Is a 60% Keyboard Good for Gaming? Pros, Cons, and Who Should Use One

What Is a 60% Keyboard?

A 60 percent keyboard is a compact mechanical keyboard layout that removes:

• The function row (F1–F12)

• Arrow keys

• The numpad

• Navigation keys (Insert, Delete, etc.)

Despite its small size, it keeps the most important keys for gaming — WASD, numbers, modifiers, and spacebar. Missing keys are accessed using function (Fn) layers.

This layout is popular because it saves desk space and creates a cleaner setup.

 Pros of a 60% Keyboard for Gaming

1. More Mouse Space

One of the biggest advantages for gamers is extra room for mouse movement. This is especially useful for:

• FPS games

• Low-sensitivity players

• Smaller desks

More space = better aim control.

2. Faster Hand Movement

With fewer keys, your hands don’t need to travel as far. This can improve:

• Reaction time

• Comfort during long gaming sessions

Many pro players prefer compact layouts for this reason.

3. Portable and Minimal

A 60 percent keyboard is:

• Easy to carry

• Great for LAN events or travel

• Perfect for minimalist setups

If you game in multiple locations, this is a big win.

4. Often Cheaper Than Full-Size Boards

Many budget mechanical keyboards under $40 CAD use a 60% layout, making it a solid entry point for:

• New PC gamers

• Students

• Casual players

 Cons of a 60% Keyboard for Gaming

1. No Dedicated Arrow Keys

Arrow keys are accessed via Fn combinations, which can be annoying in:

• Strategy games

• MMOs

• Menu-heavy games

If you rely on arrow keys a lot, this can slow you down.

2. Learning Curve

New users may struggle at first with:

• Fn layers

• Missing navigation keys

It usually takes a few days to a week to fully adapt.

3. Not Ideal for All Game Genres

While great for FPS games, 60 percent keyboards are not perfect for every type of gaming, especially games with many keybinds.

 What Games Are 60% Keyboards Best For?

 Great for:

• FPS games (Valorant, CS2, Call of Duty)

• Casual and indie games

• Battle royale games

 Not ideal for:

• MMOs

• Strategy games

• Productivity-heavy gaming setups

Who SHOULD Buy a 60% Keyboard?

A 60 percent keyboard is a great choice if you:

• Play mostly FPS or casual games

• Want more desk and mouse space

• Prefer a clean, minimal setup

• Are on a budget

• Travel or move your setup often

Budget models can offer excellent value, especially under $40 CAD.

Who Should Avoid a 60% Keyboard?

You may want to skip a 60 percent keyboard if you:

• Play MMOs or strategy games frequently

• Need arrow keys for navigation

• Use your keyboard heavily for work or school

• Don’t like using Fn key combinations

In that case, a 65% or 75% keyboard might be a better balance.

Are Budget 60% Mechanical Keyboards Worth It?

For most gamers, yes — as long as expectations are realistic.

Budget 60 percent keyboards usually offer:

• Mechanical switches

• Basic RGB lighting

• Solid gaming performance

However, they may lack:

• Hot-swappable switches

• Premium build materials

• Advanced software

If you’re curious about affordable options, check out our guide on 60% mechanical keyboards under $40 CAD, where we break down performance, value, and who they’re best for.

Final Verdict: Is a 60% Keyboard Good for Gaming?

Yes — a 60% keyboard is absolutely good for gaming, especially for FPS players and budget setups. It offers excellent space savings, fast access to key controls, and strong value for the price.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you need extra keys or play complex games, a slightly larger layout may suit you better.

For the right gamer, though, a 60% keyboard can be a smart, affordable, and performance-friendly choice.