Best Ortholinear Keyboards: Handy Units for Compact PC Builds

Our best ortholinear keyboards review thoroughly discovers several impressive units with similar specs and features, ideal for many applications.

Although finding the perfect keyboard layout is challenging for some customers with special requirements and needs, we attempted to simplify your choice by providing seven excellent models.

Also, this guide does not review the Planck EZ keyboard, but our experts are confident it is a superb unit at that cost. You will become an expert at ortholinear and mechanical keyboards by the time you finish reading this informative guide, so let’s get to it!

Comparison Table

Product	Details
Drop OLKB Preonic	Best for custom keycap sets It offers five unique color choices and a new ARM STM32 processor It features the MX plate, which supports the 1 x 2u, 2 x 2u, and MIT layout
Razer Huntsman Mini	Best for RGB lighting Ultimate customization and gaming immersion with Razer Chroma It is covered with a matte, aluminum frame for durability
Kinesis Advantage2	Best for ortholinear layout The contoured ergonomic shape increases comfort and productivity It includes premium Cherry switches boosting the typing experience
Cherry G86-6340	Best for number of keys Customers can completely customize the grid layout The overall design is simple and ideal for office usage
KINESIS Freestyle Edge	Best among split keyboards 16.8M color per-key RGB Backlighting with ten customizable effects All 95 keys are fully programmable for complete customization
KINESIS Freestyle Pro	Best for high-end ergonomics Full onboard programmability with the Driverless SmartSet engine Customers can quickly plug and play most major operating systems
AbleNet 12000024	Best for large legends and symbols The keycaps are yellow, so the symbols are easily visible It is one of the most affordable products in this guide

The 7 Best Ortholinear Keyboards Reviews

The previous table with bullet lists taught you the product’s actual specs and features. However, it takes more than that to become an expert at these ortholinear units; you also have to know their pros and cons and the critical criteria ratings. Hence, continue reading the following sections containing our experts’ opinions and scores.

1. OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard

Pros:

• The aluminum case makes this keyboard attractive
• The package includes a keyboard sleeve to protect the unit while traveling
• The layout is similar to the Planck but with an additional row for easier access to the numbers
• The new ARM STM32 processor provides more power to the PCBA and the USB-C connector

Cons:

• It is one of the least affordable featured products in this guide
• This fantastic keyboard does not include RGB LED lighting

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design:5 out of 10
• Switch types: 9 out of 10
• RGB backlights:5 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity:5 out of 10

The OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear is this article’s first featured ortholinear keyboard with superb specs and features. As you can see, this unit has more pros than cons and received excellent ratings on nearly all vital criteria, proving its top quality and durability.

Namely, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard’s most prominent feature is the aluminum case that keeps the components safe and the keyboard sleeve ideal for traveling. Thus, our experts agreed on a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the critical design criterion, missing a perfect rating by a little.

Fortunately, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard also scores high for the following criterion. Namely, this model includes the standard Cherry switches, but customers can upgrade to other brands due to the ARM STM32 processors.

In addition, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard includes Kaihua hot swappable sockets, which are excellent for fast typing or editing. Hence, we provide a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the switch type critical criterion.

Unfortunately, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard does not have RGB LED backlighting, which is essential to current standards. As a result, customers cannot fully experience this ortholinear keyboard in dark settings.

However, a white backlight helps customers see the legends and symbols. Therefore, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard deserves a final rating of 7.5 out of 10 for the RGB backlighting criterion.

Fortunately, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard improves regarding the last criteria, proving its excellent switch quality. For instance, customers will get a typical keystroke sensitivity similar brands have, which is incredible.

Also, the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard and the new ARM STM32 processor provide more power to the PCBA and the USB-C connector. Hence, our experts give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the keystroke sensitivity vital criterion.

Overview

The only drawback of the OLKB Drop Preonic V3 MX Compact Kit Ortholinear QMK Keyboard is RGB backlighting. Nevertheless, customers wanting a premium and affordable ortholinear keyboard will benefit the most from its specs and features. Also, you will love the unit’s switches.

2. Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard

Pros:

• The Razer Linear Optical switch technology uses optical beam-based actuation
• Customers can experience customization gaming immersion with Razer Chroma
• It is covered with a matte, aluminum frame for increased structural integrity
• The Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped

Cons:

• This is not a wireless ortholinear keyboard for gaming or video editing
• It is one of the most oversized featured keyboards in this guide

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design: 9 out of 10
• Switch types:5 out of 10
• RGB backlights: 10 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity:5 out of 10

The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard is an excellent choice for performance and typing enthusiasts, thanks to its unique design and ortholinear layout. Namely, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard is small and durable but slightly larger than traditional ortholinear models.

Unfortunately, this is not a wireless gaming unit, but the case perfectly protects the switches and keycaps. So our experts agreed on a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the design criterion, which is excellent.

Although the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard does not support this article’s best switch, they are sufficient for most common tasks and operations. Also, the Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped, which is fantastic when customers want to customize the layout.

Moreover, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard has fully programmable macros allowing customers to execute complex commands. Therefore, we give an 8.5 out of 10 final rating for the switch type criterion.

Fortunately, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard is this article’s first featured product with a perfect rating on a single criterion. Namely, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard includes stunning RGB LED lighting that looks amazing in dark settings.

In addition, the keycaps are translucent so that customers can quickly locate and recognize the symbols and legends. Hence, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard deserves a 10 out of 10 rating for the RGB backlighting critical criterion.

Ultimately, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard can recognize the keystroke at the speed of light because it uses optical beam-based actuation. Also, the keycaps are made of textured, high-grade PBT for a more durable and textured finish less prone to long-term grime buildup.

Our experts stated this keyboard is an excellent choice for customers wanting to experience fast keyboards. So the final rating for the keystroke sensitivity criterion is 9.5 out of 10, nearly missing a perfect score.

Overview

The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard has fantastic RGB LED lighting up to 16.8 million colors. As a result, it is an excellent choice for customers wanting to experience their gaming keyboard visually. So why don’t you try this unique keyboard?

3. Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard

Pros:

• The contoured ergonomic shape increases comfort and productivity during typing
• It includes premium Cherry switches boosting the typing experience
• There is full onboard programmability with the Driverless Smart Set engine
• Manufacturers rated the switches at 50 million clicks for unmatched durability

Cons:

• It is impossible to split this keyboard and use it as two separate units
• There is no RGB LED lighting boosting the overall appearance

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design:5 out of 10
• Switch types:5 out of 10
• RGB backlights:5 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity: 9 out of 10

Although the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard is not this article’s highest-rated model, it offers unique specs and features. For instance, the overall design features two switches on either end and several buttons in the middle, which is highly practical.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to split the unit, so customers must get accustomed to using the whole keyboard. As a result, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard receives a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the critical design criterion.

Fortunately, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard has unique and premium switches, which are excellent for gaming and video editing. For example, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard has Cherry switches for premium typing feel and performance.

In addition, these buttons have tactile feedback and are rated at 50 million clicks, meaning they will last a lifetime. Therefore, our experts provide a rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the switch type critical criterion.

Unfortunately, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard does not have RGB LED lighting or any backlights, which can be challenging. As a result, customers having trouble with legends and symbols cannot use the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard in dark computer setups.

In addition, customers get full onboard programmability with the Driverless Smart Set engine, which is excellent. Consequently, we believe in a final rating of 6.5 out of 10 for the RGB backlighting criterion, this unit’s lowest rating.

Finally, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard has susceptible switches, which is superb for most standard applications. Also, customers will enjoy this keyboard for fast typing and writing, which is excellent for office usage.

Moreover, the design features split critical wells with a concave shape, thumb keys, orthogonal layout, 20 degrees of tenting, and integrated palm supports. Hence, the Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard’s final rating for keystroke sensitivity is 9 out of 10.

Overview

The Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Cherry (KB600) Keyboard has premium switches and keycaps. Unfortunately, no RGB LED backlighting exists, but you will love the experience. So our experts highly recommend this stunning model.

4. Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard

Pros:

• The overall design features 142 pieces, which is ideal for customization
• The dimensions are compact so that you can take this keyboard everywhere
• It comes in black and white, but you can choose the switches and keycaps
• Users can choose the column key layout and adjust the positions

Cons:

• There is no RGB LED backlighting or see-through keycaps
• It might be challenging to find ideal switches for this keyboard

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design: 8 out of 10
• Switch types:5 out of 10
• RGB backlights:5 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity: 8 out of 10

The Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard is this article’s lowest-rated unit, but it does not mean it is not a terrific choice for professional users and fast writing. As you can see from the pros bullet list, the Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard’s most important feature is the 142 pieces that can be fully used for customization.

Unfortunately, the overall design is not as attractive as similar products but will do the job. Hence, our experts believe this unit deserves a final rating of 8 out of 10 for the critical design criterion.

Fortunately, the Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard improves regarding switch types, although it does not support premium models. For instance, customers can use certain Cherry switches, meaning you can customize the feel and keystroke sensitivity.

In addition, customers need to be careful when installing the switches because two slots exist for larger keycaps, which is very useful. Consequently, we provide a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for this model’s best score for the switch type critical criterion.

On the contrary, the Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard does not have any RGB LEDs, which is disappointing considering its cost. As a result, the Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard is not the best choice for users struggling to locate the symbols and legends in the dark because you need an external light.

Nevertheless, you can customize the switches and keycaps to your preference, so you should remember the positions intuitively. Therefore, the Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard receives a 6.5 out of 10 rating for the RGB backlight criterion.

The Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard could have an adjustable keystroke sensitivity if you choose adequate switches and keycaps. Namely, this keyboard includes generic switches and keycaps, but you can buy excellent replacements for cheap.

Hence, you can purchase buttons with stiffer springs if you prefer a stiff keystroke or vice versa. Nevertheless, the final rating for the keystroke sensitivity criterion is 8 out of 10, which is a great way to finish this unit’s complete review.

Overview

The Cherry G86-6340 Black 142 POS Keyboard is this article’s least attractive unit with few unique design features. However, the product performs well during heavy and extended use, making it an excellent ortholinear keyboard. We are positive you will love this unit too.

5. KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard

Pros:

• All 95 keys are fully programmable for complete customization and adjustability
• Move the right module out of the way and bring your mouse closer for improved endurance
• This impressive unit includes genuine MX Brown switches
• 8 million colors per-key RGB backlighting with ten customizable effects such as wave

Cons:

• It is one of the least affordable featured keyboards in this guide
• The two modules are connected with a short and thin cable

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design:5 out of 10
• Switch types:5 out of 10
• RGB backlights: 10 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity:5 out of 10

The KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard is the most potent featured product with powerful specs and features. As you can see, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard does not receive a lower rating than 9.5, proving its actual ability and power.

For instance, customers can quickly move the two modules out of the way for extra comfort or space for their mouse. Hence, our experts give a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the vital design criterion.

Furthermore, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard includes MX Brown switches that are robust and stable. Namely, customers will not experience any stutters or delays during heavy and extended use, which is essential for gaming, fast typing, video editing, or programming.

Fortunately, the detachable Palm Supports now include all-new thick cushioned palm pads for even more comfort than previous generations. Consequently, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard deserves a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the switch type criterion.

The RGB backlighting criterion receives a perfect rating, meaning this unit has impressive RGB LEDs and translucent keycaps. Namely, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard includes 16.8 million color-per-key RGB backlighting with ten customizable effects, which is all users need.

Fortunately, the two modules feature 95 transparent keycaps that look beautiful under low lights. Therefore, we provide a final rating of 10 out of 10 for the RGB backlighting criterion, this unit’s only such score.

Also, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard has excellent keystroke sensitivity and unmatched durability. For instance, manufacturers rated the switches at 50 million clicks, which is superb for a product at this cost, but they also offer professional-grade responsiveness.

In addition, all 95 keys and buttons are fully programmable for a completely customizable experience. Consequently, the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard rates 9.5 out of 10 for the keystroke sensitivity critical criterion.

Overview

This article’s highest-rated unit is the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard. As a result, professionals wanting premium gaming products will benefit the most from this keyboard’s specs and features. Therefore, purchasing this unit might be your best choice.

6. KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard

Pros:

• Advanced ergonomics for all body types and preferences via adjustable split and splay
• Genuine Cherry mechanical switches for premium typing feel and performance
• Full onboard programmability with the Driverless SmartSet engine
• The new cable storage compartment supports up to 20 degrees of separation

Cons:

• This KINESIS model does not support any RGB LED lighting
• Some buttons and switches may sound more clicky than regular models

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design:5 out of 10
• Switch types: 9 out of 10
• RGB backlights: 7 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity:5 out of 10

The KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard is our complete guide’s second to the last model. As you can see, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard includes impressive benefits for casual and professional users, which is essential for everyday use.

Fortunately, the split design works well for customization, but the cable connecting both modules is relatively short. Therefore, our experts agreed on a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the design criterion.

Furthermore, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard improves switch types by including the MX Brown units. As explained before, these switches are excellent for gaming, streaming, and video editing, so trying them out would be best.

Also, the new cable storage compartment supports up to 20 degrees of separation, which is better than previous versions. Hence, the final rating for the switch type vital criterion is 9 out of 10.

Sadly, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard does not feature RGB LEDs, but it is not a deal-breaker. For instance, many customers prefer straightforward designs, and fortunately, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard has it all.

Moreover, this unit has full onboard programmability with the Driverless SmartSet engine and nine custom layouts. Consequently, we believe this unit deserves a final rating of 7 out of 10 for the RGB backlighting criterion.

Ultimately, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard has an identical keystroke sensitivity to the previous unit, proving their similarities and specifications. Namely, customers love the MX Brown switches due to their tactile feedback and clicky sound that most similar brands lack.

Also, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard is compatible with most Windows versions, so you should not worry. Thus, the final rating for the keystroke sensitivity criterion is 9.5 out of 10.

Overview

The KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard has several unique features but lacks RGB lighting. As a result, it is an excellent ortholiner keyboard for casual users and beginners. Fortunately, the KINESIS Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split KB900-BRN Keyboard has MX Brown switches.

7. AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard

Pros:

• The most prominent feature is the black and yellow color combination
• The prints are effortless to see due to their size and shape
• Users with low vision or functional limitations can increase and improve their capabilities
• The design is small and compact, ideal for working on the go

Cons:

• This is an outdated keyboard to current computer standards
• It does not have any lighting or LEDs around the case

The key criteria of the product are:

• Design: 8.5 out of 10
• Switch types: 8 out of 10
• RGB backlights: 6.5 out of 10
• Keystroke sensitivity: 8 out of 10

The AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard is the last product thoroughly reviewed in this article. As you can see, this is a unique keyboard that users with low vision or functional limitations can use because it increases and boosts their capabilities.

As a result, the symbols and legends are prominent and visible, thanks to the black and yellow color combination. Therefore, we give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the vital design criterion.

Furthermore, the AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard does not have the best switches because it is an outdated unit to current standards. For instance, this unit features generic controls found in most old keyboards, so customers should not expect anything special or unique.

Nevertheless, the AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard provides greater comfort and control than other models. Hence, our experts agreed on an 8 out of 10 final rating for the switch type criterion.

This AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard’s worst rating is 6.5 because this unit does not have any lighting or LEDs on and around the case. Hence, it will be impossible for customers with visual limitations to use this keyboard in the dark.

Fortunately, the keyboard is compatible with most modern Windows versions but is not wireless. Thus, the AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard scores 6.5 out of 10 for the RGB lighting criterion.

Finally, the AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard has an average keystroke sensitivity because it does not have modern switches. Namely, customers will experience moderate travel of the keycaps, but they need to press harder than modern keyboards.

Fortunately, the space switch has two supports, making it easier and more intuitive for customers to use it from both sides. So the final rating for the keystroke sensitivity criterion is 8 out of 10.

Overview

The AbleNet 12000024 Large CCT VisionBoard2 Print Keyboard is unique due to the black and yellow color combination. Hence, it is an excellent choice for users with low vision or functional limitations because it increases and boosts their capabilities. We are confident you will enjoy it too.

Final Conclusion

Finding the ideal ortholinear keyboards with top specs and features can be highly tedious and exhausting, especially for beginners. Because of this, our experts created this extensive guide featuring seven unique products with premium options and beautiful details.

Thus, customers wanting to experience sublime quality and a durable unit should opt for the KINESIS GAMING Freestyle Edge RGB Split MX Brown Keyboard. Our experts also recommend purchasing the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Fast Switches Keyboard because it is an excellent all-in-one model. Nevertheless, it is impossible to make a mistake buying any featured product from our guide.