interface RF Wireless Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Cherry MX Speed Silver Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 61 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless Review -
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![Logitech POP Icon Keys]()
Best Budget Tenkeyless KeyboardLogitech POP Icon Keys
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Logitech Pop Icon Keys is one of the few non-mechanical keyboards listed here. It uses more traditional, low-profile key switches that don’t feel as good as a mechanical keyboard, but it’s so stylish that it might not matter. It’s as eye-catching as its predecessor, and coupled with improvements that include ChatGPT integration, the colorful POP Icon Keys is both a fashion statement and an adept productivity keyboard.
Who It's For
Kids: The keyboard's colorful aesthetic is sure to grab the attention of younger users, and its wide range of compatible operating systems makes it great for students jumping from tablet to desktop to laptop.
Gift givers: Thanks to the Pop Icon Keys' affordable price and cool aesthetic, it's a perfect gift for someone looking for a compact keyboard.
Specs & Configurations
Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Membrane Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 85 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Logitech POP Icon Keys Review -
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![Sony Inzone KBD-H75]()
Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for EsportsSony Inzone KBD-H75
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Sony Inzone KBD-H75 is built for competitive gaming. Doing away with distractions like flashy RGB lighting and extra buttons, it instead focuses on immersion and performance. The magnetic hot-swappable switches and a high polling rate sweeten the deal on this esports-ready keyboard.
Who It's For
Sony loyalists: The Inzone KBD marks Sony's first foray into the esports space, and should fit nicely alongside other Inzone products.
"Form over function” gamers: If you don't care for flashy keyboard aesthetics, this one is for you. The all-black keyboard should resonate with gamers and competitive pros alike who are tired of loud RGB lighting that offers no tactical advantage.
Specs & Configurations
Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Magnetic Key Switches Media Controls Volume Roller Only N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 81 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Sony Inzone KBD-H75 Review -
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![Keychron Q11]()
Best Ergonomic Tenkeyless KeyboardKeychron Q11
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Keychron Q11 is a rare combination of a compact TKL keyboard and a split design. It's missing some of the features we've come to expect from modern ergonomic split keyboards, like angled feet and a wrist rest (the latter is sold separately). But it's a premium board that looks and feels the part and lets you customize the key switches individually.
Who It's For
People who want to customize their keyboards: The Keychron Q11 lets tinkerers customize all aspects of their split keyboard.
Split-keyboard fans who prioritize comfort: The distinctive split-keyboard design sets it apart from other ergonomic keyboards, letting you adjust the Q11's feel to your liking.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Gateron G Pro Red Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 89 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Keychron Q11 Review -
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![Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%]()
Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for DIY-ers/TweakersRazer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The BlackWidow V4 75% Pro builds on the original V4 75%’s excellent foundation with even more functionality. By default, the keyboard offers an immaculate typing feel, but if you’re interested in DIY tinkering, you can take advantage of the hot-swappable key switches. It’s a great keyboard for beginners and experts who like tweaking their keyboards, and thanks to Razer’s exceptional build quality and software, there’s really no equal. Whether you're a PC gaming enthusiast or a keyboard customizer, the V4 75% Pro is sure to impress.
Who It's For
People who like to customize: The BlackWidow V4 75% Pro offers an excellent base for beginner and veteran keyboard tinkerers thanks to its hot-swappable key switches. And that's just on the surface, as there are even more customization options tucked away in Razer Synapse.
Gamers who appreciate quality builds: Razer's known for top-notch build quality, and that's on full display with the BlackWidow V4 75% Pro. And if you're not interested in customization, know that the stock switch options are some of the best we've tested.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Key Switch Gen-3 Media Controls Via integrated screen N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 81 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest Detachable (Magnetic) Passthrough Ports None Learn More Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% Review -
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Rating |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
3.5 Good |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General Use | Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for Gaming | Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General Use | Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for Gaming | Best Budget Tenkeyless Keyboard | Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for Esports | Best Ergonomic Tenkeyless Keyboard | Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for DIY-ers/Tweakers | Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General Use | Best 75% Tenkeyless Keyboard for Gaming | Best 65% or 60% Tenkeyless Keyboard for General Use |
Number of Keys | 84 | 83 | 67 | 61 | 85 | 81 | 89 | 81 | 84 | 83 | 67 |
Interface | Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless | USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth | USB Wired | USB-C, Bluetooth, RF Wireless | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless | USB Wired | USB-C | USB Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless | Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless | USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth | USB Wired |
Key Switch Type | Low Profile Brown Switches | Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches | Gateron Yellow KS3 Switches | Cherry MX Speed Silver | Membrane | Magnetic Key Switches | Gateron G Pro Red | Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Key Switch Gen-3 | Low Profile Brown Switches | Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches | Gateron Yellow KS3 Switches |
Key Backlighting | Single-Color | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | None | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | Single-Color | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key |
Media Controls | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Volume Roller Only | Shared With Other Keys | Via integrated screen | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys |
Dedicated Shortcut Keys | |||||||||||
Onboard Profile Storage | |||||||||||
N-Key Rollover Support | |||||||||||
Passthrough Ports | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None |
Palm Rest | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | Detachable (Magnetic) | None | None | None |
Buying Guide: The Best Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboards for 2026
What Is a Tenkeyless Keyboard?
At PCMag, we define any desktop keyboard without a number pad as a TKL model. The largest TKL models typically measure about 75% or 80% the size of a full-size keyboard, but you can find options that are even smaller.
Some benefits of a TKL model, whatever the size, are immediately obvious. Sawed-off keyboards are lighter and easier to carry around or toss into a bag. They take up less space on a desk, too. But what most people don’t expect is the improved ergonomics. Using a full-size keyboard and mouse can sometimes cause discomfort in your chest and shoulders from having your arms too far apart, something TKLs naturally avoid thanks to their narrower design. With a TKL, you can bring your mouse closer to the board and more easily align your body.
The 65% and 60% keyboard sizes are often marketed toward software programmers. These boards cut a great many keys to save space, so users have to rely on shortcuts to get full functionality from their keyboards. It’s something advanced users can master, but if you’re looking for a simple keyboard for data management and word processing, you probably prefer less of a learning curve and might want to stick with a full-size keyboard, or a 75% TKL model if you can do without the keypad.
How Many Keys Does a Tenkeyless Board Have?
A standard, full-size keyboard has 104 keys. Mathematically speaking, that means a 60% keyboard should have 62 keys, a 65% keyboard should have 67 or 68 keys, and a 75% keyboard should have 78. But manufacturers play a little fast and loose with the percentage numbers and the key-count totals. Most so-called 60% models we've tested, for example, run 60 to 65 keys, while 65% ones have 66 to 70 keys. A 75% keyboard usually has 80 to 85 keys.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)The common 75% keyboard layout simply removes the numeric keypad, but the 60% or 65% keyboard layout cuts deeper, ditching what some users might deem essential inputs. The typical 60% keyboard omits the Function (F1 to F12) keys, the directional arrow keys, and other navigation/utility buttons. (Think Home, Delete, Print Screen, Page Up, and Page Down.) The key layout is compressed into a single block with no sections or gaps. For example, the Escape key no longer floats alone, because that would require extra room.
Meanwhile, 65% keyboards give you a little more wiggle room while staying compact. These boards drop the Function keys and most other nonessentials, but they almost always keep the arrow keys. Many also hold onto one or two other keys. Some keyboard manufacturers add customizable macro keys to 65% models, letting you remap the keyboard.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Key Types: Understanding Mechanical Keyboards
As with the best keyboards and, more specifically, the best mechanical keyboards, typing feel is the most important element. I’ve yet to see a non-mechanical 60% or 65% keyboard, so finding one that feels right comes down to finding your preferred key-switch "flavor." (Key switches are the actuation mechanisms under the top of the key, or keycap.) Our mechanical key switch primer explains the basics of mechanical key switches.
It’s important to remember why you want a compact keyboard in the first place. Many gaming keyboards use linear switches (often labeled “Red”) that require little force to actuate. Those hair-trigger switches are great for breakneck gaming, but they can lead to more accidental and out-of-order key presses.
Recommended by Our Editors
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)If you’re looking for balance, or simply the most comfortable overall switches, you may want to look outside the gaming world. That search may lead you to a world of new keyboard manufacturers.
Get Your Hotkey Ph.D.: Shortcut Keys on Tenkeyless Keyboards
To compensate for losing essential keys, most of these keyboards feature keys with secondary functions that are accessed by using a function toggle key. Memorizing the shortcuts is a small hurdle that you must overcome. It’s also why this kind of keyboard’s popularity has been relegated to keyboard hobbyists, programmers, and other power users.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Most factory-made TKL keyboards include a few features to help ease the sting of that transition. For example, many compact keyboards feature sideprints, the text and symbols that highlight each key's secondary features; they're particularly essential on 60% models. In addition, many makers of compact keyboards offer configuration software that lets you remap secondary inputs along with standard keys.
Get a Competitive Edge: Finding the Best Tenkeyless Keyboard for Gaming
Driven by the rise of esports and competitive play, many compact keyboards offer features that cater to pro players. Some esports-minded keyboards feature a “competition” switch, an evolution of a “game mode” key found on gaming keyboards. The function varies from model to model, but the idea is to strip away any customization that may distract you or disqualify you from tournament play. Most of the time, that means resetting the keyboard profile to the default setting and dimming or turning off RGB lighting.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)On the other end of the spectrum, a surprising number of TKL gaming keyboards feature dedicated macro keys that let you create macros or otherwise customize your keyboard. On a few occasions, I’ve seen keyboards of this size class come with a hard case for travel. That’s a nice bonus, but it’s pretty rare.
What Size of Tenkeyless Keyboard Is Right for Me?
If you’ve decided to ditch a full-size keyboard in favor of a compact one, you have a wide range of TKL flavors to pick from. I think 75% keyboards are an excellent middle ground, cutting the number pad while keeping nearly all the other functionality of a full-size keyboard. A 60% keyboard, on the other hand, is the most extreme cut: It removes most of the keys on the right side of the board. That includes the arrow keys and the number pad, plus the entire function row at the top. In short, you get access to the most essential functions on your keyboard and nothing more.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Losing all those keys might be too much for some people, since you must essentially relearn how to use a keyboard, the same way you adjust to using an ergonomic mouse after years of using a typical one. Moreover, many 60% keyboards place their keys closer together, which is likely to cause unwanted typos during your adjustment period. If you've got larger hands, a 75% board will certainly be more comfortable to use.
Ready to Buy the Right Tenkeyless Keyboard for You?
Now that you know what to look for in a TKL keyboard, it’s up to you to make your pick. Above is our guide to the best compact keyboards culled from our recent reviews. In addition, if you’re all-in on competitive play, consider pairing your new compact keyboard with one of our favorite esports mice.