The 10 Best Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard Models to Buy

A mechanical keyboard is built with a mechanical switch under every key to record each keystroke that you make. The physical switch is triggered when you press the key before quickly returning to its original position.

Conversely, a regular keyboard uses a rubber dome and membrane to allow for the depression and recording of the key. It’s common for these ordinary keyboards to be cheap and easy to produce.

When a keyboard is tenkeyless, that means it is without the number pad on the right side of the keyboard. Most keyboards have two places you can type numbers -- above the letters, and on the far right on the number pad.

Standard keyboards have the number pad on the far right that is somewhat separate from the rest of the keyboard. Tenkeyless keyboards don’t have the number pad and are therefore smaller and less clunky.

When a keyboard is tenkeyless, that means it is without the number pad on the right side of the keyboard. Most keyboards have two places you can type numbers -- above the letters, and on the far right on the number pad.

Standard keyboards have the number pad on the far right that is somewhat separate from the rest of the keyboard. Tenkeyless keyboards don’t have the number pad and are therefore smaller and less clunky.

Whether you want a keyboard that is tenkeyless or not comes down to personal preference. There aren’t any enormous benefits of having a tenkeyless keyboard over a regular one.

The only noticeable difference is that the tenkeyless mechanical keyboards are smaller. As a result, if you want a less clunky keyboard or you have limited space, a tenkeyless keyboard may present the best option for you.

However, many people find it’s quicker to type out numbers on the number pad. With that in mind, you’ll have to weigh the benefits of a smaller keyboard versus the benefits of being able to type numbers quickly.

Nobody is looking for the same things when looking for the best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard. However, in general, there are six things that you should consider when looking for a keyboard. These criteria are the switches, build quality, the keys, N-Key rollover capability, aesthetics, and features.

Switches

Deciding which switches to get is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make when buying your keyboard. The switches are what make the clicking sounds when you press the keys.

Some keyboards have switches that make loud clicking sounds, but if you’re typing with others around it may get annoying. Some switches are sharper and more tactile, but these switches can be cumbersome and make your fingers stiff. There are plenty of different types of switches, so it’s essential to test out different types so that you know what’s best for you.

Build quality

Build quality can be subjective, as different people tend to value different things in a keyboard. For some, weight and plastic thickness equates with durability. For others, details such as keyboard feet that don’t collapse as quickly are vital.

The build quality is something that you won’t be able to see in pictures. As a result, you’ll need to rely on the thoughts and opinions of others. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on a keyboard, as a more durable keyboard will last much longer than a cheap, low-quality keyboard.

Keys

When looking for keys, you want to use durable keys where the lettering won’t wear off. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the keys won’t disconnect from the switches easily. Keys that fall off easily can often be a nightmare for the keyboard user.

Often, when choosing your keys, you’ll be balancing looks, durability, and cost. Unfortunately, all keys will eventually wear down and lose their shine. However, with the right keys, this could take decades.

N-Key rollover capability

The N-Key rollover capability is the keyboard's ability to process multiple keys being pressed at the same time. Any keyboard can recognize somewhere between two and eight at one time. Lower numbers of recognition are fine for regular typing, but many keyboards will fail with certain three-key combinations.

A keyboard being able to process multiple key combinations is an essential factor for gamers, as they sometimes need to press more than five keys at a time. If a keyboard is called 2KRO, it means only two keys are guaranteed. In the same vein, if a keyboard is called 6KRO, it means that six keys are guaranteed.

If the manufacturer labels a keyboard as NKRO, it means that the user can press all the keys on the keyboard at once. This can be valuable, but if a keyboard doesn’t have this, don’t worry about it. After all, you only have 10 fingers.

Aesthetics

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to aesthetics. Some value customizable RGB lighting, whereas others prefer a more standard and uniform design. When it comes to aesthetics, consider whatever you think makes a keyboard look good.

Features

When looking for the best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard, you should consider the features. Features include things like backlit keys, media keys, and USB hubs. Additional features will usually raise the price of the keyboard, but they can elevate your experience.