The 9 Best 75% Mechanical Keyboards (for 2023)

This is our review of the best 75 percent keyboards (75%) for 2023!

These keyboards do NOT have the 10-key number pad (similar to the 80% “TKL” or “tenkeyless” keyboards)…

…so they’re perfect for people who want more desk space without going TOO small or giving up TOO much functionality.

In fact, this is my favorite keyboard size! (I have SEVERAL 75% TKLs. Too many, but they’re awesome).

To help you find the right pick for you, here are my recommendations:

Best Overall
Keychron K2
Best Budget
Royal Kludge RK84
Best Custom
GMMK Pro
Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Wireless RGB 75% Triple Mode BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard, 84 Keys BT5.0...
Glorious Gaming GMMK PRO 75% Barebones White (Frame Only) - Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, TKL Size (75%),...
$89.99
$59.99
$119.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Hot-swappable?
Custom options?
Best Overall
Keychron K2
Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
$89.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Hot-swappable?
Custom options?
Best Budget
Royal Kludge RK84
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Wireless RGB 75% Triple Mode BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard, 84 Keys BT5.0...
$59.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Hot-swappable?
Custom options?
Best Custom
GMMK Pro
Glorious Gaming GMMK PRO 75% Barebones White (Frame Only) - Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, TKL Size (75%),...
$119.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Hot-swappable?
Custom options?

What Are 75% Mechanical Keyboards and Why Are They So Popular?

75% mechanical keyboards are a perfect balance to save desk space and look great.

They don’t have the 10-key numberpad, but DO have all the other parts of a 100% keyboard, such as dedicated arrow keys, function row, and “home cluster” keys.

And while this is ALSO a 80% TKL keyboard, the 75% version has all the keys smushed together, with no space in between!

80% TKL up top, 75% TKL on bottom (My Keychron K2!)

They’re perfect for people who want a compact keyboard without going TOO small (like 60% or 65% or even 40% keyboards).

75% TKL Keyboards, Pros and Cons:

Honestly, 75% might be THE most popular size keyboard.

PROS:

  • Takes up less desk space than a full-size keyboard
  • All the important keys are still there
  • Can look very clean and minimal

CONS:

  • If you work with numbers a lot, you might miss the number pad
  • Not as many keys to assign macros to?

No number junkie? TKL is the perfect size for you!

Click here to read our full guide to keyboard layouts & size.

Here’s our list of the best 75% mechanical keyboards:

Now that you know why these are so popular, here are the details for our 75% picks for each category.

But to be honest–you really can’t go wrong with any of these.

They’re all amazing!

Best Overall: Keychron K2 (And Best for Mac)

Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
  • Keychron K2, a 75% layout 84 keys hot-swappable white LED backlight wireless mechanical keyboard giving you all the keys and function you need while keeping it compact. And let you personalize per-key...
  • With a unique Mac layout while compatible with Windows, the Keychron K2 has all essential multimedia and function keys you need. Extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems are included.
  • Connects with up to 3 devices via the reliable Broadcom Bluetooth 5.1 chipset and switch among them easily for multitasking needs. The K2 is best to fit home, office and light gaming use while...
  • Cost: ✅ $69-$99
  • Wireless? ✅ yes
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
  • Switch Options? ✅ yes
  • Best Feature: Physical toggle switches for Mac/Windows and Wired/Wireless

The Keychron K2 is the perfect 75% mechanical keyboard for a number of reasons.

First, it has a sleek, minimalist design that looks great on any desk. Second, it’s built with high-quality materials, so it’s sure to last for years. Third, it supports a wide variety of software and hardware platforms (Keychrons are AMAZING for Mac users, but of course, they work with Windows too).

I LOVE the physical toggle switches on the side of the keyboard. Makes it smooth to switch from wired to wireless, Mac to Windows, etc.

And last, they offer a TON of customization options…

  • Different switches
  • Different case colors
  • Different keycap colors
  • White-only backlighting (to save money)
  • Non-hot-swappable versions (to save money)

At this price point, you really can’t go wrong with the Keychron K2.

So if you’re in the market for a 75% keyboard, this one’s at the top of your list.

Want to see our best mechanical keyboards for Mac? Read this post.

Another premium Keychron 75%: The Keychron Q1

If you want a fancier version of the K2, the Keychron Q1 has a rotary knob! Also, this is technically a “custom kit,” meaning you can purchase barebones without switches or keycaps, or you can customize with Gateron Pro switches from the Keychron website.

Best Budget 75%: Royal Kludge RK84

On Sale
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Wireless RGB 75% Triple Mode BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard, 84 Keys BT5.0...
  • That is THREE MODES: Believe it or not, this is the first generation of RGB three-mode wireless keyboards. Wireless mode with stable BT5.0, hassle-free 2.4Ghz dongle plus USB-C wired mode set no...
  • 84 Keys, Redefine TKL - The innovative 75% unique layout differs from traditional TKL keyboards, which cuts more clumsy space off while supporting the same functionality as practical arrow, multimedia...
  • Hot-swappable - Hot-swap PCB allows you to replace 3 pins/5 pins switches freely without soldering issue. Enjoy the fun of making your own keyboard.
  • Cost: ✅ $65-$85
  • Wireless? ✅ yes
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
  • Switch Options? ✅ yes
  • Best Feature: A detachable “side” to the case!

RK84 keyboards are quickly becoming a go-to for people who want a great typing experience without breaking the bank.

The RK84 offers a solid 75% layout (but they also have a slightly larger 80% layout, the RK87!).

Also, you can remove the side of the case, giving a more “open” look to show off RGB. It just snaps right off.

There are plenty of switch options to suit your needs, and you can get white or black cases/keycap combos.

The only downside is that the spacebar tends to have a little bit of a rattle. Most beginners would never notice or care about this, and technically you could mod the keyboard and add 3rd party stabilizers, but alas.

Overall, this is a great keyboard for the price.

SPEAKING OF PRICE: Click here to read our recommendations for the best mechanical keyboard under $100.

Another Budget Pick: Tecware Phantom 87

TECWARE Phantom 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard, RGB led, Outemu Brown Switch
  • PREMIUM TYPING EXPERIENCE: Experience unparalleled performance with the Phantom 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard. Every inch of this keyboard is meticulously crafted, fine-tuned, and specially engineered to...
  • 16.8 MILLION COLOR RGB LIGHTING: With 16.8 million colors and dynamic lighting effects, this LED mechanical keyboard will become a captivating centerpiece, enhancing your gaming setup or workspace.
  • 18 PRE-SET LIGHT MODES: Express your unique style and personality with 18 pre-set RGB lighting modes. From pulsating waves to dynamic color shifts, you have the freedom to tailor the lighting effects...
  • Cost: ✅ $40-50!
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ Yes
  • Switch Options? ✅ a few…
  • Best Feature: Super cheap

Want to go even cheaper?

The Tecware Phantom 87 is just about as budget as you can get!

For around $40, you get a hot-swappable PCB, a few switch options, and RGB backlighting.

That’s a steal.

Again, it’s not the nicest mechanical keyboard ever, but it’s a great way to dip your toes in the mechanical keyboard world without spending a lot of money.

Click here to read our full review & sound test of the Tecware Phantom.

Best Mid-Range: Epomaker EP84

EPOMAKER EP84 84-Key RGB Hotswap Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with PBT Dye-subbed Keycaps for Mac/Win/Gamers...
  • Hotswappable Gateron Switch. The EP84 keyboard is hot-swappable which is a rare feature among mechanical keyboards, this means you can easily change out your mechanical switches for a different type,...
  • 84 Keys Compact Mechanical Keyboard. The EPOMAKER EP84 houses 84-key which is one of the most sought after in the world of mechanical keyboards. Why? It houses a full set numbers, function keys, and...
  • Dye-subbed PBT Keycaps.We chose to go with a top-grade PBT thermal sublimation keycaps. It’s often considered as the top choice for keycap materials, even over ABS keycaps, as PBT is much more...
  • Cost: ✅ $75-90
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ Yes
  • Switch Options? ✅
  • Best Feature: Sturdy build with good case and keycap options!

I like colors. Or at least the OPTION to choose different color keycaps, case, etc, and the Epomaker 84 is a super-no-frills 75% (sorta) that has nice options!

I’ve seen the Epomaker stuff recommended for YEARS (all of their keyboards are well-made and keyboard community favorites).

The EP84 comes stock with a few different Gateron switch options–which aren’t the world’s best switches by any means–but they’re better than a lot of other budget options.

This is a weird “no-frills, nothing exceptionally amazing–but just a solid all-around keyboard” at the price point.

I like em.

Also Interesting: Epomaker NiZ Plum

This one is very hard to find these days (you can order different options on Epomaker’s site, but only one version is on Amazon at the time of this writing), and they’re pricey to boot!

But the NiZ Plum features Electro-Capacitive key switches, which are similar to topre switches.

It’s kinda like combining a mechanical switch with a normal “rubber dome” switch. It’ll feel mushier, but have the durability of a mechanical switch. (and they have red, blue, brown, and black switch options too)

If you’re looking for something a bit different and can afford it, you should give this bad boy a try!

Best Custom Kit: GMMK Pro

Glorious Gaming GMMK PRO 75% Barebones White (Frame Only) - Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, TKL Size (75%),...
  • Premium Design & Materials: The GMMK PRO's body is CNC machined from solid aluminum, giving it substantial weight and unrivaled durability compared to plastic alternatives. Anodization gives the...
  • 5-Pin Hotswap Design: Personalize the board's typing experience by plugging in your favorite 3 or 5-pin MX mechanical switches from Glorious, Kailh, Gateron, Cherry, and more. No soldering required....
  • Fully Customizable Appearance: The GMMK PRO's included top frame, rotary knob, and cable are easily replaceable with colorful alternatives from Glorious, specially engineered for a perfect fit. This...
  • Cost: ✅ $170-220
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ Yes
  • Switch Options? ✅
  • Best Feature: Rotary knob and side-lighting

The GMMK pro is a SUPER premium 75% keyboard, complete with a rotary volume knob and different customization options.

This keyboard doesn’t come with switches or keycaps, so you’d have to buy them separately. (it does come pre-assembled, or “bare bones,” so you won’t be technically building the entire thing. Just toss in some Cherry MX switches, add keycaps, etc).

Taeha’s review

Despite that, it’s still a great keyboard for those who want a high-quality, customizable experience.

The GMMK pro has a sturdy aluminum body that feels great to type on, and the side-lighting looks slick!

The rotary volume knob is also a great addition, and it’s placed in a very convenient location. Overall, the GMMK pro is a great keyboard for those who want a premium typing experience.

Note that you can grab the barebones kit from Amazon, but you can also customize with switches and keycaps right from the GMMK website!

Best Gaming: Logitech G915 TKL (And Best Low-Profile)

On Sale
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed Wireless RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile Switch Options,...
  • LIGHTSPEED wireless delivers pro-grade performance with flexibility and freedom from cords. Creates a clean aesthetic for battlestations. Delivers 40 hours on a single full charge.
  • LIGHTSYNC technology provides RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content. Personalize each key or create custom animations from ~16.8M colors with Logitech G HUB software.
  • Low Profile mechanical switches offers the speed, accuracy and performance of a mechanical switch at half the height The GL Tactile switch produces a discernible bump at the point of actuation. Comes...
  • Cost: ✅ $170-200
  • Wireless? ✅ Yes
  • Hot-swappable? ❌ No
  • Switch Options? ✅ Yes
  • Best Feature: Low-profile switches, extra media keys, and ultra-fast wireless.

Note: This stylish mechanical keyboard is really an 80%-ish keyboard, not 75%, but close enough for this list.

Sometimes you want to keep the clicky/clacky/thocky of a mechanical keyboard, but also have a nice low-profile feel (for those with wrist pain especially!)

Add to that lots of PREMIUM features like fast 1MS wireless connectivity, extra media and macro keys, etc, and you have the Logitech G915 TKL.

It is pricey, but it’s SOLID.

In fact, this was ALMOST our best 75 mechanical keyboard. Period.

The G915 isn’t the most customizable mechanical keyboard ever (it’s not hot-swappable), but it may be its only serious drawback

Overall, the Logitech G9115 is a really simple way to get a great mechanical keyboard right out of the box, packed with all of the features you need for gaming, typing, or programming.

Related posts:

Other notable 75% mechanical keyboards:

These might not make our “best of” categories, but they’re still solid choices.

VELOCIFIRE TKL02

This is another SUPER budget pick, coming in under $40!

It’s wired and not hot-swappable, and you’ll have to pay just a few bucks more for the full-RGB version (you can save cash and pick up single-color backlighting though!)

Drevo Excalibur

They DO make an 84-key 75% version of this keyboard, which runs a little under $100, but if you can do without the function row, you can try out the cool 71-key version!

It’s cheaper, wireless, full-RGB, and has all the keys of a TKL EXCEPT for the function row.

A neat layout!

How to Choose the Right 75% Mechanical Keyboard (A Quick Buying Guide)

There are a few factors you’ll want to consider when picking out the perfect 75% mechanical keyboard for you:

  • Cost: You can find a great 75% mechanical keyboard for under $100, but you’ll start to see more premium features (like wireless connectivity, hot-swappable options, etc) in the $100 range.
  • Wireless or Wired: Do you want a wired or Bluetooth connection? There are great options for both, but keep in mind that wireless will usually add a bit to the price tag.
  • Hot-swappable: This is a great feature for those who want to be able to change out switches easily, without having to solder or desolder, etc. It’s becoming easier and easier to find hot-swappable boards for under $100!
  • RGB Backlighting: Do you want your keyboard to light up? RGB is the most popular option these days, but you can also find single-color backlighting if you’re looking to save a few bucks.
  • Switch Options: Most of the TKLs will come stock with Gateron, Cherry MX switches, or proprietary “no-name” switches (for the super-budget picks).
  • Build quality: Is a durable, aluminum keyboard important to you? Something more budget-friendly with a plastic frame?

And if you’d like something even more compact? Check out our best 60% keyboard recommendations!

75% Mechanical Keyboard F.A.Q.

Is 75 keyboard good for typing?

Yes! In fact, some people prefer the smaller footprint of a 75% mechanical keyboard for typing. The lack of a numberpad can actually help you keep your hands closer to your body (and closer together), which some people find more comfortable.

Is a 75% keyboard good for gaming?

As long as you don’t use the 10-key number pad for gaming, a 75% keyboard can actually be a great choice for gaming. The smaller footprint means you’ll have more room for your mouse, more desk space, etc.

Is a 75% keyboard Tenkeyless?

A 75% keyboard is nearly the same thing as an 80% TKL (tenkeyless) keyboard, except with no “space” in between the different parts of the keyboard. The arrow keys, function keys, and “home cluster” keys are packed in next to each other! This leads to a smaller footprint overall.

Should I get a 75 keyboard?

A 75% keyboard is a great option for those who want a more compact mechanical keyboard than a full-sized keyboard (to save space!)–without sacrificing key functions like the arrow keys and function keys. If you can live without a dedicated number pad, a 75% mechanical keyboard might be perfect for you!

How many keys does a 75% keyboard have?

A typical 75% keyboard will have 84 keys, but you can find some variations with fewer keys (usually 77 or 71. These keyboards often omit the function keys or a few “home cluster” keys like Page Up, Page Down, etc).

What is the best 75% keyboard?

The best 75% keyboard is the one that fits your needs the best! Consider what you value most in a keyboard (cost, wireless/wired, hot-swappable options, etc). We generally recommend the Keychron K2 as the best overall keyboard based on features and budget.

Conclusion: 75% TKLs are my FAVE size keyboard!

If you’re looking to save on desk space and have your keys closer together than a full-sized or 80% keyboard, a 75% is perfect.

If you’re a beginner, you can’t go wrong with a Keychron K2 or Royal Kludge RK84.

And if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a custom, premium experience, try grabbing a GMMK Pro!