The Top Mini Keyboards for Gaming in 2023

The market offers a variety of gaming keyboards in different shapes and sizes. Recently, gamers have been gravitating towards smaller form factors such as 60%, 65%, and 75% keyboards instead of the traditional full-sized ones or even ten keyless keyboards. While some gamers may perceive these smaller keyboards as impractical, there are valid reasons behind their growing popularity. Mini keyboards occupy less desk space, allowing for unrestricted mouse movement. They are also convenient for gaming on the go and appeal to minimalist aesthetics.

Nevertheless, shrinking down a keyboard does come with certain compromises. Many dedicated keys found on full-size keyboards are either placed on a function layer or completely omitted. Additionally, gamers with larger hands may find these keyboards somewhat cramped. However, when it comes to gaming performance, mini keyboards are on par with or occasionally even surpass their full-sized counterparts in terms of raw power.

When selecting the ideal mini keyboard for gamers, consider the following factors:

Form Factor: While gamers typically prefer smaller keyboards, there are still various form factors available within the mini keyboard classification. These options range from 75% keyboards, which are at the larger end of the mini keyboard spectrum, to 40% keyboards, which our website recommends as the smallest size without sacrificing too much functionality.

Connectivity: The first question gamers need to consider is whether they prefer a wired or wireless keyboard. Wired keyboards provide a consistently stable connection and eliminate the need to worry about battery life. On the other hand, wireless keyboards offer greater versatility and a sleeker appearance. It is worth noting that nowadays most wireless keyboards perform just as well as wired ones.

Switch Type: While most gamers nowadays opt for mechanical keyboards, membrane keyboards still have their place. Mechanical keyboards generally provide a superior tactile experience and more reliable performance, though they tend to be pricier than membrane keyboards. Gamers who choose mechanical keyboards also need to decide which type of switch they prefer.

Razer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard

Best Overall Mini Keyboard$97 at Walmart

Nuphy Air 75

Best Wireless Mini Keyboard $100 at NuPhy

HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Gaming Keyboard

Best Wired Mini Keyboard $80 at Best Buy

Roccat Magma Mini Gaming Keyboard

Best Budget Mini Keyboard $35 at Roccat

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless

Best Premium Mini Keyboard $240 at SteelSeries

See More

Best RGB Mini Keyboard $70 at Best Buy

Razer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard

Best Overall Mini Keyboard $97 $120 Save $23 The Razer Huntsman Mini is a top-quality mini keyboard that offers an exceptional gaming experience. It features Razer Linear Optical switch technology, which ensures lightning-fast key presses with a shorter actuation distance compared to other linear switches. With Razer Chroma, you can customize the backlighting with 16.8 million colors, allowing for ultimate personalization. The Huntsman Mini is also built to last, with a durable matte aluminum top frame. Additional features include a compact design, no wireless connectivity, and no media controls or number pad. The Razer Optical switch provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, and the keyboard has a polling rate of 1000 Hz. Overall, the Huntsman Mini is a fantastic choice for gamers seeking a mini keyboard with exceptional performance and customization options.

Low latency

Excellent typing quality

Cons No dedicated macro keys

Can get a bit uncomfortable with no wrist rest

Find the Huntsman Mini keyboard from Razer available at various retailers. Razer is renowned for its high-quality gaming peripherals, and the Huntsman lineup perfectly exemplifies this. The Huntsman Mini, the smallest option in this keyboard line, stands out as one of the top choices for gamers. Its exceptional features include a 1,000Hz polling rate, n-key rollover with anti-ghosting, and optical switches rated for an impressive 100 million keystrokes. Not only does the Huntsman Mini deliver outstanding performance, but it is also designed to endure years of use, making it a reliable option for gamers.

The clicky optical switches offer a satisfying typing experience, featuring a pleasant tactile bump at the end of each keystroke. However, they can be quite noisy without any internal dampening. If gamers prefer a longer key travel, they can easily switch to linear switches. Although these offer a less responsive feel during gaming, they greatly enhance the typing experience.

The 60% form factor may feel cramped for those with larger hands, lacking dedicated arrow keys and a function row. This limitation can be somewhat inconvenient for certain gamers. However, for those who primarily focus on gaming, it is not a significant drawback. To explore more Razer options, please visit Our website's list of The Best Razer Gaming Keyboards.

Introducing the Nuphy Air 75, the ultimate wireless mini keyboard. Priced at $100, it offers a remarkable $10 savings from its original price of $110. Designed with the needs of busy individuals in mind, this ultra-thin keyboard ensures that your typing experience is never compromised. With its sleek profile measuring only 16mm in thickness, the Air 75 sets itself apart from other mechanical keyboards available in the market. Our goal is for the Air 75 to become synonymous with the phrase "thin keyboard".

Brand: NuPhyWireless

Backlight: RGB-LED

Media Controls: No

Num Pad: No

Switch Type: Low-Profile Gateron Mechanical

Number of Keys: 84

Dimensions: 315.7 mm x 132.6 mm x 16.0 mm

Pros: Extremely low latency, compact and portable low-profile design.

Fantastic build quality

Cons Keycaps aren't shine through

Discover the NuPhy Air 75, the ultimate wireless keyboard for gamers on-the-go. With its compact 75% layout and sleek 16mm thickness, this versatile keyboard combines portability with exceptional gaming performance. Experience top-notch build quality, featuring minimal flex and a satisfying typing experience, all thanks to the cutting-edge Gateron Low-Profile Brown switches. Available now for $100 at NuPhy or on Amazon.

In terms of connectivity, the NuPhy Air75 offers a comprehensive range of options that function almost flawlessly. This keyboard can be used either wired through a USB-C cable, wirelessly through 2.4 GHz, or via Bluetooth. Moreover, gamers have the convenience of pairing the keyboard with up to three devices simultaneously and effortlessly switching between them. For optimal gaming performance, our website recommends utilizing the 2.4 GHz wireless or wired connection. However, Bluetooth still delivers exceptional performance for individuals who either lack an available USB port or require a quick and easy connection for their laptop.

One notable feature of the NuPhy Air75 is its hot-swappable PCB, which allows gamers to easily replace the Gateron Low-Profile Brown switches for ones that provide a superior typing experience. It is important to note that, as this is a low-profile keyboard, it is recommended to replace the switches with low-profile alternatives. Nevertheless, standard switches are also compatible with this keyboard.

Introducing the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Gaming Keyboard

Experience the Best with this Wired Mini Keyboard—Now Only $80 (Originally $100), Save $20!

The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 sets a new standard for mechanical gaming keyboards. Equipped with the innovative HyperX Red switches, it provides an unparalleled level of performance. These switches deliver quiet and smooth keystrokes, while ensuring reliable and fast actuation.

Featuring a compact 60% form factor, this keyboard takes up minimal space on your desk, giving you more room for seamless mouse movement.

Moreover, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps that are highly durable and resistant to wear, friction, and solvents.

Furthermore, you can elevate your gaming experience with the captivating RGB LED backlight, designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal.

Customize your keyboard to suit your preferences using the NGENUITY software, adding a personalized touch to your gaming setup.

Don't miss out on this incredible deal!

Rewritten

Wireless HyperX Red - Linear RGBNum Pad with No Backlight and No Switches

Features:

- 84 keys for convenient usage

- Compact dimensions measuring 11.7 inches x 4.15 inches x1.5 inches

- High polling rate of 1,000 Hz

- Pros: Responsive and lightweight switches

- Excellent build quality

Incredibly low latency

Cons Not very comfortable

Customization software is only available on Windows

See at Amazon $80 at Best Buy $80 at HyperX

Wired keyboards are highly sought after by gamers who prioritize optimal performance and reliability. The HyperX Alloy Origins 60 is a top choice among wired mini keyboards for gaming. Constructed with aluminum, this keyboard boasts superior durability and is equipped with HyperX Red linear switches that offer a light and responsive feel. While these switches are perfect for gaming, they may lead to typing errors for some users.

The Alloy Origins 60 stands out due to its extensive customization options for RGB lighting. With individual RGB LEDs for each key, users can customize the brightness to as low as 1%. This level of customization is particularly impressive as most keyboards only offer a brighter dim setting before completely turning off. While this may not have a significant impact on the overall visual experience for most gamers, it is a crucial feature for individuals who pay meticulous attention to their lighting preferences.

This 84-key 60% keyboard has limited space for macros, but gamers can easily assign macros to any key using the NGENUITY software. Additionally, it offers three adjustable typing angles for added comfort. However, due to its thicker design, most gamers may need to hover their hands over the keyboard while typing. If gamers plan to utilize the Origins 60 as a full-use keyboard, it is advisable to consider purchasing a wrist rest to enhance typing comfort during lengthy sessions.

Roccat Magma Mini Gaming Keyboard

Best Budget Mini Keyboard - Save $15 with the Roccat Magma Mini. This small and compact 60% keyboard is perfect for freeing up desktop space and pairs perfectly with a large mousepad. With its five-zone Aimo RGB Lighting and translucent top plate, it offers stunning visual effects. The keyboard is also durable and spill-resistant with its IP33 rating. Its membrane keys are both quiet and responsive, and the Easy-Shift button allows for additional function layers. Enjoy the convenience of wireless connectivity, 10 programmable RGB LEDs, and a polling rate of 1,000 Hz. The keyboard is lightweight and boasts a compact form factor, making it a top choice.

Very affordable price point

Water and dust proof

Cons Have to use the Function key to access arrow keys

Wire isn't removable

The Roccat Magma Mini is a budget-friendly gaming keyboard that ticks all the right boxes. Priced at just $35, it offers great value for money. Despite not being the most thrilling option on the market, this keyboard impresses with its membrane switches, delivering a surprisingly pleasant typing experience that is also quieter compared to mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the Magma Mini stands out as one of the most affordable mini keyboards currently available.

The membrane keys used in this keyboard are highly responsive and include features like anti-ghosting and Easy-Shift, allowing easy access to secondary controls such as function keys and arrow keys. Additionally, the keyboard is completely dust and waterproof, which is beneficial for gamers who tend to occasionally spill drinks. The sealed-off case design also enhances the RB lighting by creating a softer and less intense illumination compared to other keyboards.

However, the Magma Mini keyboard's combination of a 60% layout and light touch membrane keys may pose challenges for gamers with larger hands, as there is a higher likelihood of accidentally pressing keys. Nevertheless, most gamers will find the layout more comfortable after a few days of use.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless is considered the best premium mini keyboard on the market. It offers the perfect solution for gamers who want to maximize space on their desks without sacrificing any of the features found in a full-size keyboard. The secondary actions are conveniently side-printed, allowing for easy access during intense gaming sessions. SteelSeries proudly claims that the Apex Pro Mini is the world's fastest and most advanced keyboard, capable of effortlessly handling any task. Whether you need lightning-fast keystrokes to dominate your opponents or precise presses for accurate typing, this keyboard delivers. Moreover, gamers have the ability to customize the actuation point to within 0.1mm, providing the ultimate level of personalization.

Wireless: Yes

Backlight: Per Key RGB

Num Pad: No

Switch Type: OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic Switches

Number of Keys: 87

Dimensions: 11.53 in x 4.02 in x 1.59 in

Polling rate: 1,000 Hz

Pros: Excellent build quality

Adjustable pre-travel distance.

Very low latency

Cons Short battery life

Ergonomic support is kind of lacking

See at Amazon $240 at SteelSeries

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless offers a wide range of impressive features, although it comes with a higher price tag compared to the Magma Mini. The standout feature of this keyboard is the ability to customize the actuation point for each key. What sets the Apex Pro Mini Wireless apart is that it goes a step further by allowing users to assign two different inputs with just one key press. One input will activate at a lighter actuation point, while the other will activate at a heavier actuation point. This feature is particularly useful for gamers who want to quickly switch between actions without having to hold down the shift key to sprint.

In addition to its customizable actuation point, this keyboard boasts minimal latency and exceptional performance across all types of games. The switches offer a satisfying typing experience while remaining relatively quiet, making it ideal for gamers who share their space with others and want to avoid causing a disturbance. For laptop users, the wireless dongle is a USB-C adapter, eliminating the need for a USB-C hub to achieve optimal wireless performance with the Apex Pro Mini Wireless.

Despite only having 87 keys, the Corsair K65 RGB Mini is a 60% keyboard that doesn't compromise on functionality. Thanks to its companion software, users can easily program macros and utilize the adjustable actuation point to program second-layer inputs such as the arrow keys or the function row. This eliminates the need to hold down another key to access these functions. Looking to pair a SteelSeries keyboard with a mouse? Check out Our website's list of The Best SteelSeries Gaming Mice for 2023.

Corsair K65 RGB Mini.

Get the Best RGB Mini Keyboard for only $70, saving $40 from its original price of $110. The K65 RGB MINI is designed to provide gamers with a compact and comfortable gaming experience, fitting perfectly into tight spaces. Equipped with CHERRY MX SPEED RGB Silver Mechanical switches, this keyboard offers lightning-fast response times with a 1.2mm actuation distance. It also boasts a polling rate of 8,000 Hz, which is four times faster than most keyboards available in the market.

Here are the key specifications of the keyboard:

- Brand: Corsair

- Wireless: No

- Backlight: Per Key RGB

- Media Controls: No

- Num Pad: No

- Switch Type: CHERRY MX SPEED

- Number of Keys: 61 Keys

- Dimensions: 294mm x 105mm x 44mm

- Polling rate: Up to 8,000Hz

You can find this amazing keyboard on Amazon for $70, on Best Buy for $75, and on Newegg.

Good RGB lighting, such as the under glow on cars, is believed by many gamers to enhance their performance. While this may not always hold true, it certainly applies to the Corsair K65 RGB Mini. This 60% keyboard stands out as one of Corsair's initial offerings with an impressive 8,000Hz polling rate, resulting in remarkably minimal latency. Complementing this speed-enhancing feature are the Cherry MX Speed switches, renowned for their swift actuation point that delivers unparalleled responsiveness.

However, the true highlight of this keyboard lies in its stunning lighting effects and overall aesthetic appeal. Every key on the K65 RGB Mini is equipped with customizable per-key RGB lighting, allowing users to personalize their gaming experience using Corsair's iCue software. The space bar boasts an intriguing pattern that emanates a speckled light, although gamers with trypophobia may not appreciate this design. For such individuals, Corsair also offers a version of the keyboard with a standard-looking spacebar to address this concern.

Mini Possibilities

The keyboard provides exceptional comfort for gaming and typing. However, it lacks adjustable feet to modify the typing angle, resulting in gamers needing to hover their hands over the keyboard in order to find a comfortable position instead of being able to rest them on the desk. Explore Our website's compilation of The Best Corsair Gaming Mice for 2023 to find a complementary mouse.

Gamers have strong preferences when it comes to keyboard size and type. Most tend to stick with what they are familiar with, but it's worthwhile for those who haven't tried a mini keyboard to give it a shot. Mini keyboards don't have to be the tiniest option available. For instance, 75% keyboards incorporate many dedicated keys that gamers typically expect on a full-size keyboard, but in a smaller, more compact design.

A good starting point for mini keyboards is the 65% layout, which offers a balance between dedicated function keys and a small form factor suitable for any desk. For those seeking an even smaller option, 60% keyboards provide a similar experience but take up less space. The smallest recommended form factor on our website is 40%, which offers a minimalist keyboard experience and occupies minimal desk space.

The ongoing debate in the gaming community about wired versus wireless keyboards has been largely mitigated by significant advancements in keyboard performance. Both wired and wireless keyboards now offer comparable performance. Wireless keyboards are ideal for gamers seeking a clean desk setup, with the occasional need for charging. On the other hand, wired keyboards excel in delivering cutting-edge gaming performance, such as the Corsair K65 Pro RGB's impressive 8,000Hz polling rate. Ultimately, the choice between wired and wireless keyboards comes down to personal preference.

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts frequently discuss their preferred switch types and favorites. Choices typically include linear, clicky, or tactile switches. For gamers who enjoy tinkering with electronics, it is advisable to search for keyboards with hot-swappable PCBs. These keyboards enable easy customization and allow users to experiment with different switch types without having to purchase an entirely new keyboard each time.

When it comes to form factor, connectivity, or switch type, there are numerous outstanding options available. It is important to prioritize personal preference instead of relying solely on online recommendations when making a selection.

FAQ

Q: Are mini keyboards better for typing?

Mini keyboards do not automatically enhance users' typing speed, but they do enhance typing efficiency. With their compact size, there is less room for users to search and peck for keys, making them an excellent choice for individuals who are learning to type or those aiming to refine their technique.

Q: Do gamers use mini keyboards?

A smaller keyboard offers more space for precise mouse movement, making it a preferred choice among many gamers.

Q: What size keyboard do most gamers use?

Gamers often prefer 65% keyboards as they strike a balance between full-size keyboards and 60% keyboards. Fortunately, there is a wide selection available, ranging from keyboards with extra dedicated keys to 40% keyboards that offer only the essential features needed for gaming.