There are many different types of keyboards, with some that are specifically catered toward gaming utility.
The type of gaming keyboard that you ultimately select will be based on a number of individual factors such as the amount of desk space available to you and the additional features you require.
One type of keyboard that many gamers have been adopting is a 40% keyboard.
A 40% keyboard features a minimalist layout that is smaller in footprint since it does not include a number row, arrow keys, or punctuation keys.
It is clear that removing these keys means that the keyboard is not ideal for other activities such as writing and can allow a more focused gaming experience.
As well as being smaller, these 40% keyboards are often cheaper than other mechanical alternatives since they use less material, which is a welcome bonus.
There are not too many options available since this is more of a niche design but here we will identify some options for 40% keyboards for gaming.
VortexGear Core 40% Mechanical Keyboard
This first option from VortexGear is the Core 40% mechanical keyboard.
It features 47 keys which are equipped with high quality Cherry MX switches for responsiveness and optimal audio feedback.
Curiously, it features dual space bars, shift keys and function keys which can give you ultimate flexibility for your gaming setup.
This is afforded by four layers of programming, to give you the customization of a full sized keyboard. In terms of dimensions, this keyboard is a relatively compact 25 x 8 x 2.5cm.
The physical casing features an anodized aluminum bezel with PBT keycaps in a DSA profile.
For connectivity, the keyboard features a micro USB interface with a fully detachable cable.
The keyboard is finished in a low-key white and gray coloring and comes in at a humble price.
Planck Ez 40% Mechanical Keyboard
Where the VortexGear option identified above offers a relatively simplistic design, the Planck Ez 40% mechanical keyboard adds a few more bells and whistles.
Again this keyboard features just 47 keys, with three layers of programming to offer as much utility as a full sized keyboard.
Since this keyboard is very compact, it is extremely portable and includes a USB C to C cable as well as an adapter for USB type A connectivity.
The dimensions are just 234 x 28 x 82mm which means it could easily fit in a coat pocket or slot easily into many bags.
Unlike the VortexGear Core, this keyboard features fully customizable RGB backlighting which comes with fluid animations or static color capability.
This lighting can also be used to highlight which keys are currently active in the selected layer, which can be incredibly helpful for players adapting to a 40% keyboard layout.
As well as the lighting, there is actually a built in buzzer that will play retro sounding chirp tunes to give you some audio feedback.
This can be silenced if it proves to be annoying but is a fantastic novelty addition.
Interestingly, the Planck Ez features a unique key that they call the QNK keycap. This key can be fully customized to operate a range of functions such as controlling the lights, switching layers and much more.
The Planck Ez starts at a steeper $220 which can increase depending on your selected features.
Qisan Magicforce 40% Mechanical Keyboard
The previous entries make use of Cherry MX key switches but the Qisan Magicforce 40% Mechanical keyboard opts for GATERON blue switches.
With a simple black design, the keys feature transparent letters and numerals to allow the backlighting to shine through.
This lighting is enhanced by the reflective, brushed metal base that underlays the floating keycaps.
While the other options in this article have 47 keys, the Qisan Magicforce has 49 keys for that little extra utility.
It is connected via a fully detachable USB cable to assist with the already optimal portability.
Keychron Q9 40% Mechanical Keyboard
For a truly customized experience, the Keychron Q9 40% mechanical keyboard allows you to start from a barebones frame and choose your own switches and keycaps.
With an ultra-compact frame, the keyboard offers the full functionality you would achieve in a traditional keyboard.
The frame itself features a double gasket design situated on a sturdy steel plate. The body is a machined aluminum with screw-in stabilizers.
The hotswap sockets will be compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches so that you can customize the keyboard to your liking.
The Keychron Q9 also comes with RGB south-facing LED lighting. There is a dedicated switch that can toggle between Windows or macOS support, where you can store personalized layouts for both.
In terms of connectivity, there is a USB-C cable included with an additional USB-A to USB-C adapter to cover a wide range of devices.
The most distinct feature of this keyboard is that it includes a programmable knob in the top right which can be used for a variety of applications.
The keyboard comes in at 150 bucks for the barebones frame, which could get a bit pricier when you factor in the switches and keycaps.
Our Thoughts
It can be a challenge to adapt to the use of a 40% mechanical keyboard for gaming but a rewarding one nonetheless. By taking up much less space, these keyboards are perfect for gaming setups that are more constrained.
Despite the smaller amount of available keys, the ability to easily switch between active programming layers means that you still get the full utility of a regular keyboard in a more compact product. Most video games will not require the use of all the keys on a conventional keyboard, so the 40% options are more focused for gaming experiences.
No matter which option you choose, a 40% keyboard can be a great addition to any gaming setup.
A gaming enthusiast who started their gaming venture all the way back on a Gameboy Advanced (Purple) on Pokemon Yellow.
