As you can probably tell by the lopsided list above, I like the Kinesis Gaming TKO keyboard a lot. In fact, I like just about everything about it except for that price point. I wasn't sure what to expect from what is a significant departure from Kinesis peripherals in that this is not an ergonomics-first keyboard, and definitely not a split keyboard. The only thing split here is the space bar, which is neat but hardly a novel thing for 60% keyboards, let alone before we get into the JIS layout. So at $175, I was not sure whether the Kinesis brand was strong enough to justify the feature set when I first heard about this. Turns out the feature set is pretty darn good!

Yes, Kinesis, the parent company, has ergonomics as a key selling point for their peripherals. Kinesis Gaming as an offshoot brand did the same with the Freestyle Edge, and the 60% form factor TKO goes beyond just claiming shorter finger travel for the ergonomic benefits. The four sets of two keyboard feet are something I have not really seen in any such keyboard to date, with the company even claiming this to be the world's first non-split keyboard offering tenting support. The TKO is small enough to be used in one hand for gaming, where the tenting applications come in handy, but then again, you can also get a gamepad if you just want a one-handed keyboard. Having only one linear switch option for a gaming-marketed keyboard is also an interesting choice, especially without any of the faster actuation linear switches.

Thankfully, the TKO makes for a fantastic typing keyboard as well. The triple-split Hyperspace configuration instead of the full-size space bar by default, excellent pre-programmed layers, and SmartSet programming combine to make for one of the best small form factor keyboards I have tested thus far. The SmartSet App GUI adds positively to this, and having everything on board the device enhances the portability of the keyboard. Let's not forget the carry case and detachable cable, which do strengthen Kinesis Gaming's aim to make this a tournament-style gaming keyboard. The hot-swap switch feature helps too, with the ability to change to switches of your choice throughout or on specific keys. I am still skeptical about the $175 pricing here, but time will tell. What I do know is that there is an increased market for small form factor keyboards in 2021, and the Kinesis Gaming TKO is a worthy addition to that market.