Mini gaming keyboard – When buying a new mini keyboard for gaming it’s important to choose the right switch. But it also can be tough. You may end up not feeling satisfied with your choice. Or else, it might be too late to get another one. Therefore, it’s crucial to know what features are preferable for your future typing tool.
There’s a huge variety of tactile and auditory feedback among small keyboards on the market. Each company has its own specific way of manufacturing their products. It’s easy to get lost in the diversity of technical points and specs.
Here we present 10 options so you can decide on the best compact keyboard for 2023.
10. Logitech G PRO – TKL Wired Mechanical GX Blue Clicky Switch Mini Gaming Keyboard 2023 with RGB Backlighting
Logitech G PRO Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Tenkeyless (TKL) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | GX Blue |
| Number of Keys: | 90 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 14.96 x 1.97 x 6.3 inches |
| Product Weight: | 2.16 lbs |
Logitech G PRO Mini Keyboard – Our first model in the list comes with a handy option. You can change its switches manually. Once you have the right type of switches, this significantly prolongs the device’s lifetime. There are three modes that you can use with this mini keyboard.
Such a variety of options is able to suit any play style. You can take one of the following alternatives. A discernible mechanical bump, a smooth, fluid keystroke, or a clear click with tactile feedback.
Thanks to its tenkeyless design, it can be carried around with no hindrance. It fits into any bag. Besides, the cable is detachable. It’s definitely an advantage for those who travel often.
Logitech G PRO X Keyboard – here are no macro keys on it. However, the function keys are completely customizable through the company’s software. Deciding for this gaming keyboard, for sure you’ll have a nice gaming experience. It delivers quality, accuracy and reliability.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $100 on Amazon
9. E-Element Z-88 Small RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Metal Panel, Blue Switches – Clicky, Compact 81 Keys Hot Swappable for Mac, PC
E-Element Z-88 RGB Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Compact |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | GX Blue |
| Number of Keys: | 81 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 12.2 x 4.84 x 1.4 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.60 lbs |
You might think that the price tag is supposed to decrease alongside the item’s size. But it can be quite the opposite when shopping through the market’s household names. Less expensive options, obviously, don’t feel as premium as some high-end brands. However, many of them last just as long, if not longer.
E-Element Z-88 RGB is a budget compact gaming keyboard with a great number of customization options available. Five board colors is an unheard-of variety in its price range. You can also select your favorite type of switches out of three options.
RGB backlight, tenkeyless frame, and customizable switches are all present. Also, this mini mechanical keyboard has an aluminum top shell and a pleasing design.
So, essentially, it features all the basic needs of a customer. If you want a nice-looking gaming tool for reasonable money, pick this one.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $20 on Amazon
8. Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard: Fast Keyboard Switches – Linear Optical Switches – Chroma RGB Lighting – PBT Keycaps
Razer Huntsman Mini Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Compact (60%) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Opto-Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Razer Crimson |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 4.07 x 11.56 x 1.45 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.10 lbs |
Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard – this series of small keyboards for gaming has been a turning point. It’s a consequence of the company’s approach. There has always been the Black Widow line as a nice stable piece. However, Razer hesitated from experimenting with various setups. Although that line keeps upgrading its features, the new Huntsman series can be called a pioneer. It presents what the company has to offer when it comes to small gaming keyboards.
This unit features modern optical switches. Thanks to light technology, they are more responsive and accurate.
The first iterations of the item were only in full-sized cases. However, recently Razer finally introduced a 60% form factor. This mini gaming keyboard includes all the core characteristics that make it unique. Keycaps contain additional functions printed on their sides. They’ll bring the missing part of the functionality that we had on a full-fledged version.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $90 on Amazon
7. Redragon K530 Pro Draconic 60% Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/2.4Ghz/Wired 3-Mode 61 Keys Compact Gaming Keyboard
Redragon K530 Pro Draconic Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Compact (60%) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | Bluetooth/2.4Ghz/Wired |
| Key Switch Type: | Blue Switch (Hot-Swap) |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 13.3 x 6.1 x 2.28 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.81 lbs |
Redragon K530 Pro Draconic 60% Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard – If you’re eager to find the smallest gaming keyboard, it’s the one for you. It is also an option for those who don’t enjoy blue switches.
What makes this miniature keyboard more unique than other products of the company? A special added feature here is that you can use it wirelessly. The item has two connection modes. One is the wired Type-C and the second is Bluetooth 5.0.
Next, we have a 2400 mAH battery, suitable for long gaming nights. K530 comes with one of the best RGB setups in the given price range. It uses brown switches. There’s no branding on them, but the manufacturers say it was a collaboration with Outemu.
To conclude, it’s a solid gaming keyboard, small-sized, and convenient to deal with. Of course, you need time to get used to the 60% format. On the other hand, it has a lot of functionality to make up for it. Besides, the device delivers a nice tactile bump through the brown switches. And it doesn’t have as loud clicky sound as many other micro keyboards. For some users, it could be an advantage.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $56.99 on Amazon
6. Cooler Master MK730 Tenkeyless Gaming Mechanical Keyboard with Brown Switches, Cherry MX, RGB Per-Key Lighting and Removable Wrist Rest
Cooler Master MK730 Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Tenkeyless (TKL) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Gateron RGB Blue, Brown & Red |
| Number of Keys: | 81 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 14.06 x 5.18 x 1.63 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.54 lbs |
Cooler Master MK730 – as more switch manufacturers appeared, more affordable, yet good keyboards for gaming became available. The situation seems beneficial for everyone from the outside. However, now you need to do more research to find valid Cherry MX switches. This isn’t hard if you’re going to custom build your mini keybord. But with commercially available items your options will be limited.
Meanwhile, MK730 is a delicate Cherry MX small keyboard. It features a miniature form factor. While you use this tenkeyless keyboard, mini wrist rest adds more comfort. If you don’t need it, you can easily remove this part. The device works with a USB Type-C cable.
You’ll have the option to choose from three switch options: brown, red and blue. Each one guarantees to bear 50 million keystrokes.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $119.07 on Amazon
5. Kinesis Gaming TKO Small Mechanical Keyboard, Linear Red Switches, 60% Layout, Split Spacebar, Hotswap, PBT Keycaps, Aluminum Body
Kinesis Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Ultra-compact 60% layout |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Linear Red Switches |
| Number of Keys: | 63 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 11.61 x 4.53 x 1.3 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.25 lbs |
Kinesis Gaming TKO Mechanical Keyboard – this one is equipped with a modular triple spacebar and two-zone RGB lighting. Although it’s a 60% mechanical keyboard, compact proportions made no hindrance to interesting design solutions. There are three programmable space bars that allow you to enhance your virtual experience.
N-key rollover support provides registering all the pressings when using multiple keys at a time. Kailh box switches will help you easily remove the key switch. You can simply use the included one according to your preferences.
In addition to the RGB part key, the device has two-zone LED lighting on the sides. This way it can match a user’s desk using various backlighting effects. Rain, waves, and other variations can be set through the SmartSet App.
All these customization options make the TKO ergonomic and featured in a single vision. A minor disadvantage we noticed is the bland appearance of the washed-out keycaps.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $125 on Amazon
4. Epomaker Skyloong SK61 61 Keys 60% Hot Swappable Programmable Mechanical Gaming Wired Keyboard with RGB Backlit, NKRO, Water-Resistant, Type-C Cable for Win/Mac/Gaming
Epomaker Skyloong SK61 Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | 60% Gaming & Office Mechanical Keyboard |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Gateron Optical Switch (Blue/Brown/Red /Black Switch) |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 11.81 x 4.25 x 1.57 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.32 lbs |
Epomaker Skyloong SK61 61 Keys 60% Hot Swappable Programmable Mechanical Gaming Wired Keyboard with RGB Backlit – this cute gaming keyboard has various pre-programmed RGB effects which make it look spectacular. You can download the dedicated software and personalize these effects on the onboard flash storage. It will ensure safety for your configurations. The coloring fills very well and presents a nice aesthetic. It’s clearly an advantage for those who value a visual aspect.
It’s a budget-friendly device with Gateron optical switches. They are easily replaceable as you’ll find 3 additional keycaps in the box. Besides, the gadget has an IPX6 water-resistant mainboard design. The feature saves it from being dead in case you happen to spill your drink.
Overall, it’s an option for those who need a gaming or working tool under budget. At the same time, speed options and backlighting features add to the decent build quality. The device feels rigid and solid, which is certainly a good thing. Buy one and you’ll be amazed at how much it offers for such money.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $68.14 on Amazon
3. Corsar K65 RGB Mini 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Customizable Per-Key RGB Backlighting – CHERRY MX Red Mechanical Keyswitches, Detachable USB Type-C Cable – AXON Hyper-Processing Technology
CORSAIR K65 RGB MINI 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Compact (60%) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C 3.0 |
| Key Switch Type: | Cherry MX Speed |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 4.13 x 11.57 x 1.73 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.28 lbs |
CORSAIR K65 RGB MINI 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – the entire body of this small gaming keyboard is plastic. So it’s not the most reliable option for a dynamic play session. Some aluminum variations out there would perform better. However, it doesn’t feel flimsy.
Inside the box, we have a detachable USB-C cable. Also, there you’ll find a keycap puller, plus an extra escape key and space bar.
The bottom has four rubber pads in each corner. Keycaps here are a lightly-textured PBT set. It helps avoid any smudges or fingerprints. An interesting detail is a fancy-looking radiant space bar with small triangles. They are also textured to the touch so you can feel the actual design.
When it comes to the physical exam, we have a small complaint. The edges of the keyboard right below the keycap are not really smooth. They feel sharp and unrefined. As a consequence, it’s uncomfortable to rest your thumb below the space bar.
Onboard RGB control is included, so you can cycle between 9 different animations. In addition, 8 static colors are saved there by default. Plus there are controls for the brightness, the direction of the effect, and the speed. Altogether, you can save up to 50 profiles and compile 20 layers onto one effect. It’s possible through their Axon chip inside.
As for the switches, in this CORSAIR K65 RGB MINI 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard model, we have Cherry Red ones with two options. The unit’s polling rate equals 8000 Hz. It’s great for gaming, delivering that confidence and precision in your moves. You can rest assured that your keystrokes are registered at all times.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $80 on Amazon
2. Ducky One 2 Mini Mechanical Keyboard RGB LED 60% Double Shot PBT Gaming Keyboard
Ducky One 2 Mini RGB Keyboard Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | 60% Double Shot PBT |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Cherry MX Blue |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 13.3 x 6.1 x 2 inches |
| Product Weight: | 1.31 lbs |
Ducky One 2 Mini RGB Keyboard – the company is a pretty well-known brand in the keyboard community. They have lots of experience in the area and our model is a good example. With the One2 gaming keyboard, mini format allows you to save space and feel comfortable.
The frame of the board looks pretty thin in its black-and-white tones. It also seems sleek, dipping in on the bottom. Due to that, the left and the right side stand out, acquiring an angular look.
Four rubber elements on the bottom prevent it from sliding around your desktop. 2 feet flip out, providing various angles of elevation. That’s a rare detail for a 60% keyboard.
On the back, there’s the cutout for the dip switch. It helps you rearrange the location of the window key and other necessary ones.
Moving on, the device features an N-key rollover. It means that all the pressed keys at a time will be registered. It makes One2 a great gaming tool.
Now let’s move to the switches and the caps. The latter ones are laser-engraved PBT units. The front side of the keys has printing on it. It’s a common thing for a 60% version as it keeps the functionality of a full-sized model.
Once you pop off a keycap you’ll find Cherry Red switches. Right next to the actual switch is the RGB light. It’s all placed on a white backplate to enhance and accentuate the lighting.
The only drawback here is the USB port on the back. It’s not very fit and allows the cable to hang out flimsily. So it might get disconnected at times.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $119 on Amazon
1. HyperX Alloy Origins 60 – The Best Mini Gaming Keyboard For Gamers In 2023
HyperX Alloy Origins 60 – Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications:
| Lighting Type: | RGB |
| Form Factor: | Compact (60%) |
| Keyboard Technology: | Mechanical |
| Connectivity Technology: | USB-C |
| Key Switch Type: | Linear HyperX Red Switch |
| Number of Keys: | 61 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 11.7 x 1.5 x 4.2 inches |
| Product Weight: | 2.14 lbs |
HyperX Alloy Origins 60 – Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Compact 60% Form Factor, Double Shot PBT Keycaps, RGB LED Backlit, NGENUITY Software Compatible – Linear HyperX Red Switch. The first thing you notice when dealing with this device is its considerable weight. Compared to similar products on the market, it’s definitely hefty. It could be a disadvantage for some people. But, on the other hand, its aluminum body makes it reliable and solid.
The bezels all around look neat and minimal with the rounded edges. Overall, the visual aspect and the build quality are strong points of this small keyboard. Gaming experiences also promise to be on a high level.
Taking a closer look at the PBT keycaps, they have a real slight texture. It feels nice on your fingertips. Besides, it won’t show the shine from oils or fingerprints. So it does a good job of avoiding that.
The function keys are side-printed on the caps. So you still have them at your fingertips, as if it was a full-fledged model. You can adjust your profiles, and the brightness, and you have the media and arrow keys.
The bottom has two flip-out feet. Also, there are full-rubber pads in each corner to avoid sliding around your table.
Now let’s examine the switches. In this unit we have their own HyperX Red one, which is Linear. It stands firm against 80 million keystrokes and actuates at 45 grams. This is one of the company’s three total offerings. They also have two other options for your convenience. Three profiles is not a lot, so we hope to see more in the future.
The best price for this mini gaming keyboard starts at $70 on Amazon
Final tips
Now that we’ve introduced the best mini keyboard models, you’re well prepared for buying one. From the gaming point of view, switches may be a crucial aspect. This mechanism doesn’t only provide proper functioning of your board. It also has a great impact on how your fingers feel when typing or gaming.
So keep it in mind, as well as the financial side. If you’re not a professional competitor, a small mechanical keyboard can be budget, yet good.
Other than that, pay attention to build quality and durability. With flimsy plastic, used in a cheap mini keyboard, gaming sessions won’t last long. Especially, if you’re prone to becoming emotional in the process. We recommend considering a bit more expensive options with aluminum carcass and steel reinforcement.
READ MORE:
Best Gaming Keyboards in 2023
Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard in 2023
Once you buy a pro gaming keyboard of this quality, you won’t need to reinvest.
Where to buy the Best Mini Gaming Keyboard
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UK:
| GAMING MINI KEYBOARDS | SPECIFICATIONS | BEST PRICE | RATING |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech G PRO | $100 | 8.6 | |
| E-Element Z-88 RGB | $20 | 8.7 | |
| Razer Huntsman Mini | $90 | 8.9 | |
| Redragon K530 Pro Draconic | $56.99 | 9.0 | |
| Cooler Master MK730 | $119.07 | 9.2 | |
| Kinesis Gaming TKO | $125 | 9.3 | |
| Epomaker Skyloong SK61 | $68.14 | 9.4 | |
| Corsar K65 RGB Mini | $80 | 9.6 | |
| Ducky One 2 Mini RGB | $119 | 9.8 | |
| HyperX Alloy Origins 60 | $70 | 9.9 |
FAQ About 10 Best Mini Gaming Keyboards
It’s a good way to save some space on your desktop. Especially considering the fact that you can’t do much about the size of your rig. A compact keyboard allows your mouse to move around more freely. It is important when you use low fps settings in games.
Compact ones are popular for their ergonomic design. It provides an opportunity to have more room on your gaming desk. This way you can fit your speakers and monitor without a problem. Your mouse also acquires more freedom. It gives better control and improves your gaming performance.
They are good in many ways. Mini options are portable, aesthetically pleasing, and provide additional space on your desktop. At the same time, they keep all the functionality of full-sized models. It’s possible through the secondary function keys that are commonly used in such products.
Another name for them is 60% keyboards. Also, some people call them compact or miniature versions. Other than that, many professional sources and gamers use the word “tenkeyless”. As you might have guessed, it’s due to the lack of a Numpad.
Many gamers use this type and have zero regrets about it. It has multiple benefits. For example, you acquire extra space for gaming. Also, compact boards are usually ergonomic. It allows your hands and wrists to feel comfortable after long periods of using it.
