Mechanical keyboards are considered by many tech connoisseurs to be the best-in-class. Therefore, they have become extremely popular among not only gamers, but also professionals.
Mechanical keyboards get their name from the fact that they have a physical, mechanical ‘switch’, that actually clicks when you press it.
This is in contrast to membrane keyboards, which work by completing a circuit using a membrane beneath the keys.
When you press the key on a membrane keyboard, it will connect to the bottom layer and ‘close’ the switch.
However, this means that you need to ‘bottom’ out the switch for it to have any effect, ultimately increasing the likelihood of finger strain, typo, and more. It also lacks that satisfying click.
Tenkeyless mechanical keyboards are mechanical keyboards that lack a numpad.
Numpads are useful for some professionals – such as video editors and programmers – but have little use for many other groups.
If you have no use for a numpad, then choosing a tenkeyless keyboard allows you to save space and money, while still enjoying the luxury of a mechanical keyboard!
With all that said, let’s take a look at some of the best tenkeyless mechanical keyboards on the market right now.
What is the Fastest Tenkeyless Keyboard?
1. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
This keyboard foregoes the RGB lighting seen in other models in our list and instead opts for red and black.
This is a great look, but it’s one that is somewhat less versatile of course, meaning that it may or may not match the look of your setup!
Despite the minimalist look it comes packed with 87 keys meaning you get plenty of regular cursor keys.
Wired for faster inputs and combined with the n-key rollover and anti-ghosting. As a result, you won’t have to worry key presses not registering with multiple keys pressed.
Furthermore, the switches are available in either blue, red, or brown giving you plenty of variety to choose switches that suit you.
2. Logitech G Pro Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
RGB is back in this Logitech G Pro mechanical keyboard, along with another very minimal and sleek design.
The G Pro claims to be more responsive due not only to the switch itself, but also the overall design.
It has been optimized to be 10ms faster than the competition and also features the usual anti-ghosting and n-key rollover.
A wired keyboard, it claims to be built for the ‘e-sport athlete’.
Indeed, it is faster than the likes of the K95 Platinum from Corsair, which is considerably more expensive.
However, there are a lack of dedicated macro keys, though it is possible to assign macros to the f-keys using the Logitech software.
If you don’t mind that – or the lack of Cherry switches – then this is a great keyboard all round keyboard.
3. Razer BlackWidow Tournament Edition Chroma V2 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
The price is beginning to creep up, but this is to be expected from the likes of Razer.
Razer makes very attractive hardware, which unfortunately also comes with a certain ‘tax’ for using a known brand. The switches are proprietary ‘Razer Orange’ switches though.
That said, there’s a lot to like here.
The keyboard is durable up to 80 million keystrokes, it features ‘tournament grade precision’. As a result, many eSports athletes indeed choose Razer products for this reason.
In addition, there are individually backlit keys with customizable RGB lighting, and an ergonomic wrist-rest.
It’s a reliable brand, and a very well-made keyboard with fast and accurate switches.
Just make sure that you are happy to pay the extra price!
4. Asus ROG Claymore Core Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
This keyboard eschews the more minimal look of so much of the competition for something a lot more skeletal and robotic looking.
It’s an acquired taste, but certainly a unique and appealing aesthetic.
Other than that, you get a customizable ‘light show’ (full RGB), overclocking via a single click (very useful for serious gamers), a high-quality aluminium frame, and compatibility with an optional ‘Claymore Bond’. This gives you the option of adding those extra ten keys.
Unfortunately, this is the only way to get access to macros – though in every other way, the keyboard will tick (click) all the boxes for any gamer.
5. MSI Vigor GK70 CR US Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
The brand name alone is enough to let you know that this keyboard does a lot right.
It uses brown Cherry MX switches (red) which are fast and excellent for gamers.
In addition, it has full RGB lighting for a host of different looks (with easy control via the Mystic Light app), n-key rollover, Windows key lock.
The only “key” feature it is missing, is support for macros.
What’s more is that the brown keys are a great compromise for typists, making it a good option for productivity tasks too.
6. SteelSeries Apex M750 TKL Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
With Apex Legends storming the scene right now, it seems that SteelSeries may have stumbled onto some good branding here!
But how’s the keyboard itself?
With QX2 switches, it marks a deviation from the beloved Cherry MX. But it actually delivers extremely fast response times with low force and a linear actuation point.
That said, some people find that this is a little bit overly smooth and that there is a ‘coarse’ feeling.
How you feel about this will depend on your personal preferences, but the speed is impressive.
The issue here really then is just how divisive that experience may prove to be. Therefore, we recommend trying this one if possible before making your purchase.
Otherwise, the lack of macros is the only big disappointment on this wired, RGB-lit keyboard.
There are even Discord Notifications available through the lighting – demonstrating just how gamer-centric this product really is!
7. CORSAIR K63 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
This keyboard uses the highly popular Cherry MX Red switches and is therefore fast, with excellent feedback.
However, the red backlighting isn’t as customizable as the RGB you’ll find on some of the competition, but it’s nevertheless a very attractive look.
The design is compact – but things like multimedia controls make this a very convenient and thoughtful layout.
100% anti-ghosting with full key rollover sweetens the deal, meaning you can play fast.
Oh and every single key is fully macro-programmable.
Corsair is of course the best in the business when it comes to mechanical keyboards, and this is a very affordable offering.
8. Cooler Master MK730 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
Cooler Master is another very popular brand for mechanical keyboards, and one that once again uses Cherry MX switches.
These are good for 50 million keystrokes and available in blue, brown, or red depending on your preference.
Furthermore, there are the 6-key or n-key rollovers, the full RGB lighting, the brushed aluminium aesthetic, and the macros.
It has everything you could want and comes at a very affordable price.
9. Anne Pro 2 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
This svelte and highly neat looking keyboard is a Bluetooth keyboard with prolonged Bluetooth usage (over a 19000mAh battery).
Related: Best Bluetooth adapter buyer’s guide
This is going to immediately be a plus for some and a minus for others.
If you’re looking for the most minimal set-up for your battlestation, then of course going wireless is going to help with that.
There’s no wire management to worry about here, and it really adds to the neat look of the keyboard.
At the same time though, this also means that you’re going to be dealing with a slightly higher latency.
While Bluetooth is extremely quick, the simple truth is that wireless will never be able to compete with wired in terms of speed and accuracy. Especially once the battery does start to fade.
For hardcore, competitive gamers, this might prove to be a deal breaker.
Also interesting is the lack of cursor keys. These are available via a ‘tap key’ which will alter the behaviour of other keys.
This is not unusual for a 60% keyboard, but it’s something that will be off-putting for some.
16 macros will also come in handy, as will the powerful software control center for setting them up.
This keyboard uses cherry or gateron switches (black or blue), which provides a more tactile bump than the Cherry alternatives (available in blue and red).
Overall, this is a great keyboard that might be missing a couple of necessary features and specifications for the most serious of hardcore gamers.
10. DREVO Tyrfing V2 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
This keyboard from Drevo looks very much like a more expensive offering from the likes of Corsair. With practically the same aesthetic as one of their RGB Strafe keyboards.
That of course means that it is an RGB keyboard that is highly customizable to match the look of your desk set-up.
That wins it immediate points for its aesthetics, but what about the performance?
Equipped with real mechanical switches with anti-ghosting and n-key rollover, key pressed not registering shouldn’t be an issue.
This can be a game-changer for gamers (pun intended), meaning that they won’t get fragged due to an input not being registered.
In addition, there are programmable macros keys (five of them), for quick weapon swaps.
Most important of all though is the typing experience. The good news here, is that this is highly customizable to your liking.
There is the option of four different types of switches (black, blue, brown, red), so you should be able to find the right kind for you.
For the price, this is a fantastic product that competes with many keyboards that are drastically more expensive.
It gets a big recommendation from us if you are looking for a budget mechanical keyboard.
The only real downside is the lower number of macros – it might have been nice to have a few more.
11. DREVO 84-Key Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
DREVO’s 84-key mechanical keyboard is a standard among pro gamers, with N-key rollover, white backlighting , three back channels to reduce cord drag and up to 10 command executions at the same time.
Features
- 84 key style
- 1.8m USB cable (braided)
- White backlight
- 24 key rollover
- Adjustable stand
- ABS double-shot keycaps
- Up to 10 command execution
Design
The keyboard is sleek with a white backlight design, weighs just 2.4 pounds and has product dimensions of 12.3” x 5.2” x 1.6.” An adjustable stand provides a better overall feel and comfort when gaming for long periods of time.
Ergonomic in design, the layout is ideal for gamers and offers four switches for optimal customization.
These four switches include gamer’s favorite which requires 65g actuation force, typist’s spa which requires 60g actuation, middle option which requires 55g actuation, and red which requires 50g actuation.
Performance
DREVO’s keyboard offers comfort and freedom, and this is done in a few distinct ways. Four switches allow gamers to adapt the keyboard to their own playstyles. The white LED backlight allows for easy visibility even at night.
Offering a 1.8m braided USB cord and three back channels, users are able to enjoy true freedom, with no cord drag and multiple customization options.
N-key rollover further accelerates gamer performance.
12. VELOCIFIRE TKL02 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
VELOCIFIRE’s keyboard combines an ergonomic design, 87 key tenkeyless function, brown switches for lower noise production and a white LED backlit design. Curved keys and a slope allow for less typing fatigue while a well-footed elevation makes typing more comfortable for the user.
Features
- 87 key style
- Double-shot mold keys
- Durable brown switch
- Universal compatibility
- Curved keys with a slope for better ergonomics
- Wired design
Design
The TKL02 is ideal for programmers and typists, but it can be used by anyone. Brown switches add to the quietness of the keyboard while offering a faster response time. The tilting feet and non-slip button keep the keyboard in place.
A 180cm cable is provided along with a USB connector to allow for greater reach when using the TKL02.
The white backlit LED adds to user visibility, while the compatibility between Linux and Windows offers a flexible keyboard option.
Performance
Comfortable even after long sessions of typing, the entire design of the keyboard is meant to enhance performance. The keys are slightly curved and there’s an arc and slope that’s perfect for alleviating strain on the wrist.
The unit is smaller than the TKL01, and the weight is also reduced.
When typing, you’ll notice that the keycaps are recessed, and the double shot keycaps will keep lettering from scratching off over time.
13. Redragon K552 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard
Redragon’s K552 is designed for gamers and comes with a black, red LED backlit. The 87 key design and a custom mechanical switch make this keyboard ideal for gaming, while the double-shot injection keycaps add to the keyboard’s durability.
Features
- 87 key design
- Red backlit design
- Custom mechanical switches
- Splash-proof design
- 12 multimedia keys
- Metal and ABS construction
- Actuation force 50gf +/- 5gf
Design
Designed for gaming, the K552 has fast response times, with a keystroke travel of 2.0mm and an actuation force of 50gf. Tested to 50 million keystrokes, the keyboard has 100% conflict-free keys, with anti-ghosting and 87 keys.
There are 12 multimedia keys provided and a WIN key which can be disabled during gameplay.
Great for work and gaming, the keyboard’s fast response time reduces errors and typos while enhancing gameplay for gamers.
Non-slip rear feet keep the K552 in place even during intense gaming sessions.
Performance
Fast and efficient, the custom mechanical switches are designed for gamers that demand the fastest response time. Gold-plated connections allow for a corrosion-free design with the utmost in connection reliability.
The raised keys require a light touch to type, and the true mechanical design provides that click sound that many budget-friendly models don’t offer.
Metal and ABS construction add to the durability of the keyboard, while the medium resistance and tactile feedback keep performance high.
14. Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro S Keyboard
Cooler Master’s MasterKeys Pro S is a gaming keyboard with over 16.7 million RGB lighting options, patented LED design, full color optimization, brown key switches for gaming and profile support.
Features
- 7 million color RGB lighting
- Multiple lighting modes
- 6-key and N-key
- Profile support
- On-the-fly macro support
- CHERRY MX brown switches
- Detachable cord
Design
The hassle-free design and Cherry MX switches allow for fast, precision keystrokes that are ideal for gamers. A plastic housing allows for the LED backlight to shine through while the switches provide fast, accurate control when gaming.
A sleek layout is accompanied by no “fluff” software.
Performance
The switches are fast and responsive thanks to the ARM Cortex M3 processor. A 1000 Hz / 1 ms polling rate and an additional 512 KB onboard memory keep this silent keyboard operating smoothly at all times.
The space key can be a bit mushy at times, but that’s typical with longer keys and Cherry MX switches.
Well-made, the cable is thick and will be able to withstand wear with no issues. A dust cover is provided, and the metal plate behind the switches provides added durability during play. You’ll also benefit from a detachable micro-USB port.
The keys (aside from the longer keys) feel sturdy and responsive.
15. iKBC CD87 TKL Keyboard
The iKBC CD87 offers a medium tactile and light click switch designed for firmness. Cherry MX clear switches are used in this keyboard to provide the firm yet quick response times needed when typing and gaming.
Ergonomic and wide, this keyboard is feature-rich and responsive.
Features
- Cherry MX profile
- PBT keycaps
- 3 levels of adjustable feet
- 3-way cable and cord management
- Laser-etched key engravings
- 100% anti-ghosting
- Lockable WIN key
- Multimedia keys
Design
Ergonomic in design, this keyboard comes with wide PBT keycaps and provides comfort even during long typing sessions. The package contains a 12-piece dye-sub PBT keycap set and a 10-piece PBT keycap set in red and blue.
There’s a steel plate behind the keys, and ABS plastic on the bottom and top panels.
All keycaps have PBT laser printing for a long-lasting design. Keyboard layout is a standard US/ANSI layout, and the cable length is a generous 4.9-feet.
Performance
The CD87 is all about performance, with Cherry MX switches that are designed to be the perfect balance between gaming and typing. The keyboard is not backlit, but it includes USB 2.0 full speed support, anti-ghosting N-key rollover, media keys, and RESET function, too.
A three-way cable management cord system allows for maximum comfort when playing.
Weighing a little over three pounds, even when in use, the keyboard will stay firmly in place. There are colored special keycaps that offer a smoother feel when typing.
The metal back plate adds to the keyboard’s natural feel and heft. Users can choose to disable the WIN key, which is optimal when playing games. There are also multimedia keys which allow you to adjust all of your volume controls and also open up your calculator.
Conclusion
All of these keyboards are great options, though there are no doubt some standouts even in this top-quality selection.
We recommend that you seek out keyboards that use Cherry MX switches where possible, and that you try the different colors before making your choice.
Many will prefer red switches owing to their speed and their satisfying tactile response.
However, blue is generally the preference for those who do a lot of typing owing to just how ‘clicky’ (and also loud) they are.
Really, it is the switch that makes the keyboard, especially given just how similar all these designs are, and even how similar the additional features are in most cases!
Otherwise, look for keyboards with macros, a wire, and RGB lighting and you’ll have the basics covered. You’ll gain an edge in your gaming, and the competition won’t see you coming!
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