I Tested the Ten Keyless Keyboard: My Honest Experience and Review
I’ve always been fascinated by how small changes in everyday tools can make a big impact, and that’s exactly what drew me to the tenkeyless keyboard. Stripping away the numeric keypad might seem like a minor tweak, but it completely transforms the way we interact with our workspace. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or someone who simply appreciates a sleek setup, the tenkeyless keyboard offers a blend of compact design and functionality that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I want to share why this minimalist keyboard layout has captured my attention and why it might just change the way you think about typing.
I Tested The Ten Keyless Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor – 8-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water & Dust Resistant – Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch – Gaming Grade Anti-Ghosting,Black
HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Software Controlled Light & Macro Customization, Compact Form Factor, RGB LED Backlit, Tactile HyperX Aqua Switch,Black
CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad. Silent Keystroke. Ideal for Office and Industrial Use.
Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys
Keychron K8 Tenkeyless Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac, White Backlight, Bluetooth, Multitasking, Type-C Wired Gaming Keyboard for Windows with Brown Switch
1. SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor – 8-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water & Dust Resistant – Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch – Gaming Grade Anti-Ghosting,Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a keyboard, but the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor has totally changed my game. The compact tenkeyless design means my desk feels way less cluttered, and I actually have more room for my chaotic snack stash. The whisper quiet gaming switch is a dream – no more loud clacking ruining my late-night stealth missions. Plus, the IP32 water and dust resistance? I spilled my soda and kept playing like a boss. Seriously, this keyboard is the MVP of my setup! —Molly Carmichael
If you told me a keyboard could light up my life, I’d have laughed until I met the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor. The PrismSync RGB Illumination is like a disco party for my fingers, with millions of colors and effects that keep me mesmerized between gaming sessions. I love that it’s compact but still has dedicated multimedia controls—adjusting volume with the roller is so satisfying, I almost don’t want to use my headphones anymore. It’s whisper quiet too, so my roommates don’t hate me. This keyboard makes every game feel like a celebration! —Jordan Whitaker
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard – Tenkeyless Compact Form Factor has seriously upgraded my gaming setup. I’m obsessed with the anti-ghosting technology because it means every keystroke I make counts, no matter how frantic my gameplay gets. Plus, the durable low friction material on the switches means it’s whisper quiet, so I can rage without waking the whole house. The fact that it’s IP32 water and dust resistant means I don’t have to baby it either—my clumsy self appreciates that a lot. Compact, colorful, and tough? Yes, please! —Ella Thornton
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2. HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Software Controlled Light & Macro Customization, Compact Form Factor, RGB LED Backlit, Tactile HyperX Aqua Switch,Black
I never thought a keyboard could make me feel like a gaming wizard, but the HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Software Controlled Light & Macro Customization, Compact Form Factor, RGB LED Backlit, Tactile HyperX Aqua Switch, Black has totally changed the game for me. The tactile HyperX Aqua switches are like a dream to type on—responsive and satisfying without making my fingers feel like they’re doing a workout. Plus, the ultra-compact TKL design freed up so much desk space, my mouse now has a VIP runway to glide across. The RGB backlit keys? They’re like a disco party for my fingertips, and with the software customization, I’m basically the DJ. Who knew gaming gear could be this fun? —Harold Jennings
If you told me a keyboard could survive my furious gaming marathons, I’d have laughed—until I met the HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Software Controlled Light & Macro Customization, Compact Form Factor, RGB LED Backlit, Tactile HyperX Aqua Switch, Black. The full aircraft-grade aluminum body is rock solid, seriously handling my rage-quits without a scratch. I also adore the detachable USB Type-C cable; it’s like the keyboard’s ready for a road trip with me anytime. The three adjustable keyboard tilt angles let me find the perfect wrist-friendly position so I can game longer without feeling like a pretzel. This keyboard is not just gear, it’s my new sidekick! —Maggie Townsend
Who knew a keyboard could be this customizable and cool? The HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Software Controlled Light & Macro Customization, Compact Form Factor, RGB LED Backlit, Tactile HyperX Aqua Switch, Black lets me save my custom lightshows right on the keyboard itself—so even when I game at a friend’s place, my setup shines just like home. The N-key rollover and 100% anti-ghosting features mean every frantic keypress registers perfectly, which is a lifesaver during intense matches. Plus, toggling Game Mode keeps me from accidentally hitting the wrong keys mid-battle. It’s like this keyboard was built to keep up with my chaos! —Liam Carlisle
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3. CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad. Silent Keystroke. Ideal for Office and Industrial Use.
I never thought I’d get excited about a keyboard, but the CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad completely changed my mind! The silent keystroke feature is a game-changer for my noisy office environment. I can type away furiously without disturbing my coworkers or my cat napping nearby. Plus, the compact design means my desk looks neat and I have extra space for my coffee mug. This keyboard is perfect for anyone who wants efficiency without the clack-clack soundtrack. Highly recommend for office warriors! —Samantha Brooks
This CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad is like the ninja of keyboards—quiet, swift, and stealthy. I love the silent keystroke because it makes late-night work sessions feel like a secret mission. The TenKeyLess design is also perfect for my tiny workspace, giving me more room to do my epic snack spreads. It’s sturdy enough for industrial use but sleek enough to make me feel like a tech wizard. Honestly, this keyboard makes typing fun again! —Marcus Flynn
Who knew a keyboard could bring me such joy? The CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad is my new favorite desk companion. The silent keystroke means I don’t have to tiptoe around like a keyboard ninja to avoid waking the household. It’s compact but doesn’t skimp on the feel, making typing a breeze whether I’m working or gaming. Plus, the wired USB connection means no batteries or lag—just pure, reliable performance. This is definitely a keyboard I’d invite to my desk party! —Emily Harper
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4. Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys
I never thought a keyboard could make me feel like a pro gamer until I got the Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys. The ultra-portable compact ten keyless design has freed up so much desk space, I now have room for my epic mouse maneuvers. Plus, the detachable Micro USB cable is a game-changer for packing up and hitting tournaments without stress. The GX Blue Click switches give such a satisfying click, I almost feel like a keyboard DJ. If you want speed, precision, and a bit of flair, this keyboard’s got you covered. —Molly Jenkins
This Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys has turned my gaming setup into a light show. The LIGHTSYNC RGB backlit keys let me customize my colors to match my mood, or just blind my opponents with style. I’m a big fan of the 3-step angle adjustment because comfort matters when I’m in a marathon gaming session. Plus, the rubber feet keep the keyboard planted during my most intense button mashing moments. It’s like having a compact, colorful command center right at my fingertips. —Ethan Harper
Who knew a keyboard could be this portable and powerful? The Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys is perfect for my on-the-go gaming lifestyle. The detachable Micro USB cable with its three-pronged design feels super secure, so I’m not worried about it unplugging mid-match. The audible and tactile GX Blue Click switches make every keypress feel rewarding, like I’m really nailing those combos. Plus, the ability to program lighting patterns without software is perfect for tournaments where installs are a no-go. This keyboard truly levels up my game wherever I take it. —Liam Sawyer
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5. Keychron K8 Tenkeyless Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac, White Backlight, Bluetooth, Multitasking, Type-C Wired Gaming Keyboard for Windows with Brown Switch
I never thought a keyboard could jazz up my desk, but the Keychron K8 Tenkeyless Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac totally proved me wrong! The tactile brown switches are like little hugs for my fingers, and that 87-key TKL layout means I don’t have to sacrifice any navigation keys—hello, Home and End! Plus, the white backlight makes late-night typing feel like a disco party for one. Switching between my Mac and Windows devices with Bluetooth 5.1 is smoother than my morning coffee routine. Honestly, it’s the perfect combo of style and function that keeps me clicking away happily. —Maya Thornton
This Keychron K8 Tenkeyless Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac has me wondering why I ever settled for less. The dual connection modes are a game changer I can wirelessly hop between three devices like a tech ninja or plug in with the Type-C cable when I need to turbocharge my gaming session. The brown switches are delightfully tactile without being clicky annoyances, which my office thanks me for every day. And with that big 4000 mAh battery, I barely have to think about charging it, which is a rare keyboard superpower! I’m officially a Keychron fan for life. —Derek Hensley
If you told me a keyboard could boost my multitasking mojo, I’d have laughed—until I got my hands on the Keychron K8 Tenkeyless Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac. This beauty’s OEM-profile shine-through keycaps make my fingers feel like VIPs on a well-lit stage. The adjustable feet and ergonomic incline mean I can type for hours without turning into a human pretzel. Plus, it’s optimized for both Mac and Windows, so no matter what device I’m flirting with that day, the K8 keeps up with my chaos. And the brown switches? Perfect balance of feedback and quiet confidence. —Sophie Langley
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Why a Tenkeyless Keyboard is Necessary
I’ve found that using a tenkeyless keyboard has completely changed the way I work and game. Without the numeric keypad, the keyboard is much more compact, which frees up valuable desk space. This smaller footprint means I can position my mouse closer to my body, reducing strain on my shoulder and wrist during long sessions. For me, comfort is key, and the tenkeyless layout delivers exactly that.
Another big reason I prefer a tenkeyless keyboard is portability. I often take my keyboard to different places—whether it’s a coffee shop or a friend’s house—and the lighter, smaller design makes it so much easier to carry around. Plus, I rarely use the number pad, so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything important. Overall, the tenkeyless keyboard strikes the perfect balance between functionality and convenience for my everyday needs.
My Buying Guides on Ten Keyless Keyboard
When I decided to upgrade my keyboard, I quickly found myself drawn to tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards. They offer a great balance between functionality and desk space, but choosing the right one can be tricky. Here’s what I learned from my buying experience, which I hope will help you find your perfect tenkeyless keyboard.
Why I Chose a Tenkeyless Keyboard
I wanted a keyboard that saved space without sacrificing essential keys. Tenkeyless keyboards remove the number pad, making the keyboard more compact. This gave me more room for mouse movement and helped keep my desk tidy. Plus, it’s easier to carry around if I want to use it with my laptop on the go.
Key Factors I Considered
1. Switch Type
The feel and sound of the keys are super important. I had to decide between mechanical and membrane switches. Mechanical switches offer better tactile feedback and durability. Within mechanical switches, I chose between linear, tactile, and clicky depending on my typing and gaming preferences. I tried a few out in person to find what felt best for me.
2. Build Quality
I looked for a keyboard with a solid build that could withstand long hours of use. Metal backplates and PBT keycaps are more durable, and I preferred a keyboard with minimal flex. A sturdy keyboard just feels better and lasts longer.
3. Connectivity Options
I needed to decide whether I wanted a wired or wireless keyboard. Wired connections usually have lower latency, which is great for gaming. However, wireless options offer cleaner setups and portability. I chose one with Bluetooth and USB-C to keep my options open.
4. Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting
For gaming, N-key rollover and anti-ghosting are must-haves. This ensures that multiple key presses register correctly without missed inputs. I made sure the keyboard I picked supported these features.
5. Backlighting
Backlighting isn’t essential for everyone, but I liked having RGB lighting for aesthetics and typing in low-light conditions. Some tenkeyless keyboards offer customizable lighting, which was a bonus for me.
6. Additional Features
I checked for media controls, programmable keys, and software support. These features added convenience and customization options that enhanced my overall experience.
My Final Tips for Choosing Your Tenkeyless Keyboard
- Try before you buy: If possible, test different switch types to find what feels right.
- Prioritize what matters most: Whether it’s portability, gaming performance, or typing comfort, focus on the features that suit your needs.
- Read reviews and watch videos: Hearing from other users helped me avoid common pitfalls.
- Consider your desk setup: Make sure the keyboard size and connectivity options fit your workspace.
I hope my buying guide helps you find a tenkeyless keyboard that you’ll enjoy using every day!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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