By Robin Owens 5 days ago, Keyboards
Our choice of the best 65 percent keyboards.
If we compare a 65 percent keyboard with a 60-percent one, we will see that the only difference is in the appearance of arrow keys; the former model has them while the latter one doesn’t. In general, if you can do without a number pad and a function row, a 65 keyboard is enough to satisfy your needs. What is more, it will free up some desk space.
I have tested several layouts by various brands and compared their features and prices to help you find the best 65 keyboard for your particular purposes.
Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: No | Weight: 0.56 pounds | Color: White
⊕ Comfortable
⊕ Convenient high profile
⊕ Appealing design (colors, typeface, etc.)
⊖ None
The DROP Matt3o is a 65 keyboard based on the famous IBM beam spring terminals and made of dye-sublimated PBT plastic. You shouldn’t worry about its durability. Moreover, it is resistant to fade and shine that may appear on the keys after long use.
Thanks to the scooped keys and angled bottom row, the layout is very comfortable to use. Thanks to the MT3 profile, this 65 keyboard is compatible with Cherry MX switches and clones, including but not limited to Kaihua Halo and Gateron switches. Its keycap set is specifically created for the 65 percent keyboard layout. It is ideal for the Drop ALT mechanical keyboard. It offers 70 keys and can compete with other compact keyboards.
Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: yes | Weight: 2 pounds | Color: Black
⊕ Appealing backlighting
⊕ Stabilizer
⊕ A nice clicking sound
⊖ None
The Massdrop ALT is a 65 percent mechanical keyboard that comes with 67 buttons instead of 87. What is more, it is really a compact solution for your desk. Thanks to a solid aluminum frame and a built-in switch plate, the ALT will serve you for a long time.
It is equipped with the hot-swap switch sockets, so you can swap switches whenever you want without soldering. The device has fully programmable keys.
With its dual USB-C connectors, it has impressive connectivity options. ALT has customizable RGB backlighting and underlighting. You can light your keyboard up with a single color or apply a rainbow pattern.
Interface: Wired and Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: no | Weight: 2 pounds | Color: White
⊕ Supports Bluetooth and USB type
⊕ Up to 3 devices via Bluetooth
⊕ 85% PBT keycaps
⊖ None
The AKKO 3068 is a great medium-sized keyboard that doesn’t waste space on your desk. It is also an excellent tool to travel with since you can use it anywhere you wish.
Thanks to the 100% origin Cherry MX key switches, it features rapid responsiveness and can compete with other 65% keyboards. Moreover, its switches guarantee high quality, reliability, durability and convenience.
Keycaps are made of 85% PBT plastic that is considered to be quite durable. Besides, they are produced using dye-sub technology so the letters will not disappear after long use. This model is waterproof and dust-resistant.
You can choose between five different color designs. Finally, it supports the DIY lighting upgrade.
Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: no | Weight: 1.41 pounds | Color: Black
⊕ Convenient layout
⊕ Compact
⊕ Stylish
⊖ Wired
This 65 keyboard accommodates a full set of numbers, arrows and modifiers in a compact frame. It will not take much space on your desk. What users like about Cypher is that you can choose a model with a single or a split space bar.
Since all the keys are fully programmable, you might benefit from using a split space bar, as you can program the second button. Finally, the keyboard features dye-subbed PBT keycaps. Thanks to Cherry MX mechanical switches, you will get the feel you like.
Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: yes | Weight: 1.98 lbs | Color: White
⊕ Fully-programmable keys
⊕ Independent macro editor
⊕ Independent profile editor
⊖ Wired
The Durgod Hades 68 is a 65 percent keyboard that is definitely worth its money. It is a durable model that features such great functions as 100% anti-ghosting and N-key rollover. It also boasts flawless performance. With its body made of aluminum, it features customizable keys and RGB lighting.
It is the best 65 keyboard for those looking for a budget model under $150. The Durgod Hades has double Shot ABS keycaps with two layers of plastic molded into each other. Finally, the key legends will never fade or chip off.
Interface: Bluetooth/Wired | Keyboard backlighting: yes | Weight: 2 pounds | Color: Black
⊕ Compatible with all devices
⊕ Wireless and wired dual modes
⊕ A 4000mAh battery
⊖ None
Thanks to its elaborate design, the K6 is different from other 65% keyboards available on the market. It has a perfect size and convenient position for the right shift key. You can connect it to up to three devices via Bluetooth and easily switch among them.
Its broad-compatibility Broadcom Bluetooth chipset makes the K6 the best 65 keyboard for home, office and casual gaming since you can connect it to your smartphone, laptop and iPad. You can also use it in a wired mode because it features the USB Type-C connection.
What is convenient that you don’t need any drivers. It also features extra keycaps for Mac and Windows operating systems. Thanks to the inclined bottom frame, you won’t even need to use a palm rest.
Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: yes | Weight: 1.34 lbs | Color: black
⊕ Features 82 keys
⊕ Ajazz mechanical black switches
⊕ RGB LED backlighting
⊖ None
The Ajazz AK33 is a combination of a unique design and excellent functionality. To provide the fastest response, its modified black switches reduce 20g trigger pressure. They can withstand up to 60 million clicks.
The RGB lighting offers a spectrum of over 16.8 million colors; it supports personalized profiles, so you can choose the color you like and enjoy the working process. This 65 keyboard guarantees amazing visual experience.
This model is made of aluminum and ABS plastic. Thanks to its great durability, it is the best 65 keyboard for gamers. Moreover, 82 keys with 100% anti-ghosting account for a seamless performance. Ergonomic design and convenient key shapes make AK33 a universal solution for various purposes, like typing, gaming, etc.
| Image | Name | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
DROP Matt3o
Our Choice |
CHECK PRICE→ | |
 |
Drop ALT
Stylish |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
Akko 3068
Modern |
CHECK PRICE → |
If you’ve already surfed the net looking for the best 65 keyboard, you’ve probably noticed that such models can be wired or wireless ones. Wireless keyboards use a 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth technology to connect to your device. As for wired tools, they need a direct connection to your computer’s USB port.
Each configuration has its advantages and disadvantages. The main benefit of a wired keyboard is that it offers greater consistency and the fastest response times, but it is limited in terms of portability.
As for wireless options, they are very portable, and you shouldn’t worry about a direct connection. For instance, if you are an amateurish gamer, a wireless model will suffice. However, if you play for commercial purposes, it’s better to have a wired keyboard.
Mechanical springs under each keycap are called switches, and they are different when it comes to a tactile feel.
The best 65 keyboard should have Cherry MX or Topre switches. However, mind that if you want premium switches, the price will not be a budget one. Recently, small brands have started to release budget options, and you can find a good keyboard with switches designed by Outemu, Gateron and similar brands.
It’s up to you what to choose. You can select a model of any color you like so that suits the rest of your gear. There are numerous options available on the market, like black, white or two-colored ones, etc. In addition, almost all 65% keyboards feature RGB lighting so you will also enjoy vibrant colors.
In general, it depends on what type of gamer you are and how big your desk is. I think that for first-person-shooters, a 60% keyboard is the best option since it has all the necessary keys.
Thanks to the cluster free layout, simplicity, portability and the reliability of mechanical switches, 60% mechanical keyboards are perfect for programmers, coders and typists.
The thing is that 65% keyboards have essential benefits. They don’t take up much desk space and are very portable. You won’t need to make any unnecessary moves when accessing the keys. Finally, they usually feature an attractive design.
The main reason is that the market of 65% keyboards isn’t so big, as they are niche devices. When they get more popular, they will become more affordable.
