Introduction
For anyone putting together their ultimate gaming setup, a luxurious and reliable mechanical keyboard has to be high on that list. It can be very easy to spend all your time and money on building a PC, leading to you picking up the first keyboard that you find.
But like most PC peripherals, there are a lot of intricacies that go into the design, resulting in a wide range of products that will vastly change the typing experience. One of the biggest factors to consider is size, as keyboards can be found in numerous layouts, with each having their pros and cons. The traditional full-size layouts are considered as an ideal choice for productivity due to their greater range of inputs, whilst compact designs such as 65% keyboards are better for gaming because their smaller size frees up desk space for mouse movements.
Suggested Article: Best Mechanical Keyboards to Buy under $200
But for this buyers guide, we’ll be looking at tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical keyboards in particular, as these designs offer a comfortable middle ground, making them a great option for gaming and workstation hybrids. As always, our recommendations come with a range of styles, feature-sets, and use-cases, meaning there should be at least one design that caters to your wishes.
Our Recommendations
1. HyperX Alloy Origins Core
👑 The best budget TKL keyboard for gaming.
Introduction
Starting off our list with a mechanical keyboard targeted towards more budget-oriented gamers, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core. Whilst good mechanical keyboards always come with a more illustrious price tag, this TKL keyboard provides all the tools needed to enjoy a comfortable yet competitive gaming experience. With a choice between linear red, clicky blue, and tactile aqua switches, users can choose how the keyboard will feel when typing or playing games.
On top of this, these switches come with an estimated lifespan of 80 million strokes, which means this keyboard will survive years of extensive use. To enhance durability further, the Alloy Origins Core houses the switches in a sturdy aluminium frame, which also gives this design a premium look and feel. Additionally, the frame comes with a kickstand that can be adjusted to three levels, allowing users to find the angle that will provide them with the most comfortable gaming experience.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | HyperX Alloy Origins Core |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | HyperX Red/Blue/Aqua |
| Keycaps | ABS |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 80 million |
| Max Polling Rate | 1000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
| Hot-Swappable | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
Things We Like
Excellent price point: There are a number of different gaming keyboards that can be found for cheaper than the Alloys Origins Core, but this keyboard is one of the cheapest mechanical options we’d consider using without having to change any elements of the design.
Custom RGB lighting: Any good gaming keyboard needs some RGB, and HyperX haven’t disappointed here. With full per-key RGB backlighting, gamers can customise the lighting effects on their keyboard through the HyperX NGENUITY software.
Things We Don’t Like
ABS keycaps: In terms of durability, one of the weaker areas to this design is the keycaps. As this model opts for ABS keycaps, they are more likely to wear over time and are more susceptible to grease.
Strictly wired connection: Whilst the inclusion of a detachable USB-C cable increases this keyboard’s portability, having the ability to connect wirelessly would make it even more versatile.
Summary
For gamers looking for a high-quality mechanical keyboard on a budget, then the HyperX Alloy Origins Core is definitely worth considering. With strong design fundamentals and plenty of convenient features, this keyboard will offer gamers with satisfying controls while playing all the latest titles.
Features: 4.2/5
Design: 4.3/5
Versatility: 4/5
Value for Money: 4.3/5
Pros
- Cheap mechanical design
- Custom RGB lighting
- Detachable USB-C cable
Cons
- ABS keycaps
- No wireless connectivity
Where to Buy
Buy the HyperX Alloy Origins Core on:
2. ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX TKL Wireless Deluxe
👑 The most versatile TKL keyboard.
Introduction
Moving onto a fan-favourite in the GeekaWhat offices with the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX TKL Wireless Deluxe. This keyboard’s convoluted name reflects its extensive feature-set, as it manages to cover a lot of bases. The brushed aluminium alloy and custom ROG RX switches allow this design to look and feel top-tier. These switches are available in either red or blue, with both options being topped with rugged double-shot PBT keycaps.
In terms of connectivity, the ROG Strix Scope RX is extremely versatile thanks to its tri-mode connectivity. This allows users to connect to multiple devices at once via wired USB, a wireless 2.4GHz USB dongle, or Bluetooth, which makes this an ideal choice for those wanting to take their keyboard with them while travelling.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX TKL Wireless Deluxe |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | ROG RX Red/Blue |
| Keycaps | Double-shot PBT |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 100 million |
| Max Polling Rate | 1000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
| Hot-Swappable | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth |
Things We Like
Versatile connectivity: Boasting three ways to connect to devices, this design is a strong choice for anyone looking to use their keyboard for more than just a gaming PC.
Includes a magnetic wrist-rest: Whilst the main focus of this design seems to be on durability and robustness, the ROG Strix RX does come with a magnetic wrist-rest. This provides a layer of comfort and support, which makes long sessions much easier.
Things We Don’t Like
Pricing: The extensive list of features included within this design helps justify the price tag, but the ROG Strix Scope RX is bound to break the budget that a lot of consumers have set aside for their peripherals.
Dim RGB backlighting: Despite our time with this particular design, one thing we’ve noticed is that the RGB lighting seems to be a lot dimmer than other gaming-oriented keyboards. Because of this, RGB lovers may want to look elsewhere.
Summary
As far as gaming keyboards are concerned, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX Deluxe Wireless is one of the most durable and versatile offerings on the market, making it great choice for gamers who want to bring their keyboard with them to various locations. Along with a aluminium chassis and sturdy double-shot PBT keycaps, the custom ROG switches and magnetic wrist-rest ensures a comfortable experience during longer sessions.
Features: 4.3/5
Design: 4.3/5
Versatility: 4.5/5
Value for Money: 4/5
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Switches feel smooth
- Versatile connectivity
Cons
- RGB is quite dim
- Premium price tag
Where to Buy
Buy the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX TKL Wireless Deluxe on:
3. Glorious GMMK Pro
👑 The best TKL keyboard for modding.
Introduction
In recent years, keyboard modding has become a popular pastime for pc gaming enthusiasts. This entails using a frame or standard prebuilt keyboard and adding custom switches and keycaps by hand. Whilst there are plenty of ways to go about building a custom keyboard, Glorious offer one of the simplest building services, making it a great option for newcomers to the modding scene. Plus, their configurations are of the highest quality, with an abundance of design choices to select.
But if you’re not interested in modding, then they also offer prebuilt versions of their custom keyboards, including the Glorious GMMK Pro. Though this is technically a 75% keyboard, it still has all the inputs of a TKL layout. Despite the slightly smaller design, the GMMK Pro offers plenty of design features, including a multimedia rotary knob and custom keycaps and switches for an ergonomic typing experience.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Glorious GMMK Pro |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Glorious Lynx/Panda, Kailh, Gateron |
| Keycaps | Glorious |
| Keystroke Lifespan | N/A |
| Max Polling Rate | 1000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
| Hot-Swappable | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
Things We Like
Hot-swappable design: With complete control over the switches and keycaps used for each key, GMMK Pro users can forge a tailor-made typing experience that is great for experimenting with different switch types and aesthetics.
Excellent build quality: Featuring a full aluminium frame, a coiled cable, and custom switches, this keyboard feels incredibly sturdy and luxurious. As a result, the GMMK Pro is a great option to accompany a high-end PC build.
Things We Don’t Like
Very expensive: Whilst the price of the keyboard itself is very high, the additional keycaps, switches, and accessories needed to get the most out of the GMMK Pro can add up to a ludicrous amount pretty quickly. As a result, this wired keyboard is reserved for the most enthusiastic PC users.
Requires a lot of time & effort: Along with the increased price point, this keyboard requires a lot of commitment compared to the other options on this list, which are designed to be purchased without the need to research or configure their own device.
Summary
For those interested in building their own keyboard, but are left apprehensive about the modding process, the GMMK Pro is a luxurious option that can relieve some of the stress of putting together a custom keyboard. With the choice up picking up a prebuilt configuration, or a blank canvas in which you can find your own resources for, this hot-swappable design grants total freedom for tailor-made typing.
Features: 4.3/5
Design: 4.5/5
Versatility: 4.3/5
Value for Money: 3.8/5
Pros
- Hot-swappable design
- Premium build-quality
- Great for enthusiasts
Cons
- Very expensive
- requires some research
Where to Buy
Buy the Glorious GMMK Pro on:
4. Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series
👑 The best TKL keyboard for gaming.
Introduction
If gaming is going to be your main concern, then the Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series is a great option to consider. This mechanical keyboard is purposefully built with competitive gaming in mind, with a multitude of performance-based features included to allow it to be Esports ready. For example, the K70 Champion Series is packed with Corsair’s latest high-end innovations, including their AXON hyper-processing technology. This leads to a whopping 8GHz polling rate, leading to lightning-fast inputs that gives professional gamers a leg-up over their rivals.
But performance isn’t the only reason to pick up this particular keyboard, as the K70 Champion Series also includes a strong feature-set. Arguably the most interesting inclusion is the tournament switch that disables lighting effects and macros, which prevents illegal macro activations and distracting RGB lighting during competitions. Also, the dedicated media controls provide users with an easy way to navigate through music without interrupting gameplay, whilst also offering some productivity benefits.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Cherry MX Red/Speed, Corsair OPX |
| Keycaps | Double-shot PBT |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 100 million |
| Max Polling Rate | 8000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
| Hot-Swappable | No |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
Things We Like
Excellent for gaming: As well as boasting the typical look for gaming thanks to lots of RGB, this keyboard includes a whopping 8GHz polling rate, which leads to incredibly responsive inputs to gain an advantage over competitors.
Multimedia controls: It’s always nice to have the ability to seamlessly play, pause, or skip tracks without having to interrupting on-screen actions, especially when gaming. That’s why we’re happy to see multimedia controls included on this design.
Things We Don’t Like
Not the most ergonomic design: With such a heavy focus on performance, it’s not too surprising to see that comfort has slightly fallen to the wayside. This keyboard is still comfortable enough to endure long gaming sessions, but the lack of a wrist-rest and robust nature makes it less ideal for typing and productivity.
Only offers wired connectivity: Like many competition-ready gaming keyboards, the K70 RGB TKL Champion Series doesn’t offer wireless connectivity in order to enhance performance. As a result, this keyboard lacks the versatility required to use it with multiple devices at once.
Summary
Competitive gamers looking to dial their performance up to the next level will have quite the challenge to find a keyboard that is more competition-ready than the Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series. Featuring a 8000Hz polling rate, along with dedicated media controls and a tournament switch, this keyboard is well-equipped to cater to the needs of Esports athletes, whilst also boasting a premium aesthetic.
Features: 4.5/5
Design: 4.3/5
Performance: 4.5/5
Value for Money: 4.2/5
Pros
- Great gaming performance
- Lots of design features
- Corsair iCUE support
Cons
- No wireless connectivity
- Less ideal for productivity
Where to Buy
Buy the Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series on:
5. Logitech G915 Wireless TKL
👑 The best low-profile TKL keyboard.
Introduction
If you’re making the switch from a laptop to a desktop PC, then a low-profile keyboard is an ideal way to ease the transition between the two. Featuring slimmer switches with a lower actuation point, Logitech’s G915 LIGHTSPEED Wireless TKL offers a typing experience that is reminiscent to what’s found on most gaming laptops, but also comes with increased durability and reliability of a mechanical keyboard. This leads to a solid typing experience while keeping the overall design fairly compact.
As soon as this compact form factor is paired with the ability to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth and Logitech’s LIGHTSPEED 2.4GHz wireless USB receiver, this keyboard is very portable, making it a great travel companion. Despite this focus on portability, the Logitech G915 still manages to include multimedia controls and on-board shortcuts to customise lighting effects and control audio on the fly.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Logitech G915 Wireless TKL |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Logitech GL Clicky/Tactile/Linear |
| Keycaps | ABS |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 70 million |
| Max Polling Rate | 1000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
| Hot-Swappable | No |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth |
Things We Like
Slim & compact design: This keyboard achieves a mechanical feel on a layout which is a lot slimmer and compact than traditional designs, making it a great choice for those wanting a comfortable typing experience on the go.
Lots of shortcuts & customisation: Due to this keyboard possessing multimedia controls, custom lighting shortcuts, and a plethora of customisation options through Logitech’s G Hub software, the G915 LIGHTSPEED TKL will give users plenty of way to tailor the design to suit their needs.
Things We Don’t Like
Less ergonomic than most mechanical designs: Even though this keyboard does its best to cover some of the flaws that come with a low-profile design, it still feels less comfortable for anyone used to a bulkier keyboard. Therefore, this keyboard is only ideal for those used to typing on laptops and notebooks.
No wired connection: It’s quite strange for a wireless gaming keyboard to exclude a wired connection, especially when most need a USB cable to no charged anyway. However, this device only supports wireless connectivity, which means this design is less than ideal for competitive gaming.
Summary
The use-case for a low-profile mechanical keyboard is more niche than the typical form factor, but is incredibly beneficial to those familiar with laptop keyboards, or just want a TKL keyboard that can be taken on the go with ease. But putting form factor aside, the Logitech G915 LIGHTSPEED Wireless looks and feels incredible, and comes with a rich set of features to help cater for individual needs.
Features: 4.2/5
Design: 4.2/5
Performance: 4.6/5
Value for Money: 4.6/5
Pros
- Extremely portable
- Lots of customisation options
- Includes multimedia controls
Cons
- Not the best ergonomics
- Lack of wired connectivity
Where to Buy
Buy the Logitech G915 Wireless TKL on:
Should I Buy a TKL Mechanical Keyboard?
When it comes to finding the perfect layout for a mechanical keyboard, TKL is vastly popular due to its blend of size and functionality. With enough inputs to easily navigate through most forms of software while removing unnecessary keys to clear up space for a mouse or other desktop accessories, TKL gives consumers the freedom to participate in gaming and productivity-based tasks without significantly hindering the other. Because of this, TKL keyboards are worth considering for anyone looking for a mechanical keyboard to use with a gaming-workstation hybrid PC build.
However, there are plenty of other layouts that might be more ideal for your specific use-case. Take 60% and 65% keyboards as an example. These layouts remove a lot of the keys that average PC users don’t need for daily use, which leaves a very compact design that is perfect for gaming and travelling. With these designs clearing up so much desk space, anyone only playing games on their PC will benefit from the greater mouse movements these keyboards allow.
On the other hand, a full-size keyboard will be a better fit for workstations, as the additional inputs can be used as macros and shortcuts, allowing users to be more productive. Ultimately, the type of keyboard layout will depend on your use-case, but TKL mechanical keyboards are perhaps the most versatile of the bunch.
Do I Need Wireless Connectivity?
No. Wireless connectivity is always a welcomed addition to a mechanical keyboard due to the increased versatility and portability that comes with it. However, it is by no means a necessity. In fact, a lot of keyboard users prefer a wired design due to its reduced latency, leading to more responsive performance in games or demanding work applications.
Whilst these opinions may be slightly outdated thanks to 2.4GHz wireless being able to produce similar performance to wired connections, the more reliable and consistent link to the PC does provide a solid reason to stick with the traditional wired mechanical keyboards. Also, keyboards with only a wired connection are generally a lot cheaper than their wireless counterparts, making them a great way to pick up a stellar design on a tight budget.
Why You Can Trust Us
Whenever a new arrival comes into the GeekaWhat office, our team of PC hardware experts and gaming enthusiasts don’t hesitate to test and evaluate the product in great detail. After putting it through a number of gaming and day-to-day scenarios, we use this information to devise an extensive overview of its quality and value compared to the rest of the market.
Our findings are then discussed and relayed to our audience via YouTube videos and written content, in which we talk about our thoughts and experiences, as well as suggestions for those that would benefit from using said product the most.
If you’re interested in learning more about our team or editorial promise, head to the ‘About Us’ section on our website.
How We Tested the Best TKL Mechanical Keyboards
In order to test and evaluate the best TKL mechanical keyboards, there are a number of factors that we take into account, these are:
- Performance
- Connectivity
- Build Quality
- Customisation
- Aesthetic
- Value for Money
Conclusion
Best TKL Mechanical Keyboard: Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series
Whilst there are a plethora of great TKL mechanical keyboards on the market, our top pick would have to be Corsair’s K70 RGB TKL Champion Series. As a keyboard meant for competitive gaming, this design offers incredible performance in all the latest titles. However, it also boasts an premium aesthetic and a heavy feature-set that will provide plenty of benefits in other gaming and productivity-based scenarios.
Buy the Coirsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Red, Blue, and Brown Switches?
Generally, the colour of switches will indicate the type of feedback you should expect. Blue switches offer a more clicky response, reds provide a smooth and linear feel, whilst browns offer tactile typing that sits between the two.
Are TKL Keyboards Good for Gaming?
Yes. The reduced size and removal of the numpad makes TKL keyboards great for freeing up desk space for greater mouse movements when gaming. However, it also keeps the necessary inputs to complete productivity tasks with ease.
What Does TKL Stand for?
When referring to mechanical keyboards, TKL stands for tenkeyless. This is because keyboards with this layout contains all the keys on a full-size keyboard, except for the numpad.
Are TKL Keyboards the Same as 75%?
Not exactly. Whilst both layouts contain the same number of keys, TKL keyboards are technically a 80% instead of 75%, as they include spacing to separate the navigation keys from the rest of the board.
