65% vs. 75% vs. 96% Keyboard: Which Size Is Right for You?
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Choosing a keyboard can be surprisingly difficult. With so many different keyboard sizes and layouts available, it can be hard to know which one is right for your setup.
Do you need a compact keyboard for gaming? A productivity-focused layout for work and study? Or a keyboard with a number pad for everyday tasks? In this guide, we'll compare 65%, 75%, and 96% keyboards, explain the key differences between each layout, and help you find the right keyboard for your needs.
What is Keyboard Size?
When people talk about keyboard size—such as 65%, 75%, or 96%—they are generally referring to the keyboard's layout and key arrangement compared with a traditional full-size keyboard. Common keyboard layouts include: Full-size, 96%, TKL (80%), 75%, 65%, 60%
So, which size should you choose? The right choice depends on your usage, available desk space, and personal preferences. Let's take a closer look.
65% vs. 75% vs. 96% Keyboard
| Feature | 65% keyboard | 75% keyboard | 96% Keyboard |
| Approx. Key Count | Around 66 - 68 keys | Around 80 - 84 keys | Around 96 - 100 keys |
| Function Row | × | √ | √ |
| Dedicated Arrow Keys | √ | √ | √ |
| Navigation Keys | Limited | Compact | More complete |
| Number Pad | × | × | √ |
| Desk Space | Small | Compact | Space-effecient |
- 65% Keyboards
A compact layout that keeps the arrow keys while removing the function row and numpad. It saves desk space and leaves more room for mouse movement.
Best for: Gaming, small desks, minimalist setups, and users who prefer a compact keyboard.
- 75% Keyboards
A compact layout that adds a dedicated function row while keeping arrow keys and a condensed navigation area. It offers a good balance between size and functionality.
Best for: Gaming, work, study, coding, and users who want an all-around keyboard.
- 96% Keyboards
A space-efficient layout that keeps a dedicated numpad, function row, and navigation keys, while using a more compact arrangement than a traditional full-size keyboard.
Best for: Office work, spreadsheets, data entry, productivity, and users who need a numpad without a full-size footprint.
XVX M67 vs. M75 vs. M98: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you know the differences between 65%, 75%, and 96% keyboard layouts, let's take a look at how these sizes fit into the XVX M Series.
| XVX M67 | XVX M75 | XVX M98 | |
| Image |  |
 |
 |
|
Layout |
ANSI 65% |
ANSI 75% (with knob) |
ANSI 96% (1800) |
|
Recommended For |
Compact Builds & Gaming |
All-Around Daily Use |
Productivity & Multitasking |
|
Connectivity |
Tri-Mode |
Tri-Mode |
Tri-Mode |
|
Backlight LED |
Flicker-Free 16.8M ARGB |
16.8M RGB |
Flicker-Free 16.8M ARGB |
|
Switch |
XVX ICE Pro Linear Switch |
XVX ICE Pro Linear Switch |
XVX ICE Pro Linear Switch |
|
Battery Capacity |
4000 mAh |
8000 mAh |
8000 mAh |
|
Polling Rate (Wired) |
1000 Hz |
1000 Hz |
1000 Hz |
|
Mounting Style |
Gasket Mounted |
Gasket Mounted |
Gasket Mounted |
| Case Material | Plastic |
Plastic |
Plastic |
|
Custom Driver |
VIA Web Driver |
In-House PC Driver |
In-House Web Driver |
|
Hot-Swappable |
√ | √ |
√ |
|
Net Weight |
595 gram |
900 gram |
1140 gram |
- XVX M67 — 65% Keyboard
The M67 features a compact 65% layout with dedicated arrow keys, making it ideal for gaming, small desks, and minimalist setups. Its compact footprint also leaves more room for mouse movement.
- XVX M75 — 75% Keyboard
The M75 features a 75% layout with a dedicated function row, arrow keys, and a compact navigation area. It offers a great balance of functionality and desk space, making it suitable for gaming, work, study, and everyday use.
- XVX M98 — 96% Keyboard
The M98 features a 96% layout that retains a dedicated numpad, function row, and navigation keys in a more compact arrangement. It's a great choice for office work, productivity, spreadsheets, and users who frequently enter numbers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right keyboard size comes down to how you use your keyboard and how much desk space you have.
The 65% M67 is a great choice for compact, gaming-focused setups, while the 75% M75 offers a versatile balance between functionality and space. If you need a numpad for work and productivity, the 96% M98 provides more functionality in a compact layout.
Whatever your preference, XVX M Series offers a layout to fit your setup and your everyday needs.
