Tenkeyless, or TKL, removes the number pad but keeps the arrow keys and function row. That is a useful middle ground for gaming: more mouse space without learning a much smaller 60% layout. These five keyboards span simple wired mechanical boards, slim wireless models and a magnetic-switch option.
TKL comparison at a glance
| Keyboard | Connection | Switch type | Main reason to consider it |
|---|---|---|---|
| HyperX Alloy Origins Core | Wired | HyperX Red mechanical | Straightforward wired board |
| Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL | Wireless / USB | Low-profile GL mechanical | Slim wireless desk setup |
| Logitech G PRO X TKL LIGHTSPEED | Wireless / USB | GX mechanical | Conventional profile and media controls |
| Logitech G915 X LIGHTSPEED TKL | Wireless / USB | Low-profile GL mechanical | Slim profile, PBT keycaps and media roller |
| SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 | Wired | OmniPoint 3.0 magnetic | Adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger |
The simple wired option: HyperX Alloy Origins Core
The Alloy Origins Core is the least complicated decision here. It is wired, has a detachable USB-C cable and uses an aluminium body. The linked Amazon listing specifies HyperX Red linear switches. Choose it if you want a conventional TKL without paying for wireless or magnetic controls.
HyperX Alloy Origins Core
Layout: Tenkeyless
Connection: Wired USB-C
Switches: HyperX Red linear in linked listing
- Compact layout
- Detachable cable
- Aluminium body
- You want wireless
- You need a number pad
The slim wireless option: Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL
The G515 trades a tall key stack for low-profile switches and a slimmer body. Its 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth and wired modes make it flexible across a desktop and another device. It is a better fit than the HyperX if cable-free use is a priority, but a worse fit if you want the simplest wired purchase.
Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL
Layout: Tenkeyless
Connection: LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, USB
Switches: Low-profile GL mechanical
- Wireless desk setup
- Low-profile keys
- Room for mouse movement
- You want a number pad
- You want adjustable magnetic actuation
The conventional wireless option: Logitech G PRO X TKL
The PRO X TKL keeps a standard mechanical profile and adds a volume roller and media controls. It is worth a look if you are moving from a full-height mechanical keyboard and do not want low-profile keys. Check which GX switch variant is selected on Amazon before ordering.
Logitech G PRO X TKL LIGHTSPEED
Layout: Tenkeyless
Connection: LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, USB
Switches: Mechanical GX; check listing variant
- Compact competition-style layout
- Dedicated media controls
- Wireless or wired use
- You prefer a lower-profile key height
- You need a number pad
The premium slim option: Logitech G915 X LIGHTSPEED TKL
The G915 X TKL adds double-shot PBT keycaps, a brushed metal top plate and a media roller to the low-profile wireless formula. It is the most relevant alternative to the G515 for someone who values physical controls. If those extras do not matter, the G515 is the more sensible place to start comparing current prices.
Logitech G915 X LIGHTSPEED TKL
Layout: Tenkeyless
Connection: LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, USB
Switches: Low-profile GL mechanical
- Low-profile board with media roller
- PBT keycaps
- Three connection modes
- You want a full-size layout
- You are shopping at the entry level
The adjustable-switch option: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3
The Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is a different purchase. Its magnetic switches allow actuation adjustments and Rapid Trigger settings, while an OLED display adds on-board feedback. That makes sense for a buyer who intends to configure those features. It is wired, so a wireless requirement immediately rules it out.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3
Layout: Tenkeyless
Connection: Wired USB-C
Switches: OmniPoint 3.0 magnetic
- Adjustable actuation
- Rapid Trigger
- OLED display and media controls
- You require wireless
- You want a simple plug-in-and-forget board
For a compact board with no feature rabbit hole, begin with the HyperX. For wireless, compare the G515 with the PRO X TKL based on key height. For configurable magnetic switches, inspect the Apex Pro. Check the exact variant and current terms before buying.