← All terms

What does “65%” actually mean?

Plain-English explanations of the terms keyboard enthusiasts use every day. Plus what to buy if you want it.

linearthockytactileclickyhall effectrapid triggergasket mounttray mounttop mounto-ring mountfull-sizeTKL75%65%60%splitPBTABSdouble-shotCherry profileOEM profileSA profilenorth-facingsouth-facingper-key RGBhot-swapQMK / VIAstabilizerslubed switchesfilmed switchesfoam modtape mod
65% · noun

Drops the F-row but keeps arrows and a few nav keys. The compact-board sweet spot — small enough to be portable, complete enough to type and game on without function layers.

How to get it · CHEAP
GMK67
GMK67
Budgetplastic 65% · gateway 65%

The plastic 65% gateway-drug board under sixty bucks — the most accessible way to try the 65% format.

see why →buy on amazon →
How to get it · BEST
Neo65
Neo65
BudgetBudget 65% barebone · first-build favorite

The 65% custom build people keep recommending to first-timers — the cleanest entry into a curated 65% experience.

see why →buy on QwertyKeys →
How to get it · DIY
Tofu65 v3
Tofu65 v3
Mid-rangeClassic KBDFans 65% barebone

KBDFans' classic case tightened up in the 3.0 revision — the long-standing reference 65% barebone for builders.

see why →buy on kbdfans →