Compact mechanical keyboards can be the best choice for gaming or even PC use in general. By shaving off lesser-used keys, they save on desk space, promote better ergonomics, and can even offer a competitive advantage in video games. Transitioning to a compact 60% keyboard isn’t without its challenges, however, as even the most enthusiastic keyboard fans will find themselves reaching for a missing key at some point.
The 60% form factor has been around for years, but only recently became popular outside of enthusiast circles like Reddit. The layout takes its name from its size at roughly 60-percent the scale of a full-size keyboard and 60 to 61 included keys. To achieve that size, huge sections of the keyboard are removed entirely. A 60% keyboard features only the main typing area and number row. There are no arrow or navigation keys, no function row or numpad.
For users making the jump from a full-size keyboard to something like the HyperX x Ducky One 2 Mini, this can be jarring. Thankfully, most 60% keyboards still have all of the functions of a larger tenkeyless keyboard. Instead of having physical buttons, these functions are accessible through a second layer accessed by holding an Fn button. For example, when pressed on their own, the number row will send numbers, but when pressed with the Fn key, they’ll act as function keys (F1-F12). To use a compact mechanical keyboard, users will have to get used to holding Fn with one finger and pressing a second key with regularity. This can be cumbersome at first, but it will become easier with practice.
Compact 60% keyboards have been a mainstay among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, but it was the Ducky One 2 Mini that truly introduced it to the mainstream. Upon its release, it was quickly adopted by rising Twitch streamers like Tfue. The increased exposure exploded the layout’s popularity and led to major gaming brands releasing their own keyboards with the same layout. Since mid-2020, Razer, HyperX, and Glorious PC Gaming Race have all released compact mechanical keyboards and there are no signs the trend is slowing.
For gaming and even day-to-day computer use, the layout offers unique benefits. The smaller size encourages better ergonomics by allowing the user's hands to stay closer together. For shooters in particular, the smaller size allows sweeping mouse movements, a popular practice in games like CS:GO where low sensitivity mousing can help improve aiming. Many 60% keyboards also support software-free macro recording for quickly firing off repeated commands and RGB backlighting. In addition, the small size is naturally more portable, making it easier for users to take their keyboard from place to place, including to gaming tournaments or to and from work.
Compact keyboards have a lot to offer but they are definitely an acquired taste. Users who need a numpad will want to steer clear entirely and even fans of smaller keyboards, like those found on laptops, will encounter a learning curve. Still, as the growing body of gaming and PC fans make clear, space and portability has a lot of appeal versus physical keys that are rarely used.
Source: HyperX
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