Keyboards without Numeric Keypad

By Xah Lee. Date: . Last updated: .

This page is a selection of high-end compact keyboards loved by keyboard fans, almost with a cult-following. They are very expensive.

2020-07-20 This page is not being maintained, because since 2013, compact keyboards are easy to find.

Filco Keyboard

Filco is the brand name of the Japanese company Diatec. It's known among keyboard enthusiasts for its high quality keyboards.

Filco Ninja Majestouch-2

Filco Ninja Majestouch-2 Tenkeyless NKR Linear Action Keyboard FKBN87ML EFB2
Filco Ninja Majestouch-2 Buy at amazon

The Ninja series feature key labels in front of the keys.

This keyboard also features true N-key rollover. (See: Max Number of Simultaneous Key-Press (N-key Rollover, NKRO, Ghosting))

Filco makes many different models of compact keyboards. Different colors, different Cherry MX mechanical key switches, and some have the key labels printed in front of the keycap instead of on top.

[see Keyboard Key Switch Mechanisms]

Filco Camo Majestouch-2 Tenkeyless keyboard
Filco Majestouch-2 Tenkeyless Filco Majestouch-2 Tenkeyless

Noppoo Choc Mini NKRO Keyboard

noppoo choc mini keyboard 48893
Noppoo Choc Mini 84

Noppoo is a Chinese company. They have this model with Cherry MX {blue, red, black} switches.

It features full NKRO over USB, but only 6KRO for Mac.

[see Max Number of Simultaneous Key-Press (N-key Rollover, NKRO, Ghosting)]

Matias Mini Tactile Pro

Matias is mostly popular only in Mac community. ALPS Mechanical key switches.

[see Matias Mini Tactile Pro Keyboard]

Cheapos

Keyboards Without Numeric Keypad, Under $30


Which is for You?

If you are a programer, i recommend keyboards with physical function keys.

see Why Function Keys F1 to F12 Are Useful

I also recommend keyboard with arrows keys. Without, it'd be hard to play pacman.

See also: Programable Keyboards with Onboard Memory