Best Keyboard Without Number Pad



Wireless keyboards serve many masters. They’re great if you’re trying to declutter, or like typing with your keyboard on your lap. Mobile productivity hounds who want gear that’s ready for travel swear by them, too, and some models let you swap one typing peripheral among desktops, laptops, and tablets.

What makes for the best wireless keyboard depends a lot on how you plan to use it. Are you a couch gamer or a productivity focused neat freak who just wants the best wireless keyboard so you can maintain a clean-looking desk? Are you after a clacker that can switch between multiple devices on the fly, or do you need something that’s compact and travel-friendly so you can bang out a few emails and documents on the go?

Our shopping guide has plenty of information to help you in your search. If you’re ready to buy a wireless keyboard, check out our top picks.

These Tenkeyless keyboards, or “TKL” for short, are essentially full-sized keyboards, without the addition of a number pad. TKL keyboards are perfect for those that may have a confined working or gaming space, or for those that could simply do without the functionality of a number pad/ten-key. The best mechanical keyboard without a number pad is a tenkeyless(TKL) keyboard. A tenkeyless mechanical keyboard is the exact same as a full-sized, but without a number pad. There are other smaller size keyboards too, such as 75%, 65%, or 60% keyboards. Wireless Keyboard and Mouse, 2.4GHz Ultra Slim Full Size Keyboard and Mouse Combo with Number Pad for Windows 10, Laptop, PC, Computer, Desktop (Rose Gold) 4.6 out of 5 stars 923 $29.99 $ 29.

Wireless keyboards: Bluetooth vs. USB

Wireless keyboards connect to a PC in one of two ways: via Bluetooth or a USB receiver. Some older Windows 7 machines may not support Bluetooth. On the other hand, if you need a keyboard to work across different platforms on newer devices, a Bluetooth-enabled model is what you need.

All the USB receiver-driven models in this roundup were flawless examples of plug-and-play keyboards. Pairing Bluetooth keyboards (compared to Bluetooth headsets, let’s say) requires a few more steps, and only one of the models was slightly flaky in maintaining its connection.

Bluetooth keyboards tend to cost a little more but also offer longer battery life. As you’re shopping (particularly if you have big fingers), keep in mind that some hardware makers sacrifice the keys’ size and spacing to give you portability.

How we test wireless keyboards

It was hands-on all the way with our keyboard testing. We spent at least one full workday typing exclusively on each model we tested, with follow-up time to allow for a learning curve.

We considered the size, weight, and durability of each model against its purpose—whether it was designed to be portable or desk-bound, and compact or fully featured.

For instance, we balance the versatility of multi-platform models like Microsoft’s modern keyboard against its performance as an actual keyboard you need to use every day (and in this case, it wins on all counts).

10 Best Wireless Keyboards of 2021:

NameL x W x HWeight
Microsoft Modern Keyboard4.4 x 0.8 x 16.6 in14.7 ounces
Logitech MK54018.6 x 7.9 x 2.9 in2 pounds
Azio Retro Classic Bluetooth19.5 x 8 x 2.8 in6 pounds
Logitech K7800.9 x 6.2 x 14.9 in1.92 pounds
Corsair K63 Wireless14.4 x 6.8 x 1.6 in2.4 pounds
OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard11.2 x 4.7 x 0.2 in5.6 ounces
Apple Magic Keyboard11.5 x 5 x 0.8 in13.6 ounces
HP K3500 Wireless Keyboard16.6 x 5.7 x 1 in14.6 ounces
Arteck HW19216.9 x 4.9 x 0.6 in14.9 ounces
Logitech K600 TV14.5 x 0.8 x 4.6 in1.1 pounds

1. Microsoft Modern Keyboard

With its ultra-thin body and small form factor, Microsoft’s modern keyboard left us with a good first impression. The grey aluminum frame is completely different from the old black style and looks very good.

It is very easy to connect the keyboard to a computer with a Windows 10 system. It should be noted that it does not support the iOS system.

During our testing, the Bluetooth connection performance was very stable, and the keyboard went to sleep when it was inactive for a while, but after the wake-up, the connection was re-established for less than one second.

Although the size of the keyboard is relatively small, the buttons themselves are not crowded, and we rarely encounter the wrong buttons when typing.

Microsoft offers a range of convenient Windows-specific hotkeys for screen settings, search, calculator applications, operations centers, and activation of virtual desktops in Windows 10.

The most worth showing off is the built-in fingerprint scanner, which is located next to the right Alt key. Fingerprint scanning works seamlessly with Windows Hello. In addition, you can log in to your computer via face recognition.

  • Elegant and stylish appearance
  • Satisfactory button response
  • Built-in fingerprint scanner
  • Convenient dedicated Windows key

2. Logitech MK540

If you’re looking for a quality, flexible keyboard and don’t want to pay the extra premium of a mechanical shaft, the MK540 wireless mouse and keyboard set is definitely worth a look.

This is a large keyboard with dedicated multimedia buttons, programmable buttons, and a tactile typing experience. The rugged mouse provides smooth scrolling and programmable gestures. The only downside is the limited support for Mac systems.

The keyboard measures 18 x 7.6 x 0.9 inches and weighs 1.9 pounds. In addition, the MK540 is equipped with a retractable stand that tilts the keyboard 4° or 8°.

It has a large number of hot keys, including search, save, print, set, lock, and calculator. You can also customize 10 programmable keys using the Logitech Options app.

Affordable, and the MK540 has good quality and stylish appearance, it is one of the best choices.

  • Quiet and tactile buttons
  • Programmable function keys and mouse gestures
  • Spacious and comfortable design

3. Azio Retro Classic Bluetooth

Azio Retro Classic is not the cheapest retro mechanical keyboard we’ve ever seen, but it’s definitely the most compelling.

With its unique zinc alloy frame and walnut panel, the Azio Retro Classic’s Elwood model exudes a strong steampunk atmosphere, while the LED backlight and metal Retro Classic plaque make this concept the ultimate.

Of course, for this unique retro design, a version is obviously not enough. Azio also offers three other models to choose from: Onyx, Posh and Artisan, which replace the wooden panels with black or white leather.

The keyboard supports both Windows and Mac operating systems and is connected via wireless Bluetooth or a wired USB-C port. The built-in battery has a huge capacity of 6000mAh.

Whether it’s installation or use is very simple, the quality is very reliable, and the knocking response is fast, which is why we highly recommend it.

  • Beautiful retro design
  • Satisfactory touch and keystroke
  • Extra Mac keycap
  • LED backlight
  • No programmable buttons
  • The sound of the mechanical shaft is very loud

4. Logitech K780

This full-size keyboard features a full range of function keys and number keys, and the top of the keyboard is an equal-length rubber tray that keeps the mobile device in the right view.

With Bluetooth technology, you can connect up to three devices to the K780 at a time. There are three white buttons for pairing in the upper left corner of the keyboard that can be switched between each paired device.

Compared to most keyboards, the K780 has a better aesthetic appearance and a satisfying quiet touch. In addition, it can accurately identify the OS X computer and convert key commands accordingly.

As a portable keyboard, the 1.9-pound weight and smaller size make it easy to put in the bag. Still, it is still strong enough that it won’t be easily damaged.

  • Suitable for all major platforms
  • Can switch between three paired devices
  • Quiet touch, pleasant typing experience

5. Corsair K63 Wireless

Wireless gaming mice have become a new hotspot in the gaming peripheral world, but the development of wireless mechanical keyboards is lagging behind, and they are still in their infancy.

With the Cherry MX red axis buttons, multimedia buttons, and backlighting, it includes almost all the great features.

In fact, the K63 Wireless is a copy of the wired version, with a very simple frameless structure and an elegant bezel on the top, providing plenty of room for additional buttons and indicators.

Underneath the floating keycap, there is a soft but powerful blue backlight. Given that most manufacturers typically completely discard the backlight system for longer battery life, it is impressive that the Corsair can retain this feature.

Since you don’t feel the input jam and delay, it’s easy to forget that this is a wireless keyboard during the game. In addition, its battery life can reach 30 hours.

  • Reliable wireless connection
  • Provide all features of the wired version
  • With Lapboard, you can experience the game perfectly on the sofa

6. OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard

If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest Bluetooth keyboard you can get, the OMOTON keyboard is a good option. It may appear to be an Apple Magic Keyboard clone at first, but don’t be fooled: It is made entirely of plastic versus the aluminum frame used in Apple’s model.

Overall, the OMOTON is quite thin and light so you can easily stuff it into a computer bag or backpack along with your tablet or laptop. The manufacturer claims 30 days of continuous use with two AAA-batteries (not included).

OMOTON seemingly had iOS in mind when it designed this keyboard, but it should work with MacOS, Windows, and Android. Longevity for future updates, however, is questionable.

  • All plastic

7. Apple Magic Keyboard

Apple’s redesigned Magic Keyboard is everything Apple fans (and others) could want from a minimal Bluetooth keyboard design. Older Magic Keyboards had a rolled base that propped the keyboard’s backside up to make room for AA batteries.

This latest model has a rechargeable battery, so the keyboard lies flatter than previous versions.

Apple’s upgraded keys now have slightly more weight when typing, which is generally an improvement. The arrow key redesign is somewhat less welcome, but the advantages of this new design are hard to deny.

The Bluetooth battery claims a one-month charge, too, so you can carry this keyboard around without worrying about its longevity.

Overall, the Magic Keyboard may be slightly larger than other options on our list, but it works well with both iOS and MacOS products. For Apple loyalists, this is the keyboard to buy. The next version may even come with Apple’s famed touch bar, so stay tuned.

  • Stylish appearance
  • Easy to carry
  • Reliable quality

8. HP K3500 Wireless Keyboard

One of the best budget wireless keyboards on our list is HP K3500. Despite its low price its performance level is quite decent and will suit anyone who needs a modern wireless keyboard.

So, what can HP K3500 offer a customer like you? Comfort is the first feature you should be aware of. Yes, this cheap keyboard is really convenient to use. It provides comfortable control over your PC.

Behind its sleek design there is a hidden unlimited connection within 30ft that comes together with 2.4GHz USB dongle. There is a set of modern chiclet-style keys that deliver not only simple multimedia control but also fast and accurate performance.

HP K3500 has got a built-in number pad as well. Note that this wireless keyboard allows you to connect it up to four HP-compatible wireless devices using HP’s Link-5 USB receiver. Note that HP K3500 is compatible with Windows (XP/Vista/7/8/10).

  • Cheap
  • Slim and lightweight design
  • Useful multifunction buttons
  • Great number of hotkeys
  • Link-5 wireless technology
  • Compatible only with Windows OS
  • Batteries are difficult to replace

9. Arteck HW192

When it comes to freedom and convenience, the Arteck HW192 comes to mind, as it checks all the important boxes: it’s wireless, full size, well built, affordable, looks pretty cool, and, on top of that, it’s made (partially) from high-quality stainless steel, despite its low price.

We know, it sounds too good to be true, but Arteck managed to pull this off and the end result is nothing short of impressive. For less than 30 bucks, you’ll be able to upgrade your “internet surfing experience” so to speak, with a proper keyboard that features quiet keys, a roomy layout and a nice design.

Even if we’re talking about a full-size keyboard, the Arteck HW192 only measures 16.9 x 4.9 x 0.6 inches and weighs a bit under one pound; yes, despite using stainless steel in its chassis, it’s as light as a unicorn feather, provided such thing exists.

Gaming Keyboards Without Number Pads

All jokes aside, only the bottom half of the chassis is made of stainless steel, while the keys and the top half are made of plastic.

However, the keyboard feels solid and built to last, which is kind of rare in this price bracket, especially when it comes to light and thin keyboards like this one.

The HW192 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which takes something like 5 hours to charge completely, and the company claims it will run for 6 months on a single charge, provided you only use it 2 hours (non-stop) per day. When it’s not in use, the keyboard will enter “hibernation mode”, but it will resume full function at a touch of a key.

  • Solid build quality and ergonomically designed
  • Easy to set up, connects via dongle
  • Works with both Windows and Mac machines
  • Excellent for touch typing
  • Comfortable to use and to carry around while traveling

10. Logitech K600 TV

As its name suggests, the Logitech K600 TV is built and designed to make your smart TV experience great again, and since we’re talking about the granddaddy of PC peripherals, it comes as no surprise that the K600 is pretty awesome.

Besides being couch-friendly, the K600 TV is also affordable, being specifically engineered to please smart TV enthusiasts, and truth be told, it’s able to make the already thin line between PCs and smart TVs blurrier than ever.

Since today’s smart TVs are basically mini-computers hooked on a big-real-estate screen, and just as functional as a regular PC in some aspects, the Logitech K600 TV keyboard will make your smart TV the center of your “digital/online life” if one so inclined.

Measuring 14.4 x 4.6 x 0.8 inches, this baby is not as large as a regular full size keyboard, but it’s perfect for typing nevertheless, and it’s fully compatible with Samsung SUHD/UHD (Tizen 2016 or newer), LG OLED/SUHD/UHD (webOS 2016 or newer), Sony Bravia UHD (Android TV 2016 or newer).

Logitech chose to use a directional pad (remote control style) instead of a numpad that comes pretty handy with your smart TV, even if it lacks the precision of a regular mouse.

On top of that, you’ll find additional buttons on the left side of the keyboard, plus some extra function ones in the center, for easy navigation, and once you set up the keyboard nice and proper, you’ll be able to fully control your smart TV sans a remote.

Finally, we must mention that the K600 TV supports Bluetooth pairing, which means you can use it on multiple devices simultaneously.

  • The ideal tool for smart TV addicts
  • Works great with Android
  • Pretty unique in its niche
  • Well designed
  • Can successfully replace your remote control

Wireless Keyboards Shopping Tips

  • Mechanical or not? If you’re a gamer or will be doing a lot of longform writing, a mechanical keyboard is definitely the way to go. Keyboards with mechanical switches are also more durable than most other keyboard types.
  • Backlighting / RGB: The cheapest wireless keyboards won’t have any backlighting at all, which is OK if you always use your keyboard in a well-lit space.
  • Pick your switch: Not all of the best wireless keyboards will use mechanical switches. But of those that do, you’ll have plenty of switch options, depending on the model you choose.

How we picked the wireless keyboards

Whether you’re using a Bluetooth keyboard or a wireless keyboard with a dongle, it should never feel like anything but a “normal” typing experience. For this guide, we prioritized:

  • Typing comfort: This includes the size and feel of the keys, the typing angle, and how it feels to use the keyboard for long periods of time.
  • Easy pairing/no dropped signals: At this point, Bluetooth and wireless keyboards should have no problems related to pairing or dropped signals. Your keystrokes should show up on the screen as soon as you make them.
  • Portability: A portable keyboard needs to strike a balance between compactness and ergonomics.
  • Materials: Even if your keyboard remains at your desk, you should feel comfortable knowing the keys won’t start popping off or wearing away after a short period of use.
  • Battery life: Most modern Bluetooth and wireless keyboards offer long battery life, but they still have differences in this regard. A keyboard can use built-in rechargeable batteries or swappable batteries, and each kind has its advantages.

Conclusion

The biggest advantage of the wireless keyboards is that it is free to operate. If you want to play games on the sofa or bed, this experience is not better.

I hope that you can help you after reading this article. If you have any questions, please contact us or leave a message.

There are many different sizes, shapes, and names for mechanical keyboards. In this article, we will be doing a deep dive on Tenkeyless, or 80% keyboards. These Tenkeyless keyboards, or “TKL” for short, are essentially full-sized keyboards, without the addition of a number pad.

TKL keyboards are perfect for those that may have a confined working or gaming space, or for those that could simply do without the functionality of a number pad/ten-key. If you’re looking to increase mouse pad space for gaming, or lessen hand travel time from keyboard to mouse, then a Tenkeyless is an ideal solution. Additionally, TKL keyboards provide ergonomic benefits that may be absent with a full-sized keyboard. If you’re spending a significant amount of time in front of a screen, whether it’s for work or a hobby, you might as well be comfortable!

We’ve reviewed a few of the best tkl mechanical keyboards so that you can make an educated decision and figure out which build is right for you.

Top Pick


Leopold FC750R
Minimalist TKL keyboard with Cherry MX switches

The Leopold FC750R is our top pick, Leopold offers high-quality boards and polished minimalist designs. Leopold is a Korean company, well respected amongst the StarCraft and Korean gaming community for providing long-lasting and polished products.

  • The Top 4 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboards

The Top 4 Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboards

Editor's PickBrandRating
Best OverallLeopold FC750R4.9
Runner UpIKBC MF874.8
Budget PickDucky One 2 TKL4.6
Best CustomizableGMMK TKL4.6

Our Top Pick: Leopold FC750R

Features

The 750R comes jam-packed with all the best features. The keycaps are 1.5mm PBT, which are guaranteed to survive years of daily wear and tear from typing and gaming. These keycaps are also resistant to temperature and solvents, so they shouldn’t wear out from natural oils that are left by your fingers. A 1.8m removable cable makes traveling with the 750R easy and harmless.

Ergonomic benefits

Leopold’s 750R also offers ergonomic benefits, the adjustable feet allow you to customize the height of the keyboard, so you can find the most comfortable position during use. The 750 also boasts an ergonomic key shape, so if you value comfortability this might be the right keyboard for you.

Best Wireless Keyboard Without Number Pad

Best Keyboard Without Number Pad

Switch type

As for the most important part of the keyboard, the switches, the Leopold FC750R comes with your choice of Cherry MX switches. It’s offered with Blue, Brown, Clear, Red, or Silent Red switches provided they are in stock. If you don’t have much experience with mechanical keyboards, Cherry MX switches are popular and well-liked around the mechanical keyboard community. If you’re worried about noise or are regularly in quiet environments, the keyboard comes with a sound-absorbing pad to help reduce noise.

Other attributes

The 750R is equipped with 100% anti-ghosting keys, the standard multimedia keys, 4 DIP switches for customization, and N-Key rollover. There is also a 6-key rollover function switch if for some reason you want to limit the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously. As for looks, the 750R comes in white/gray, blue/yellow, black/graphite, and gray/light blue. Plenty of color options to choose from, or you can buy your own keycaps to customize your look. Keep in mind this board does not come with any backlighting

Specifications:
  • Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.3 x 14.2 in
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
  • Cord length: 5.9 ft

Best Gaming Keyboard Without Number Pad

Our Runner Up: IKBC MF87

Runner Up

Gaming Keyboard Without Numpad

IKBC MF87
RGB TKL with aluminum body

Runner up for best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard is the IKBC MF87. Let me start off by saying this keyboard is an absolute unit. Made of 5 lbs of solid CNC aluminum, it’s built like a tank and guaranteed to last.

Features

Along with its solid build, the MF87 is visually stunning. It comes equipped with 9 pre-set RGB backlighting modes, with the ability to program each individual key to a different color. Fully-fledged customizability is rare with most RGB keyboards, which makes the MF87 particularly appealing to many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, there is an on-board brightness toggle, so you can tweak the RGB LEDs to your liking.

Key programming

The MF87 comes with 3 built-in layouts, Qwerty, Dvorak, and Colemak. Qwerty is generally the standard layout for most people, but it’s nice to have the option to change should you prefer another layout. Like most mechanical keyboards, this IKBC has 100% anti-ghosting keys and N-Key rollover, so it’s ideal for gaming where you are likely registering multiple keystrokes at once. The standard multi-media keys and F1-F12 are also included.

Switch type

Akin to many other mechanical keyboards in this price range, the MF87 is issued with Cherry MX switches. This model has Cherry MX Reds, which do not have a tactile bump or a click. Along with their low articulation force, these switches are ideal for gamers who enjoy a quieter mechanical keyboard experience, or for those working in a quiet environment.

Other Features

The MF87 has a detachable USB 2.0 cable which makes taking this keyboard on-the-go simple and worry-free.

Specifications:
  • Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 4 in
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs
  • Cord length: 4.9 ft

Best Budget Pick: Ducky One 2 TKL

Budget Pick

Ducky One 2 TKL
Affordable keyboard with Cherry MX switches

Our best budget mechanical keyboard is the Ducky One 2 TKL. Ducky is a highly reputable Taiwanese company, they produce high-quality keyboards at an affordable price. If you’re shopping on a budget, we would recommend choosing a Ducky keyboard.

Best Gaming Keyboard Without Number Pad

Features

The Ducky One 2 is a very minimalistic keyboard, it goes without the usual fancy visuals and instead offers great performance. There is standard blue LED backlighting, with no option to tweak or change the colors. As for the keycaps, the One 2 is equipped with double shot PBT keycaps, which are guaranteed to last through daily wear and tear. If you’re a frequent traveler, the removable micro USB makes packing and transporting the One 2 easy.

Switch type

This particular board comes with Cherry MX Blue switches, if you are a fan of audible clicks when pressing keys then MX Blues are the right switch for you. Not suitable for a quiet working environment.

At a glance

For under $100, the Ducky One 2 is a great keyboard. A solid, sturdy build that is will definitely last years of use. It’s a perfect entry-level mechanical keyboard for anyone looking to dive into the mechanical keyboard space.

Specifications:
  • Dimensions: 14.04 x 1.61 x 5.24 in
  • Weight: 2.4 lbs
  • Cord length: 4 ft

Best Customizable: Glorious Modular Mechanical TKL

Best Customizable

GMMK TKL
Hot-swappable RGB keyboard

The GMMK TKL from Glorious PC Gaming is an extremely versatile and easily customizable keyboard. Glorious is a fairly new company started in Texas in 2014, they offer high-quality mechanical keyboards targeted towards gamers, at an affordable price.

Features

The GMMK TKL is a visually stunning keyboard, it comes with fully customizable RGB backlighting, change the color of any key via software or directly on the keyboard. Additionally, pre-set lighting effects are included direct from the manufacturer. This minimalist keyboard has a floating keycap design, with a standard keycap layout that makes personalizing your keys simple. One knock on this particular keyboard is that the factory keycaps are double-shot ABS, which are generally inferior to double-shot PBT. If you’re swapping the default keycaps for aftermarket it obviously won’t make a difference, but it is definitely something to keep in mind if you are keeping the stock keycaps. Want to learn more about keycaps? Check out our extensive guide on the different types of keycap materials.

Hot-swappable switches

The most enticing feature of the GMMK TKL is the hot-swappable switches. Generally, on most keyboards, there is soldering involved in order to change switches. The GMMK requires no soldering in order to swap out switches, and it’s compatible with Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, Outemu, and Zeal switches. This particular unit is equipped with Gateron Browns, which are similar in quality to Cherry MX Browns. If you prefer a quieter typing experience this is the switch for you, otherwise, you can easily change the switches out to a variant you prefer.

Other attributes

This keyboard offers a solid and sturdy build with a high-quality aluminum faceplate, this unit is about 2.25 lbs so it should stay planted firmly on your desk. The USB cable is detachable and braided, so you can swap out the cable to match your customized look. All the regular multimedia keys are included, and if you are interested in creating macro keys Glorious software will enable you to do so.

Specifications:

Best Keyboard Without Numeric Pad

  • Dimensions: 14 x 5.1 x 1.4 in
  • Weight: 2.4 lbs
  • Cord length: 6 ft