What is a TKL Keyboard?

What is a TKL keyboard?

TKL is the abbreviation of TenKeyLess. The small number area of ​​a normal keyboard is called Tenkey, while Tenkeyless keyboard is a keyboard without a small number area, which is a TKL keyboard.

How many keys are on a TKL keyboard?

TKL keyboards usually contain 87 or 88 keys.  The TKL keyboard retains the complete function key area and main key area, including typing & control keys, function keys, number keys (row), arrow keys, and editing keys.

In this way, users will not be greatly affected by the lack of a numeric keypad when using it.

Is the TKL keyboard an 80% keyboard?

TKL keyboards may also be called 80% keyboards because they usually have 87 or 88 keys in total, which is about 80% of the number of keys on a full-size keyboard.

Benefits of TKL keyboards

1. Space-saving Design 

The TKL keyboard removes the numeric keypad area, making the overall size smaller than a full-size keyboard. This design not only saves desktop space, but also leaves more area for mouse operation, which is particularly suitable for environments with limited desktop space. Ideal for smaller desks or minimalist setups, TKL keyboards take up significantly less space.

2. Improved Ergonomics

The compact layout allows for a more natural arm position, reducing strain during long typing sessions.

3. Enhanced Portability

Due to its smaller size, the TKL keyboard is lighter and more suitable for users who need to carry the keyboard frequently. Whether students, professionals or gamers, they can easily put it in their backpacks and enjoy a comfortable typing experience anytime, anywhere.

4. Comprehensive layout

Although the numeric keypad area has been removed, the TKL keyboard still retains a complete function key area and main key area. This means that users will not feel inconvenienced by the lack of certain keys when using it, and can complete most daily tasks.

 

TKL VS 60% keyboards

Feature	TKL Keyboard	60% Keyboard
Size	Compact, typically 80% of full-size	Very compact, around 60% of full-size
Key Count	87 or 88 keys	61 or 64 keys
Layout	Lacks numeric keypad, retains function row	No dedicated function row, arrow keys, or numpad
Portability	Smaller than full-size keyboards; good for limited desk space.	More portable due to its smaller size; great for travel.
Functionality	Comparable to full-size keyboards; retains most functions.	Limited functionality; often has programmable keys for customization.
Use Cases	Good for general use, gaming, and typing.	Best for minimalist setups and portability

If you need more function keys and main key area, and do not require high portability, then the TKL keyboard may be a better choice; if you have high requirements for portability and do not often use the numeric keypad area and function key area, then the 60% keyboard may be more suitable.

TKL VS 75% keyboards

Feature	TKL Keyboard	75% Keyboard
Size	Compact, typically 80% of full-size	More compact, around 75% of full-size
Key Count	87 or 88 keys	Usually around 80 keys
Layout	Lacks numeric keypad, retains function row	Similar to TKL, but more condensed layout
Portability	Smaller and lighter, ideal for limited desk space	Slightly less portable due to extra keys, but more convenient for users needing those features
Functionality	Maintains full function keys, similar to full-size keyboards	More comprehensive with added function keys, may be complex for some users
Use Cases	Great for gamers and office workers needing frequent function key access	Ideal for music producers, video editors, and users needing text editing and data input

The TKL is closest in size to the 75% keyboard, but with one major difference; the TKL has three columns of space to the right of the Enter key, while the 75% has only one column of keys.

TKL vs 100% keyboards

Feature	TKL Keyboard	100% Keyboards
Size	Compact, typically 80% of full-size	Full-size
Key Count	87 or 88 keys	104 or 108 keys
Layout	Lacks numeric keypad, retains function row	Includes all keys (numpad, function row)
Portability	Smaller and lighter, ideal for limited desk space	Less portable due to larger size
Functionality	Retains full function and main keys; functionality similar to 100%	Most comprehensive functionality, suitable for users needing all keys
Use Cases	Best for gamers and office workers with limited desk space	Ideal for data entry and calculation tasks, requiring all key functions

If you need more function keys and main key area, and do not require high portability, then the 100% keyboard may be a better choice; if you have high requirements for portability and do not often use the numeric keypad area and function key area, then the TKL keyboard may be more suitable. 

Is the TKL keyboard the best for gaming?

Yes, TKL keyboards are some of the best gaming keyboards because they are smaller than full-size keyboards but still have arrow keys, navigation keys, and function keys. Most gamers do not use the number pad when playing games, so the size of the TKL keyboard is reduced without losing gaming functionality.

In addition, TKL keyboards are usually smaller and lighter, making them easy to carry and suitable for e-sports players who often participate in offline competitions or activities.

Is the TKL keyboard better for coding?

A TKL keyboard can be better for coding due to its compact size, which frees up desk space and allows for better mouse positioning. Also, the compact size reduces the range of hand movement, which may reduce wrist fatigue caused by long programming periods.

And since the numeric keypad is removed, the TKL keyboard is lighter and easier to carry, making it suitable for programmers who often need to move their work locations or travel.

However, it depends on personal preference and the specific keys you often use in your coding workflow. Some people may prefer the convenience of full-size keyboards for numeric input, while others may prefer the simplicity and space-saving features of TKL keyboards. 

Best TKL keyboard

5087S VIA Keyboard Bundle

Master of customization.

Explore the ultimate typing experience and personalized customization, the Akko 5087S VIA keyboard set is your rare choice.

This keyboard is ideal for those who value customization. With its VIA software compatibility, you can easily remap keys and create macros, making it the ultimate choice for gamers and productivity enthusiasts alike.

Sailor Moon Crystal 5087B v2

A dream keyboard for anime fans.

Combining anime charm with high performance, the Sailor Moon Crystal 5087B V2 mechanical keyboard is the dream choice of every Sailor Moon fan. Its exquisite design and high-performance mechanical switches ensure an experience that is both beautiful and practical.

Steam Engine 5087S ISO DE/Nordic

Nordic style typing art!

Combining Nordic minimalist design with industrial steampunk style, the Steam Engine 5087S ISO Nordic mechanical keyboard adds a unique sense of art to your desktop. Its ISO key layout provides a more comfortable typing posture, suitable for professionals who use it for a long time.

Conclusion

TKL keyboards offer an excellent balance of functionality and compactness, making them a superb choice for both gamers and professionals. With various options available, there's a TKL keyboard for every need and preference.