23 February 2025
Picture this: you're in the middle of a heated game. Your fingers are flying across your keyboard, executing combos and dodging attacks like a pro. But wait—why does it feel like there's so much wasted space on your desk? That’s precisely where compact keyboards come in. And when it comes to gaming keyboards, there’s one particular type that’s been taking the gaming world by storm: the 60% keyboard.
If you’ve been on the fence about making the switch to a smaller keyboard or just curious about why everyone’s raving about them, this article is for you. Let’s dive deep into why 60% keyboards are the new MVP for gamers everywhere.
What Are 60% Keyboards, Anyway?
Before we go any further, let’s break it down. A 60% keyboard is a compact keyboard that eliminates a lot of the "extra" keys found on a standard full-sized keyboard. Specifically, it does away with the function row (F1–F12), the number pad, and the arrow cluster. What you’re left with are just 61 keys: the essentials.At first glance, you might be wondering, “How am I supposed to survive without arrow keys or the function row?” Trust me, I had the same thought. But we’ll get to that in a minute. Let’s first talk about why people are ditching their bulky setups for these tiny powerhouses.
Why Gamers Are Loving 60% Keyboards
1. More Desk Space = More Room for Action
Gamers know the struggle: a cramped desk can ruin your setup and, ultimately, your gameplay. With larger keyboards, your mouse might feel squished, leaving no room for those critical flick shots or wide swipes in games like Fortnite or Valorant.A 60% keyboard frees up a ton of space. It's like swapping out a bulky SUV for a sleek sports car—it gives you a lot more agility. With less clutter on your desk, your mouse has all the freedom in the world, which can make a noticeable difference, especially in fast-paced games.
2. Portability: Take It Anywhere
Let’s face it, hauling a full-sized keyboard to a LAN party or your friend’s house feels like carrying around luggage. A 60% keyboard, on the other hand, is super lightweight and portable. Toss it in your backpack, and you’re good to go.This portability doesn’t just benefit hardcore gamers—it’s great for anyone who works or games on the move. Plus, smaller keyboards tend to come with detachable cables, making them even easier to transport.
3. Customizability and Aesthetics
Gamers love personalizing their setups—RGB lighting, custom keycaps, coiled cables, you name it. 60% keyboards are a blank canvas for creativity. Because of their compact size, they often look cleaner and more “aesthetic,” which is a big deal if you’re sharing your setup on Instagram or streaming on Twitch.And don’t even get me started on custom keycap sets. Whether you’re into minimalist looks or neon chaos, the 60% form factor makes customization fun and easy. Plus, some smaller keyboards even let you program macros and remap keys, so you can truly make it your own.
4. Minimalism Is King
There’s something refreshing about having fewer keys. It forces you to focus on what’s essential, cutting out all the noise. Need to access the function row? You can use a function (Fn) key combo. It might take a bit of getting used to, but trust me, it’s not as scary as it sounds.Think of it like decluttering your desk. Marie Kondo for keyboards, if you will. And let’s be real: does anyone really use Scroll Lock anymore? Probably not.
Downsides? Sure, But Stick With Me
Alright, I’m not going to sugarcoat it—60% keyboards aren’t for everyone. Here are some potential cons:- Learning Curve: If you're heavily reliant on the arrow keys or function row, adapting to a 60% keyboard might feel a bit awkward at first. But once you get the hang of it, it’s second nature.
- Fewer Keys: For gamers or professionals who need dedicated macro keys, a smaller keyboard might not cut it. But most compact keyboards allow you to remap keys to suit your needs.
While these are valid concerns, for most gamers looking to streamline their setups, the pros far outweigh the cons. It’s all about figuring out if the trade-offs fit your personal playstyle.
How Do 60% Keyboards Compare to Other Sizes?
Let’s take a quick detour to compare 60% keyboards with other popular form factors:- Full-Sized Keyboards: These have everything—function keys, number pad, arrow keys, you name it. But they’re massive and take up a lot of desk space.
- Tenkeyless (TKL): These drop the number pad but keep the function row and arrow keys. A great middle ground. However, they’re still larger than 60% keyboards.
- 40% Keyboards: Even smaller than 60%, but these can feel overly restrictive for most users. They’re better suited for ultra-minimalists or niche communities.
When it comes to balancing functionality and size, the 60% format hits the sweet spot for most gamers.
Best Games for 60% Keyboards
Let’s talk games. While 60% keyboards work for virtually any gaming genre, there are certain types of games where they really shine:- FPS Games: Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Call of Duty, or Apex Legends—these games benefit from the extra mouse space that comes with a 60% keyboard.
- MOBA Games: Games like Dota 2 and League of Legends don’t demand a ton of keys, making compact keyboards more than sufficient.
- Battle Royale Games: If you’re dropping into PUBG or Fortnite, you’ll appreciate the compact setup for those wide mouse swipes.
If you play games that don’t require complex keybindings, a 60% keyboard is a game-changer. However, if you’re an MMO player who needs a gazillion macros, you might want to explore alternatives.
Popular 60% Keyboards for Gamers
If you’re ready to take the plunge, here are some crowd favorites to check out:1. Razer Huntsman Mini
Known for its optical switches, the Huntsman Mini is a solid choice for gamers who want speed and reliability.
2. Anne Pro 2
This keyboard is a fan-favorite for its wireless capability, customizable RGB lighting, and solid build quality.
3. Ducky One 2 Mini
Ducky has a cult following in the keyboard community, and the One 2 Mini lives up to the hype with its premium feel and robust feature set.
4. Keychron K6
For those who want something versatile, the Keychron K6 offers wireless connectivity and a hot-swappable PCB for switch enthusiasts.
Each of these keyboards has its own pros and cons, so it’s worth doing some research based on your preferences and budget.
Are 60% Keyboards the Future?
It’s hard to say if 60% keyboards will completely take over, but one thing’s for sure—they’re not a passing trend. More and more gamers are realizing the benefits of compact keyboards, and brands are stepping up their game to meet the demand.Whether you’re a competitive gamer looking for an edge or a casual player who just wants a cleaner desk, the 60% keyboard is worth a shot. It’s like upgrading your gaming setup to a sleek, minimalist powerhouse—once you try it, you might never go back.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a 60% keyboard might feel like a bold move, but it’s one decision that could totally transform your gaming experience. From the extra desk space to the portability and aesthetic appeal, there’s a lot to love about these compact wonders.Sure, there’s a learning curve, but isn’t that part of the fun? If you’re ready to embrace a more minimalist yet functional lifestyle, give a 60% keyboard a shot. Trust me, your mouse hand (and your desk) will thank you.
