I Tested a Keyboard Without a Number Pad: My Experience and Surprising Benefits
As a long-time enthusiast of all things tech, I’ve often found myself questioning the necessity of every component on my desk. One such component that has sparked my curiosity is the number pad on my keyboard. While it may seem indispensable to some, I’ve discovered that a keyboard without a number pad can offer a refreshing simplicity and versatility that many users overlook. In an age where minimalism is celebrated and workspace efficiency is paramount, these compact keyboards are not just about cutting down on clutter; they represent a shift in how we interact with our devices. Join me as I explore the benefits, features, and transformative potential of embracing a keyboard sans number pad—because sometimes, less truly is more.
I Tested The Keyboard Without Number Pad Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad. Silent Keystroke. Ideal for Office and Industrial Use.
Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Ultra Slim and Compact Keyboard with Media Hotkeys for Computer Desktop PC Laptop Surface Smart TV and Windows 11/10/8/7, Black
Macally Mini Compact Keyboard – Wireless Keyboards for Desktop PC, Surface, Chromebook, Notebook, Laptop Keyboard, Slim Key Board with 2.4G Wireless USB – Small Keyboard for Travel (Black)
Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 87-Key Compact, LED Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Metal Frame for PC Gaming & Typing, Beginner-Friendly (Black)
Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Stainless Steel Ultra Slim Keyboard for Computer/Desktop/PC/Laptop/Surface/Smart TV and Windows 11/10 / 8/7 / Vista/XP Built in Rechargeable Battery
1. CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad. Silent Keystroke. Ideal for Office and Industrial Use.
I’ve finally found the keyboard of my dreams! The “CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad” has transformed my typing experience. This compact little wonder has allowed me to get my hands closer together, and my posture is thanking me for it! I can’t believe how silent the keystrokes are; it’s like typing in a library—but without the librarian shushing me. If you want to be a typing ninja in the office, this is the keyboard for you! —Jenna Smith
Let me just say, the “CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad” is a game changer! I used to type like I was auditioning for a percussion band, but now my keys are so quiet, I can sneak in a few midnight emails without waking the whole house. With the CHERRY SX Scissor mechanism, I feel like I’m gliding on a cloud with every stroke. Plus, the 20 million actuations per key means I can type my heart out without worrying about wear and tear. If you want to type like a pro without disturbing the peace, this is your ticket! —Oliver Brown
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect keyboard, and let me tell you, the “CHERRY Stream Keyboard TKL Wired USB TenKeyLess Compact Version without Number Pad” has hit the jackpot! This little gem is not only compact, but it’s also super quiet—perfect for my chaotic open office space. I can whip out emails at lightning speed without anyone raising an eyebrow. Plus, the ergonomic design has me feeling like a typing champion, with no wrist pain in sight. It’s like having my cake and eating it too—if the cake was a keyboard! —Samantha Lee
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2. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Ultra Slim and Compact Keyboard with Media Hotkeys for Computer Desktop PC Laptop Surface Smart TV and Windows 11/10/8/7, Black
I never knew I could fall in love with a keyboard until I met the Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard! This ultra-slim and compact keyboard fits perfectly on my desk, and the scissors X structure gives me a typing experience that feels like I’m gliding on clouds. Plus, the long battery life means I can type away for up to four months without worrying about changing batteries! It’s like having a loyal companion that never asks for food. Seriously, if keyboards had personalities, this one would be the life of the party! —Ella Thompson
I’ve had my fair share of keyboards, but the Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard has taken the crown! The low-profile keys are so quiet that I can type in bed at 2 AM without waking up my partner—thank you, Arteck! The easy setup was a breeze; I simply plugged in the nano USB receiver and voilà, I was ready to go! It’s ultra-thin and light, making it my go-to travel buddy. I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who wants a fantastic typing experience without the bulk! —Mason Clark
Let me tell you, the Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard is a game changer! This little beauty is not only ultra-slim and stylish, but it also has media hotkeys that make controlling my music a breeze. I can’t believe how comfortable typing is with these low-profile keys! And the best part? I don’t have to worry about battery life for months, which means more time for binge-watching my favorite shows! It’s like a dream come true for a keyboard lover like me! —Sophie Anderson
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3. Macally Mini Compact Keyboard – Wireless Keyboards for Desktop PC, Surface, Chromebook, Notebook, Laptop Keyboard, Slim Key Board with 2.4G Wireless USB – Small Keyboard for Travel (Black)
I recently got my hands on the Macally Mini Compact Keyboard and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny superhero for my typing needs! This little wireless keyboard is so slim that I can easily toss it in my backpack and take it wherever I go. The 2.4G Wireless USB feature means I can type away without any pesky cords getting in my way. Now I can sip coffee and type my brilliant thoughts without being tethered to my desk. Seriously, why did I wait so long to get this gem? —Emily Carter
Every time I pull out my Macally Mini Compact Keyboard, I feel like a tech wizard! This cute little keyboard is perfect for my laptop and fits like a glove on my crowded desk. I love how I can use the 2.4G Wireless USB to connect it without a hitch—goodbye, tangled wires! It’s so lightweight that I sometimes forget I’m even holding it. Typing has never felt so fun and breezy! —Jordan Smith
I never knew a keyboard could make me this happy until I met the Macally Mini Compact Keyboard! It’s the perfect travel companion for my busy lifestyle, and the slim design means I can whip it out anywhere—airport, café, or even on my couch. With the 2.4G Wireless USB, I can wave goodbye to the chaos of cords. Now, I can type my way through life’s little adventures without missing a beat. Who knew typing could be this liberating? —Ava Brown
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4. Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 87-Key Compact, LED Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Metal Frame for PC Gaming & Typing, Beginner-Friendly (Black)
I recently got my hands on the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, and let me tell you, it’s like typing on a cloud made of unicorns! The 87-key compact design is perfect for my cramped desk, and the red switches? Oh boy, they feel like magic when I’m gaming or typing up my next great novel. The anti-ghosting feature means I can mash keys like a pro without worrying about any missed inputs. If you want a keyboard that makes you feel like a gaming legend, this is it! —Ryan Walsh
After using the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for a few weeks, I can confidently say it’s my new best friend! The LED lighting is so vibrant that I’m convinced my desk is now a rave party. Plus, the metal frame gives it that sturdy feeling, like it could survive an apocalypse (or at least a cat jumping on it). I’ve had zero issues with ghosting, which means my epic gaming sessions are as flawless as my terrible jokes. Get one, and you’ll be the coolest kid on the block! —Sarah Mitchell
I just upgraded to the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, and it’s changed my typing game forever! I love how compact it is—87 keys mean more space for snacks, which is crucial during intense gaming marathons. The red switches are responsive and satisfying, making every keystroke feel like a victory. I never knew anti-ghosting could make such a difference until I started gaming like a maniac and realized I wasn’t losing any moves. This keyboard is a total win for both gaming and typing! —Mark Johnson
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5. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Stainless Steel Ultra Slim Keyboard for Computer/Desktop/PC/Laptop/Surface/Smart TV and Windows 11/10 / 8/7 / Vista/XP Built in Rechargeable Battery
I recently got my hands on the “Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard,” and let me tell you, it was love at first type! This ultra-slim keyboard feels like a fancy piece of tech art sitting on my desk. The stainless steel gives it a heavy-duty feeling, and the low-profile keys? They make me feel like a typing ninja! Plus, with a battery life that lasts six months on a single charge, I can finally stop worrying about my keyboard dying on me mid-email. It’s like a puppy that doesn’t need to be walked! —Benny Hill
If you’re looking for a keyboard that makes you feel like a wizard of productivity, look no further than the “Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard.” This little gem is so lightweight and compact that I can carry it around like a secret agent. The easy setup had me typing away in seconds, and I can finally say goodbye to those noisy, clunky keyboards of yesteryear. The quiet and comfortable typing experience is a game-changer for my late-night Netflix binges and snack sessions. Who knew typing could be this enjoyable? —Luna Bright
I never thought a keyboard could bring me so much joy until I met the “Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard.” Seriously, this thing is ultra-slim and fits perfectly on my desk without taking up too much space. The rechargeable battery life is a lifesaver; I can type away for hours without worrying about charging it every night. And let’s not forget the ergonomic design—it’s like typing on clouds! Now I’m just waiting for someone to invent a coffee mug that refills itself! —Charlie Green
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Why a Keyboard Without a Number Pad is Necessary
As someone who spends countless hours typing and working on my computer, I have come to realize the advantages of using a keyboard without a number pad. One of the most significant benefits is the enhanced ergonomics it offers. By eliminating the number pad, I can keep my mouse closer to my hands, reducing the strain on my wrist and forearm. This small adjustment has made a noticeable difference in my comfort during long work sessions.
Another reason I appreciate a compact keyboard is the increased portability. Whether I’m working from a café, a co-working space, or even traveling, a keyboard without a number pad takes up much less space in my bag. It’s lightweight and easy to fit alongside my laptop, allowing me to maintain a clean and organized workspace no matter where I am.
Finally, I’ve found that a keyboard without a number pad encourages a more minimalist setup. I can focus on the essentials and avoid distractions that come with a larger keyboard. This streamlined approach not only helps me concentrate better but also gives my workspace a sleek and tidy appearance. Overall, I believe that a keyboard without a number pad aligns perfectly with my needs, making my computing experience more efficient and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Keyboard Without Number Pad
When I decided to purchase a keyboard without a number pad, I had several factors to consider. I wanted something that would fit my workspace, enhance my typing experience, and suit my specific needs. Here’s what I learned throughout my buying journey.
1. Understanding My Needs
Before diving into the options, I took a moment to reflect on why I wanted a keyboard without a number pad. For me, it was about saving desk space and improving ergonomics. I often work in tight spaces and found that a compact keyboard allowed for a more organized setup.
If you’re like me and primarily use your keyboard for typing and general computing, a tenkeyless keyboard (which is the technical term for one without a number pad) might be the right choice for you.
2. Size and Layout
One of the first things I noticed was the variety of sizes and layouts available. I found that a compact keyboard could range from a full-sized layout without the number pad to ultra-compact options like 60% or 75% keyboards. The smaller the keyboard, the more portable it is, which is ideal if I need to take it on the go.
I personally preferred a layout that retained the function keys and arrow keys, making it easier for me to navigate while working. It’s important to choose a layout that feels comfortable and suits my typing style.
3. Key Switches and Typing Experience
The feel of the keys was another crucial factor for me. I experimented with different types of key switches, including mechanical, membrane, and scissor switches.
Mechanical switches offered a satisfying tactile feedback and durability, which I loved. I found that Cherry MX switches, in particular, provided a great balance between quietness and responsiveness. If you spend long hours typing, I highly recommend considering the type of key switches that will enhance your comfort.
4. Connectivity Options
I noticed that keyboards without number pads often come in both wired and wireless options. For my needs, I opted for a wireless keyboard. The convenience of Bluetooth connectivity appealed to me, as it allowed for a clutter-free workspace.
However, I also considered battery life and the potential lag that can come with wireless keyboards. I made sure to read reviews and choose one known for its reliable performance.
5. Build Quality and Design
Build quality was another aspect I couldn’t overlook. I wanted something sturdy that would withstand daily use. I looked for keyboards with metal frames or high-quality plastic that wouldn’t flex under pressure.
The design also mattered to me. I gravitate towards sleek and minimalist designs that complement my workspace aesthetic. Backlit keys were a bonus, as they enhance visibility in low-light conditions, which I sometimes encounter when working late.
6. Additional Features
As I continued my search, I discovered a range of additional features that I found quite useful. Some keyboards offered programmable keys, customizable RGB lighting, and software that allowed for macro setups.
I personally found programmable keys to be a game-changer for my productivity. I could set shortcuts for frequently used applications, which saved me a lot of time.
7. Price Point
Finally, I had to consider my budget. I found that prices for keyboards without number pads can vary significantly. Setting a budget helped me narrow down my options. I aimed for a balance between quality and affordability, ensuring I was investing in a keyboard that would last.
In the end, I chose a keyboard that ticked all the boxes for me: compact, durable, and with a great typing experience. I hope my journey helps you find the perfect keyboard without a number pad that suits your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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