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8 Best Mini/Small Gaming Keyboards: Reviews & Buying Guide

by  Jone -  Last Updated On 25th January 2022
small mini gaming keyboard

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Investing in the best small gaming keyboards can have a huge impact on how you intermingle with your PC.

You’ve got to wise up and go for the gaming keyboards you can manage to pay for. It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re taking your PC gaming to the leaderboards rank.

Just any cheaply-made budget keyboard won’t cut it. This comes particularly if you devote lots of hours playing your much-loved PC game.

Much like the best gaming mouse, you would prefer, a gaming keyboard is something completely distinct in scores of ways from a standard one.

Nothing like numerous PC peripherals and components, mini keyboards specifically created for gaming can truly make you become a better PC gamer.

You’ll require one of the best mini gaming keyboards has to offer so you can get the full benefit of the latest PC games.

The same applies even if you just want to throw yourself into the game with superb, RGB lighting. It’s worth it to have a first-rate keyboard in your collection.

So, how do you know the best small keyboard to buy?

Well, to know that, continue going through this piece as it covers some of the keyboards and in all-inclusive details. Here is a variety of some of the best models available:

Quick Comparison

Don’t have time to read the complete article? Check out the table given below to see our top picks.

 

What Are The Criteria To Consider When Choosing A Mini Gaming Keyboard?

It can be difficult to choose the best mini gaming keyboard, especially when considering the many options available on the market

We have compiled a list that we believe you need to know and consider before making any keyboard purchase.

This will ensure that the keyboard you purchase is the right one for you. It will also help you to ensure that the keyboard you select is a good value.

Let’s have a look at the choosing criteria for the best mini gaming keyboard.

 

1. Switches

The switches are perhaps the most important part of keyboards when looking at them from a gaming perspective. 

The switches are responsible for controlling the functions of your keyboard. They also have a significant impact on the user’s experience while typing or gaming

The technology behind switches has evolved over the years. Manufacturers of keyboard switches are striving to make switches respond faster, feel more tactile, and actuate with clicky, audible clicks – there are variations of each of these three attributes across many types.

With that knowledge, you can begin to see why certain switches (Cherry MX Red, for instance) are better suited for gaming than others (Cherry MX blue, for example).

There are many other options other than mechanical switches. Today’s keyboards are made up of membrane rubber dome switches. They have a soft, more actuating feel. These switches are also found in older budget boards.

Here’s a comparison between the two:

The old-fashioned membrane switch has its advantages. It is quieter and more affordable. 

If you are into gaming, the mechanical switch is the best choice. It offers a higher response, actuation and accuracy as well as greater durability.

 

2. Durability

Durability and build quality are important aspects when selecting a keyboard. Durability indicates how much pressure and forces the keyboard must withstand over its lifetime.

Many boards now can become more affordable by adopting a cheaper plastic design that can feel fragile. This type of build quality isn’t ideal for gamers, especially if they’re occasionally prone to rage outbursts.

Higher-end keyboards come with steel reinforcement and aluminum frames. This means that you won’t have to reinvest in the future if you get a keyboard this good.

 

3. MACRO Keys & MEDIA Keys

Media or macro keys are quite common on many boards today and should be considered when shopping for your next purchase.

Macro keys enable users to link complex commands to one key. This allows MMO-type games to enter spells and commands quickly at the touch of an icon.

While media keys are not essential for gaming, they are useful to have in case you need them. Media keys do exactly what they sound like. 

They control media settings such as volume, play and pause. Next, previous, and next are all available. You can find them in many different shapes and add some versatility to your keyboard.

 

4. Key Rollover

While key rollover is not a feature that every gamer needs, it can be an essential feature for gamers who use keypresses or buttons to perform complex commands.

Key rollover technology is used in modern keyboards. It allows the user to press “x” number of keys simultaneously and all are registered to the computer. 

There are many types of the key rollover, but the most popular is NKRO, which allows you to simultaneously press all keys on the board.

 

5. Aesthetics

Although many people will dismiss aesthetics as being superficial, it is always nice to have a well-designed keyboard at your desk. 

Although this is not a top priority at the lower end of the price range, it plays a significant role on the higher-end boards.

 

8 Best Small Gaming Keyboards (2022 Update)

1. Ducky One 2 – Mini RGB Gaming Keyboard

When it comes to the popular mechanical gaming keyboards on the market, the Ducky One 2 Mini is perhaps the most popular 60% keyboard.

Ducky has continuously been able to create one of the best keyboards in the market, and the Ducky One 2 Mini is not an exemption.

The mini keyboard is promoted as a gaming keyboard. Besides, One 2 Mini is used by the majority of skilled gamers.

Just like in most 60% keyboards, Duck One 2 Mini lacks the function media keys, arrow keys, navigational keys, as well as Numpad keys. Bear in mind; you can access every missing key using the Alt and Fn transformers.

Ducky One 2 Mini comes with a broad range of switches you can choose from. This makes the keyboard suitable for all typing preferences.

At present, when purchasing on Amazon you’ll find 5 Cherry MX switches. The double shot PBT keycaps possess see-through lettering, which allows the RGB backlight to sparkle through.

The way in which they have been made ensures they last longer and don’t fade.

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Ducky One 2 mini is a great-looking mini keyboard that comes with a unique two-piece casing and a black (top half) and white (bottom half) color.

Every key is raised beyond the keyboard’s edges, providing them with a floating effect, and the RGB lighting boosts this effect even further.

More to the point, as its name implies, the Ducky One Mini is a compact keyboard perfect for tying, gaming, and even traveling.

Key Features:  

5 Cherry MX switches

60% layout

Features keycap puller + extra keycaps included

Doubleshot PBT keycaps.

Pros

Offers an exceptional typing experience

Incredibly well-built design

Outstanding backlighting in RGB colors

Fantastic customization options

The keycaps are much better than normal keyboards for gaming

Cons

Using Its built software can at times be confusing.  

 

2. DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard — 65% (67 Key) Gaming Keyboard

DROP has done a good job creating a couple of excellent keyboards for gaming, and the Drop ALT keyboard is a great example. The keyboard utilizes 67 keys to save space giving it a simple and clean design.

Though the ALT keyboard has no function keys across the top, you can use them by holding Fn + the corresponding number key.

Similarly, there are numerous other second layer keys when using the function key, which can fully be customized to your workflow.

Obviously, you would expect a mechanical keyboard to have an in-built RGB, which the ALT keyboard has. Drop ALT comes with several user-friendly configurations already installed in it; press F-D to cycle through them.

This also alters brightness, speeds, as well as a host of other controls. The scrolling complete-spectrum color is exceptional, and the keyboard has complete customization via QMK.

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Customization via QMK

Given that the ALT keyboard leaves out the physical functions buttons, it’s programmable through the QMK software.

Programming the keyboard will add any custom key configurations and regulate RGM lighting. By default, Drop ALT comes with loads of these function hotkeys in-built.

You can do anything from print screen to managing all the RGB lightings with quick keystrokes.

Once the ALT keyboard is plugged in, you can effortlessly eliminate the installed mechanical switches and alter to a totally different sensation.

Once at the checkout, you can select between the three switches, including Halo, Kaihua, and Cheery MX switches.

Furthermore, you can utilize any other mechanical switches too within that particular variety. An additional great thing concerning the Drop ALT keyboard is its ability to have custom keycaps.

The mini gaming keyboard comes with a well-designed grey colorway that equals the solid aluminum base.

Key Features:  

Hot-swappable switches

Double shoot PBT Keycaps

Great variety of switches to choose from

Programmable Macro Keys

65% layout

Pros

Amazing build quality

Comes with dual USB-C ports

Simple cap and switch capping

RGB LED backlighting

Doubleshot PBT  

Cons

Limited light modes.  

 

3. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is just the thing for FPS gamers. This mechanical gaming keyboard has a tenkeyless keyboard that lets you move your mouse freely by maximizing the desktop space. This is built in a way that it comes with 87 keys.

What is more, this gaming keyboard offers anything a Pro player would want, with the only exception being the number pad.

This keyboard features convenient and reliable switches, which comprise the Cherry MX Blue as well as the Red Key switches. It is built using robust steel that ensures durability.

For that reason, you’re sure to have a safe platform while gaming. Additionally, the unit comes with a small design and a detachable USB cable.

Therefore, this gaming keyboard is portable, and you can carry it around effortlessly.

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Other features also included in the mechanical gaming keyboard include an array of game modes coupled with an N-Key rollover.

It also provides various red lighting and dynamic effects meant to highlight the aesthetics of your system.

Key Features:

TKL layout

87-key keyboard

Numerous lighting and dynamic effects

Easily portable

Pros

Streamlined and compact design

It’s equipped with genuine Cherry MX switches

Has no extraneous software

Has a detachable cable, which makes it portable  

Cons

Gaudy backlighting

The rubber feet have poor adhesive  

 

4. Redragon K552-RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Compact 87 Key

The Redragon K552 RGB mechanical keyboard comes with a small and compact 87-key design.

The keyboard doesn’t occupy a lot of space, letting you work freely without affecting your performance. The Redragon Kumara K552 design is not your regular mini gaming keyboard.

This keyboard is created to take a beating, given that it has great ergonomics. These features will ensure you remain comfortable regardless of how long you’ve been typing or how extreme your PC gaming is.

What is more, this mini keyboard features RGB Advanced Backlight control hence its name Redragon K552 RGB.

The RBG backlight colors come in a wide range coupled with 5 various lighting modes for the 87 keys.

Besides, the keyboard also provides you with the option to create custom settings of your own.

With Redragon K552 KUMARA, you also have the option to regulate the backlight direction, the backlight illumination, the breathing speed, or if considered necessary, you might switch off the brightness fully.

On top of that, this keyboard features double-shot injection molded keycaps. And so, be sure to have crystal clear consistent backlighting as well as lettering that does not scrape off.

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The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB gaming keyboard also comes with plate-mounted keys where a metallic plate is incorporated in between the switches and the PCB.

For that reason, the keyboard has a rigid and strong platform that lasts for long. Likewise, it features specially made switches Outemu which is the Cherry Blue equivalent.

All these are put in place to offer you durability, longevity, and receptiveness. Moreover, the keys provide medium resistance.

In addition to hearing an audible click sound, you’re also offered accurate tactile feedback for performance.

The Redragon keyboard being a great option for PC gamers, it can also be used for office work.

The gaming keyboard offers an amazing typing experience and offers keystroke accuracy; thus you’re less likely to make typographical errors.

Key Features:  

Great ergonomics for durability

Dynamic RGB backlighting

Offers keystroke accuracy to avert typos

RGB Advanced Backlight Control

Pros

The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB keyboard is created using great quality material and is durable

It’s one of the reasonably priced gaming keyboards

Has an aluminum backplate

Has 12 function keys

It provides you with numerous RGB selections in the RGB edition

The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB features a small tenkeyless footprint  

Cons

The keyboard’s keycaps are extremely thin, and it doesn’t feature a removable USB cable

The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB only has a blue switch.  

 

5. DIERYA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60% True RGB

DIERYA is a 60% mechanical gaming keyboard that you can use both wired and wireless Bluetooth on. The keyboard is also equipped with RGB backlight.

The incredibly affordable DIERYA keyboard features 7 varying lighting effects which can be regulated via the keyboards keys. The total mechanical keys feature red, blue, and brown.

With only 63 keys in total, you can be certain that the keyboard is light in weight and smaller compared to top mechanical keyboards.

The keyboard’s main feature is its Bluetooth wireless connectivity. This implies you can connect it to your pc, smartphone, or tablet wireless and enjoy gaming on the go.

You can connect a maximum of three different devices at the same time, thanks to its multi-device connectivity.

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DERYA 60% keyboard comes with a perfect size for gaming since it provides you with adequate space.

The keyboard is consistent, and every single click sounds great. Furthermore, it has an ergonomic design to enhance durability and exclusive padding to improve solidity.

Key Features:  

Subtle, lightweight design

60% mechanical keyboard

Dynamic RGB backlight

Ergonomic design for robustness

Pros

Features both wired and wireless connectivity

Can connect up to three devices all at once

RGB backlighting

Well-built design

Supports iOS and Android. 

Cons

Small Right-SHIFT key.  

 

6. RK61 60% RGB Small Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Royal Kludge keyboard comes with two useful features which are a 60% keyboard along with Bluetooth connectivity.

Accessible with numerous lighting modes, this keyboard offers loads of features at a reasonable price.

The RK61 keyboard comes with 6 key rollovers and is compatible with both PC and MAC. The keyboard possesses the ability to pair a maximum of 3 devices.

Also, it can be used in Bluetooth mode. This is done by holding down the Fn and pressing Tab. You can also charge the keyboard, and it will remain charged for over 360 hours while it’s not in use.

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Key Features:  

Unique 60% layout

Can be used while charging

Bluetooth connectivity

Multi-colored LEDs

Exclusive 60% layout

Pros

The keyboard features multi-device connectivity

It has a great built quality

Reasonable priced compared to other competitor keyboards  

Cons

Its basic combinations are rather complicated.  

 

7. E-Element Z-88 RGB 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The E-Element Z-88 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features the latest edition of the Outemu Innovative Blue Switches.

The switches are made in a way that offers durability, longevity, and of course, responsiveness. More to the point, the keyboard has 5 backup switches.

These 5 switches as t as a replacement just in case a switch stops working. Additionally, the keys provide moderate resistance where you’ll hear a clear click sound as you also receive tactical feedback.

The E-Element Z-88 RGB keyboard comes with 81 keys. The keys anti-ghosting accompanied by the N-key ensures you can utilize multi-keys all together and speedily. What’s more, every single key is regulated using an autonomous switch.

As a result, you can relish playing high-end PC games together with a speedy response. The keyboard also comes equipped with a set RGB Backlighting, solid color backlit mode and Color-Flashing speed.

To boot, the E-Element Z-88 RGB mechanical keyboard has double-shot injection molded keycaps that provide you with crystal clear backlighting, making it a long-lasting option.

Since it’s made using great quality ABS and metallic material, it offers not only durability but also compatibility.

Besides, with its matter-finish texture couple with a gold plated USB cable, the keyboard is strong and sturdy.

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The E-Element Z-88 RGB mini gaming keyboard is compatible with every Windows operating system which comprises Windows VISTA, Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 nit to forget the Mac OS X from Apple.

To sum up, the keyboard has key shortcuts and an ergonomic design. You’ll also be able to utilize multimedia keys like Fn + F1~F12 for multimedia controls, gaming, entertainment, just to name a few.

Key Features:  

Compatible with Windows and Mac OS x

Crystal clear backlighting

Ergonomic design for durability

81-key keyboard.

Pros

Not expensive hence a great option if you’re on a strict budget.

Features an ergonomic design.

The keyboard is made using great-quality material to offer you robustness.  

Cons

The E-Element Z-88 RGB doesn’t provide customizations.

At times quite upsetting as it makes lots of noise.  

 

8. Keychron K2 Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Gaming Mechanical Keyboard

Whether you’re typing or gaming, mechanical keyboards offer a much better accuracy as well as an overall better experience.

Keychron created a Mac-compatible gaming keyboard that comes with one or two tricks up its sleeve.

Check out Keychron’s K2 mechanical keyboard that comes equipped with customizable lightning, you can swap between Windows and Mac, plus it comes in numerous different styles.

Keychron K2 has a great build quality. It’s a solid, wireless keyboard that ensures it lasts for a long period of time.

Keychron developer says the K2 Keys are made to last as long as 50 million strokes making it lengthier than the ordinary dome-switch keyboard. But even if you’re that kind of a gamer who wears keycaps fast, you can easily replace them.

As a matter of fact, this Bluetooth keyboard has its own keycap remover, along with some additional keycaps.

You can use them if you’d like to swap over your Command and OPTION Keys with Ctrl and Alt for Windows layout. Seeing as the keyboard has 84 keys, it implies you’ll have to do without your number pad.

Nevertheless, the keys are responsive; they have a non-slippery smooth texture and will fit your hands quite well.

Keychron K2 is easily portable given that it comes with an internal battery. You may well connect it to your smartphone while on the move.

On the other hand, you can connect the keyboard directly to your PC through the USB-A to USB-C connector.

The Keychron K2 keyboard features numerous different switches that you can choose from. This includes the linear switch that works for typing and gaming alike, there’s the red switch, blue as well.

The blue and brown are the options if you prefer something more tactile.

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An additional feature of the Keychron K2 is that you can connect it to several devices and speedily shift from one device to another using keyboard shortcuts.

This is achieved by holding Fn then pressing 1, 2 or 3, which will alter the device with which K2 is paired.

One more cool thing concerning the K2 is that it features approximately 15 different lighting modes.

Furthermore, you can customize all the lighting effects by holding down Fn then pressing the left or right arrow key.

Key Features:  

Great build quality

Good range of switches to choose from

Easily portable with its internal battery

84-key keyboard

Connectable to different devices

Pros

Robust build quality

The k2 keys are simple to press

The various lighting modes provide numerous customization choices.  

Cons

The keyboard might be a bit too high for short people

Some switches make a lot of noise.  

 

Conclusion

If you enjoy gaming and you prefer a fast and accurate keyboard, Mechanical keyboards are the best.

Furthermore, if you have small hands and you can’t use the larger traditional keyboards, the mini gaming keyboards listed above are some of the best options.

Usually, standard-sized keyboards can lead to typos and errors while gaming or typing. For that reason, it’s better to go for the small gaming mechanical keyboards that have a compact design.

For the keyboards listed above, none is essentially better than the other. It all relies on your personal preference.

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One response to “8 Best Mini/Small Gaming Keyboards: Reviews & Buying Guide”

  1. Best Tech says:

    I always love gaming keyboard. As they are easy and comfortable to use.

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