Forget bulky keyboards eating up all your desk space. TKL (TenKeyLess) keyboards are here to save the day, offering a compact design without sacrificing the keys you need for gaming dominance. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be a challenge.
This blog will break down everything you need to know before you buy, from switch types and ergonomics to connectivity and price. Plus, we’ve included the top 5 TKL keyboards to light up your gameplay in 2024.
Why TKL keyboards are winning with gamers
Traditional keyboards are great, but for serious gamers, a TKL keyboard offers distinct advantages:
- More desk space: Ditch the number pad and free up precious real estate for epic mouse movements.
- Increased portability: TKL keyboards are lighter and easier to pack up for tournaments or LAN parties.
Choosing the perfect TKL keyboard: What to consider
- Key Switches: These determine how your keys feel and sound. Choose clicky for satisfying feedback, linear for smooth keystrokes, or tactile for a happy medium.
- Ergonomics: Long gaming sessions shouldn’t leave you in pain. Look for a keyboard with adjustable height and a comfy wrist rest.
- Build Quality: A sturdy build ensures your keyboard can withstand intense gaming. Consider factors like keycap stability and the overall feel of the chassis.
- Connectivity: Wired offers endless battery life, while wireless keeps your desk clutter-free. Bluetooth lets you connect to tablets or smartphones.
- Price: TKL keyboards cater to a range of budgets. Keep in mind that features like brand name, build quality, and lighting can affect the price tag.
Top 5 TKL Keyboards for Gaming in 2024
- SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
- Adjustable actuation point: Customize key responsiveness for gaming or typing.
- Compact TKL design: Maximizes desk space for mouse movement.
- Premium build quality: Aluminum alloy frame and PBT keycaps ensure durability.
- Customizable OLED smart display: Allows settings adjustment and system info viewing.
- Detachable wrist rest: Provides ergonomic support during extended gaming sessions.
- Excellent gaming performance: Low latency and responsive switches ensure accuracy. Overall, its unparalleled customizability, premium build, and exceptional gaming performance make it a standout choice among TKL keyboards.
- Logitech G413 TKL SE Gaming Keyboard
- Design: Tenkeyless layout with black brushed aluminum alloy top case for a premium appearance.
- Key Switches: Tactile mechanical switches akin to Cherry MX Brown, with 1.9mm actuation point and 4mm total travel distance.
- Gaming Features: 6-key rollover anti-ghosting; lacks advanced gaming-centric features.
- Customization: Not natively remappable; no compatibility with Logitech’s G Hub software; white backlighting without RGB.
- Value: Priced at $69.99, providing a balanced mix of essential features and performance at an affordable cost.
- ASUS ROG Strix Scope NX TKL Moonlight White
- Design: Tenkeyless layout with aluminum faceplate, featuring a stylish “striking slash aesthetic” in Moonlight White.
- Key Switches: ROG NX mechanical switches for responsive and tactile typing, with 1.9mm actuation point and 4mm total travel distance.
- Gaming Features: More desk space for FPS gaming, extra-wide Ctrl key for accessibility, RGB backlighting with Aura Sync support.
- Connectivity and Software: Wired USB connection, compatibility with ASUS Armoury Crate software for customization and macro programming.
- User Feedback: Positive reviews praising build quality, compact design, and gaming-focused features, with minor issues reported regarding RGB lighting and software compatibility.
- Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed Gaming Keyboard
- Design: Tenkeyless layout with premium aluminum alloy top case and steel-reinforced base, available in black and white color variants.
- Key Switches: Low-profile GL mechanical switches (Clicky, Tactile, Linear) offer responsive typing with customizable actuation point (1.5mm) and total travel distance (2.7mm).
- Wireless Connectivity and Battery Life: LIGHTSPEED wireless technology for 1ms response time, Bluetooth support, up to 40 hours battery life with RGB lighting.
- Customization and Software: Per-key RGB backlighting with LIGHTSYNC technology, compatibility with G HUB software for advanced customization.
- Additional Features: Dedicated media controls, edgeless volume wheel, programmable G-keys, steel-reinforced base, and fingerprint-resistant brushed metal surfaces.
- Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL
- Design: Tenkeyless layout with premium aluminum alloy construction for durability and a sleek appearance.
- Key Switches: Razer’s latest analog optical switches with adjustable actuation point from 0.1mm to 4.0mm, providing ultra-fast and responsive inputs with tactile feedback.
- Gaming Features: More desk space for mouse movement, dedicated media controls, volume dial, programmable G-keys, and onboard storage for up to 6 user profiles.
- Connectivity and Software: Wired USB connection, compatibility with Razer’s Synapse software for advanced customization and macro programming.
- User Feedback: Positive reviews highlighting premium build quality, responsive switches, and gaming-focused features, positioning it as a top choice in the premium TKL keyboard market.
Level up your game with the perfect TKL keyboard!
Armed with this guide, you’re well on your way to finding the TKL keyboard that perfectly complements your playstyle and setup. So, free up some space, choose your weapon of choice, and get ready to dominate the competition!