The Best 65 Keyboards [2024 Edition]

What Are 65% Keyboards?

A 65 keyboard is sized between a 60% and a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard. It’s similar to a 60% keyboard but includes arrow keys. If you don’t need a number pad or function row and are looking to save desk space, a 65 keyboard is a great option.

Number of switches: 68
Number of keys: 68
Stabilizers: 6.25u, 3x 2u (varies by model)

Save Desk Space

Most 65 keyboard feature between 66 and 68 keys, making them compact, lightweight, and easy to transport. If you need to switch between home and office, this keyboard size is ideal for mobility. A 65% keyboard also helps with decluttering your workspace, providing more room for other items or keeping things neat.

All the Important Keys

Despite the compact size, a 65 keyboard includes all the essential keys. It features a row on the right side with Delete, Page Up, and Page Down keys, as well as arrow keys placed conveniently. However, it lacks a function row, further contributing to its compact design.

Differences Between 65% Keyboard Layouts

There are typically two main 65 keyboard layouts, and your choice will depend on personal preference. Let’s go over the differences to help you decide.

Compact Layout:
In this layout, all the keys are packed closely together, making the keyboard ultra-compact. The home cluster is arranged vertically, and the arrow keys are blended into the layout. If you want to save on space and don’t mind adjusting to tightly packed keys, this layout is for you.
Separated Home Cluster and Arrow Keys:
This layout is slightly wider but provides a more comfortable typing experience. The arrow keys are spaced away from the other keys, and the home cluster is also separated. It resembles a TKL layout, minus the function row and a few home keys. The standard bottom row in this layout makes swapping out keycaps easier.

Sixty-five percent mechanical keyboards, often called “65 keyboards,” are becoming increasingly popular among enthusiasts and professionals. These compact keyboards strike the perfect balance between functionality and space-saving design, offering a streamlined typing experience without sacrificing essential keys.

The Best 65% Keyboards – Our Favorites

The Award	The Keyboard	Special Features
Favorite Pick for Everyone	Keychron Q2	Feels custom-made
Best Premium Keyboard	Iqunix F65	Full aluminum construction
Most Budget-Friendly Keyboard	Keychron V2	Silicone sound dampening pad
Perfect for Gamers	HyperX Alloy Origins 65	Beautiful RGB

1. Keychron Q2 – The Premium 65 Keyboard

The Keychron Q2 is a standout in the world of 65 keyboards, known for its sleek, compact design and customizable options. It’s a favorite for those who want a high-quality mechanical keyboard that doesn’t skimp on features.

What sets the Keychron Q2 apart is its premium feel. It comes with a variety of keycap designs and themes that can suit any aesthetic. Many users appreciate the near-custom experience this 65 keyboard offers, especially since it allows for modifications, although it performs exceptionally well straight out of the box.

If you’re into customizing your 65 keyboard, the Keychron Q2 is mod-friendly. Some popular modifications include:

Tape mod for sound dampening
Adding different types of foam for a quieter experience
PE foam mods for a softer typing sound
Modifying stabilizers for smoother key presses
Swapping keycaps for a more personalized look
Adjusting gasket locations and thicknesses for a different typing feel

However, you don’t need to modify it to enjoy a fantastic typing experience. The Keychron Q2 comes pre-configured with pre-lubed switches and durable PBT keycaps, which make it feel premium out of the box. And if you prefer a DIY approach, Keychron also offers a barebones version, allowing you to build your own 65 keyboard from the ground up.

Superior Build and Typing Feel

The gasket-mounted design of the Keychron Q2 provides a bouncy, responsive typing experience. You can disassemble and modify the internals if you want, making it one of the most versatile 65 keyboards on the market.

Additionally, the QMK/VIA software compatibility ensures that you won’t need to download any third-party software. VIA, an in-browser tool, allows for full customization of your 65 keyboard’s key mapping, macros, and lighting, offering a seamless user experience.

Design Options for Every Taste

Keychron offers the Q2 in four different colors, each with customizable keycaps and the option to include a knob. You can also opt for the barebones edition if you’re looking to start with just the case and build your ideal 65 keyboard.

Loads of Switch Options for the Perfect 65 Keyboard
When it comes to switch variety, the Keychron Q2 truly stands out. This 65 keyboard offers several pre-lubed switch options, including the Gateron G Pro Red, Brown, and Blue. Whether you’re looking for a linear, clicky, or tactile feel, the Q2 has you covered. The pre-lubed switches save you time and effort, ensuring a smoother typing experience right out of the box.

2. Iqunix F65 and Q66: Premium 65 Keyboards Right Out of the Box

Next up, we have the Iqunix F65 and Q66, both fantastic premium 65 keyboards. The main difference between them lies in the layout: the F65 features a one-piece layout, while the Q66 separates the navigation keys onto a small island. Despite this difference, both models deliver the same high-quality performance and stunning design.

Known for their exceptional build quality, Iqunix keyboards are designed to provide an amazing typing experience right out of the box. At a price point around $150, these 65 keyboards may seem steep, but their performance and durability more than justify the investment.

Unique Switch & Keycap Options

The Iqunix F65 and Q66 offer unique switch options that set them apart from other 65 keyboards. You can choose from TTC Gold Pinks, TTC Speed Silvers, and the highly sought-after Holy Pandas. These switches are known for their ultra-smooth, clacky, and pre-lubed nature, giving users a premium typing experience without the need for further modifications. The hot-swappable sockets allow you to switch out switches easily, so you can fully customize your 65 keyboard setup with just a simple switch puller—no soldering required.

Beautifully Constructed for Longevity

One of the key highlights of the Iqunix F65 and Q66 is their stunning construction. Built with an aluminum plate and body, these keyboards are designed to last. The sturdy build gives them a hefty feel, contributing to an overall premium experience.

Having experienced Iqunix’s 75% keyboards like the L80 and A80, it’s hard not to be impressed by the beauty and craftsmanship of their designs. And just like their 75% counterparts, the F65 and Q66 are also hot-swappable, adding even more customization options for enthusiasts who love to experiment with different switches.

Loaded with Features

These 65 keyboards come packed with features that make them versatile for all kinds of users. You can connect via USB-C, Bluetooth, or a 2.5Ghz dongle, offering a range of connectivity options for both wired and wireless use. Whether you’re typing on a desktop, laptop, phone, or tablet, the Iqunix F65 and Q66 provide seamless connectivity with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.

Awesome Unique Case Designs & Pricing

One of the standout features of these 65 keyboards is their unique case designs and the incredible sound right out of the box. You won’t need to worry about tuning the stabilizers or lubing the switches – it’s ready to go, offering a satisfying typing experience from the moment you plug it in.

Customization and Pricing Options

Pricing for these 65 keyboards varies depending on the version and features you choose. Whether you prefer RGB lighting or a more minimalist look without it, there’s an option for you. Plus, you can pick from a range of switches to match your typing style, ensuring that your 65 keyboard is tailored exactly to your preferences.

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3. Ducky One 2 SF: Top 65 Keyboard for Gamers

Taking the third spot on our list is the Ducky One 2 SF, which is highly regarded in the gaming community. The “SF” stands for sixty-five percent, making this an ideal compact keyboard for gaming enthusiasts. Available in both black and white designs, this keyboard offers a sleek aesthetic to match your setup.

It also comes with RGB LED lighting and sturdy double-shot PBT keycaps, ensuring durability and style. The Ducky One 2 SF is well-constructed, featuring a strong ABS plastic case. While the black version has a sleek dark finish from the top, it surprises with a white bezel and white bottom, adding a striking contrast to its design.

Customization Features

The Ducky One 2 SF offers a variety of switch options, including Cherry MX Black, Brown, Red, Blue, Silver, and Silent Red. For connectivity, it uses a USB-C port positioned on the left side, and the keyboard includes rubber feet and two kickstands with adjustable angles for comfortable typing.

Though this 65 keyboard has a non-standard bottom row, which makes keycap swapping a bit more challenging, Ducky includes additional colorful keycaps for a bit of added flair. This attention to detail and customization options makes the Ducky One 2 SF a popular choice among gamers. With a reputation for quality, Ducky remains a trusted brand in the keyboard community, consistently delivering excellent products.

4. Keychron K6: Best Budget 65 Keyboard

For those seeking an affordable yet high-performing 65 keyboard, the Keychron K6 is an excellent choice. Originally launched through a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Keychron K6 exceeded its funding goals and has become a fan favorite for its exceptional value and performance.

A Thick Keyboard with Comfort Considerations

The Keychron K6 has a sturdy build, but one potential downside is its thickness. This keyboard is quite tall, so to use it comfortably for long typing sessions, you’ll likely need a proper wrist rest. That said, once you have the setup right, the typing experience is top-notch.

Upgrading Keycaps for Better Visibility

While the Keychron K6 performs well, the default keycaps are a bit low in contrast, making them harder to read unless the RGB lighting is turned on. The ABS keycaps also feel somewhat thin. We found that upgrading to thicker PBT keycaps significantly improved the overall experience, making the 65 keyboard feel more premium.

5. Akko 3068: Best Wireless 65 Keyboard

Next on our list is the Akko 3068, another popular 65 keyboard option. This model comes with various switch options, such as Cherry MX Blue, and can be found on Amazon with a range of colors and keycap designs. The Akko 3068 is well-suited for both typing and gaming, thanks to its customizable features.

Basic Features with a Twist

This 65 keyboard offers solid connectivity with its USB-C port, and it supports wireless connections via Bluetooth, allowing it to pair with up to three devices. With PBT keycaps in a Cherry profile and dye-sublimated legends, it has a durable, timeless look. The Akko 3068 offers up to 120 hours of battery life in wireless mode, though this is due in part to its lack of RGB lighting.

6. MagicForce 68: Best Budget 65 Keyboard

The MagicForce 68 is a wired 65 keyboard that offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too many features. This keyboard includes Outemu brown switches and a floating key design, giving it a modern aesthetic. Though it lacks the wireless options of pricier keyboards, it still delivers a solid typing experience with Cherry-style stabilizers.

DIP Switch Options for Customization

This model includes DIP switches on the back, offering layout customization. With these switches, you can remap keys like the Caps Lock and Ctrl, or lock the Windows key to avoid accidental presses. For its price point, the MagicForce 68 is a highly customizable and reliable option within the 65 keyboard range.

7. Vortexgear Cypher: Best Minimalist 65 Keyboard

For those seeking a no-frills, minimalist design, the Vortexgear Cypher is a clean and simple 65 keyboard. With a sturdy plastic case and durable PBT keycaps, this keyboard offers everything you need without the extras. It comes with Cherry MX switches in Blue, Brown, or Silver, providing a solid typing experience whether you’re working or gaming.

8. Durgod Fusion: Retro-Inspired 65 Keyboard

A newer entry to the 65 keyboard scene is the Durgod Fusion, which sports a retro design inspired by old-school keyboards like the IBM Model M. Despite its retro look, the Durgod Fusion is packed with modern features, including Bluetooth capability, a detachable USB-C cable, and several Cherry MX switch options.

Retro Design with Modern Performance

While the exterior gives off a vintage vibe, the Durgod Fusion’s internals are state-of-the-art, making it a top choice for anyone looking for a mix of style and substance in a 65 keyboard.

9. Leopold FC660C: Best Topre 65 Keyboard

Lastly, we have the Leopold FC660C, which uses the unique Topre switch. Known for its electro-capacitive actuation, the Topre switch offers a tactile typing experience that many users find superior to traditional mechanical switches. If you’re in the market for a premium 65 keyboard, the Leopold FC660C is worth considering.

Utility Features of the Leopold FC660C

The Leopold FC660C comes equipped with four DIP switches located on the back, along with four rubber feet and two kickstands to adjust the typing angle. Even without the kickstands, the keyboard has a slight incline, ensuring comfort during use. It also features N-key rollover for optimal performance, making it an excellent choice for serious typists and gamers alike.

Should You Get the Leopold FC660C?

If you’re looking for a unique alternative to traditional mechanical keyboards, the Leopold FC660C with Topre switches might be what you need. While this 65 keyboard is on the higher end of the price spectrum, it offers a premium typing experience that justifies the cost. You can find the Leopold FC660C on mechanicalkeyboards.com, where its performance and build quality speak for themselves.

10. Tada68: Best Custom 65% Keyboard

The Tada68 is a highly customizable 65 keyboard, giving enthusiasts the option to either build it from scratch or purchase it pre-assembled. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to have full control over the components, but it can sometimes be tricky to find pre-built models available.

Available Pre-Built or DIY Assembly

The fully assembled version of the Tada68 features high-quality PBT plastic keycaps with dye-sublimated legends. The keyboard has a plastic case with an aluminum plate underneath, which, while durable, may be prone to scratches over time. The entire keyboard is programmable using TMK firmware, allowing you to fully customize its functionality to your liking.

You can purchase the Tada68 from KBDfans, with prices ranging from $99 to $119 depending on your choice of switches.

Switch Options: Gateron or Cherry

For switches, the Tada68 offers several options: Gateron blacks, reds, browns, and blues. These high-quality switches mimic the performance of Cherry MX switches, offering a smooth typing experience at a lower cost. Genuine Cherry MX switches are also available in blacks, blues, browns, and reds, as well as Gateron Silent options for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Choosing Cherry MX or silent switches may increase the price to around $119.

Sleek and Elegant Design

While the Tada68 doesn’t feature RGB lighting, its clean and minimalist design appeals to users who prefer a classic, no-frills look. Many enthusiasts showcase their customized Tada68 keyboards on Reddit, often pairing them with unique and vibrant keycaps for a more personalized appearance.

If you opt for the DIY kit, you can choose between a black plastic case priced at $89 or an aluminum case in various colors, which can raise the price to $149. Building your own 65 keyboard allows you to tailor it to your preferences, making the Tada68 a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts

Building Your Own Tada68

When assembling your own Tada68 keyboard, you’ll need to purchase additional components such as switches and LEDs if you want to include RGB lighting. For a complete setup, make sure to check out our guide on essential equipment for building a custom mechanical keyboard, which provides a comprehensive checklist of everything you’ll need before starting.

One downside to the Tada68 that users have mentioned is that configuring the firmware can be a bit challenging. Additionally, it features a non-standard bottom row, which might make it difficult to replace all the keycaps—something to keep in mind since it’s a 65 keyboard.

Wrapping Up the List of 65% Keyboards

As we’ve shown, there are several excellent 65 keyboard options to consider. The Ducky MIYA is one of our personal favorites due to its variety of unique and custom layouts. The Drop ALT is another impressive choice, though it is on the pricier side, but the build quality and hot-swappable feature make it worth it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 65% keyboards offer the perfect balance between functionality and portability, making them a top choice for gamers, professionals, and keyboard enthusiasts alike. With a compact form factor, these keyboards save space without sacrificing essential keys like the arrow and delete keys. From premium models like the Keychron Q2 and Iqunix F65 to budget-friendly options like the Keychron K6, there is a 65% keyboard for every user’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a keyboard with customizable features, superior build quality, or one that’s easy to transport, the 65% keyboard market offers a wide variety of options. The models mentioned in this article provide excellent performance, durability, and aesthetics to enhance your typing or gaming experience.

FAQs

1. What is a 65% keyboard?
A 65% keyboard is a compact mechanical keyboard that retains essential keys like arrow keys and the delete key but eliminates the number pad and function row. It typically has 66 to 68 keys.

2. Why choose a 65% keyboard?
A 65% keyboard is ideal for those who want to save desk space without losing important keys. It’s perfect for gamers who need extra mouse movement space or for professionals who prefer a minimalist setup.

3. Can I customize my 65% keyboard?
Yes, many 65% keyboards, like the Keychron Q2 or Iqunix F65, are mod-friendly. You can customize switches, keycaps, and stabilizers to fit your preferences.

4. Is a 65% keyboard good for gaming?
Absolutely! Many gamers prefer 65% keyboards due to their compact size, which allows for more desk space and better ergonomics. Models like the Ducky One 2 SF are designed specifically for gaming.

5. Are 65% keyboards expensive?
There are 65% keyboards available at various price points. Premium models like the Keychron Q2 can be expensive, but budget-friendly options like the Keychron K6 offer excellent performance at a lower cost.