Buying_Guide TKL

If you have questions, please consult the CMKB FAQ first.

Tenkey-Less aka TKL aka 87-key aka 80%

TKL (Tenkeyless) is the regular 104 keyboard minus the number pad. It is a popular size because it is more compact and thus your right hand (assuming you're a rightie) don't have to go far to reach the mouse.  It is called 87-key because the standard ANSI keyboard (at 104 keys) minus the numpad is 87 keys. And it's called 80% because it is roughly 80% of keys of a full-size keyboard.


Plugable TKL ($$) -- cheap with NKRO (CMKB Profile)

Plugable TKL is a white-backlit TKL with Outemu blue switches and supports NKRO. These keyboards are quite affordable. Also available as 104 version.


Nixeus Moda V2 ($$) -- floating design, no Backlight, Mac Compatible (CMKB Profile)

This floating design metal body black key keyboard is visually striking and delivers decent performance with Kailh switches. For Mac Users, this also comes with Mac Keycaps. It's a good alternative except for lack of backlight.


Rantopad MXX ($$/$$$) -- affordable Gateron TKL, available RGB (CMKB Profile)

Rantopad MXX with Gateron switches is available in multiple exterior colors with an aluminum frame. It is a bargain for what it offers. You can also get the RGB Chroma version for just a little more. Rantopad now has a support and sales office in Southern California.


James Donkey 619 TKL ($$) -- funny name, sweet Gateron switches (CMKB Profile)

James Donkey has a funny name, but the keyboard is perfectly fine. It has a black/orange color scheme and some fancy bezels, but the keyboard is otherwise a delight, with somewhat rare Gateron Blacks available as well as other switches and thus is worthy of your consideration. Also available as 104 key.


Coolermaster Masterkey S PBT ($$$) -- CM's cheapest MKB (CMKB Profile)

Same as its larger cousin, the Masterkey L, this keyboard lost the LEDs and programming to cut down the cost. It retains the macro capability and other on-the-fly settings and gained PBT keycaps.



HAVIT HVKB-390L ($$) -- Rebadged DAREU EK-820 wired TKL, thinnest and lightest mechanical keyboard (CMKB Profile)

This keyboard uses the new Kailh Choc Mini low-profile switch and the keyboard is MUCH thinner than most mechanical keyboards. It is also one of the lightest mechanical keyboards around, weighing in at a mere 0.52 kg. If you need a very light keyboard, this may be your only option.