10 Best Compact Gaming Keyboards 2025 in the United States

The ASUS ROG Azoth is a 75% compact mechanical gaming keyboard designed for gamers who want a smaller footprint without sacrificing functionality. Its tri-mode connectivity allows seamless switching between Bluetooth, ultra-low latency 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB, which is perfect for flexible setups and helps reduce cable clutter. The keyboard uses hot-swappable ROG NX Snow linear switches that come pre-lubricated for smooth, quiet keystrokes, and you can easily swap switches without soldering, making it very modder-friendly.

The build feels solid with a gasket mount system and internal dampening foam that reduces noise and keyboard flex, providing a satisfying typing experience. The PBT doubleshot keycaps offer durability and a premium feel, which is beneficial for long gaming sessions. RGB lighting adds vibrant customization, and an integrated 2-inch OLED screen provides helpful real-time info like CPU/GPU stats and media controls, adjustable via a tactile volume roller. The keyboard also supports both Windows and Mac, broadening its usability.

One downside is the 75% layout, which means fewer dedicated keys than full-size keyboards; this might require adjustment for users who rely on a number pad or additional function keys. Battery life is excellent with RGB and OLED off, but using these features heavily will reduce it, so a wired connection might be preferable during extended gaming marathon sessions. Its price and feature set target enthusiasts and gamers who appreciate customization and premium build, so casual users might find it more complex or expensive than needed. The ASUS ROG Azoth embodies a strong balance of compact size, build quality, versatile connectivity, and customization for gamers seeking a high-end, portable mechanical keyboard.

The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless keyboard offers a smart balance between a full-size and compact design with its 96% layout, keeping all essential keys like function and number keys while saving desk space. It uses hot-swappable ROG NX Snow linear mechanical switches, pre-lubed for smooth and quiet keystrokes, with an option to swap in clicky switches. This allows users to personalize their typing feel without needing to purchase a new keyboard.

The keyboard supports three connection types: Bluetooth (connect up to three devices), a 2.4 GHz wireless mode with ASUS’s SpeedNova technology for low latency, and wired USB, making it versatile for different setups and devices including PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles. RGB backlighting adds customizable lighting effects, which is a nice feature for gamers who enjoy a vibrant setup. Build quality is solid, featuring durable PBT keycaps that resist shine and wear, along with internal sound-dampening foam and switch pads to reduce noisy keystroke sounds, enhancing quieter gaming or work sessions.

The keyboard weighs nearly 3 pounds, which may be heavy for those seeking portability. While tri-mode connectivity is flexible, Bluetooth latency might be slightly more noticeable compared to wired or 2.4 GHz wireless modes. This keyboard is ideal for gamers who want a compact layout without losing important keys, value a quiet and smooth typing experience, and appreciate versatile wireless options. It combines solid performance, premium build, and thoughtful features designed to enhance both gaming and everyday use in a smaller package.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless HyperMagnetic Gaming Keyboard is a compact 60% form factor keyboard designed for gamers who need a smaller, portable option without sacrificing performance. One of its standout features is the OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches, which allow for customizable actuation points on each key, providing both rapid response and control. This means you can adjust the key sensitivity for different in-game actions, making it highly versatile for gaming scenarios.

Additionally, the keyboard offers 2-in-1 action keys, enabling you to program two different actions on a single key based on the depth of the press, which is a unique and useful feature for gamers needing quick transitions during gameplay. The keyboard also boasts RGB backlighting and PBT keycaps, enhancing both aesthetics and durability.

Its build quality is solid, featuring a premium aluminum top plate, and it supports multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 and a 2.4GHz wireless connection, along with a detachable USB-C cable for wired use. Its compact size means it lacks a dedicated number pad, which could be a drawback for users who frequently use it. While it is on the higher end of the price spectrum, its advanced features and customization options justify the cost for serious gamers looking for top performance in a compact size. This keyboard is best suited for gamers who value portability without compromising on high-performance features.