Posted in: Keyboards

Why Are TKL Keyboards More Expensive?

Last Updated on October 22, 2023

“Why Are TKL Keyboards More Expensive?” This question frequently resonates within the mechanical keyboard community, and in this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the rising costs of TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboards. While many assume that larger mechanical keyboards should naturally cost more, the price is determined by various factors, primarily market demand and trends.

But in the market world that determines the price of a mechanical keyboard is not based on its size, but market demand is the determinant. The higher the demand for a product with certain criteria, the higher the price to be offered in the market.

In fact, the current demand for TKL-sized mechanical keyboards (87%) is the highest in the market. There are several reasons for this to happen, all reasons why TKL-sized mechanical keyboards are more expensive today than other sized mechanical keyboards.

Why Are TKL Keyboards More Expensive?

1. Trends

Trends
Source: Google Trends

Based on google trends data, searches with keywords TKL, Tenkeyless has a rapid and stable increase in the United States. As we know, the United States is the largest market for gaming products, including for mechanical keyboard products.

Based on this data, we can conclude that TKL-sized mechanical keyboards have become a trend in the last 3 years which has caused the demand for TKL-sized mechanical keyboards to increase in the market. This is one proof that causes TKL-sized mechanical keyboards to be more expensive than others.

2. Famous Gaming Streamer Using TKL-Sized Mechanical Keyboard

Ninja has used several TKL-sized mechanical keyboards

Famous Gaming Streamer Using TKL-Sized Mechanical Keyboard

Based on data on wikipedia.com, ninja is one of the most popular streamers in the world. has the most followers on the twitch platform, a huge fanbase with the highest streaming revenue in the world. With this fact, many people want to participate in using gaming accessories used by ninjas when streaming, including the mechanical keyboard used.

Ninja has used several TKL mechanical keyboards from different brands. One of the sized keyboards that Ninja has used while streaming is the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL which he’s been using to date. Based on the latest photo post on ninja’s instagram, he is still using the Mechanical keyboard Apex Pro TKL from steelseries.

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL

Ninja is certainly a gaming streamer who has a big influence on the gaming setup trend for gaming lovers. This can also be one of the reasons why the demand for TKL-sized mechanical keyboards is increasing in the market. Because of this, TKL-sized keyboards are becoming increasingly expensive.

Shroud Streaming Using TKL Mechanical Keyboard

Shroud Streaming Using TKL Mechanical Keyboard
Shroud Streaming Using TKL Mechanical Keyboard

Shroud is a former professional CSGO player who retired from professional competition and is currently a streamer in several FPS games. Shroud is one of the most famous streamers in the world because of his extraordinary skills.

Shroud played many FPS games like CSGO, PUBG, Valorant, Fortnite, and Apex Legend. Because shroud is one of the influential influencers, shroud’s gaming setup will certainly be in the spotlight for fans and viewers.

Coincidentally, Shroud is currently sponsored by Logitech which even Logitech makes a special Shroud series for a complete gaming setup called “LOGITECH G PRO SERIES SHROUD EDITION“. One of the things that made me discuss shroud is because the Mechanical Gaming Kayboard it uses is a TKL-sized mechanical gaming keyboard, namely Logitech G PRO TKL which you can see in the picture above.

3. Professional Gamer Using TKL-sized Mechanical Keyboard

Professional Gamer Using TKL-sized Mechanical Keyboard

It’s a fact that most professional gamers use TKL-sized mechanical keyboards. Because a keyboard that is TKL size (87%) includes a keyboard that is quite compact in size that can be carried anywhere. When undergoing tournaments, professional gamers bring their respective gaming setups to participate in the match. Because the TKL-sized keyboard has a fairly compact size and can be carried anywhere, many professional gamers choose a TKL-sized keyboard as their main keyboard.

One of the professional dota 2 players known as Arteezy (Artour Babaev) from the Evil Geniuses team uses a TKL-sized mechanical keyboard, the Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition TKL. Team Evil Geniuses is indeed sponsored by Razer, but aren’t there other sized keyboards for their players to choose from? for example a full size keyboard from Razer like the Razer Huntsman Elite. In fact, all Evil Geniuses players use a TKL-sized Mechanical keyboard.

Abed Using TKL Keyboard

The photo above is abed when they competed in one of the major dota 2 tournaments, “WePlay AniMajor”. As you can see in the picture EG. Abed uses the Razer BlackWidow Lite TKL Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard. Things like this can cause an increase in people’s interest in TKL-sized mechanical keyboards.

Not only professional dota 2 players who mostly use TKL-sized mechanical keyboards. Some professional gamers from FPS games like Valorant for example, based on data we got from the prosettings.net website, almost 80 percent of professional Valorant players use a TKL-sized mechanical keyboard.

80 percent of professional Valorant players use a TKL-sized mechanical keyboard

The most widely used keyboards by Professional Valorant Players are keyboards from Logitech, one of which is the Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Based on the data we got from the Prosettings.net website, the TKL-sized mechanical keyboard is the most widely used by professional valorant players. The following is the TKL keyboard data used by professional Valorant players in the table below:

RankMechanical Keyboard Name
1Logitech Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
2Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed
3HyperX Alloy Origins Core
4CORSAIR K70 RGB TKL
5CORSAIR Vengeance K65 Compact
6Razer BlackWidow Lite

The three reasons above are enough evidence that TKL-sized mechanical keyboards are a trend in the market which makes the demand for the market high. So the TKL-sized mechanical keyboard becomes more expensive than other size keyboards.

Why Choose TKL Keyboards?

Advantages of TKL-Sized Keyboards

  1. Provides Extra Desk Space: TKL keyboards offer more space for desk accessories and personal items, making them an ideal choice for those with limited desk space.
  2. Improved Comfort: The centered positioning of a TKL keyboard reduces the need to stretch when transitioning between the keyboard and mouse, enhancing comfort and ergonomics.
  3. Quick Adaptation: TKL keyboards don’t require a transition period, making them a seamless choice for users accustomed to full-size keyboards.

Disadvantages of TKL-Sized Keyboards

The main drawback of TKL keyboards is their absence of a dedicated Numpad. However, this can often be mitigated using the number row above the function keys or by purchasing a separate, standalone Numpad.

Why Are Gaming Keyboards Expensive?

While TKL keyboards are pricier than their compact counterparts, gaming keyboards, in general, are known for their high costs. This is attributed to their rich feature sets, including dedicated media keys, macro keys, programmable keys, extensive connectivity options, customizable layer functions, anti-ghosting, and the use of high-quality components such as switches, keycaps, and durable casing materials like aluminum or premium ABS plastic.

Factors Contributing to the Popularity of TKL Keyboards

The popularity of TKL keyboards has surged for various reasons. Let’s explore some of the key factors that have propelled these keyboards to the forefront of the mechanical keyboard market.

1. Streamlined Design

TKL keyboards are revered for their sleek and compact design. They eliminate the numeric keypad found in full-size keyboards, making them more streamlined and space-efficient. This minimalist approach has struck a chord with many users who appreciate an uncluttered and aesthetically pleasing workspace.

2. Portability

The TKL format is ideal for individuals on the move. Its reduced size and weight make it easy to carry in a backpack or laptop bag, catering to professionals and gamers who need a reliable keyboard for travel or LAN parties.

3. Gaming-Focused Layout

Gaming enthusiasts prefer TKL keyboards for their efficient layout. The absence of a numeric keypad means that the keyboard is centered around the main typing and gaming keys. This alignment offers a more ergonomic experience and reduces the distance between the keyboard and the mouse, enabling quicker response times in gaming.

4. Customizability

Many TKL keyboards support extensive customizability, from programmable keys to customizable RGB lighting. This flexibility appeals to users who want to tailor their keyboard to match their preferences and gaming setups.

5. Growing Variety

With the increasing demand for TKL keyboards, manufacturers have responded by offering a wide range of options, catering to different tastes and budgets. This variety ensures that users can find a TKL keyboard that suits their specific needs and style.

6. Mechanical Key Switches

Mechanical key switches are a hallmark of TKL keyboards, delivering a tactile and responsive typing experience. Gamers and professionals often prefer the distinct feedback and durability of mechanical switches.

The Affordability of TKL Keyboards

While the demand for TKL keyboards is driving prices up, there are still many affordable options on the market. You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the benefits of a TKL keyboard. Manufacturers have introduced budget-friendly models without compromising on quality.

In conclusion, TKL keyboards have become more expensive due to their surging popularity, driven by gaming trends, influencer endorsements, and professional gamers’ preferences. However, the advantages they offer, including a compact design, portability, ergonomic layout, customizability, and mechanical key switches, make them a compelling choice for a wide range of users. Whether you’re a gamer, professional, or simply someone who values a clean and efficient workspace, a TKL keyboard might be the right choice for you. Thankfully, with the growing market, you can still find an affordable TKL keyboard that meets your needs and budget.

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