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1800 keyboard

12 Best 1800 Layout and 96% Keyboards – 2024

If you’re in search of an 1800 layout mechanical keyboard then you’ve come to the right place.

Re-designed to be as space-efficient as possible, the 1800 layout is a compact solution for those seeking a full-size keyboard with a Numpad.

Generally, most contain around 100 keys and condense the home key cluster above the number pad for a similar form factor to that of a TKL.

In this post, we will cover the best 1800 (and 96%) keyboards on the market right now.


What is the best 1800 layout/ 96% keyboard?

12. Cherry G80-1800

Keycaps: ABS
Backlighting: X
Hot-swappable: X
Wireless: X
Software: X

The Cherry G80-1800 is a classic mechanical keyboard that is still in production today. Originally designed for industrial and commercial applications, it has a space-efficient, full-size layout. This sees the arrows squeeze in along the bottom row and the home key cluster above the Numpad.

To achieve this unique layout, the G80 has a 1u zero key on the Numpad. Apart from this, the keys follow standard sizes that you would find on a traditional ANSI keyboard. Noticeably, the function keys are also tightly packed together to accommodate the LED indicators between F12 and Insert.

In terms of the build, the G80 is not cheaply made but it isn’t the greatest in terms of quality. For starters, the plastic case simply clips together without any screws. Moreover, unlike modern boards that use a metal top plate, the G80 foregoes a plate and instead uses PCB-mounted switches.

For switches, the G80-1800 comes equipped with Cherry MX Blacks. Recognized as one of the first “mainstream” switches on pre-made boards, these have a smooth, linear feel with a moderately stiff 60-gram actuation force. Unfortunately, the switches aren’t pre-lubed out of the box.

Overall, the G80-1800 would make a decent choice for general use at home or for anyone who fancies a retro project.

Pros
  • Classic design
  • Compact layout
  • 104 Keys
  • Flip up feet
Cons
  • PCB mounted switches
  • Plastic chassis
  • Non-removable cable
  • Not factory lubed

11. AJAZZ B16 Gentiana

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting:
White
Hot-swappable:
X
Wireless:
X
Software:

The AJAZZ B16 is an attractive and functional mechanical gaming keyboard. Based on the size of a TKL board, it has a unique 96% layout that combines the arrow keys and number keys of a full-size board together. This results in a compact design that’s as space efficient as possible.

To make this keyboard layout possible, AJAZZ has excluded some of the home keys. Moreover, unlike the G80 that moves them above the Numpad, this strip is reserved for the media keys. Instead, you will find the page up/ down, home/ end keys as secondary functions on the Numpad.

Besides the interesting keyboard layout, the case design is also quite clever. Unlike other high-profile boards, the AJAZZ B16 has a removable, magnetic top piece that changes the design into a low-profile chassis. This allows you to see the floating keycaps from the side and removes the front logo.

For switches, the AJAZZ B16 comes equipped with Cherry MXs. Here you can choose from three popular colors including Red, Blues, and Browns. On top are a quality set of PBT keycaps with nice clean white legends. These come in a variety of dual-tone color combinations.

Unfortunately, the B16 does have some cons. For starters, only white LED backlighting is available, which is a shame because this board would look awesome with RGB. Additionally, the keycaps are non-shine-through. As a result, the backlighting glows quite dimly between the keycaps.

On the plus side, the lighting effects are decent and it does come with software. Impressively it features 21 different variations of white LED lighting modes! All in all, the AJAZZ B16 is a solid 96% keyboard for gaming and general use.

Pros
  • Good build quality
  • Removable top shell
  • 21 modes white backlight
  • Dedicated media keys
  • Flip up feet
Cons
  • No RGB
  • No INS and DEL keys

10. AKKO 3098DS

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting:
X
Hot-swappable:

Wireless:
X
Software:
X

The Akko 3098DS is a retro-inspired mechanical keyboard that comes in some interesting color schemes. It has a 98-key, 1800 layout with three LED indicators above the Numpad. For colors, you can choose between three tones: Matcha Red Bean, LA Lakers (yellow), and Black-Pink.

Although the case is entirely plastic, the build feels quite heavy and rigid in your hand. Underneath are four rubber feet (on a slight molded incline) and a pair of two-step adjustable feet. Apart from this, there’s a centered USB Type-C port and a three-way cable routing channel.

For switches, the board is available in two second-generation Gateron choices: Pinks and Oranges. Pink is a quiet, linear switch that is very similar to Cherry Reds, while Oranges closely resemble tactile Browns. Both have a 55gf ±15gf actuation force as well as a 2.0 ± 0.6mm pre-travel.

In terms of the typing experience, we found the Akko 3098 to be impressive for its price. The board doesn’t sound hollow, the stabilizers have little rattle, and the keycaps feel slightly coarse. These are PBT keycaps with an ASA Profile so they’re slightly curved in the middle.

Surprisingly, the PCB is hot-swappable and supports other 3-pin mechanical switches. Unfortunately, though, it does not feature any LEDs, however, there are some vacant holes for soldiering on your own. Software is also missing but it is possible to re-map and program any keys or macros on board.

Those looking for a fresh take on the 1800 keyboard layout will love the Akko 3098DS.

Pros
  • Great build quality
  • Attractive tri-tone keycaps
  • Programmable onboard
  • Detachable USB-C
  • Quiet stabilizers
Cons
  • Keycaps not shine through
  • No LEDs on PCB


Click here for the acrylic case version!


9. FL Esports FL980

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓

The FL980 is a wired, 1800 layout keyboard from Chinese manufacturer FL ESPORTS. Despite being marketed as a gaming keyboard, it’s perfectly suited to a professional setting, too. This is thanks to its classic, retro-style aesthetic that closely resembles the old IBM boards from the 80s.

The high-profile ABS case has square, boxy corners. To remove some of the bulk, both sides have deep grooves with multiple steps. This results in an L-shape profile when viewing from an angle. Moreover, underneath you’ll find a center housing for a USB-C cable, plus two flip-out feet.

Considering this is a pre-build, the overall quality is high. In your hand it feels solid, it doesn’t sound hollow, and thanks to the inner foam, there’s not much echo when you tap on the board, either. This quality follows through to the double-shot PBT keycaps, which have crisp, dye-sublimated legends.

For switches, the FL980 comes with clicky, Kailh Box Whites. However, due to having a hot-swap PCB with Kailh sockets, you can easily swap them out for other 5-pin switches. You’ll also like that the plate-mounted stabs are replaceable, as well, and that these have very little rattle out of the box.

Finally, the RGB implementation is good, featuring 16.8m colors and ten-plus lighting preset modes. Built into the keyboard, it’s possible to switch between all modes on the fly using the hotkeys. Alternatively, download the configuration tool to customize the RGB lights, keys, and macros.

All in all, the FL980 is a great sounding keyboard for entry-mid-level mech enthusiasts.

Pros
  • Retro-style aesthetic
  • Solid build quality
  • Quiet stock stabilizers
  • Dampening foam
Cons
  • Janky cable
  • Not wireless

8. ROYAL KLUDGE RK100

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: White
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓

The Royal Kludge RK100 is a wireless mechanical keyboard with a clean aesthetic. It has a compact 96% layout that condenses the size of a standard board and removes any unnecessary white space. Top features include tri-mode connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and LED backlighting

Built from tough ABS plastic, the RK100 feels nice and rigid and has virtually no flex. On the back of the case is a Type-C USB port and two Type-A pass-through ports. Moreover, on the front of the case are five LED indicators for your power charge, num/ cap locks, and Mac/ Windows layouts.

For switches, the RK100 is available in three Gateron colors. We particularly like that the board has a hot-swappable PCB that supports three and 5-pin mechanical switches. As a result, you can easily swap out the stock Gateron switches for any other color or MX-style switch down the line.

Tri-mode connectivity (2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired) is another big plus of the RK100. That gives you three different wireless modes. We found that the Bluetooth mode works well with no pairing issues. However, for gaming, the 2.4GHz is noticeably smoother and more responsive.

This particular RK100 model also comes with a white LED backlight. The backlighting has multiple preset modes and offers lighting recording via the software. Unfortunately, one downside is that the PBT keycaps are quite opaque, which does prevent the bright illumination from shining through.

Lastly, powering the board is a large 3750 mAh battery. This gives you a relatively long seven to nine-day change even with the backlight on all the time. To sum up, the RK100 is a fully functional 96% keyboard that packs in everything you need at a fantastic price.

Click here for the RGB version!

Pros
  • Good build quality
  • Tri-mode connectivity
  • 3+5 pin hot-swappable
  • Two USB pass-through ports
  • Large battery
Cons
  • Keycaps not shine-through
  • Stabilizers rattle
  • Paint scratches easily

7. Epomaker GK96S

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: ✓
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓

The Epomaker GK96S mechanical keyboard aims to boost productivity while minimizing its footprint. Born to free up space on the desk, it has a compact 96% layout with 100 keys and a full Numpad on the end. It also features hot-swap usability, dual connectivity, and RGB backlighting.

In terms of the build, the GK96S has a plastic case that offers impressive sturdiness with little to no flex. Underneath are five rubber pads, plus two back rubberized flip-out feet with two levels of adjustment. Additionally, on the back left side of the case is a USB Type-C port.

Similar to the RK100, the GK96Ss PCB features north-facing LEDs and is fully hot-swappable with 5-pin mechanical switches. For stock switches, the board comes with Gaterons; however, you’ll be able to swap them out for Cherry MXs or clones without any soldering required.

On top are a colorful set of tri-tone dye-sublimated PBT Keycaps. These stand out for their sculpted GK1 profile that have a shape similar profile to KAT but with different heights. Unfortunately, the keycaps are non-shine-though. As a result, the RGB backlighting does look quite dimly lit.

All RGB and key programming is configurable through the highly customizable GK96 software. Although the software does allow you to create custom lighting schemes, reprogram every key, and create in-depth macros, we did find it to be quite unintuitive. This is due to it being partly in Chinese.

For connectivity, the GK96S features wireless (with Bluetooth 5.1) and wired modes. Bluetooth can connect up to four devices simultaneously while switching between them seamlessly. Providing the power is a long-lasting, 4000 mAh battery for that can last up to a week without losing power.

Overall, it’s a great bit of kit for the price.     

Pros
  • Great build quality
  • Long battery Life
  • Stabs sound okay
  • High-quality accessories
  • Two-step feet
Cons
  • Unintuitive software
  • Poor LED brightness

6. Keychron K4

Keycaps: ABS
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: X
Wireless: ✓
Software: X

The Keychron K4 is a wireless 96% mechanical keyboard. Designed for high productivity in a compact size, it has 100 necessary keys to offer full-size functionality. Mac users will also find this board particularly appealing as it’s compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.

In terms of the build, the K4 goes for a plastic inner body with removable aluminum sides. As a result, it feels sturdy in your hand and is quite heavy at 2.44 pounds. The case itself can sit either completely flat on the desk or at an angle by flipping out the back two rubberized feet.

Upon receiving the board, the K4 has a Mac multimedia layout. Even so, if you’re a Windows user, it’s relatively simple to change this. Adjusting the layout simply involves toggling the notch switch on the left side of the case and swapping over the extra keycaps that are included in the box.

Connecting the K4 to multiple devices via Bluetooth is just as easy. Next to the keyboard layout switch is a second notch for toggling between wired and wireless modes. Once set to wireless, the K4 can pair up to three devices by pressing the FN key and the numbers one to three.

For switches, the K4 comes with Gateron Brown mechanical switches. These have a 55gf ±15gf actuation force for 2.0 ± 0.6mm of pre-travel. On top are a cheap set of ABS keycaps. Although they do allow the RGB backlighting to shine through, they do easily pick up grease.

Another minor downside is that the RGB on the K4 is a little dim; however, this might be to preserve the 4000 mAh battery. Slightly larger than the RK100’s 3750 mAh battery, we found that it could last approximately ten days (8 hours/ day) on a full charge!

Click here for the hot-swappable version!

Pros
  • Great build quality
  • Quiet typing experience
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • Dual-mode connectivity
  • Excellent battery life
Cons
  • Board is quite high
  • No customization software
  • No wrist rest

5. EPOMAKER AKKO 3098B

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓

The Akko 3098B is the upgraded variation of the 3098DS. For just $30 more, it comes with an array of extra features (tri-mode connectivity, RGB backlighting, and a reasonable 3000 mAh battery). Additionally, it flaunts three new colorways, with this one being: “Prunus Lannesiana”.

Due to using the same plastic case (and noise reduction techniques), the build quality is just as high as the 3098DS. To reduce the noise, Akko has inserted a thick layer of foam between the plate and the PCB, plus a silicone pad underneath this. As a result, the board doesn’t sound hollow at all.

Much like the 3098DS, the plate-mount stabilizers are flat, heavily lubed, and have little rattle. Moreover, on top, you’ll find the same high-quality set of 1.6mm ASA profile keycaps. Although they aren’t supposed to shine through, they do create some backlight bleed from the perky SMD LEDs.

The SMD LEDs are north facing on the PCB, and the PCB has TTC hot-swap sockets. TTC sockets support 5-pin switches and have a life span of 2000 cycles. As for stock switches, they are available in Jelly Pinks or Whites. Personally, we prefer the Pink linear switches that have a 45 ± 5gf actuation.

Tri-mode connectivity (USB-C, Bluetooth, and wireless) is another big plus over the 3098DS; giving you three different ways to use this board. After plugging in the included dongle, we found that the 2.4 GHz works especially well and had no dropouts or issues with latency.

Finally, you’ll appreciate the built-in 3000 mAh lithium battery. With the backlight off, this provides approx. 150 hours of run time or about 15-hours when the RGB is on, which is just enough power for daily use with the backlighting on. Overall, the 3098B is an all-round amazing 1800 keyboard.

Pros
  • Great build quality
  • Sound dampening/ quiet stabs
  • Tri-mode connectivity
  • Perky RGB backlighting
  • Multi-level flip-out feet
Cons
  • Some keycap backlight bleed
  • No wrist rest
  • No keycap puller


Click here for the “Black&Gold” model.


4. Leopold FC980M

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: X
Hot-swappable: X
Wireless: X
Software: X

The Leopold FC980M is a high-quality, no-frills mechanical keyboard. Inspired by the Cherry G80-1800, it adapts a 96% layout that features a condensed set of arrows and a strip of home keys above the Numpad. It also stands out for its sleek set of dual-tone PBT keycaps.

Similar to the G80, the FC980M has a 1u zero key on the Numpad to accommodate the 96% layout. In contrast, though, it does opt for a slightly different non-standard bottom row. This includes a one-unit Windows key, right Alt key, and a right CTRL key. It also removes the right Windows key.

Built from a two-part ABS case with a steel mounting plate in-between, the FC980M offers excellent quality. The case has a low front that curves ergonomically up at the back. Once flipped over, you will find four rubber feet, two plastic flip-up feet, and a dipswitch for changing the keyboard layout.

Considering this is a pre-made board, the FC980M provides a great typing experience and sounds premium out of the box. This is partly thanks to the pre-lubed, Cherry-style stabilizers. In addition to the sound dampening mat in the bottom of the case that reduces any echo generated by resonance.

Lastly, the keyboard connects via an included 6.5-foot long mini-USB cable. Unfortunately, a wired connection is the only power source as it does not feature a battery. It’s also worth noting that the FC980M is also missing out on backlighting and onboard programmable macros.

In short, the FC980M is an attractive, solid, and reliable 1800 keyboard with all of the essential keys.

Pros
  • Sleek aesthetic
  • Premium build quality
  • Sound dampening mat
  • 1.5mm thick keycaps
  • Cherry MX switches
Cons
  • Lacking features
  • Non-standard bottom row
  • Mini-USB

3. Glorious GMMK 2 96%

Keycaps: ABS
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓

The Glorious GMMK 2 is a high-quality, modular RGB gaming keyboard. It has a compact 96% layout that packs a full Numpad and function row into a frame only slightly larger than the original GMMK TKL. The smaller footprint makes it ideal for a variety of games and productivity tasks.

Constructed from a thick, anodized aluminum top frame and a polymer bottom, the GMMK 2 is noticeably solid. At 2.76 lbs., it has some premium weight so it’s not going to slide around on your desk. To prevent this, four grippy rubber feet on the bottom of the board.

The board itself has a minimal, low-profile design with floating keycaps. Although the front is quite low, it raises at an ergonomic 6° angle, and this is adjustable to 11° with the extendable feet. Moreover, on the side is a thin slit of RGB accent lighting that follows the incline of the keyboard.

Unlike the first iteration of GMMK keyboards, the GMMK 2 now supports both three and five-pin mechanical switches. For stock switches, it comes with its own Glorious “Fox Linears”. These are comparable to Gateron Reds with a 45g actuation force and a slightly higher 60g bottom out.

During typing, the factory-lubed switches and plate mount stabs sound surprisingly good out of the box. There’s no rattling or spring ping like you would find on inferior boards. If you do wish to change the stabs, though, you’ll be glad to know that the PCB also supports screw-in stabilizers.

Finally, per-key RGB backlighting is a key feature of the GMMK 2. Eighteen effects are customizable on the board; however, more are configurable via the Glorious Core software. The RGB lighting looks stunning as it shines through the ABS keycaps and syncs with the diffused side accent strips.

Overall, those searching for a quality 96% keyboard can’t go wrong with the GMMK 2. It’s perfect for those looking for a mid-priced option, fine-tuned in aesthetics, sound, and mechanics.

Pros
  • High-build quality
  • Pre-lubed switches and stabs
  • Glorious CORE & QMK support
  • Stunning RGB lighting
  • Extendable feet/ USB-C
  • Affordable
Cons
  • ABS keycaps
  • No wireless

2. IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓

The iQunix F97 is the successor to the popular iQunix F96. Much like the previous model, it shares a compact 96% layout with 100 keys enclosed in a study aluminum-alloy case. It then introduces hot-swap functionality, some brand new keycap color themes, and updated Bluetooth 5.1.

The F97s case has a similar build to its predecessor. This consists of four aluminum side panels that screw together like a picture frame and then attach to a solid aluminum backplate. Weighing 2.64 pounds, the board feels high quality in your hand and has absolutely zero flex.

On the bottom of the case are two rear-domed feet that provide a 6° typing angle. Additionally, on the back of the case you will find a USB Type-C port. Then, inside is a hot-swap PCB with north-facing LEDs. The PCB supports the iQunix software as well as both three/ five-pin mechanical switches.

For stock switches, the iQunix F97 is available in either Cherry MX’s or TTC’s (at a cost of $10 more). Furthermore, on top are a textured set of dye-sub PBT keycaps and a quiet set of Costar stabilizers. The keycaps have an ergonomic KDA profile that follows the slant of the keyboard.

Besides Bluetooth 5.1, the iQunix F97 includes a 2.4 GHz dongle and can also connect over a wire. Powering the wireless is an equally large 4000-mAh capacity Li-Po battery. Under a Bluetooth connection, this can last up to 260 days (8 hours a day) with the backlight off.

Overall, the iQunix F97 is a premium 96% mechanical keyboard that provides functionality and unique aesthetics. It does come at a bit of a cost though, starting at $265.00 for the backlight version.

IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker - 96% mechanical keyboard
Pros
  • Excellent build quality
  • Tri-mode connectivity
  • Lovely typing sound
  • Cute PBT keycaps
  • Long battery life
Cons
  • Feet not adjustable
  • Expensive

1. Drop Shift Mechanical Keyboard

Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓

The Drop Shift is a modern and inventive, modular mechanical keyboard. Significantly shorter than a traditional full-size keyboard, it goes for a space-efficient 1800 layout with 99 keys. This results in the home-key cluster moving above the Numpad for a similar form factor to that of a TKL.

Constructed with an anodized CNC aluminum frame, the build of the Shift is solid and there isn’t any flex. Besides providing plenty of rigidity, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate for the PCB. The PCB itself is completely hot-swappable and can house a selection of 3-pin mechanical switches.

For switches, the Shift is available in Cherry MXs, Gaterons, or Halos. On top are a grey, dual-tone set of double shot PBT keycaps. These aren’t the best quality but they do have a nice textured feel with shine-through legends. Supporting the caps are a basic set of Cherry-style plate-mounted stabilizers.

RGB backlighting is another stand-out feature of the Drop Shift. A diffused light bar wraps around the entire case and north-facing LEDs are soldered into the PCB. Together, they produce a beautiful lightbox effect that shines evenly in and around the case and throughout the floating keycaps.

Using the QMK firmware, all of the backlighting effects and keys are fully programmable. QMK allows you to program macros, customize key re-mappings, and set the RGB lighting just as you like. Although we found the software to be a little primitive, it does perform plenty of functionalities.

Overall, the Shift is a stunning 1800 keyboard for anyone looking to add a little flair to their desktop.

Pros
  • Solid construction
  • Easy disassembly
  • Hot-swappable
  • Bright LEDs
  • Two USB ports
Cons
  • Little documentation
  • Pricey

What is an 1800 Layout Keyboard?

An 1800 mechanical keyboard is the same thing as your standard, full-size keyboard with everything on the right and left crammed in toward the center. There is no more space between your alphabet keys and number keys, with the directional arrows slipped in the small gap at the bottom, right. 

The 1800 mechanical keyboard isn’t a new type of keyboard either. In fact, its been around since the early days of IBM. Like so many things tend to do as cultural cycles spin round and round, the 1800 keyboard is spending some time in the sun of popularity once more. 

However, it still remains a little difficult to find. This could be either due to decreasing demand or just a low supply as manufacturers constantly shift their priorities based on the consumer’s “must-have” of the day. If you dig a compact typing style, then an 1800 is definitely for you.

One of the best aspects, when it comes to selecting a keyboard, is the sheer variety of layouts that are available on the market, including portability, giant keyboards, mechanical, silicone, micro, and all the variations of each of them. 


How to Choose the Best 1800 Mechanical Keyboard in 2024?

An 1800 mechanical keyboard is a niche item that is steadily growing, especially for those who either have smaller hands or simply desire a more cramped layout for a cramped typing style.

If you love a compact keyboard or, at the very least, love the idea of a compact keyboard, then an 1800 mechanical keyboard is as close as you can get without dropping to micro-keyboards that are more platform-specific. However, you do have a few things that you want to look for. 

Design/ Build

The number one thing that you are looking for is the compactness that qualifies your mechanical keyboard as 1800. 

Outside of that, it’s all about the material and the body should be hardened plastic with ANSI standard-size keys and the typical, hard clack of the mechanical key mechanism.

Switch Type

Mechanical keyboards have three types of switches: clicky, linear, and tactile. There’s no longevity advantage of one over the other so it’s really a matter of preference. 

However, if you prefer silence, the linear switch is for you, while tactile and clicky create a satisfying noise.

Hot-Swappable or No 

Hot-swappability possibly reduces the longevity of the keyboard in exchange for a full range of customization options, along with giving you a distinct preventative maintenance advantage. 

Non-swappable means that if you want to customize your keyboard, get your soldering tool ready and prepare to disassemble the entire keyboard. 

Keycaps Material

This really boils down to two choices: ABS keycaps or PBT. The PBT keycaps have a higher degree of quality that is reflected in the overall price of the keyboard. ABS is a decent and long-lasting material but is cheaper than PBT. 

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another choice that amounts to personal preference. If you’re a gamer, you want to stick with a wired keyboard because Bluetooth options possibly create some lag between the key input and in-game response time. If you’re not a gamer and hate cords, Bluetooth is for you. 


Frequently Asked Questions

Are 1800 Compact Keyboards good?

1800 Compact keyboards are excellent keyboards with a unique layout, however, they’re certainly not for everybody. The compact nature of the form factor might be enough to send a long-fingered person into maniacal fits of purple-faced rage. 

The aesthetics are outstanding and if you prefer a compact layout, you’re not going to go wrong by grabbing up an 1800 mechanical keyboard.

Are 1800 Compact Keyboards good for gaming?

It really depends on what kind of gaming you are into. For large, complex games and lightning-fast FPS shooters, 1800 is going to fall short because it lacks many of the key-mapping and customization features of larger keyboards. 

If you’re an intense gamer, a larger, more configurable keyboard is probably going to fit your style best. If you play a lot of RPGs, simulation, and tactical games that don’t require much in the way of mapping, 1800 will just be adequate. 

Are 1800 Compact Keyboards good for programming?

Kind of. A programmer wants a compact keyboard that is simple, efficient, and allows for easy access to their mouse. However, most programmers can also do without a numeric pad. 

The fact is, certain programmers could get the best of both worlds if the particular programming language that they are working with requires a numeric keypad, however, those are few and far between.

What is a 96% keyboard?

A 96% has 4% fewer keys than a standard, full-size keyboard. Visually, it appears very similar to a full-size board but differs by having a shorter, more compact layout. While it does retain a full Numpad, it may condense some of the Home keys above it to maximize available space.

How many keys does a 96 keyboard have?

A 96% keyboard has 100 keys. This is 4% less than a full-size keyboard that has 104 keys.

What is an 1800 layout keyboard?

An 1800 is a compact, full-size keyboard layout inspired by the Cherry-G80-1800. In contrast to a traditional full-size layout, the 1800 layout relocates the Home key cluster above the Numpad and squeezes the arrows keys at the bottom of the board to maximize space.

How many keys are in a 1800 keyboard?

A full-size 1800 keyboard (such as the Cherry-G80-1800) has 104 keys. Conversely, a 96% keyboard inspired by an 1800 layout has 98-100 keys.


All Things Considered

1800 Mechanical Keyboards are not a dime a dozen and if you own one, you have a piece of history in front of you, along with a durable and long-lasting option for your PC needs. 

They may not be for everyone, especially those with long fingers or large hands, but they remain one of the best and most reliable keyboards available on the market today.



We hope you found a 1800 or 96% keyboard on this list.

Click here for the 15 best 75% Mechanical Keyboards!

Click here for the 25 best Hot-Swappable Keyboards!








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