If you’re in search of a 75% mechanical keyboard then you’ve come to the right place.
For its inclusion of a full set of function keys, arrows, and a vertical strip of navigation keys, the 75% layout is a practical alternative to the larger Tenkeyless design.
The compact size generally contains around 84 keys, with some boards having a small amount of white space between the F keys. Besides this, there are an assortment of other features for you to choose from e.g. wireless compatibility, hot-swappable keys, and RGB backlighting, etc.
Below, we will cover some of the best mass-produced 75% models on the market right now.
What is the best 75% Mechanical Keyboard?
10. Keychron K3 Ultra-Slim
Keycaps: ABS
Backlighting: White
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: X
The Keychron K3 is an ultra-slim, 75% mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable optical switches. This board stands out for its unique, low-profile design that measures just 0.86” at the highest point. It also features wireless and wired modes, plus cross-platform compatibility.
Constructed with an aluminum body (and a plastic bottom frame), the build quality is impressively high. Despite weighing 1.06 lbs, it has quite a bit of heft and feels rigid in your hand. Due to this, it’s light and portable enough to carry but not too fragile that you’re going to break it.
Underneath the board are four rubber bumper feet that raise the K3 at an angle. Moreover, at the back is a USB-type C port (in the middle), plus two adjustable switches (on the left). The switches allow you to toggle Bluetooth on/ off, and change the keyboard layout from Windows to Mac.
To keep this device as thin as possible, Keychron use their own low-profile optical switches. These are 40% slimmer than traditional switches and come in three popular colors. We particularly like the re-designed Gateron switch stem for compatibility with Cherry MX style key-caps.
Wireless connectivity is another area where the K3 excels. Fast and stable, it can connect up to three devices and allow you to switch between them simultaneously. Powering the device is a 1550 mAh battery. This has a speedy three-hour charge and can last approximately three days of use.
Overall, the K3 is an awesome low-profile keyboard that ticks a lot of boxes.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. Yunzii KC84 Pro
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓
The YUNZII KC84 Pro is the upgraded version of the KC84. It has a compact 75% layout with 84 keys and zero visible branding. Due to sharing the same PCB (as the EP84), it boasts many identical features such as RGB backlighting, a wired USB-C connection, and hot-swappable switches.
Compared to the original KC84, the Pro model makes some neat little changes. In particular, it has a translucent ABS case with a cool frosted-coat finish. When the RGB backlight is switched on, we particularly like how the LEDs shine through from the bottom of the case for a unique aesthetic.
YUNZII have also upgraded this board to improve the entire typing experience. Besides factory pre-lubing the stabilizers, a foam sound dampener now sits between the PCB and mounting plate. As a result, it sounds less hollow and more premium than the previous model.
The PCB is still very much the same, featuring north-facing LEDs and 3/ 5-pin hot-swappable sockets. Its worth noting that the sockets are compatible with any MX profile mechanical switch. Another major difference is the fresh new set of XDA profile shimmer keycaps.
Lastly, the Keycool software allows you to create, control, and save RGB light effects and macros into the keyboard’s memory. We did find the software is a bit difficult to use but other than that you won’t be disappointed with this product. It’s an excellent pre-made keyboard for the price.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Pro
Keycaps: ABS
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓
The RK84 Pro is the upgraded version of the ever-popular RK84. It comes with a fancy new aluminum housing, however, the keycaps and main features are more or less the same. They include tri-mode connectivity, user hot-swappable switches, and dynamic RGB backlighting.
While the RK84 has a plastic chassis with a removable trim (and two rear USB 2.0 pass through ports), the RK84 Pro sacrifices these quirks for its new shiny aluminum case. This has a clean, minimal look with no branding and is already worth the upgrade over the original RK84.
Weighing 2.84lbs (compared to 1.77lbs of the RK84), the Pro version has considerably more weight. In your hand, it feels expensive and the quality is there to appreciate. As for the dimensions, these are virtually the same, measuring 12.4 x 4.9 x 1.5 inches.
On the bottom of the case, you’ll find the same two switches for wireless on/ off and wireless modes, plus four rubber feet. Unfortunately, the feet are not expandable; however, they are magnetic so you can remove them. That gives you two options to find the perfect height.
Much like the previous model, RK84 Pro is completely hot swappable, supporting both three and five-pin switches. For switches. it adopts its own RK branding of mechanical switch. These are available in three different color options: Red, Blue, and Brown.
For connectivity, the RK84 has three wireless modes: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, or USB Type-C. The wireless capabilities work well, and with the included 2.4 G dongle there’s almost zero latency. Powering the wireless and RGB is an equally large 3750 mAh battery that can last approx. 200 hours.
Overall, the RK68 Plus is a well-engineered 75% mechanical keyboard that retails at a very reasonable price. If you’re looking for a wireless board with an aluminum case and plenty of modding potential then we highly recommend this option.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. Epomaker TH80
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓
The Epomaker TH80 is a hot-swappable 75% mechanical keyboard with a modified gasket-like structure. It has 80-keys, including a full-function tow, three Home keys, and a rotary knob on the top right of the board. Additionally, it features tri-modes of connectivity and RGB backlighting.
Made from plastic, the case looks and feels good with decent weight and a matte whitish-grey finish. On the bottom of the case are four rubber pads, two expandable feet, and a switch for toggling between wireless modes. Additionally, on the back left of the case is a recessed USB-C port.
The mounting method is a hybrid-gasket-sandwich design with two layers of dampening foam. This consists of gaskets inside the top and bottom of the case, as well as a couple of center screws to secure the plate and the PCB. With that said, the case is housed too tight to have any real flex.
The PCB supports both 3 and 5-pin switches and has south-facing LEDs. After turning on the board, the RGB backlighting looks bold, bright, and wonderful. The RGB is customizable onboard or with the native software for those who wish to make their own effects.
For stock switches, the TH80 is available to buy in Gateron Pro mechanicals. Supporting these are a set of factory-lubed stabilizers. Moreover, on top are a set of dye-sub PBT keycaps. These come in a unique MDA profile. MDA is a similar sculpted profile to SA but slightly lower in height.
Overall, those searching for a quality budget board with a rotary knob and all the latest features should get their hands on the Epomaker TH80.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Epomaker Akko 3068B Plus
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓
The Akko 3068B Plus is a versatile 75% mechanical keyboard with 84 compact keys. While it might be one of the more affordable boards on our list, it sports an impressive set of features. They include three-modes of connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and RGB backlighting.
Constructed out of ABS plastic, the 3068B Plus chassis is nice and rigid. The chassis design is similar to what you see from Royal Kludge keyboard. On the bottom is a molded lip that elevates the board at a slight angle. This houses two rear expandable feet that have two stages of adjustment.
To keep costs competitive, the 3068B Plus comes equipped with its own AKKO CS Jelly switches and PBT keycaps. The switches last 50 million clicks and require 35g of force to actuate. As for the double-shot keycaps, these are noticeably high quality. They have an ASA Profile and look great.
Although the keycaps are not shine-through, the legends have a clean font and contrast well with the three different keycap colorways. We also like the Akko has included twenty spare accent keycaps in the box. These come in a soft pink color so you can personalize your board.
Offering three modes of wireless connectivity, the 3068B Plus can connect over a wire, Bluetooth 5.0, or 2.4 GHz. Pairing with Bluetooth is easy, and the 2.4 G works just as it should. You’ll be glad to know that, the 3000 mAh battery is also pretty reasonable, too, lasting one week with the RGB on.
All in all, the Akko 3068B Plus offers amazing value for money. It’s without a doubt up there with some of the best budget 75% form factors you can buy.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. Epomaker AK84S
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓
The Epomaker AK84S is a feature-rich, 75% mechanical keyboard with a compact 84-key layout. Optimized for ultimate functionality, it features Windows and Mac compatibility, dual-connectivity, and is fully hot-swappable with either 5-pin optical or mechanical switches.
In terms of the build, the AK84S is available in three different case materials. These include full Aluminum (being the most expensive), plastic with a CNC aluminum frame, or translucent acrylic. A benefit to the ABS and acrylic bottom shells is that they have flip-up folding feet.
All three versions have plenty of weight and are strikingly high quality. The stock stabilizers are surprisingly decent too, sounding smooth out of the box. On top is a set of GK1 profile PBT keycaps. Unfortunately, although these are double-shot, they don’t allow much backlighting to shine through.
Besides Gaterons, the AK84S is also available in Epomakers own Chocolate switch. Chocolates come in several similar color options to match the traditional switch types. Unlike Gaterons, they have a reduced operating force (45+5gf) for a smoother typing experience.
Dual connectivity is another big plus of the AK84S. It gives you two distinct modes: wireless and wired. Supported by a Bluetooth 5.1 chipset, the wireless is reliable and can connect to up to three devices at once. As a result, you can build an intuitive, multitasking workflow.
Powering the device is an impressive 4000 mAh battery. This can last up to 50 hours with the RGB lights on and takes approximately 8-10 hours to charge. In terms of RGB, the board features nine default lighting effects; however, it’s possible to download and crate more using the native software
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. NuPhy Air75
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: ✓
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: ✓
Software: ✓
The NuPhy Air75 is a low-profile, 75% mechanical keyboard with some innovative features. These include the “world’s thinnest” PBT spherical keycaps, a low-latency 2.4G connection, and hot-swap functionality. It also embeds two RGB light bar indicators on either side of its aluminum housing.
In terms of the design, the NuPhy Air75 has a high-profile case that hides its low-profile switches. While the top case is aluminum, the bottom of the chassis is plastic. Overall, the build quality feels extremely solid and the weight is nice. This is partly thanks to the metal “logo” plate on the bottom.
Also on the bottom of the case are four thin, elongated rubber feet. These are relatively flat and allow you to position the Air75 on top of a laptop. Moreover, to raise the typing angle from 3.5° to 6.5°, the deal includes some magnetic rubber feet. These mount right on top of the existing pads.
For switches, the board comes in low profile Gaterons in either: Reds, Browns, or Blues. Due to the PCB being hot-swappable, we particularly like that you can switch them out, though they are a little tricky to remove. Another big plus is that it uses standard, LP plate-mount stabs that are removable.
Besides 2.4 GHz, the Air75 supports both Bluetooth and a wired connection. We found that 2.4 GHz provides a stable connection and works as soon as you plug in the dongle. As for the battery, this has a 2500 mAh capacity. Using 2.4 GHz, it can last 5-6 days with the RGB lights off.
All in all, those searching for a slim, attractive keyboard with a great typing experience will love the NuPhy Air75.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
3. IQUNIX A80
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: ✓
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓
The IQUNIX A80 Explorer is a retro-inspired 75% mechanical keyboard that combines a vintage design with modern features. Some of these features include a hot-swap PCB, RGB backlighting, and tri-mode connectivity. Additionally, it supports both Windows and macOS layouts.
The retro design is quite different from many other keyboards out there. As you can see, the IQUNIX A80 has a high-profile case with a terraced F-row that angles towards you. This closely resembles the ergonomics of typewriters and makes hitting those far-to-reach keys that much easier.
Underneath the case is a pair of two-stage feet, as well as a switch for toggling between wired/ wireless modes. Then of the back-left is a USB Type-C port. Furthermore, on the top, is an LED between the ESC and F1 keys. This serves as a caps lock, battery, and connectivity indicator.
For a pre-built keyboard, the overall quality of the A80 Explorer is excellent. Despite being made of plastic, the board feels solid and has virtually no pinging or unwanted sounds. This is thanks to IQUNIX lining the plate with felt, and ensuring the lubed Costar stabilizers fit perfectly.
Another big plus of this keyboard is that the battery life and connectivity really shines. With the backlight off, the rechargeable 4000 mAh battery lasts up to 200 days via Bluetooth or 60 days using 2.4 GHz. Regardless of using Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz, we experienced no lag, delay, or dropouts.
All in all, the IQUNIX A80 is a stylish/ comfortable pre-made board that offers near custom quality.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. GMMK Pro
USB: Center
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓
The GMMK Pro is a premium, 75% mechanical keyboard that’s ideal for custom builds. It features a modular, 83-key layout (including a clickable media control knob), 16.8 million per-key RGB, as well as two acrylic panels on the sides of the case for some signature accent lighting.
Built from high-grade aluminum, the quality of the Pro is second to none. With rounded bezels and an engraved Glorious logo on the back, you can tell that no production costs were cut. This attention to detail follows through into the interior where you will find two foam dampeners inside.
To further reduce vibration and naturally dampen keystrokes, the GMMK Pro goes for a gasket-mount design. Essentially, this is where two strips of silicon sit either side of the plate to prevent it from coming into contract with the case. This results in an even more cushioned and quieter clamp.
The south-facing PCB is hot-swappable and supports both plate mount and PCB mounted switches. In addition to this, it supports both clip-In or screw-In stabs. You’ll be glad to know that the board comes with its own “GOAT” screw-in stabilizers that are pre-clipped and pre-lubed out of the box.
For software, the GMMK Pro gives you a few different choices. It’s compatible with its own native “Glorious Core”, or QMK and VIA open-source firmware. VIA is a handy QMK feature that allows you to quickly tweak and program the key map in real-time without needing to re-flash firmware.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fantastic pre-made board that has tons of features, this is one of the best 75% form factors around.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
1. Keychron Q1
Keycaps: PBT
Backlighting: RGB
Hot-swappable: ✓
Wireless: X
Software: ✓
The Keychron Q1 is a fully customizable 75% mechanical keyboard with a double gasket-mount structure. It has 82-keys, including a full set of arrow keys, three modifier keys, and a configurable volume knob at the top. Additionally, it features RGB, a hot-swappable PCB, and QMK/ VIA support.
CNC crafted from aluminum (with a rigid steel plate), the build quality is premium. Weighing 3.5 lbs., the board has plenty of heft, even more so than most TKL boards. As a result, you have a real solid product that sits on the desk like a brick and provides an outstanding foundation.
Underneath the case are four rubber bumpers that raise the board just above the ground. Additionally, there are eight top/ bottom screws for easy disassembly. Then, on the back left is a USB Type-C port as well as a toggle switch for switching between Windows and MacOS layouts.
Due to the gasket mount structure, the plate provides a generous amount of flex. This design does a fantastic job at reducing vibration and resonance throughout the keyboard when typing. Compared to other gasket mount implications out there, Keychron have executed this incredibly well.
In between the gasket structure is a hot-swappable PCB with south-facing SMD LEDs. For switches, this particular board comes with Gateron G Pro Browns. Additionally, you get a nice pair of screw-in stabs. These are Gaterons’ own pre-lubed, silver-plated stabilizers that sound great out of the box.
In terms of software, the Keychron Q1 relies solely on QMK and VIA support. QMK is a popular open-source software that allows you to program/ remap each key, configure the backlighting, and more. Popular for its intuitive layout with several tabs, you will find it relatively straightforward to use.
Overall, the Keychron Q1 is a solid, 75% keyboard that satisfies its role to the fullest. For pre-built keyboards around the two-hundred-dollar mark, it punches way above its price point.
What is a 75% Mechanical Keyboard?
A 75% mechanical keyboard is three-quarters the width of a full-size keyboard. Generally, they contain 84 keys in either an exploded or a compact layout. This layout will include a full set of function keys, an arrow cluster, and anywhere between three to seven modifier keys.
A 75% mechanical keyboard is a more compact version of a Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard. Neither of these keyboard layouts feature the number pad, but the 75% mechanical keyboard achieves a more space-efficient design.
Instead of using a 3×3 format, the 75% mechanical keyboard aligns keys vertically to reduce any white space on the board. This results in less length and a keyboard with an almost squarish appearance.
Although most of the keys remain on a 75% mechanical keyboard, the Home keys (Insert, Delete, and PageUp, etc.) and arrow cluster move to a different area. The arrow keys squeeze in next to the right CTRL key while the Home keys merge into a single column above the right arrow key.
This can be awkward at first, but the advantages of a 75% mechanical keyboard are enough to make relearning the layout worth it.
To achieve this compact form factor, a 75% keyboard will often have non-standard key sizes. Although this will vary from board to board, most have a 1.75u right shift and some 1u bottom row keys.
Advantages of 75% Mechanical Keyboards
A 75% mechanical keyboard is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact design without losing most of the features of a standard mechanical keyboard.
This is not an option if you need the number pad, but otherwise, a 75% mechanical keyboard takes up less space on your desk. That helps prevent smaller desks from cluttering up and leaves more room for other tasks.
The smaller size means your hand does not need to move as far to reach your mouse, and the shaved time makes a difference if your tasks require you to jump between clicking and typing often.
This option works well to save space without removing key features like the function row or the navigation cluster.
How to Choose a 75% Mechanical Keyboard
Once you decide to purchase a 75% mechanical keyboard, take the time to evaluate your options. Choosing the wrong keyboard can wreak havoc on your hands and lead to execution issues, so make sure you understand what you need from the keyboard.
Choosing a higher quality 75% mechanical keyboard with the features you desire leads to higher satisfaction and greater performance.
Size/ Layout
Most 75% mechanical keyboards are the same size and layout, so there is not much to worry about here.
Make sure you will be comfortable working on a smaller keyboard, especially if you are already comfortable working on a full-sized keyboard. While a 75% mechanical keyboard is larger than other options, losing the number pad is not ideal for every situation.
Build Quality
Look for a higher build quality on a 75% mechanical keyboard. Even if you do not use the keyboard often, a low-quality product may lead to pain or performance issues.
Make sure everything is up to your expectations, including the material used for the keyboard build.
Consider what you expect from a keyboard concerning materials. If you want more vivid color, look for ABS. PBT is a better option for longevity, but it may warp. Either way, thicker walls feel better and help the keyboard hold up through use.
Try to test drive a keyboard before making your purchase to determine how the profile feels under your fingers. If you cannot do this, look up as many review or trial videos as possible.
Switch Type/ Stabilizers/ Keycaps
Your switch type determines how your 75% mechanical keyboard feels under your fingers. Most keyboards use Cherry switches and compatible stabilizers and keycaps.
You do not need to stick with Cherry switches, but ordering a switch tester lets you get a feel for the different colors. Since the main mechanical switch patents expired, there are plenty of Cherry clones available at a lower price.
If you are building your own keyboard, make sure your stabilizers and keycaps match your switches. You should also consider how these details affect future maintenance and modifications.
Hot Swappable or No
A hot swappable keyboard lets you switch the switches to create a more personalized keyboard. Because you only need a switch pulled to make these changes, many prefer the pull-and-plug features of a hot-swappable keyboard.
If your 75% mechanical keyboard is not hot-swappable, you need to take the entire keyboard apart and use a soldering tool to replace the switches. This takes as much as 5 times as long to complete the same task.
Connectivity Options
A 75% mechanical keyboard connects in the same ways as a full-sized keyboard. Wireless options work well to reduce latency issues, but wireless options like Bluetooth or IR technology reduce the cords you have on your desk.
Wireless options are also lightweight and easier to transport. You will need to recharge them or replace batteries.
The latency issues worsen with wireless options, but they are not significant for casual gaming.
Features
Most keyboards cover all basic features, but you can look for additional features such as RGB lighting or ergonomic additions. A 75% mechanical keyboard has spatial constraints that limit additional features you may have.
Look for a keyboard that covers your needs before getting excited about fancy features.
We hope you found a 75% Mechanical Keyboard on this list.
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