Imagine this: you’re in the middle of an intense gaming match, your fingers flying across the keyboard. Suddenly, you bump into that extra number pad, accidentally hitting a wrong key and costing you the game. Frustrating, right? This is a common problem for many gamers who find their full-sized keyboards get in the way.
That’s where Tenkeyless (TKL) gaming keyboards come in. They ditch the number pad, giving you more space to move your mouse freely and aim with precision. But with so many TKL keyboards out there, how do you pick the best one for your setup? It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out switches, build quality, and extra features.
This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great TKL gaming keyboard, so you can stop stressing and start gaming. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the perfect keyboard that fits your playstyle and your desk.
Our Top 5 Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboards Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboards Detailed Reviews
1. SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor – 8-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water & Dust Resistant – Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch – Gaming Grade Anti-Ghosting
Rating: 8.7/10
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard is a fantastic choice for gamers. Its compact size is what many pro players use. This means you can set up your keyboard just the way you like it. It helps you play your best in games. The keyboard is also built tough, so it can handle spills and dust. Plus, it looks amazing with its colorful RGB lights.
What We Like:
- The tenkeyless design is popular with pros and helps you play better.
- The gaming switches are super quiet and last for millions of keystrokes.
- It’s water and dust resistant, so spills are not a big deal.
- You can choose from millions of colors and cool lighting effects.
- Easy-to-use media controls let you manage music and volume quickly.
- It works with many devices like PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might miss the number pad for typing numbers.
- The RGB lighting, while vibrant, might not be as customizable as on higher-end keyboards.
This keyboard offers a great gaming experience without breaking the bank. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for performance and style.
2. Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.2/10
The Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is built for serious gamers. Esports athletes helped design it to give you the best performance. It has clicky blue switches that make a satisfying sound and feel with every press. The keyboard is small and portable, so it won’t take up much desk space and is easy to carry to competitions. You can also light up your keys with millions of colors and save your favorite settings right on the keyboard.
What We Like:
- Built with esports athletes for top performance.
- Durable GX Blue Click switches give a clear, tactile feel.
- Compact tenkeyless design saves space and is easy to travel with.
- Customizable LIGHTSYNC RGB backlighting with onboard memory for tournament systems.
- Detachable Micro USB cable is easy to connect and pack.
- Adjustable tilt and rubber feet keep it stable.
- Programmable F-keys for complex actions (requires Logitech G HUB).
What Could Be Improved:
- Programming keys and lighting requires Logitech G HUB software, which might not be allowed in all tournaments.
- Keyboard macros are generally not allowed in tournaments.
This keyboard offers a competitive edge for gamers who demand speed and precision. Its portable design makes it a fantastic companion for any gaming setup or tournament.
3. Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Compact Backlit Keyboard with Tactile Mechanical Switches
Rating: 8.5/10
Level up your gaming with the Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. This compact keyboard packs a punch with gaming-focused features and a tough build that’s ready for any challenge. Its sleek black aluminum design looks great on any desk, and the white backlighting adds a cool touch to your setup.
What We Like:
- Built for gaming: This keyboard has everything you need to play your best.
- Super tough keys: The PBT keycaps resist wear and heat, so they last a long time.
- Great feel: Tactile mechanical switches give you a satisfying click with every press.
- Looks sharp: The brushed aluminum top case is stylish and strong.
- No missed keys: 6-key rollover and anti-ghosting mean every command registers.
- Easy controls: Use the FN keys to manage your music and more without leaving your game.
- Solid build: The aluminum body is very strong and doesn’t bend easily.
- Works with Mac and Windows: Use it with your favorite computer.
What Could Be Improved:
- No number pad: This is a tenkeyless design, so it doesn’t have a number pad on the right.
- White lighting only: The backlighting is white, so you can’t change the colors.
The Logitech G413 TKL SE is a fantastic choice for gamers who want reliable performance and a durable keyboard without breaking the bank. If you don’t need a number pad, this keyboard will definitely boost your gaming experience.
4. Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.1/10
The Redragon K552 is a compact mechanical gaming keyboard that offers a great gaming and typing experience without breaking the bank. Its tenkeyless design saves space on your desk, making it ideal for smaller setups or for gamers who need more room for their mouse. This keyboard is built to last with a sturdy metal frame and features crisp red switches that provide a satisfying, yet quiet, typing feel. It’s also beginner-friendly, so if you’re new to mechanical keyboards, this is a fantastic way to get started.
What We Like:
- The red switches offer a smooth and responsive feel, perfect for both fast-paced gaming and long typing sessions. They’re also click-free, which means less noise and more comfort.
- With 87 anti-ghosting keys, every single command you make registers perfectly. This is super important for competitive gaming.
- The keyboard has vibrant rainbow RGB backlighting with six different modes. You can also adjust the brightness to set the mood.
- Its compact, tenkeyless design saves a lot of desk space. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry around.
- The metal frame makes it feel really sturdy and durable. It looks modern and sleek on any desk.
- It’s a plug-and-play keyboard, making it super easy to set up and start using right away, which is great for beginners.
- You can even swap out the switches later if you want to customize the feel of your keyboard even more.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the RGB lighting is cool, it’s a rainbow effect and not fully customizable per key. More advanced users might want individual key color control.
- The hot-swappable switches are only compatible with 3-pin switches, limiting some advanced customization options.
Overall, the Redragon K552 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable, durable, and great-performing mechanical keyboard for gaming and everyday use. It offers a lot of value for its price point.
5. Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid Tenkeyless Wired Gaming Keyboard with Magnetic Analog Switches
Rating: 9.5/10
The Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid is a serious tool for gamers who want to win. This keyboard lets you change how each key works. You can make it react faster or change how sensitive it is. This helps you play better in games. It has special magnetic switches that are super quick and accurate. The “Rapid Trigger” mode is amazing for fast games. You don’t have to lift your finger all the way up to press a key again. This means you can react even faster. You can also set up special commands and combos for every key. Plus, the RGB lights look cool and can change with your game or music.
What We Like:
- Super-fast magnetic switches for quick reactions.
- “Rapid Trigger” mode lets you press keys again instantly.
- You can customize every single key to play your way.
- Great for FPS games where every second matters.
- Cool RGB lights that sync with your games and music.
- Adjustable actuation points help you play with more accuracy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The software, Logitech G HUB, can sometimes be a bit tricky to learn.
- This is a wired keyboard, so you have a cable to manage.
This keyboard gives you a big advantage in competitive gaming. It’s built for speed and precision, making it a top choice for serious players.
The Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard: Your Compact Command Center
Gamers, listen up! If you want more desk space for epic mouse swipes and a cleaner setup, a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard is your next big upgrade. These keyboards ditch the number pad on the right, giving you a smaller, more focused typing experience. Let’s dive into what makes a TKL keyboard awesome and how to pick the perfect one.
Why Go Tenkeyless?
TKL keyboards are popular because they save space. This means you can move your mouse around more freely. They also look sleek and modern on your desk. Many gamers find them more comfortable for gaming because their hands are closer together.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re hunting for a TKL keyboard, keep these features in mind:
- Mechanical Switches: These are the heart of a good gaming keyboard. They feel clicky, tactile, or smooth, and they last a long time. Common types include Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh. Each has a different feel.
- Keycaps: These are the little plastic caps on top of the switches. Look for durable materials like PBT plastic. It resists shine and wear better than ABS plastic.
- Build Quality: A sturdy keyboard feels solid. Metal top plates, like aluminum, add strength. A well-built keyboard won’t flex or creak.
- RGB Lighting: Many TKL keyboards have customizable RGB lights. You can set them to match your setup or create cool effects.
- Detachable Cable: This makes it easy to pack your keyboard for LAN parties or move it around.
- Software: Good software lets you customize lighting, macros (shortcuts for complex commands), and key assignments.
Important Materials
The materials used in a TKL keyboard really matter for how it feels and how long it lasts.
- Keycaps: As mentioned, PBT keycaps are top-notch. They feel textured and are very durable. ABS is common but can get shiny over time.
- Case: The keyboard’s body can be made of plastic or metal. Aluminum cases are premium. They feel heavy and sturdy. Plastic cases are lighter and usually cheaper.
- Plate: This is the layer between the keycaps and the circuit board. Steel or aluminum plates make the keyboard feel more solid and improve typing feel.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one TKL keyboard better than another?
Things That Make a Keyboard Great:
- Smooth, responsive switches: You want switches that feel good and react instantly when you press them.
- Solid construction: A keyboard that feels like it’s built to last is a good sign.
- High-quality keycaps: PBT keycaps are a big plus.
- Well-designed software: Easy-to-use software makes customization a breeze.
Things That Can Make a Keyboard Less Great:
- Wobbly keycaps: This can happen with cheaper switches or poorly made keycaps.
- Flimsy case: A keyboard that bends easily doesn’t feel premium.
- Scratchy or inconsistent switches: Some switches just don’t feel as good as others.
- Basic or buggy software: Frustrating software can ruin the user experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
A TKL keyboard is perfect for gamers who want more desk space. It’s also great for people who type a lot and appreciate a good typing feel.
- Gaming: The extra mouse space is a game-changer for fast-paced games. You can aim and move with more freedom.
- Typing: Many people find the compact layout comfortable for everyday typing. The mechanical switches also provide a satisfying typing experience.
- Streaming: A clean, compact setup looks professional on stream.
- Portability: TKL keyboards are easier to carry around to friends’ houses or gaming events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboards
Q: What does “tenkeyless” mean?
A: “Tenkeyless” means the keyboard does not have the number pad on the right side. It’s a smaller, more compact version of a full-sized keyboard.
Q: Are tenkeyless keyboards good for gaming?
A: Yes, TKL keyboards are excellent for gaming. They give you more room for your mouse, which is important for games that require large mouse movements.
Q: What are the most popular types of mechanical switches?
A: Popular switches include Cherry MX (Red, Brown, Blue), Gateron, and Kailh. Reds are linear and smooth, Browns are tactile with a bump, and Blues are clicky and tactile.
Q: Is PBT plastic better than ABS plastic for keycaps?
A: Yes, PBT plastic is generally considered better. It’s more durable, resists shine better, and feels more textured than ABS plastic.
Q: Do I need special software to use a TKL keyboard?
A: Not always. You can use a TKL keyboard without software. However, software is needed to customize RGB lighting, macros, and key assignments.
Q: How much space do TKL keyboards save?
A: They save about 20-25% of the desk space compared to a full-sized keyboard because they remove the entire number pad section.
Q: Can I use a TKL keyboard for work?
A: Absolutely! Many people prefer TKL keyboards for work because they offer a comfortable typing experience and help keep your desk tidy.
Q: Are TKL keyboards more expensive than full-sized keyboards?
A: Not necessarily. The price depends more on the brand, materials, and features than just the size. You can find TKL keyboards in all price ranges.
Q: What is a “macro” on a gaming keyboard?
A: A macro is a recorded sequence of keystrokes or mouse clicks that you can trigger with a single button press. It helps automate repetitive tasks in games or applications.
Q: How do I choose the right mechanical switches for me?
A: It depends on your preference. If you like a smooth, quiet feel, try linear switches (like Cherry MX Red). If you like a noticeable bump when you press a key, try tactile switches (like Cherry MX Brown). If you enjoy an audible click, go for clicky switches (like Cherry MX Blue).
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.