60% vs Compact Mechanical Keyboards: Which Should You Buy?
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When you compare a 60 vs compact mechanical keyboard, you are looking at two layouts that prioritize desk space. Both the AULA WIN68 HE and the WIN68 HE PRO are 68-key wired boards with Hall Effect magnetic switches. They share an 8,000Hz polling rate and web driver support. The main difference lies in their specific model specifications, actuation ranges, and lighting presets. You need to check these details to decide which fits your workflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard | AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Model | WIN68 Standard Edition | WIN68HE PRO |
| Actuation Range | 0.02mm-3.44mm | 0.02mm-3.3mm |
| Latency | 0.3ms | 0.2ms |
| Preset Lighting Effects | 14 | 21 |
| Dimensions | 14 x 6 x 1.7 inches | 14.1 x 6.1 x 1.71 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard if
- You prefer a slightly larger actuation range up to 3.44mm for varied keystroke habits.
- You want a keyboard with a marginally lighter weight at 1.51 pounds.
- You are satisfied with 14 preset RGB lighting effects.
Choose AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard if
- You want the lowest possible latency at 0.2ms for competitive gaming.
- You prefer more variety with 21 preset RGB lighting effects.
- You are okay with a slightly heavier board at 1.52 pounds.
Verdict: The AULA WIN68 HE Standard Edition offers a wider actuation range and lighter weight. The WIN68 HE PRO provides faster latency and more lighting presets. Choose the model whose specific actuation and latency specs match your gaming style.
60% vs Compact: Key Specs
Polling Rate
Both the AULA WIN68 HE and the WIN68 HE PRO offer an 8,000Hz polling rate. This specification means the keyboard reports its position to your computer 8,000 times per second. A higher polling rate reduces the delay between your keystroke and the action on screen. You get an 8x faster response time compared to traditional mechanical keyboards. This speed is critical for competitive gaming where milliseconds matter. Since both models share this identical high-speed connection standard, neither holds an advantage in raw data transmission frequency.
Actuation Range
The AULA WIN68 HE allows you to adjust the actuation point between 0.02mm and 3.44mm. The WIN68 HE PRO offers a slightly different range, adjustable from 0.02mm to 3.3mm. Both keyboards let you personalize each key to the smallest unit of 0.1 mm. This precision lets you set faster triggers for gaming or deeper presses for typing. The WIN68 HE PRO has a marginally lower maximum actuation distance, which might suit users who prefer shallower key rests. The WIN68 HE offers a slightly wider total range of adjustment options.
Latency
Latency measures the time delay between pressing a key and the signal being registered. The AULA WIN68 HE features an ultra-low latency of 0.3ms. The WIN68 HE PRO improves on this with a 0.2ms latency. This 0.1ms difference is technically faster, ensuring your commands take effect even more instantly. For most users, both speeds are imperceptibly fast, but the PRO model edges ahead in pure performance metrics. This lower latency contributes to the overall fast trigger experience described in the specifications.
Lighting Effects
Both keyboards feature 16.8 million colors of RGB backlighting with south-facing LEDs. This lighting design ensures the colors shine clearly without being blocked by keycaps. The AULA WIN68 HE comes with 14 preset lighting effects. The WIN68 HE PRO includes 21 preset lighting effects. Both allow you to adjust brightness and effects via the web driver or FN key combinations. You can turn off the backlight entirely if needed. The PRO model provides more variety in static and dynamic light patterns for personalization.
Physical Dimensions
The AULA WIN68 HE measures 14 inches in length, 6 inches in width, and 1.7 inches in height. The WIN68 HE PRO is slightly larger at 14.1 inches long, 6.1 inches wide, and 1.71 inches tall. Both weigh approximately 1.51 to 1.52 pounds. The PRO model is marginally heavier and larger, though the difference is minimal. Both are designed to save up to 40% of desktop space while retaining arrow keys. The smaller footprint of the standard version might fit tighter desk setups slightly better.
Which AULA WIN68 Model Fits You
Competitive gamers needing lowest latency
The PRO version offers a 0.2ms latency, which is faster than the standard model's 0.3ms. This reduced delay ensures your inputs register instantly. For fast-paced games, every millisecond counts. The adjustable actuation point down to 0.02mm allows for precise, rapid triggers. This spec advantage makes it the better choice for serious competitive play.
Users preferring standard black aesthetic
The standard edition comes in a Black-standard version. If you prefer this color, this is your pick. It shares the same 60% layout and magnetic switch technology. The 14 preset RGB effects provide sufficient lighting options. The dimensions are slightly smaller at 14 inches long. This model suits those who want the core features in a classic black finish.
Gamers wanting more lighting presets
The PRO model includes 21 preset lighting effects, compared to the 14 found on the standard version. This gives you more variety for visual customization. Both boards use south-facing LEDs for clear illumination. The extra presets allow for more distinct looks without needing complex driver adjustments. Choose the PRO if lighting variety matters to your setup.
Budget-conscious buyers seeking value
The standard version retains the core 8,000Hz polling rate and Hall Effect switches. It offers the same 68-key compact layout and web driver support. The slight differences in latency and lighting presets are minimal for casual use. This model provides the essential gaming features at a potentially lower price point. It is the practical choice for standard needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard | Windows gamers needing adjustable actuation | Check price of AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard on Amazon |
| 2 | AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard | precision gaming on Windows | Check price of AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard on Amazon |
The products compared
AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard
Best for: Windows gamers needing adjustable actuation
- Form Factor
- 60% (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Hall Effect magnetic
- Connectivity
- USB wired
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Use
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 14 × 6 × 1.7 inches
View on Amazon: AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard Affiliate link
The AULA WIN68 HE is a 60% wired gaming keyboard featuring Hall Effect magnetic switches. It offers an 8,000Hz polling rate and adjustable actuation points from 0.02mm to 3.44mm. The layout includes arrow keys and basic function keys. It connects via a detachable USB cable. The 16.8 million color RGB backlighting uses south-facing LEDs. This model suits gamers needing fast response times and precise key customization.
Pros
- 8,000Hz polling rate for ultra-low latency
- Adjustable actuation point in 0.1mm increments
- Includes arrow keys in 60% layout
- Web driver for key mapping and macros
Cons
- Wired connection only
- Web driver does not support macOS
- No dedicated media keys listed
Good fit if
- You need adjustable actuation points
- You want a compact layout with arrow keys
- You use a Windows PC for gaming
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity
- You use a Mac computer
- You prefer a full-size keyboard
Verdict: AULA WIN68 HE 60% Magnetic Keyboard delivers high-speed response and precise switch tuning for Windows gamers who need arrow keys in a compact form factor.
AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard
Best for: precision gaming on Windows
- Form Factor
- Compact (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Hall Effect magnetic switch
- Connectivity
- USB wired
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Use
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 14.1 × 6.1 × 1.71 inches
View on Amazon: AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard Affiliate link
This 60% keyboard uses Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points from 0.02mm to 3.3mm. It features an 8,000Hz polling rate for instant response. The layout includes arrow keys and basic functions in a compact 68-key design. You get 16.8 million RGB colors and a detachable USB cable. It suits gamers who want precise control and fast triggers without downloading software, though it requires a Windows PC for full customization.
Pros
- 8,000Hz polling rate for ultra-low latency
- Adjustable actuation points in 0.1mm increments
- Includes arrow keys in a 60% layout
- 16.8 million color RGB backlighting
Cons
- Web driver only supports Windows systems
- Wired connection limits portability
- No dedicated media keys included
Good fit if
- You need precise actuation control for gaming
- You want a compact layout with arrow keys
- You use a Windows computer for customization
Skip if
- You need wireless connectivity
- You use a Mac computer
- You prefer a full-size layout
Verdict: AULA WIN68 HE PRO 60% Keyboard fits competitive gamers who prioritize speed and customization on Windows. It delivers fast triggers and a space-saving design with essential arrow keys.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | AULA 60% Magnetic Switch Keyboard | AULA 68-Key Hall Effect Wired Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | Hall Effect magnetic | Hall Effect magnetic switch |
| Form Factor | 60% | 60% |
| Connectivity | USB wired | USB wired |
| Backlighting | RGB | RGB |
| Use | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 14 × 6 × 1.7 inches | 14.1 × 6.1 × 1.71 inches |
| Weight | 1.51 pounds | 1.52 pounds |
| Color | Black-standard version | Grey-pro version |
| Model | WIN68 Standard Edition | WIN68HE |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between a 60% and a compact keyboard?
The primary difference is the inclusion of arrow keys. A true 60% layout omits them entirely, while a compact 68-key layout, like the AULA WIN68 HE PRO, includes them. This adds minimal width but improves navigation. Both forms prioritize saving desk space compared to larger layouts.
Do compact keyboards like the AULA WIN68 HE support fast gaming?
Yes, these boards are designed for high-speed performance. They feature Hall Effect magnetic switches that allow for adjustable actuation points. This lets you customize how far you press a key to register a command. The result is faster response times tailored to your specific gaming needs.
How wide is a typical 68-key mechanical keyboard?
The AULA WIN68 HE PRO measures approximately 14.1 inches in length. Its width is about 6.1 inches. This compact footprint leaves more room for mouse movement. You get a full set of essential keys without the bulk of a standard tenkeyless board.
Are these keyboards wireless or wired?
The listed models are wired connections. This setup ensures stable communication with your computer. Wired boards often offer lower latency for competitive gaming. You do not need to worry about battery life or wireless interference during intense sessions.
What type of switches do these keyboards use?
They use magnetic switches based on Hall Effect technology. These switches detect changes in a magnetic field to register keystrokes. This method allows for precise control over actuation points. You can adjust sensitivity to suit different game genres or typing styles.
Can I customize the lighting on these boards?
Yes, both models feature RGB backlighting. This allows you to choose from various colors and effects. You can customize the look to match your setup. The lighting helps you see keys in low-light conditions while adding a personal touch to your desk.