For years, keyboard enthusiasts have debated the perfect layout. Most now agree that the 96 percent layout strikes the ideal balance, preserving the full functionality of a number pad, arrow keys, and function row while eliminating unnecessary bulk. The result is a compact board that doesn’t feel cramped and is equally suited to a home office or a gaming desk.
Manufacturers have responded with models that blend premium materials, modern connectivity, and the kind of customization once reserved for hobbyists. Here are five of the best options available in 2025, starting with the one that sets the pace for the rest of the field, TheKeeb96 V2.
TheKeeb96 V2
TheKeeb96 V2 is a sleek, low-profile mechanical keyboard that fits a full 100-key layout into a streamlined frame. It delivers a blistering 1000Hz polling rate for instant input recognition, making it responsive enough for competitive play and fluid enough for everyday work. Connection options cover every scenario: high-speed 2.4G wireless for lag-free performance, Bluetooth for quick pairing with multiple devices, and a wired USB-C link for absolute stability.
Full QMK and VIA support means every key and shortcut can be customized to match your workflow, from complex macros to subtle layout tweaks. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux and available in black, blue, and pastel blue finishes, the Keeb96 V2 blends adaptability, precision, and style—a combination that secures its place at the top of the 96% category in 2025.
Keychron Q5 Max
The Keychron Q5 Max offers versatility in spades. Its CNC-machined aluminum body houses a double-gasket mount and multiple layers of acoustic foam for a refined, muted sound with each press. With 2.4GHz wireless at 1000Hz, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C wired, it offers quick response and seamless device switching.
Hot-swappable sockets simplify switch changes, while double-shot PBT keycaps resist wear and fading. South-facing RGB LEDs, screw-in stabilizers, and Keychron’s exclusive Gateron Jupiter switches add to its premium feel. With open-source QMK/VIA support and the Keychron Launcher app, every key can be remapped, macros assigned, and lighting customized, making the Q5 Max equally at home in a professional workspace or a gaming setup.
KBDfans Athena 1800
The KBDfans Athena 1800 appeals to those who want a traditional full-size keyboard without giving up too much desk space. Its aluminum case houses an 1800 layout and an LCD screen for custom GIFs, with a subtle front light bar for added character. The underside features a full-width engraved owl, giving the board a distinctive look that sets it apart from standard mechanical keyboards.
It offers two mounting styles: a firm, responsive top-mount or a softer, quieter PCB silicone gasket mount. Hot-swap or soldered PCBs, multiple plate materials, and a stainless steel weight bar allow for tailored acoustics and feel. With VIAL support, USB-C connectivity, and premium build quality, the Athena 1800 combines practical performance with a distinctive visual identity.
RK S98
The RK S98 blends flexibility and premium touches in a compact 96% form factor. It offers triple connectivity modes—Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired—backed by a 3750mAh battery capable of up to 200 hours of use with lighting off. A top-mount design paired with four layers of sound-absorbing foam keeps each keystroke stable and pleasantly muted, while a built-in volume knob adds fast, tactile media and lighting control.
Hot-swappable sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, with factory-lubed Linear Viridian or Tactile Pale Green options for smooth, consistent actuation. South-facing RGB LEDs illuminate durable PBT side-printed keycaps, and a built-in USB pass-through expands desk connectivity. Combined with professional software support for lighting, macros, and key remapping, the S98 delivers a well-rounded typing and gaming experience in a streamlined package.
Epomaker Cypher 96
The Epomaker Cypher 96 offers a compact 1800 ANSI layout with 96 keys and a unique twist: a built-in toggle to switch the numpad into calculator mode. Its gasket-mounted structure, combined with five layers of sound-dampening material, delivers a soft, muted typing feel that appeals to both office users and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
This tri-mode keyboard supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C connections, powered by two 4000mAh batteries for extended use. Hot-swappable sockets make switch changes quick and solder-free, with options like Epomaker’s Wisteria Linear or Flamingo switches. Per-key south-facing RGB lighting and NKRO capability ensure it performs as well in gaming as in daily productivity.
The 96% Layout Balances Functionality and Space Efficiency
The 96% layout has carved out its place in the mechanical keyboard world by offering a precise balance of size and function. It’s big enough for full productivity, compact enough to save space, and versatile enough to suit nearly any kind of user.
This year, one model in particular sets the tone. The Keeb96 V2 combines top-tier materials, excellent ergonomics, and a level of customization that places it firmly in first place for 2025.
