In recent years, mini gaming keyboards have soared in popularity among gamers and minimalist tech enthusiasts. With their compact form factors, especially those categorized as 60% and 65% keyboards, they offer more desk space, improved ergonomics, and often better portability. These keyboards strip away extraneous keys without sacrificing gaming performance, making them ideal for players seeking streamlined setups.
TLDR: Mini gaming keyboards, particularly the 60% and 65% layouts, deliver compact, high-performance experiences perfect for gamers with limited desk space or those who want minimalist setups. Top models include the Razer Huntsman Mini, Ducky One 2 Mini, and Keychron K6, each offering impressive build quality and customizable features. Choosing between 60% and 65% ultimately depends on whether you need arrow and navigation keys. Read on to discover the best mini keyboards for your gaming needs.
Why Choose a Mini Gaming Keyboard?
Mini keyboards offer several advantages over standard full-sized variants, such as:
- Space Efficiency: These keyboards are ideal for smaller desks and allow more room for mouse movements, especially beneficial for FPS gamers.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, they are easy to carry around for LAN parties or remote gaming setups.
- Aesthetics: A cleaner, minimalist look helps reduce clutter and enhance the overall workspace design.
- Customization: Many models come with hot-swappable keys, RGB lighting, and programmable macros.
Difference Between 60% and 65% Layouts
Both layouts remove the function row, number pad, and some navigation keys, but they differ in usability:
- 60% Layout: Highly compact, lacks arrow keys and dedicated navigation buttons. Great for purists and ultra-minimal setups.
- 65% Layout: Slightly larger but includes arrow keys and a few navigation keys, balancing functionality and compactness.
Top Picks for Mini Gaming Keyboards (60% & 65%)
1. Razer Huntsman Mini (60%)
This is one of the most popular 60% gaming keyboards on the market.
- Switch Type: Razer Optical Switches (Clicky or Linear)
- Build: Sturdy aluminum top plate with a detachable USB-C cable
- Features: Onboard memory, customizable RGB, and durable PBT keycaps
The Razer Huntsman Mini offers a super responsive experience perfect for fast-paced games like CS:GO or Valorant. The Razer Synapse software also provides extensive customization, making it a top-tier choice.
2. Ducky One 2 Mini (60%)
Ducky’s One 2 Mini remains a favorite among pro gamers and casuals alike due to its performance and design.
- Switch Type: Cherry MX (Red, Brown, Blue, or others)
- Build: Dual-color lightweight plastic chassis
- Features: Multi-color RGB, PBT double-shot keycaps, and macro support
Its outstanding key feel, aesthetics, and out-of-the-box functionality make it a reliable choice for gamers who don’t want to fuss with additional software.
3. Keychron K6 (65%)
The Keychron K6 merges functionality with wireless versatility. It stands out for those who want both gaming capabilities and productivity potential.
- Switch Type: Gateron Mechanical Switches (Red, Brown, or Blue)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 and USB-C wired
- Features: Mac and Windows compatibility, hot-swappable version available, optional RGB
Though not marketed exclusively for gaming, many find the K6’s tactile response and multi-device pairing perfect for both gaming and multitasking.
4. Anne Pro 2 (60%)
Another contender in the compact arena, Anne Pro 2 shines with its wireless excellence and deeply customizable layers.
- Switch Type: Gateron, Kailh Box, or Cherry MX switches
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and USB-C
- Features: RGB, tap/hold functionalities, ObinsKit software customization
Its smart software and robust build quality allow for flexible gaming macros and layout changes, a dream for enthusiasts.
5. Akko 3068B Plus (65%)
Combining aesthetics with features, the Akko 3068B Plus brings a colorful twist to gaming and typing sessions.
- Switch Type: Akko CS, Gateron, or TTC switches
- Connectivity: Tri-mode (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, USB-C)
- Features: PBT keycaps, full-key RGB, hot-swappable PCB
Featuring improved stabilizers and wireless performance, it caters well to gamers who value style without compromise on input speed.
What to Consider When Choosing a Mini Gaming Keyboard
- Switch Type: Choose between linear (smooth), tactile (bumpy), or clicky (audible) switches based on your gaming style.
- Wired vs Wireless: Wired ensures low-latency; wireless adds convenience. Many high-end mini keyboards now offer both.
- Software Support: Key remapping, macros, and lighting customization depend on good software integration.
- Build Quality: Aluminium frames, PBT keycaps, and solid PCB layout enhance longevity and performance.
- Portability: Look for detachable cables and lighter designs if mobility is important.
Final Thoughts
A great mini gaming keyboard can hugely enhance your gaming setup. Whether you want the minimalism of a 60% board like the Ducky One 2 Mini or the added convenience of arrow keys in a 65% layout like the Keychron K6, there’s a compact keyboard tailored to your preferences. As gaming continues to evolve, so do input devices — and mini keyboards are absolutely at the forefront of this evolution.
FAQ
- Q: Are 60% keyboards good for gaming?
A: Yes. 60% keyboards remove unnecessary keys, enabling faster reaction times and more desk space, especially beneficial in FPS and MOBA games. - Q: What’s the main difference between 60% and 65% keyboards?
A: 65% keyboards include arrow keys and a few extra navigation options, making them slightly less compact but more user-friendly for daily tasks. - Q: Can I use a mini keyboard for typing or work?
A: Absolutely. Many mini keyboards — especially 65% — offer good typing experiences. Productivity may initially dip due to missing dedicated keys, but muscle memory adapts over time. - Q: Are mini keyboards better for portability?
A: Yes. Their compact size and detachable cables make them perfect for travel or LAN gaming sessions. - Q: Do all mini keyboards support key remapping and macros?
A: Not all, but many higher-end models do via dedicated software or onboard profiles.
