If youre in search of a low-profile mechanical keyboard then youve come to the right place.
Designed to be as slim and portable as possible, low-profile boards have become increasingly popular among keyboard enthusiasts.
Besides portability, the reduction in height provides a more natural, comfortable typing experience on the desk.
In this post, we will cover the best low-profile mechanical keyboards on the market right now.
What is the best low-profile mechanical keyboard?
Supporting the key-caps are slim-lined, Kailh White low-profile mechanical switches.
Aesthetically, the GK50 certainly looks the part.
The angular case is sharp, thin, and does a great job of removing any extra bulk.
Providing the strength is a brushed aluminum top plate.
This is lit up by a beautiful RGB backlight and engraved with MSIs iconic Mystic Dragon.
In terms of the build, the board is high quality but far from premium.
Despite the nice, aluminum top plate, the rest of the case is relatively thin plastic.
The Kailh Box White mechanical switches provide speed, precision, and endurance for typists or gamers.
Personally, we find them very crisp and satisfying to throw in on.
Finally, a per-key RGB backlight illuminates the GK50 LP.
The RGB lighting is punchy and works wonderfully with the MSI Mystic Dragon software.
Overall, its a great RGB gaming keyboard on a budget.
It has a compact 60% layout with 61-keys and secondary functions printed clearly on the key-caps.
Additionally, the PCB is hot-swappable (with other low-profile switches) and features RGB backlighting.
This makes it extremely portable for on the go.
These are essentially a Cherry MX clone.
Although the case is entirely plastic, the build quality is satisfactory for the price.
Like most budget boards, the stabilizers are a bit noisy on some of the larger keys.
Those after a low profile 60% mechanical keyboard for gaming or travel will appreciate this lightweight board.
It has a compact 87-key, TKL layout with very little visible branding and a standard bottom.
Additionally, it stands out for its hot-swappable, Outemu Snap Spring switches.
Weighing just 589 grams, the Phantom L is impressively lightweight and portable.
Nevertheless, the build quality is high and theres isnt any noticeable deck flex.
When compared to a mechanical switch, the Snap Springs are quite unique.
Personally, were a big fan of these switches.
The switches come in three colors: Blues, Browns, and Reds.
Each require 50-60g of force and have a 1.2mm actuation.
Alternatively, the RGB tweaks are customizable via onboard FN key combinations.
Overall, youll struggle to find a better low-profile TKL mechanical keyboard at this price.
At a fraction of the cost, it comes packed with similar features.
These include RGB backlighting, tri-mode connectivity, and dedicated media and macro keys.
When compared to the G915, you will notice that the layout is almost the same.
Left of this are four profile keys and a macro record button.
Also, further along, are five programmable G-keys.
Thanks to the four-macro profile keys, each of the five G-keys can record a total of twenty macros.
This is done onboard by pressing the MR Button, or by using the Redragon software.
The low latency wireless 2.4 GHz connection works like a charm.
Powering the keyboard while the wireless is active is a 1900 mAh lithium battery.
Unfortunately, build quality is one area where the Redragon K618 matches its price.
In addition to this, the macro keys do feel quite mushy when pressed.
Still, you wont have any complaints from the rest of the keys on this gadget.
For switches, the K618 uses its own low-profile mechanical Reds.
These are linear with a super smooth feel and a quiet sound.
A nice little bonus is that eight spare switches come with the board.
This board comes in aTKL model.
To achieve this, it comes equipped with low-profile Gateron switches.
It also features wireless and wired modes, plus cross-platform compatibility.
Constructed with an aluminum frame, the build quality feels incredibly sturdy.
Although the board is so thin, it only weighs 1.43 lbs and has quite a bit of heft.
Out of the box, the K1 has a Mac multimedia layout installed.
All the same, if youre a Windows user, its relatively simple to change this.
Connecting the K1 to multiple devices via Bluetooth is just as easy.
Next to the keyboard layout switch is a second notch for switching between wired and wireless modes.
Low-profile Gateron mechanical switches keep this keyboard as slim as possible.
The switches themselves are lit up by a charming RGB backlight.
Unfortunately (like most other Keychron boards), there is no software for the K1.
It does however have fifteen onboard RGB effects.
Overall, the K1 is a solid and functional keyboard, with a thin, compact design.
This board comes in a75% version.
When compared to the K1, the K7 is built in a similar same way.
The case consists of two reinforced, aluminum pieces that screw together for plenty of rigidity.
Underneath are a pair of adjustable, two-step feet.
Then, on the back is a USB pop in-C port, and two wireless/ keyboard layout notches.
Developed by Keychron themselves, these are approx.
1mm smaller than their mechanical counterpart.
We also like that the optical keyboard version is entirely hot-swappable.
Fast and secure, it can connect up to three devices and allow you to switch between them simultaneously.
Whether this is your PC, Laptop, or Android phone.
Powering the board is a slightly smaller 1550 mAh battery.
This has a three-hour charge and can last up to 34 hours of use.
Unfortunately, one downside is that the RGB backlighting is quite dim which might be to preserve battery life.
Another con is that there isnt any programmable software.
Click herefor the mechanical switch model!
Furthermore, a vivid, RGB backlight illuminates the board.
Unlike other Corsair models, the K60 RGB Pro LP primarily focuses on its low-profile design.
Due to this, it foregoes any extra keys and quirks and opts for a traditional layout.
This includes a standard bottom row, a few LED indicators, and integrated media controls on the F-row.
The Cherry MX low-profile speed switches help to make the slim design possible.
As a result, they trigger extremely quickly to provide a near-instant response.
Another highlight of the Corsair K60 RGB Pro LP is the per-key RGB lighting.
Visually, this looks bright, dynamic, and ridiculously saturated.
The sophisticated ICUE software also gives you access to macro programming and full-system lighting synchronization with other Corsair peripherals.
Due to this, you might experience unparalleled levels of immersion when playing iCUE-integrated games.
All in all, the K60 RGB is a solid low-profile board with a traditional full-size layout.
It has a conventional full-size layout that includes 105 keys plus a dedicated volume control.
Although the case is only 1.2 thick plastic, the board offers high quality with very little flex.
On the bottom a pair of flip up feet that have two different height options.
For switches, the AW510K goes for latest generation Cherry MX low-profile Reds.
These are linear switches that require 45 cN of operating force for a 1.2mm pre-travel.
Due to having 35 percent lower height, they feel responsive, speedy, and trigger incredibly fast.
The AlienFX per-key lighting illuminates beautifully around each of the switches.
Although Alienware are less known for their keyboards, the AW510K a solid 9/10.
They facilitate a ridiculously fast gaming performance.
As you’re able to see, the layout of the board is identical to the previous model.
It has a full-size form factor with 104 keys.
Above the Numpad are five media keys plus a smooth volume scroll wheel.
Constructed with an anodized aluminum frame, the build offers sleek looks and plenty of durability.
Considering the case is only 1.15, it feels like a premium product and theres absolutely no side-to-side wobble.
Unfortunately, the ABS keycaps and detachable palm rest are slightly lower quality.
The Cherry MX Speed, low profile mechanical key switches help to make this keyboard such a gaming weapon.
These are available in two variants: Red and Silver.
Lastly, youll appreciate all the same extra quirks that are on the previous K70 MK2.
This includes RGB backlighting, a USB pass-through port, and eight megabytes of onboard profile memory.
Equally, we like how all customization can be done through the dynamic Corsair iCUE software.
In short, the Corsair RGB MK.2 Rapidfire is still one of the best LP gaming keyboards out there.
At just 0.86, it has an ultra-thin, low-profile design that is refined and sophisticated.
Moreover, the full-size layout includes several dedicated G-keys, profile keys, and multi-media keys.
Even though the board is ridiculously slim, theres absolutely no sacrifice to the build quality.
In your hand, it feels heavy, solid, and does not flex at all.
To help reduce the overall thickness, the Logitech G915 uses its own low-profile GL mechanical switches.
In particular, gamers will appreciate the liner switches that actuate at 1.5mm.
These have a smooth operation, which are great for double-tapping and rapid successive keystrokes.
These are ideal for assigning in-game key binds and custom macros.
Fully customizable, per-key RGB backlighting is another standout feature of the G915.
The 1ms Lightspeed connection is also strong and super-fast.
Overall, the Logitech G915 is one of the most distinctive low-profile boards of its kind.
The design is razor-thin, the materials are premium, and the programmable keys provide endless control.
What is a Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard?
A low-profile mechanical keyboard has a shorter body and uses shorter switches than a regular keyboard.
These keyboards do not use the same parts as a standard-sized keyboard.
Most items are adjusted to reach a lower profile, including the case, switches, and keycaps.
Low-profile keyboards offer this diminished size without leading you to settle with a membrane keyboard.
Are Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboards Better?
Low-profile mechanical keyboards take up less space, and they work better for portable applications.
This just improves with slighter layouts.
A low-profile mechanical keyboard lets your hands sit lower to the table, reducing the strain on your wrists.
This limits the need for additional support and works better for those already dealing with issues in these areas.
Low-profile mechanical keyboards use shorter switches, decreasing the time needed to activate the key.
On average, the shorter switch cuts this time in half.
Low-profile keys lead to faster typing and greater response time.
Height/Design
Low-profile mechanical keyboards usually sit under an inch tall.
ensure this works well for what you expect.
you’re free to find a low-profile mechanical keyboard in a variety of layouts as well.
Build Quality
Look for initial materials that work well for you.
You want to start with quality materials to prevent complicated searches.
Typing Sound
verify the typing sound produced by a low-profile mechanical keyboard suits your expectations.
Switch bang out
Low-profile keyboards require specific low-profile switches to operate.
These switches are shorter, leading to shorter actuation times.
Keep in mind this limits compatible keycaps as well.
This allows you to change them out as needed without the use of a soldering iron.
Hot-swappable PCBs are becoming the norm.
Therefore, finding a low-profile mechanical keyboard that offers this should be no problem.
Connectivity Options
Low-profile keyboards that focus on portability likely offer wireless connectivity options like radiofrequency or Bluetooth.
Keep in mind that wired connections usually have lower latency, and they are more appropriate for certain activities.
you’re free to usually find a low-profile keyboard that blends both options to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are low-profile mechanical keyboards better?
Low-profile mechanical keyboards have two main benefits: portability and ergonomics.
The slim design results in them being lighter and easier to slip into a backpack.
Secondly, the height reduction provides a more natural, comfortable typing experience without a wrist-rest.
What is a low-profile mechanical keyboard?
Low-profile mechanical keyboards are considerably slimmer than the standard mechanical keyboard.
Does Ducky have a low-profile keyboard?
So far, Ducky has not released a low-profile mechanical keyboard.
At CES 2018, the company did demo and tease fans with a low-profile board named the Ducky Blade.
Although there were rumors of the Blade launching in early 2019, complications arose and it was unofficially canceled.
We hope you found a low-profile mechanical keyboard on this list.
Click herefor the 18 best 65% Mechanical Keyboards!Click herefor the 27 best Hot-Swappable Keyboards!
