Are you in search of a compact mechanical keyboard with 96% layout? Look no further! We have researched and compiled a list of the best 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards available in the market. These keyboards provide the perfect balance between functionality and portability, making them an ideal choice for gamers, writers, and anyone who spends long hours typing.
What are 1800 Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboards?
1800 compact mechanical keyboards refer to a particular layout of a mechanical keyboard that has 96% of the keys found on a traditional full-size keyboard. This layout is similar to a tenkeyless keyboard but includes a numpad, which makes it slightly larger. The 1800 layout has 104 keys, whereas a traditional full-size keyboard has 108 keys.
Mechanical keyboards are keyboards that use individual switches under each keycap, as opposed to rubber domes or scissor switches found on most traditional keyboards. This design provides a tactile and audible feedback when typing, making it a popular choice for gamers, programmers, and anyone who spends a lot of time typing.
The 1800 compact mechanical keyboard layout is popular because it provides a balance between a full-size keyboard and a smaller tenkeyless keyboard. It includes the convenience of a numpad for those who frequently work with numbers, without taking up as much desk space as a full-size keyboard. The layout also allows for the addition of dedicated media keys, function keys, and other secondary keys, providing greater functionality and customization options.
In summary, the 1800 compact mechanical keyboard is a layout that provides a balance between a full-size keyboard and a tenkeyless keyboard, providing a numpad and additional functionality while still being relatively compact. Its popularity among gamers, programmers, and typists is due to its tactile and audible feedback, which is provided by the mechanical switches used under each keycap.
If you want a keyboard that’s a bit compact without having to lose the numpad and other functions, the 1800-Compact keyboard is the ideal size for you.
| Keyboard Size | # of Keys | Number Pad | Home Cluster | F Keys | Arrow Keys | Number Keys (Top Row) | Full Alphabet |
| Full-Sized (100%) | 104 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 1800 Compact Full-sized | 99-104 | ✔ | X(Some might) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Why Choose a 1800-Compact Mechanical Keyboard?
A 1800-compact mechanical keyboard is a popular choice for many users who want a compact keyboard that retains most of the keys and features of a full-sized keyboard, while also offering the benefits of mechanical switches.
One of the primary advantages of a mechanical keyboard is the tactile feedback and satisfying click sound that comes with each keypress. This not only enhances the typing experience but can also lead to increased typing speed and accuracy. Additionally, mechanical switches tend to be more durable and longer-lasting than the membrane switches found in many traditional keyboards.
A 1800-compact mechanical keyboard specifically offers a compact form factor while retaining the numeric keypad and navigation keys found on a full-sized keyboard. This can be particularly useful for users who frequently input numerical data or rely on the navigation keys for productivity tasks.
Overall, a 1800-compact mechanical keyboard provides a balance between compactness and functionality, while also offering the benefits of mechanical switches. It can be a great choice for those who want a high-quality typing experience in a smaller package.
Things You Should Look For When Buying a 1800-Compact Mechanical Keyboard
When looking to purchase an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some of the key things you should look for:
- Switch Type: Mechanical keyboards are known for their tactile feedback and longevity. The type of switch used will affect the typing experience. There are a variety of switches available, including Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches, each with their own characteristics.
- Wired or Wireless: Firstly, you need to decide whether you want a wired or wireless keyboard. A wired keyboard offers a reliable and stable connection, but it restricts your movement. On the other hand, a wireless keyboard offers more freedom of movement, but you have to deal with potential connectivity issues and battery life.
- Build Quality: A keyboard that is well-built will last longer and feel more solid. Look for materials such as aluminum or steel for the frame, and high-quality plastic for the keycaps. It’s also important to consider the durability of the USB cable and the stability of the keyboard feet.
- Layout: The 1800-Compact layout is a unique combination of the 1800 layout and a compact keyboard. It features a number pad, arrow keys, and function keys in a more compact form factor. Make sure the layout is comfortable for you and suits your typing style.
- Programmability: Many mechanical keyboards offer programmable keys, allowing you to customize the keyboard to your specific needs. This can be particularly useful for gamers or those who use specialized software.
- Keycaps: The keycaps on a mechanical keyboard can affect the typing experience. Look for keycaps made from high-quality materials like PBT or ABS.
- Lighting: RGB lighting has become increasingly popular in mechanical keyboards. Look for a keyboard with customizable lighting effects, as well as the ability to adjust the brightness and color.
- Cable: Some 1800-Compact keyboards have detachable cables, which can be useful for portability or cable management. Make sure the cable is of high quality and durable.
- Compatibility: Ensure the keyboard is compatible with your computer or device. Some keyboards may only work with Windows or MacOS, while others may work with both.
- Brand and Price: Finally, consider the brand reputation and price. Top brands such as Ducky, Varmilo, and Leopold are known for their high-quality keyboards. Prices can vary widely, so consider your budget and what features are most important to you.
Best 1800 Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboards
| 1800 Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboards | Connectivity Options | Features | Price |
| Drop Shift 1800 Layout (99 Key) | Wired | Hot Swappable Switch Doubleshot PBT Keycaps Aluminum Body Cherry MX Brown RGB Detachable USB Type C Backlit RGB 99 Keys | Check Price |
| IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker | Wireless/Wired | Cherry MX Switches Option] Hot Swappable PCB PBT Keycaps Detachable USB Type C 4000mah | Check Price |
| YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% | Wired | RGB Effects Gateron Switches Acrylic Case Programmable Keys N-Key Rollover Hot Swappable Detachable USB Type C Doubleshot PBT Keycaps Silicone Gasket | Check Price |
| EPOMAKER TH98 96% | Wireless/Wired | Rotary Knob Detachable USB Type C 4000mah Battery Hot Swappable PCB PBT Keycaps Gateron Switches | Check Price |
| Keychron K4 | Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired | RGB LED Backlit Gateron Switches Aluminum Frame Programmable Keys N-Key Rollover 100 Keys Detachable USB Type C 4000mAh Big Battery | Check Price |
| EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 | Wireless/Wired | PBT Keycaps Silicon Sound Dampener Silicone Gasket Hot Swappable PCB RGB Effects Detachable USB Type C | Check Price |
| EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 | Wireless/Wired | PBT Keycaps Silicon Sound Dampener Silicone Gasket Hot Swappable PCB Detachable USB Type C 10.000mAh Battery | Check Price |
| DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode | Wireless/Wired | PBT Keycaps Silicone Gasket Detachable USB Type C 4.000mAh Battery DAREU High-precision V3 Sky Switches (Linear) | Check Price |
| Leopold FC980c | Wired | Electrostatic Capacitive Switch PBT Keycap Dye-Sublimated | Check Price |
| Akko 3098S 1800 Compact Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard | Wired | PBT Doubleshot Keycaps Hot Swappable Detachable USB Type C Gateron Orange Tactile Switch Programmable Keys 98 Keys | Check Price |
| Flesports FL980 | Wired | Detachable USB Type C Cherry Keycap Profile Double Shot PBT Keycap Kailh Box Brown Switch Programmable Keys RGB Backlit LED 98 Keys | Check Price |
| Cherry G80-1800 | Wired | Cherry MX Switch Programmable keys Ergonomic Cherry Keycap Profile 104 Keys | Check Price |
| RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 | Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired | RGB Backlit Programmable Keys Hot Swappable Switch Keycap Double Shot ABS Detachable USB Type C Gateron White Switch 100 Keys | Check Price |
| TKC1800 Keyboard Kit | Wired | Adjustable feet Detachable USB Type C | Check Price |
Drop Shift 1800 Layout (99 Key)
Drop Shift 1800 Layout (99 Keys) is an 1800-Compact keyboard from Brand Drop. This mechanical keyboard is a Hot Swappable mechanical keyboard which means you can replace switches or install switches without the need for soldering on the PCB.
Drop Shift 1800 has a very good build quality, the entire body of this keyboard is made of aluminum which makes it feel sturdy and rigid.
Drop Shift 1800 is equipped with 99 keys with quality, strong and thick PBT double shot keycaps. Drop’s PBT keycaps are well known for their excellent durability. These are PBT keycaps which are very comfortable to use for long duration typing. The Drop Shift 1800 comes with the Kaihua Speed Silver Switch but you can also choose from other options such as Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Brown, Halo Clear, and Halo True.
For connectivity, this keyboard only supports connection via removable USB Type C. This keyboard fully works on Windows, MacOS, and Linux operating systems.
For the RGB feature on this keyboard, it is one of the best in its class. RGB is very bright and can be changed to multiple RGB display modes. On some buttons such as Capslock and Numpad, given a very luxurious LED Light indicator.
There isn’t any software support for the Drop Shift 1800 keyboard, but if you want the best 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard, the Drop Shift 1800 is the best one out there. Drop Shift 1800 is priced quite expensive, if you want to buy this keyboard you can buy it on Amazon.
IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker
The IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker is a quality 1800-Compact keyboard that really deserves to be on this list. This keyboard has a great build quality with a body base made of aluminum.
This keyboard is also equipped with quality PBT keycaps with a cherry profile that has a unique appearance. For typing activities, playing games, and other typing activities the keycaps on this keyboard are very reliable.
When you buy this keyboard, there are 3 switch options that you can choose from, namely Cherry Mx Red, Brown, or Blue. But don’t worry, you don’t have to worry about switches because this keyboard is equipped with a Hot Swappable PCB which can make it easier for you to replace the switches on this keyboard whenever you want.
For connectivity, this keyboard can be connected to your computer or laptop via a detachable USB cable or via a 2.4GHz wireless connection and also via Bluetooth 5.1. This keyboard has also been tested to be used on Apple-made computers such as Macbooks or iMacs.
To support wireless connections on the IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker, this keyboard is equipped with a 4000mah battery capacity which is quite large and can last up to 8 hours more in intense use.
The IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker is available in two variants, namely the IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker without RGB backlit and the IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker which uses RGB. For choice, it all depends on your preferences. You can find this keyboard via our special link.
YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96%
YUNZII is usually known as a manufacturer of quality keycaps that have cool and unique designs, but now they are here with an 1800-Compact keyboard that really deserves to be on this list. The keyboard is YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% which has a cool design with a very stunning green and white color combination.
For the casing material, YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% has a casing made of acrylic plastic which has a transparent appearance.
For keycaps, this keyboard is definitely equipped with quality double shot PBT keycaps made by Yunzii whose durability is unquestionable and can provide an excellent typing experience. The grip provided by the keycaps on this keyboard is very good on your fingers because the texture on the surface of the keycaps feels very precise for typing.
This keyboard is equipped with 2 switch options, namely Gateron Black or you can also choose the Gateron Green option. But we recommend you to choose YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% which uses Gateron Black only because this is one of the smoothest linear switches and has very good quality.
For connectivity, this keyboard only supports connection via a USB cable with a faster and more stable USB Type C interface.
For features, YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% has quite complete features such as using a hot swappable PCB that can use switches with 3 or 5 pins. This keyboard is also equipped with a very cool RGB effect, uses a USB port whose cable can be removed, and the best thing is that this keyboard is equipped with a silicone gasket that will give a bumpy effect on the surface of the keyboard when you use it to type. To reprogram the keymaps, this keyboard already supports and the default software for this keyboard is available and you can download it for free.
YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% is also a flexible keyboard that still provides 4 switch ports if you need this keyboard to be a full size keyboard.
YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% is available in 3 different color variants, namely YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% Green, YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% Black, and YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% White. You can find this keyboard here.
EPOMAKER TH98 96%
One of the best 1800-Compact keyboards at a fairly affordable price today is the EPOMAKER TH98 96%. EPOMAKER TH98 96% is an 1800 Compact keyboard that has a cool and unique design that is equipped with very complete features.
From the build quality, the EPOMAKER TH98 96% has a fairly good build quality with a casing made of solid plastic and not easy to bend.
The EPOMAKER TH98 96% is also equipped with PBT keycaps with an MDA profile that have excellent quality and are very pleasant to use for typing or playing games.
For switches, EPOMAKER TH98 96% provides almost all options from Gateron Switch that you can choose according to your taste. But you don’t have to worry if you choose the wrong switch because the EPOMAKER TH98 96% is equipped with a hot swappable PCB that can use a switch with 3 or 5 pins. Great right!
For connectivity, like most Epomaker-made keyboards which are always equipped with the most complete connectivity options, the EPOMAKER TH98 96% also supports connections via a detachable USB Type C cable, 2.4ghz wireless connection, and via bluetooth 5.0. So for connectivity, this keyboard is very complete.
For software support, you definitely get it and you can download it for free on the official epomaker website.
The EPOMAKER TH98 96% is also equipped with a rotary knob which may be very rare on a keyboard with this layout!
This keyboard is equipped with a battery with a capacity of 4000mah that can last up to 18 hours in intense use, this is because the EPOMAKER TH98 96% is not equipped with RGB backlit.
If you are interested in owning EPOMAKER TH98 96%, you can find it through our special link.
Keychron K4
The Keychron K4 is one of the best 1800-Compact mechanical keyboards on the market today. This keyboard has a body made of solid aluminum which makes it very sturdy and rigid.
Keychron K4 is equipped with 100 keys with ABS keycaps, but keychron provides quality PBT keycaps that you can buy through the keychron official website. This keyboard is equipped with the Gateron Red/Blue/Brown Switch option. Keychron K4 can provide an excellent typing experience, all keys can be reached easily.
For connectivity, this keyboard is the most complete, with connectivity options via USB Type C and Bluetooth you can connect to all types of devices with Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPAd operating systems.
Keychron has a very powerful RGB that you can change with keyboard functions, then there is a mode switch that is used to change the keyboard mode when connected to devices that have different operating systems. You can even connect with 3 devices at once. Unfortunately there is no supporting software for keychron k4.
If you want an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard with the most complete connectivity options, then Keychron k4 is the best for you. You can buy this keyboard through our special link at a friendly price.
EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98
The EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 is an 1800-Compact keyboard that has a cool design and uses great quality components. This keyboard has a very good build quality with a casing made of acrylic plastic with a transparent appearance which will look very cool when the RGB effect on this keyboard is turned on.
For keycaps, EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 is equipped with premium quality PBT keycaps that have a cool design with guaranteed durability.
For switches, EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 is equipped with Gateron Switch options that you can choose according to your preferences. But this keyboard is very flexible for the use of switches because this keyboard uses a hot swappable PCB that can use switches with 3 or 5 pins.
For connectivity, the EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 is only equipped with a connection via a detachable USB Type C cable.
For features, this keyboard is very complete because it has several features such as RGB effects, equipped with silicone gasken which can give a bumpy effect when typing, and this keyboard is equipped with dampening foam which can make the typing sound on this keyboard more bassy and crisp to hear.
For software support, EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 certainly has free software support from Epomaker which you can download for free.
Interested in EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98? You can find it through our special link.
EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966
If you want an 1800-Comapct keyboard that has a very aesthetic and refreshing appearance, the EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 is a keyboard option that you should seriously consider.
EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 has a unique and cool appearance with a rotary knob on the top right of this keyboard. EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 also has very good build quality like other epomaker keyboards. This keyboard has a case made of solid plastic and is not easy to bend.
In the keycaps section, the EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 is equipped with MDA profile PBT keycaps that can give you a pleasant typing experience and have unquestionable quality.
For switch options, EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 takes a switch option that is quite unique, namely providing a switch option from the Kailh MX Cream Switch which is one of the switches that is quite popular among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, this keyboard is not equipped with a hot swappable PCB.
For connectivity, the EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 is classified as very complete because it provides connectivity such as via a detachable USB Type C cable, via 2.4ghz wireless, and via a bluetooth connection. This keyboard has also been tested to be compatible with Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and iMac.
There are no RGB features on this keyboard, but features such as silicone gaskets that can give a bumpy effect when typing are installed on this keyboard. This keyboard by default also has dampening foam that can produce bassy typing sounds and is pleasant to hear.
For battery capacity, the EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 is equipped with a battery with a capacity of 10,000mAh which is probably the largest battery capacity for a keyboard currently available.
If you are interested in owning the Ajazz AK966 EPOMAKER, you can find it through our special link.
DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode
Do you feel a little unfamiliar with the name of this keyboard? of course, because this is a new keyboard manufacturer who just wanted to compete with other keyboard brands.
Don’t worry about the quality of this one keyboard, the DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode itself has received so many reviews from various trusted sources and really deserves to be included in this list of the best 1800-Compact keyboards.
The DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode has a cool design and is available in 3 color variants namely Industry Grey, Mecha Blue, and Sailing Red.
For build quality, the DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode has a build quality that is quite good and reliable with a casing made of plastic material that is quite thick and very good at muffled typing sounds.
For keycaps, the DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode is equipped with quality PBT keycaps that can provide a great typing experience. The keycaps design is also very cool and in the purchase package you get several keycaps modifiers that you can apply according to your wishes.
For switches, the DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode uses their own homemade DAREU High-precision V3 Sky Switches which is a linear type switch. Unfortunately, this keyboard is not equipped with a hot swappable PCB so to change the switch you need to solder the switch to the PCB.
For connectivity, this keyboard is very complete because it can support connections via a detachable USB Type C cable, via 2.4ghz wireless, and via bluetooth 5.1.
This keyboard also has quite complete features such as Silicone gasket, RGB backlit, and at the top left there is a small LED screen that can be customized according to your wishes.
The DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode is a very decent 1800-Compact keyboard for you to own and this keyboard is also sold at a fairly affordable price. You can find it here.
Leopold FC980c
The Leopold FC980C is an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard that is great for those of you who want to type quickly, comfortably, and accurately.
The Leopold FC980C is the same generation as the Leopold FC980m but there are slight differences in the switch and keycaps design. Leopold FC980C has a very good build quality, the whole body is made of ABS plastic, although only plastic this keyboard has a sturdy design.
Leopold FC980C is equipped with 98 keys with PBT keycaps which are high quality and have excellent durability. The Leopold FC980C uses an Electrostatic Capacitive Switch which has reliability for fast and accurate typing.
There are no RGB features and any software like other Leopold keyboards. But if you want a mechanical 1800-Compact keyboard that’s great for typing, then the Laopold FC980C is the best choice on the market today. You can buy this keyboard at an affordable price on Amazon.
Akko 3098S 1800 Compact Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard
The Akko 3098S 1800 Compact Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard is undoubtedly one of the best 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards available on the market. This keyboard is designed with an ergonomic layout and features 96% of the keys found on a standard full-size keyboard.
One of the key features that make the Akko 3098S stand out is its hot-swappable switches. This means that users can easily swap out switches without the need for any soldering or technical expertise. This feature allows users to customize the keyboard to their preferences and provides a hassle-free way of changing switches.
The keyboard also boasts high build quality, with a sturdy aluminum frame and PBT keycaps that provide a premium feel and long-lasting durability. The keycaps are double-shot molded, ensuring that the legends will never fade or wear off even after prolonged use.
Furthermore, the keyboard uses Gateron switches, which are known for their reliability and satisfying tactile feedback. The switches are available in various types, including Red, Blue, Brown, and Silver, providing users with a wide range of options to choose from.
Another notable feature of the Akko 3098S is its compact design, which saves space on your desk and makes it easy to transport. The keyboard is also backlit, with customizable RGB lighting that allows users to create their own lighting profiles.
Overall, the Akko 3098S 1800 Compact Hot Swappable Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, customizable mechanical keyboard with a compact design. Its hot-swappable switches, durable build quality, and customizable lighting make it a top contender in its category.
Flesports FL980
The Flesports FL980 is an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard with a very unique Old School look. This keyboard is equipped with 98 keys with high quality PBT double shot keycaps.
The Flesports FL980 1800-Compact Hot Swappable keyboard is a great option if you want to change the switch whenever you want without having to solder. This keyboard uses the Box Brown Switch Edition x1 which has quite good feedback and is not noisy.
The RGB backlight on the Flesports FL980 keyboard is great, and is perfect for use in low light spaces. For connectivity, this keyboard only supports type C via USB cable and is compatible with Windows, MacOs and Linux operating systems. There is no supporting software for this keyboard.
You can buy this keyboard for a fairly affordable price on Amazon.
Cherry G80-1800
Cherry G80-1800 is an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard that is quite popular in the market. This is because this keyboard is known to be very comfortable to use for typing.
The Cherry G80-1800 is equipped with the same 104 keys as a full-size keyboard, but packaged in an 1800-Compact layout. This keyboard has ABS keycaps with switches from Cherry MX Special for this keyboard which can make you type faster and more accurately.
The Cherry G80-1800 only supports connection via USB and is compatible with Windows, MacOs, and Linux. There is no RGB and Software support for the Cherry G80-1800 keyboard. But still it is the best typing keyboard specially made by Cherry MX. You can buy this keyboard at an affordable price on Amazon.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 is the next recommendation. The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 is an 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard that provides complete connectivity with USB type C cable, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless. This keyboard can connect to various devices with different operating systems such as Windows, MacOs, Linux, Android, and iOS/iPAD.
This keyboard has a pretty good build quality with plastic material. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 is equipped with 100 keys with ABS keycaps and available Switch Brown, Blue, and White for this keyboard.
RGB and buttons you can reprogram using software from RK, this is pretty good. This keyboard is quite affordable and has good supporting software. You can buy this keyboard for a low price on Amazon.
TKC1800 Keyboard Kit
TKC1800 MECHANICAL KEYBOARD but you need a little work before you can use this keyboard. You have to assemble it yourself and combine all the components.
This keyboard provides a case made of solid ABS plastic, quality PBT keycaps with various motifs that you can choose, Plate, Switch, detachable USB cable. You just have to assemble them although this is a bit difficult for some people. But lovers of custom keyboard mechanics will definitely love this.
There is no RGB on this keyboard, there are only a few LEDs for indicators. The switch is available only Cherry MX, of course you have to solder your switch when installing it on the TKC1800 MECHANICAL KEYBOARD KIT PCB.
If you want to have an 1800-Compact Custom mechanical keyboard, this is the best option right now. You can buy it through TheKey.Company Official Website.
Benefits of 1800 Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among computer users due to their superior typing experience, and the 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards are no exception. These keyboards offer several benefits over traditional membrane keyboards, including:
- Enhanced Durability: Mechanical keyboards are built to last. They are designed with high-quality components that are capable of withstanding heavy usage, and the 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards are no exception. Their switches have an average lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, making them durable and reliable.
- Increased Typing Speed: The mechanical switches used in these keyboards have a shorter actuation point and a tactile feedback, allowing for faster typing speeds with fewer errors. This can be especially useful for gamers, programmers, and writers who spend long hours typing.
- Improved Typing Experience: The tactile feedback of mechanical switches gives a satisfying sensation, and the sound of each keystroke adds to the overall typing experience. This can improve typing accuracy and make typing more enjoyable.
- Customization: Many 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards offer a high degree of customization. Users can choose from different types of switches with different actuation forces and feedback, allowing them to tailor their keyboard to their preferences.
- Compact Design: The 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards have a smaller footprint compared to traditional keyboards, making them ideal for users with limited desk space. They also have all the keys of a full-sized keyboard, including a numeric keypad, making them more versatile.
In conclusion, 1800 compact (96%) mechanical keyboards are a great choice for those who want a superior typing experience, increased typing speed, and enhanced durability. With a variety of customization options and a compact design, they are a versatile and practical choice for all kinds of computer users.
Drawbacks of 1800 Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboards
The 1800 compact mechanical keyboards, which typically have 96% of the keys found on a full-size keyboard, have some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase.
- Limited customization: Due to the compact size of these keyboards, there is limited space for customization options. This means that some keys may be located in less optimal positions or may not be included at all.
- Reduced functionality: The compact size of the keyboard can result in reduced functionality, with some keys being combined or removed altogether. This can make it more difficult to perform certain tasks, such as accessing function keys or adjusting volume.
- Reduced typing comfort: The smaller size of the keyboard can also make typing less comfortable, particularly for users with larger hands. The keys may feel cramped, and there may not be enough space for proper hand placement.
- Higher learning curve: Due to the limited customization and reduced functionality, users may need to adjust their typing habits and learn new key combinations in order to use the keyboard effectively.
- Higher cost: Compared to standard full-size keyboards, 1800 compact mechanical keyboards may be more expensive due to their specialized design and limited production runs.
- Availability: Due to their limited production runs, 1800 compact mechanical keyboards may be harder to find for purchase compared to more mainstream keyboard designs.
Conclusion
1800-compact mechanical keyboards are an excellent option for people who want a full-sized layout without the number pad. These keyboards usually have around 96 to 99 keys, making them more compact than a standard full-sized keyboard, but still providing all the essential keys needed for daily work and gaming.
Here are some of the best 1800-compact mechanical keyboards available in the market:
- The Drop Shift 1800 Layout (99 Key) is a popular keyboard with a classic design that provides an excellent typing experience. It features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to change out switches without having to solder.
- The IQUNIX F97 Hitchhiker is a premium keyboard that offers an excellent build quality with a sleek design. It has a compact layout with 97 keys and comes with customizable RGB lighting.
- The YUNZII Keynovo IF98 98 Key 96% keyboard has a compact layout that saves space on your desk while still offering all the essential keys. It also comes with a detachable USB-C cable for easy transport.
- The EPOMAKER TH98 96% keyboard is a well-built keyboard that offers a minimalist design with an aluminum frame. It features Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- The Keychron K4 is a popular wireless keyboard with a compact layout and a hot-swappable PCB. It features a durable aluminum frame and has customizable RGB lighting.
- The EPOMAKER Click Lab CL98 is a compact keyboard that offers an excellent typing experience with a customizable layout. It features a hot-swappable PCB and Bluetooth connectivity.
- The EPOMAKER Ajazz AK966 is a mechanical keyboard that features a compact layout with 96 keys. It has a sturdy aluminum frame and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- The DAREU A98 Pro Tri-Mode is a versatile keyboard that offers wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. It features customizable RGB lighting and hot-swappable switches.
- The Leopold FC980c is a high-end mechanical keyboard that features a compact layout and a Topre switch. It has a durable build quality and comes with customizable RGB lighting.
- The Akko 3098S 1800 Compact keyboard has a retro-inspired design and a compact layout with 98 keys. It features Cherry MX switches and has a sturdy aluminum frame.
- The Flesports FL980 is a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard that offers a compact layout with 98 keys. It features a hot-swappable PCB and customizable RGB lighting.
- The Cherry G80-1800 is a classic keyboard that offers a compact layout and Cherry MX switches. It has a durable build quality and is compatible with Windows and macOS.
- The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK100 is a budget-friendly keyboard that offers a compact layout with 87 keys. It features a hot-swappable PCB and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- The TKC1800 Keyboard Kit is a customizable keyboard kit that allows you to build your own 1800-compact keyboard. It features a hot-swappable PCB and comes with customizable RGB lighting.
Overall, these 1800-compact mechanical keyboards offer a great combination of compact size, essential functionality, and customizability, making them ideal for both work and play.
FAQs
What is an 1800 compact keyboard?
An 1800 compact keyboard is a type of mechanical keyboard that has 96% of the keys found on a full-size keyboard, but in a more compact form factor. It typically has a number pad, arrow keys, and function keys.
What are the benefits of using an 1800 compact keyboard?
One of the main benefits of using an 1800 compact keyboard is that it provides more desk space, making it easier to navigate around your workspace. Additionally, it’s a great option for those who want a number pad without sacrificing too much desk space.
What are some popular brands that make 1800 compact keyboards?
Some popular brands that make 1800 compact keyboards include Drop, Epomakr, Akko, Cherry, Leopold, and Keychron.
What are some common switches used in 1800 compact keyboards?
Some common switches used in 1800 compact keyboards include Cherry MX switches, Gateron switches, and Kailh switches.
Can an 1800 compact keyboard be used for gaming?
Yes, an 1800 compact keyboard can be used for gaming. In fact, many gamers prefer mechanical keyboards because they offer more tactile feedback and faster response times.
What is the price range for an 1800 compact keyboard?
The price range for an 1800 compact keyboard can vary depending on the brand and features. However, they generally range from around $100 to $300.
Are there any downsides to using an 1800 compact keyboard?
One potential downside of using an 1800 compact keyboard is that it may take some time to adjust to the smaller form factor. Additionally, some users may miss having dedicated media keys or other specialized keys that are often found on full-size keyboards.
