How Many Keys are on a 60% Mechanical Keyboard?

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among gamers, typists, and computer enthusiasts alike due to their tactile feedback, precise actuation, and durability. One of the most common keyboard sizes is the 60% layout, which offers a compact and minimalist design that maximizes desk space and portability. But how many keys does a 60% mechanical keyboard have, and what makes it different from other keyboard sizes? In this article, we will explore the key features and benefits of 60% mechanical keyboards and compare them to other keyboard layouts.

What is a 60% Mechanical Keyboard?

A 60% mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that has 60% of the keys found on a full-sized keyboard. Instead of the standard 104 or 105 keys, a 60% mechanical keyboard typically has only 68 or 61 keys. This includes the standard alphanumeric keys, navigation keys, and a few function keys, but omits the numeric keypad, F keys, and multimedia keys. By removing these keys, the keyboard becomes smaller and lighter, making it ideal for users who prefer a minimalist and space-saving design.

Key Features of 60% Mechanical Keyboards

One of the main advantages of 60% mechanical keyboards is their compact size, which makes them highly portable and ideal for small desks, laptops, or tight spaces. In addition, 60% keyboards are often more ergonomic and comfortable to use, as they force users to adopt a more natural typing posture and reduce the amount of wrist strain and fatigue. Furthermore, 60% keyboards offer a more streamlined and clean aesthetic, which can enhance the overall look and feel of a workspace.

Another important feature of 60% mechanical keyboards is their tactile feedback and precise actuation. Unlike membrane or rubber dome keyboards, mechanical keyboards use individual switches for each key, which provide a satisfying click and crisp keystroke. This makes typing and gaming more enjoyable and efficient, as users can feel the actuation point and feedback of each key. Additionally, 60% mechanical keyboards often come with a variety of switch options, such as Cherry MX, Kailh, or Gateron, which offer different levels of actuation force, travel distance, and noise.

Comparison to Other Keyboard Layouts

60% mechanical keyboards are not the only keyboard size available on the market. Other popular keyboard sizes include full-sized keyboards, TKL (tenkeyless) keyboards, and 75% or 80% keyboards. Each of these keyboard sizes has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on the user's needs and preferences.

Full-sized keyboards are the largest and most common keyboard size, and offer all the keys and features of a standard keyboard. However, they can be cumbersome and take up a lot of desk space, which may not be ideal for users who value mobility and minimalism.

TKL keyboards are a step down from full-sized keyboards, and remove the numeric keypad to save space. TKL keyboards are a good compromise between full-sized keyboards and 60% keyboards, as they offer most of the keys and features of a standard keyboard while reducing the size and weight.

75% and 80% keyboards are similar to 60% keyboards, but offer a few additional keys, such as the numeric keypad or F keys. These keyboards provide a good balance between compactness and functionality, and are ideal for users who need some extra keys but still want to keep their desk space to a minimum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 60% mechanical keyboards are a great option for users who value portability, ergonomics, and aesthetics with 68 or 61 keys.