Are you in search of a compact mechanical keyboard that combines functionality with style? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the realm of technology and explore 12 amazing compact mechanical keyboards that are set to take the market by storm in 2023. Whether you are a professional writer, avid gamer, or simply someone who appreciates the tactile experience of typing, these keyboards offer a multitude of features to enhance your productivity and elevate your typing experience. Stay tuned as we highlight the key characteristics and unique selling points of each keyboard, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your needs. Get ready to elevate your typing game with these 12 amazing compact mechanical keyboards in 2023.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact and portable keyboard that is perfect for gaming or work. With its mini layout and separate arrow keys, it saves space while still providing all the necessary keys. The mechanical blue switch provides a tactile typing and gaming experience, and the classic blue LED backlight adds a charming aesthetic. The keyboard is also full anti-ghosting, ensuring that all 68 keys are responsive. It is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac, making it versatile for different operating systems. Overall, the MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a budget-friendly option for those looking for a compact and functional keyboard.
Key Features
- Mini portable 60% compact layout
- Mechanical blue switch
- Classic charming blue LED backlit
- Full anti-ghosting Keyboard
- Extensive Compatibility
Specifications
- Color: Grey/Blue Switch
- Dimension: 12.10Lx3.90Wx1.50H
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Tactile and responsive mechanical switches
- Customizable LED backlight
- No conflict with all 68 keys
- Compatible with multiple operating systems
Cons
- No hot-swappable feature
- Hollow sound and cheap feel
- ABS keycaps
- Limited color options for LED backlight
- Design not suitable for non-English users
The MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a budget-friendly solution for those who want a compact keyboard with mechanical switches. While it may not have all the premium features of higher-end keyboards, it still provides a satisfying typing and gaming experience. The customizable LED backlight adds a stylish touch, and the compact layout saves valuable desk space. However, it’s worth noting that the keyboard has some limitations, such as the lack of hot-swappable switches and the use of ABS keycaps. Overall, if you’re in need of a functional and affordable mechanical keyboard, the MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a solid choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Havit Mechanical Keyboard is a compact PC keyboard with a number pad and red switch mechanical gaming keyboard. With its unique and high-quality durable PBT keycaps, the keyboard offers an excellent touch experience. It saves desk space with its compact design and provides ergonomic comfort with its keyboard kickstands. The Havit Mechanical Keyboard is compatible with various systems and is perfect for both office typing and gaming. Its colorful keycaps add a pleasant mood to your workspace. While the placement of the delete key and using the number pad may be a bit awkward for some, the overall functionality and performance of this keyboard make it a great option. With a customer rating of 4.5/5, it offers a satisfying typing experience and a good value for the price.
Key Features
- Compact keyboard with numpad
- Colorful PBT keycaps
- Red switches keyboard for different needs
- Ergonomic comfort
- Wide compatibility
Specifications
- Color: Black
Pros
- Saves desk space
- Excellent touch experience
- Compact and easy to carry
- Ergonomic design
- Wide compatibility
Cons
- Awkward placement of delete key
- Usage of the number pad can be inconvenient
The Havit Mechanical Keyboard is a compact and feature-rich keyboard that offers a satisfying typing and gaming experience. Its high-quality keycaps and ergonomic design make it a comfortable choice for long hours of use. While the placement of some keys may take some getting used to, the overall performance and functionality of this keyboard are impressive. Compatible with various systems, it provides a good value for the price. Whether you need a keyboard for office work or gaming, the Havit Mechanical Keyboard is a solid choice.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Redragon K630 Dragonborn 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard is a compact and powerful mechanical keyboard designed for gamers. With its 61 keys and ultra-compact layout, it frees up desk space for less clutter. The hot-swappable tactile blue switches provide fantastic audile typing feedback, while the vibrant RGB backlighting allows you to choose from 11 presets and customize brightness and flowing speed. The keyboard is also customizable with pro software, allowing you to design your own modes and effects. Dedicated for FPS gamers, its design ensures your mouse will never hit the keyboard when gaming. With its sleek black design and pro driver support, the Redragon K630 Dragonborn is a top choice for gamers.
Key Features
- 60% Layout In Wired
- Hot-Swappable Blue Switches
- Vibrant RGB
- Pro Software Customizable
- Dedicated for FPS Gamer
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: Blue Switch
Pros
- Compact and minimalistic design
- Hot-swappable switches
- Customizable RGB backlighting
- Pro software for customization
- Saves desk space for mouse movement
Cons
- Switches may break easily
- Capslock light is on the side of the keyboard
- Lack of separate cursor keys
The Redragon K630 Dragonborn 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard offers a compact and powerful solution for gamers. With its customizable RGB backlighting, hot-swappable switches, and pro software support, it provides a great gaming experience. The keyboard’s layout and design are optimized for FPS gamers, ensuring smooth mouse movement. However, the quality of the switches and the lack of separate cursor keys may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, this keyboard offers excellent value for its price and is a recommended choice for gamers looking for a compact gaming keyboard.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact and durable keyboard perfect for gamers. It features anti-dust proof switches and rainbow LED backlighting with 19 different lighting effects. The keyboard is made of high-quality metal construction and has plate-mounted mechanical keys for a reliable gaming experience. It also has anti-ghosting technology and is compatible with various Windows operating systems. The keyboard has received positive reviews for its durability and performance, but some users have reported issues with certain keys. Overall, the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a great choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for a reliable and customizable keyboard.
Key Features
- Tenkeyless compact design
- Rainbow LED RGB backlighting
- Ergonomic steel series construction
- Anti-ghosting and nkey rollover
- Compatible with Windows operating systems
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 1.46Lx13.94Wx4.86H
- Size: 87 Key Red Switch
Pros
- Durable and reliable performance
- Customizable rainbow LED backlighting
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Anti-dust proof switches
- Compatible with major computer brands
Cons
- Certain keys may stop working
- Limited color customization for backlighting
The Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers impressive performance and durability at an affordable price. With its compact design, customizable RGB backlighting, and anti-dust proof switches, it is a popular choice among gamers. However, some users have reported issues with certain keys over time, and the color customization options for the backlighting are limited. Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable gaming keyboard, the Redragon K552 is a solid option to consider.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Logitech G413 TKL SE is a compact, backlit mechanical gaming keyboard designed for gamers who want performance and durability. It features tactile mechanical switches, PBT keycaps, and anti-ghosting technology for reliable gaming input. The keyboard's sleek black-brushed aluminum top case and white LED lighting elevate the gaming setup. With twelve function keys for multimedia control and a robust body design, the G413 TKL SE is built to withstand intense gaming sessions. The keyboard is available in a tenkeyless layout and a full-size option is also offered. Overall, the Logitech G413 TKL SE is a high-quality gaming keyboard that delivers on both performance and style.
Key Features
- Tenkeyless compact design
- Tactile mechanical switches
- PBT keycaps for durability
- White LED backlighting
- Anti-ghosting with 6-key rollover
- Robust aluminum-magnesium alloy top case
- Twelve function keys
- Windows and mac OS compatible
Specifications
- Color: G413 TLK SE Black
- Dimension: 13.97Lx5.00Wx1.43H
- Size: Tkl
Pros
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Compact and sleek design
- Responsive and tactile keystrokes
- Backlit keyboard with adjustable brightness levels
- Reliable gaming performance
Cons
- Lack of volume control wheel and mute button
- Loud key presses
- Not ideal for users with large hands
The Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a winning combination of performance and durability. With its tactile mechanical switches, PBT keycaps, and anti-ghosting technology, it’s a reliable choice for gamers. The sleek black-brushed aluminum design with white LED backlighting adds a touch of style to any gaming setup. While it may lack some additional features like volume control and have louder key presses, the keyboard’s overall build quality and responsive keystrokes make up for it. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone looking for a high-quality keyboard for work, the Logitech G413 TKL SE is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 Wired 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a high-quality keyboard for gaming or work. It has a compact size, mechanical switches, and full RGB backlighting, making it functional and stylish. The keyboard is durable, easy to use, and has various customization options for backlight colors. With its ergonomic design and smooth typing experience, it minimizes hand fatigue and is suitable for gamers, office workers, and more. The hot-swappable feature allows for easy switch replacement. However, some users have reported issues with the switches and keycaps. Overall, with its affordable price and great features, the RK61 is a top budget gaming keyboard.
Key Features
- Ultra-compact 61 keys layout
- Hot-swappable linear red switches
- 18 RGB backlight modes, individually customizable
- Full keys anti-ghosting for smooth gaming experience
- Ergonomic design for comfort and minimizing hand fatigue
Specifications
- Color: White
- Dimension: 11.50Lx4.02Wx1.57H
- Size: Hot-Swappable Red Switch
Pros
- Compact size saves space on the desk
- Durable and long-lasting
- Wide range of RGB backlight customization
- Easy to use, plug-and-play
- Portable with detachable USB-C keyboard cable
Cons
- Issues with stock switches and keycaps reported
- Sensitive cable port causes connection problems
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 Wired 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers great value for its affordable price. It combines functionality with style, featuring a compact design, customizable RGB backlighting, and hot-swappable switches. While there have been some reported issues with the switches and keycaps, overall, this keyboard provides a smooth and enjoyable gaming or typing experience. It is also ergonomic, ensuring comfort during long hours of use. The RK61 is a top choice for budget gamers and those looking for a compact and feature-rich mechanical keyboard.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Redragon K628 PRO 75% 3-Mode Wireless RGB Gaming Keyboard is a compact mechanical keyboard that offers a unique hot-swappable socket design and a 78-key layout. It features three connection modes, including USB-C wired, BT 3.0/5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless, providing flexibility and convenience. The hot-swappable Red switches allow for easy customization, and the vibrant RGB backlighting offers up to 20 presets and a music sync mode. With software support, users can further customize the keyboard with macros and effects. The keyboard has a black and red color scheme and comes with a dimension of 15.35Lx6.10Wx2.17H. Customer reviews have praised its quality, compact layout, and responsiveness, although some have mentioned issues with the function key icons and Bluetooth connectivity. Overall, the Redragon K628 PRO is a reliable and feature-packed gaming keyboard.
Key Features
- True hot-swap with 99.8%+ switches compatibility
- Practical 78-key layout with separate arrow and number keys
- 3-mode connection: USB-C wired, BT 3.0/5.0, 2.4GHz wireless
- Hot-swappable Red switches for easy customization
- Vibrant RGB backlighting with 20 presets and music sync mode
- Pro software support for further customization
Specifications
- Color: Black & Red
- Dimension: 15.35Lx6.10Wx2.17H
Pros
- True hot-swappable design for easy switch customization
- Compact layout with separate arrow and number keys
- Multiple connection options for enhanced flexibility
- Customizable RGB backlighting for a personalized look
- Software support for advanced customization options
Cons
- Function key icons are difficult to distinguish
- Bluetooth connectivity may have lag issues
- Battery life could be better
The Redragon K628 PRO offers a compact and feature-packed gaming keyboard experience. With its hot-swappable design, three connection modes, and customizable RGB backlighting, it provides versatility and personalization options. While the function key icons and Bluetooth connectivity may have some drawbacks, the keyboard’s overall performance and value make it a great choice for gaming enthusiasts. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a professional, the Redragon K628 PRO delivers a reliable and enjoyable gaming experience.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Experience gaming like never before with the Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard. This compact mechanical keyboard is designed for FPS gamers and efficient work. It features hot-swappable Red switches for smooth and quiet key travel, with a lifespan of 50 million keypresses. The vibrant RGB backlighting offers 20 preset modes that can be easily adjusted on the board. With the Pro Software Customizable feature, you can create your own modes and effects, making it a versatile choice for gaming and work. The keyboard's compact design saves desktop space, allowing for more freedom of mouse movement. Overall, the Redragon K617 Fizz offers a refreshing style, durability, and customizable options for an enhanced gaming experience.
Key Features
- Slim Fresh layout with a compact 61 keys design
- Hot-Swappable Red Switches for effortless and quiet key travel
- Vibrant RGB backlighting with 20 preset modes
- Pro Software Customizable for personalized modes and effects
- Dedicated for FPS Gamers with space-saving design
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 12.20Lx5.31Wx1.57H
Pros
- Smooth and calming clicks with responsive keys
- Bright and high-quality RGB lighting
- Great customer support and warranty service
- Compact and stylish design
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Keys may become sensitive or unresponsive over time
- Not the best option for intensive gaming
The Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard offers a great combination of functionality, style, and affordability. With its compact design and hot-swappable Red switches, it provides a seamless and enjoyable typing experience. The vibrant RGB backlighting adds an aesthetic touch, and the Pro Software Customizable feature allows users to personalize their gaming setup. While it may not be the most durable option in the long run, the excellent customer support and warranty service make it a reliable choice. Overall, this keyboard is ideal for casual gamers or those looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance and style.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact and stylish keyboard designed for gamers and office workers. It features a 96% layout with separate arrow keys and number keys, allowing for more desktop space. The keyboard is equipped with an energetic blue LED backlight that offers multiple lighting effects. Its red switches provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, while the sturdy metal panel and double-color injection keycaps ensure durability. The keyboard is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, and more, making it versatile for different devices. With its practicality, beautiful design, and high-quality construction, the MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a great option for users seeking a compact and functional keyboard.
Key Features
- Compact 96% layout with separate arrow and number keys
- Energetic blue LED backlight with customizable lighting effects
- Sturdy metal panel and ergonomic double-color keycaps
- Smooth and responsive typing experience with red switches
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, and more
Specifications
- Color: Grey Black/Red Switch
- Dimension: 14.40Lx4.70Wx1.60H
Pros
- Compact design with more desktop space
- Customizable LED backlighting
- Sturdy and stylish construction
- Smooth and responsive keystrokes
- Wide compatibility with different devices
Cons
- Some users experienced sticky keys
- Average quality USB-C cable
- Backlight not evenly distributed
- Printed letters on keys appear blurry with backlight on
- No homing dot or bar on arrow keys
The MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers gamers and office workers a compact and functional keyboard with a stylish design. Despite some drawbacks like sticky keys and average quality cable, this keyboard provides a smooth and responsive typing experience. The customizable LED backlighting adds a cool lighting atmosphere, and the wide compatibility makes it versatile for various devices. While the backlight may not be evenly distributed and some keys have blurry letters, the overall performance and value for the price are commendable. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and compact keyboard that retains full functionality, the MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a solid choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact and stylish keyboard designed for gamers and typing enthusiasts. With its mechanical blue switch, it delivers precise tactile feedback and a strong mechanical feeling. The keyboard features a classic blue LED backlight with customizable illuminated light effects. It has a full anti-ghosting design, allowing multiple keys to work simultaneously. The ergonomic layout and durable construction make it comfortable to use and protect it from scratches. The keyboard is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac systems, making it convenient to use with various devices. Overall, the MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a great typing and gaming experience at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Mechanical blue switch with precise tactile feedback
- Classic blue LED backlight with customizable effects
- Full anti-ghosting design for reliable connection
- Ergonomic layout with durable construction
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac systems
Specifications
- Color: Blue Switch
- Dimension: 13.98Lx5.04Wx1.42H
Pros
- Precise tactile feedback for gaming and typing
- Customizable illuminated light effects
- No conflict with all 87 keys
- Ergonomic layout and durable construction
- Plug-and-play compatibility with various systems
Cons
- Hollow spacebar may produce a clacking sound
- Some keys may become unresponsive over time
- Backlight brightness may not be very bright
The MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a solid typing and gaming experience with its precise tactile feedback and customizable backlighting. Its compact yet ergonomic design enhances comfort and durability. However, it does have a few drawbacks such as a hollow spacebar and potential issues with key responsiveness. Overall, considering its affordable price, this keyboard is a great value for gamers and typists looking for a reliable and stylish option.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The KOORUI 60% Gaming Keyboards is a compact mechanical keyboard with 61 keys and RGB backlighting. It features hot-swappable switches, fade-resistant keycaps, and full-key anti-ghosting technology. The keyboard also has 12 multi-function keys for convenient multimedia control, and it is compatible with both Apple and Microsoft operating systems. With KOORUI's high-quality build and premium services, including a 12-month warranty, users can expect excellent performance and durability. The keyboard has received positive reviews for its quality, value, and versatility. While some users have found the backlighting to be too dim and the top row numbers to be too small, overall, the KOORUI 60% Gaming Keyboards offers a solid typing and gaming experience at an affordable price.
Key Features
- 61 Keys with Gorgeous Backlighting
- Hot-Swappable Switches
- Anti-Ghosting Technology
- Multi-Functionality and Compatibility
- Koorui services
Specifications
- Color: Red Switch
- Size: 61 Keys – Wired
Pros
- Excellent quality and great value
- Hot-swappable switches for customizable typing experience
- Fade-resistant keycaps
- Full-key anti-ghosting technology
Cons
- Backlighting may be too dim for some users
- Top row numbers are smaller than letters
The KOORUI 60% Gaming Keyboards is a fantastic option for those seeking a compact and versatile mechanical keyboard. With its sleek design, customizable backlighting modes, and hot-swappable switches, users can enjoy a personalized typing experience. The keyboard’s compatibility with different operating systems and convenient multimedia control keys further enhance its functionality. While some may find the backlighting too dim and the top row numbers too small, these minor drawbacks are overshadowed by the keyboard’s overall performance and value. With KOORUI’s commitment to quality and excellent customer service, the 60% Gaming Keyboards is a reliable choice for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The DIERYA DK61SE is an ultra-compact, 60% mechanical gaming keyboard designed for gamers, office workers, copywriters, programmers, and typists. It features a red linear mechanical switch for smooth keystrokes, LED backlight for visibility in low-light conditions, and full N-key rollover for improved input efficiency. The keyboard's double-shot keycaps are durable and resistant to fading over time. It also offers a detachable USB-C cable for easy organization and customization. With its ergonomic design and foldable feet, it provides a comfortable typing experience that reduces fatigue. The DK61SE is compatible with various operating systems and comes with a one-year warranty. It is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable gaming keyboard.
Key Features
- Ultra-compact ANSI layout design
- Red linear mechanical switch
- Full N-key rollover
- Double-shot keycaps
- Detachable USB-C cable
- Ergonomic design
- Compatibility with multiple operating systems
- One-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 11.00Lx3.00Wx1.00H
- Size: Red Switch
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Smooth and quiet keystrokes
- Durable keycaps
- Detachable cable for customization
- Comfortable typing experience
- Wide compatibility
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Limited RGB color customization
- Average keycap and switch quality
- Poor manufacturer support
The DIERYA DK61SE is a budget-friendly gaming keyboard that offers a compact design, smooth keystrokes, and durable keycaps. While it may lack advanced features like extensive RGB customization, it excels in providing a comfortable typing experience and wide compatibility with multiple operating systems. The detachable USB-C cable adds convenience and customization options. However, the keyboard falls short in terms of keycap and switch quality compared to more premium options. The manufacturer’s support also receives negative feedback. Overall, the DK61SE is a reliable choice for gamers and professionals on a budget, offering good value for the price.
Buyer's Guide: Compact Mechanical Keyboards
*Finding the Perfect Compact Mechanical Keyboard for Your Needs*
Are you tired of bulky keyboards taking up too much space on your desk? Do you value portability and love the satisfying clickety-clack of mechanical keyboards? Look no further! This comprehensive buyer's guide will help you navigate the world of compact mechanical keyboards and find the perfect one for you. So, let's dive in!
Key Factors to Consider:
- Layout: Compact keyboards come in various layouts, such as Tenkeyless (TKL) and 60%. Consider the keys you frequently use and choose a layout that suits your needs.
- Switch Type: Mechanical keyboards offer a wide range of switch options, including tactile, linear, and clicky switches. Determine which switch type aligns with your typing style and sound preference.
- Tactile Switches: These switches provide a slight bump for tactile feedback.
- Linear Switches: Linear switches offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback.
- Clicky Switches: Clicky switches emit a satisfying audible click, providing both tactile and auditory feedback.
- Build Quality: Look for keyboards with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity.
- Aluminum: Aluminum frames offer sturdiness and a premium feel.
- ABS Plastic: ABS plastic keyboards are lightweight and more budget-friendly.
- PBT Keycaps: Keycaps made from PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) are more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Connectivity Options: Consider whether you prefer a wired or wireless keyboard, keeping in mind the advantages and limitations of each.
- Wired: Keyboard with a detachable or fixed cable that provides a reliable and lag-free connection.
- Wireless: Enjoy the freedom of a cable-free setup but keep in mind potential latency and battery life concerns.
- Customization and RGB Lighting: Some compact mechanical keyboards offer customizable key mappings and RGB lighting effects. Determine if these features are important to you.
- Price Range: Decide on a budget range that suits your needs, as mechanical keyboards can vary greatly in price.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Amazing Compact Mechanical Keyboard for 2023
While compact mechanical keyboards lack the numerical keypad and some additional keys, they can provide a comfortable typing experience. It may take a short adjustment period, but many users find the smaller form factor convenient and ergonomic.
One potential drawback of compact keyboards is the learning curve associated with adapting to a smaller layout. Additionally, those who often require specific function keys or a dedicated numpad may find the compact layout inconvenient.
In most cases, compact keyboards have a standard keycap size, allowing you to switch them out for custom keycaps. However, it’s always recommended to check the specifications of the keyboard you are interested in.
Many compact keyboards offer adjustable stands or the ability to change the typing angle. However, this feature may vary depending on the specific model you choose.
If you prefer a quiet typing experience, consider opting for keyboards with linear switches. These switches lack the audible click found in clicky switches, providing a more subdued typing sound.
