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What does “TKL” actually mean?

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

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TKL · noun

Tenkeyless. Full-size minus the numpad, leaving ~87 keys. The most common "serious typist" size — keeps arrows and the F-row but frees desk space for the mouse.

How to get it · CHEAP
Womier SK87
Womier SK87
Budget TKL · spring-arm mount

TKL with a spring-arm mount that fans prefer over the Stars80 v2 — the most credible affordable tenkeyless in the catalog.

see why →buy on amazon →
How to get it · BEST
WOBkey Crush 80
WOBkey Crush 80
Mid-rangePremium aluminum TKL · ball-clasp disassembly

WOBkey's TKL with ball-clasp disassembly and serious build — repeatedly called one of the best keyboards of all time.

see why →buy on amazon →
How to get it · DIY
Neo80
Neo80
Mid-rangeBarebone TKL · build quality beats the price tag

QwertyKeys' TKL barebone where build quality beats the price tag — the gateway TKL for first-time custom builders.

see why →buy on QwertyKeys →