Choosing the right size and layout for a mechanical keyboard is crucial. The size of the layout largely determines the uniqueness of a mechanical keyboard, while the layout also determines its limitations. With options like 60%, 75%, 80%, 100%, and more, the question becomes which is ideal for work or gaming. This post explains each size so you can make an informed decision.
keyboard composition
The number of keys varies depending on the keyboard size. Do you know the key composition of a keyboard? Which keys are missing on a 60% keyboard? To understand the differences in the number of keys, we need to take a closer look at the key composition.
A 100% keyboard includes typing and control keys, function keys, number keys (row), editing keys, arrow keys, and a numeric keypad.
Key composition:
- Typing and control keys : These include letters, numbers (row), punctuation marks and modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt) used for text input.
- Function keys : The twelve function keys F1–F12.
- Number keys (row) : Number keys in a row.
- Arrow keys : The four directional keys (up, down, left, right).
- Editing keys : Keys such as Insert, Delete, Home, End, Page Up and Page Down.
- Numeric keypad : A separate section of keys for entering numbers and performing calculations, usually found on the right side of the keyboard on full keyboards.
Now that we know the most common keyboard sizes like Full Size (100%), TKL (80%), 75% and 60%, there are other sizes like 1800 Compact, 65% and 40%. Let's look at the differences in the specific key combinations of these keyboards.
Comparison of keyboard sizes
The layout percentage indicates what proportion of a standard keyboard is taken up by the layout. The lower the layout percentage, the smaller the keyboard, the more portable it is, and the more its use depends on shortcut keys. In contrast, keyboards with a higher percentage require fewer shortcut keys and take up more space on the desk.
| keyboard size | typing and control keys | function keys | number series | arrow keys | editing keys | numeric keypad |
| full size (100%) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 1800 Compact | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tenkeyless (80%) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| 75% | Yes | Yes (often combined) | Yes | Yes | Yes (often combined) | No |
| 65% | Yes | No (above functional level) | Yes | Yes | Yes (often combined) | No |
| 60% | Yes | No (above functional level) | No | No (above functional level) | No (above functional level) | No |
| 40% | Yes | No (above functional level) | No | No (above functional level) | No (above functional level) | No |
Now let's look at the details of each size. Understanding these details will help you choose the right keyboard for your needs.
full keyboard / 100% keyboards
A 100% keyboard contains all the keys that are present in the standard layout. The most common configuration is the traditional 104-key keyboard. With 104 keys, this layout is one of the most popular keyboards.
How many keys does a full keyboard have?
104 or 108 keys, with the 108-key version offering some additional function keys.
Advantages: Complete key area, fully functional.
Disadvantages: Takes up more space on the desk.
Suitable for: Users who need a full set of keys, especially for office work and data-intensive tasks.
1800 Compact keyboards
The 1800 Compact keyboard is a smaller version of the full keyboard that still retains all the keys. By removing some unnecessary spaces, the area is reduced.
How many keys does an 1800 Compact keyboard have?
Typically around 96 to 99 keys. This layout combines the numeric keypad with the main keys and shortens the spaces between the areas.
Advantages: Offers the functionality of a full keyboard in a compact package.
Cons: Takes up more space than smaller keyboards and may not fit well in compact setups.
Suitable for: Ideal for gamers, programmers and professionals who require numeric input and want comprehensive key functions without the bulk of a standard full keyboard.
Tenkeyless (TKL) / 80% keyboards
The TKL keyboard is hardly different from the full keyboard, as only the 10 keys in the numeric keypad have been removed, while other function keys remain.
How many keys does a TKL keyboard have?
87 or 88 keys, depending on regional layout. This design saves space by removing the numeric keypad, but retains the function keys, arrow keys, and other essential keys.
Advantages:
Saves desk space and provides more room for mouse movements.
Easier to transport than full keyboards.
Disadvantages:
Inconvenient for users who frequently enter numbers.
Limited key bindings for custom shortcuts.
Suitable for:
TKL keyboards are especially suitable for beginners. They are compact and portable, almost 20% shorter than the standard 104-key layout. Ideal for gamers and users with limited space.
75% keyboards
75% keyboards retain the most important keys, including alphanumeric keys, function keys (often integrated into the number row), arrow keys, and a selection of navigation keys.
How many keys does a 75% keyboard have?
75% keyboards usually have 84 keys, but some models have 80-83 keys. The typical 84-key layout is characterized by the fact that frequently used editing keys are aligned vertically and the space between the areas of the full keyboard has been removed, making the entire keyboard very compact.
Advantages:
Saves desk space, ideal for smaller setups.
More portable than full keyboards.
Disadvantages:
Less flexible compared to smaller keyboards.
Fewer options compared to full keyboards or TKL keyboards.
Suitable for: 75% keyboards are one of the most suitable layouts for quiet office work. They are also suitable for users who have special requirements for hand feel and often do text work. An example of a recommended keyboard is the Monsgeek M1 V5 .
65% keyboards
The 65% layout extends the 60% layout by one or two columns to accommodate the arrow keys and some editing keys, while still remaining very portable.
How many keys does a 65% keyboard have?
65% keyboards typically have between 66 and 71 keys, with 68 keys being the most common. This layout includes the alphanumeric keys, arrow keys, and some navigation keys, but omits the numeric keypad and function key row.
Advantages:
The compact layout saves valuable desk space.
Minimalist layout supports a comfortable typing position.
Disadvantages:
Less customization options than smaller sizes like the 60% keyboard.
Less common than full keyboards or TKL keyboards.
Suitable for: Ideal for people who want to save desk space without losing important features. Perfect for travel or mobile setups.
60% keyboards
60% keyboards retain only the alphanumeric keys (letters and numbers), modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt) and some additional keys.
How many keys does a 60% keyboard have?
Approximately 61 to 68 keys. This compact layout removes the function key row, navigation block and numeric keypad, leaving only the alphanumeric keys and the essential modifier keys.
Advantages:
Saves desk space, ideal for smaller setups and travel.
Enables a more comfortable typing position by closer mouse distance.
Disadvantages:
May not be suitable for activities that require a full set of buttons or special features.
Less common than full keyboards or TKL keyboards, with fewer options.
Suitable for: Travelers and people who need a compact keyboard for on the go. Ideal for setups with limited desk space.
40% keyboards
The 40% keyboard is an ultra-compact mechanical keyboard that reduces the number of keys to the essentials. This size is rare and impractical.
How many keys does a 40% keyboard have?
Only about 40 to 44 keys, which consist almost exclusively of letters and modifier keys.
Advantages: Extremely compact and portable.
Cons: Not suitable for most users as it removes many keys necessary for productive work or gaming.
Suitable for: Experienced keyboard users who prefer an extremely minimalistic layout.
Other sizes or layouts of keyboards (non-standard layouts)
Ortholinear keyboards
Ortholinear keyboards have a grid layout where each column of keys is aligned vertically. Unlike traditional staggered keyboards, where the keys in each row are staggered to accommodate natural finger positioning, ortholinear keyboards have keys that are aligned horizontally and vertically, similar to a grid or matrix.
numeric keypads
The existence of a numeric keypad is usually to facilitate data entry in industries such as banking or accounting, or as an external option for users who do not have a built-in numeric keypad, but this is relatively rare.
Split / Ergonomic Layout
A split or ergonomic layout keyboard is designed to reduce strain and improve comfort for the user by promoting a more natural typing position. The keyboard is split into two separate halves that can be positioned independently. This allows users to orient each half to match the natural position of the hand, wrist and arm.
Why is size important?
As mentioned earlier, the size of a keyboard determines its uniqueness but also limits its functionality. Since we all have different locations, scenarios and preferences when it comes to keyboards, different sizes offer the ability to meet a variety of needs.
- Desk space: Larger keyboards, such as full-size (100%) keyboards, require more space, which can be problematic if you have a small desk or need more room for other devices such as mice.
- Portability: Smaller keyboards, such as TKL (Tenkeyless), 75%, 65% and 60%, are more portable and easier to carry, making them ideal for travel or LAN parties.
- Usage preferences: Different keyboard sizes allow for different usage styles. Gamers often prefer compact layouts (e.g. 60%) to have more room for mouse movements, while office workers may prefer full-size keyboards that offer extensive key layouts including a numeric keypad.
How to choose the right keyboard size?
In general, you should consider your usage needs as well as your typing and gaming preferences.
-
For those who regularly enter numbers:
The full-size keyboard layout with dedicated numeric keypad is the most convenient option. -
If compactness is not a priority, but you still want to save space on your desk:
The TKL (Tenkeyless) layout is a great choice. It maintains the familiar key positions but significantly shortens the keyboard. This layout is especially popular with gamers who benefit from extra space for mouse movements. -
For users with limited space or a need for portability:
The 60% and 65% layouts are recommended. These are also suitable for gamers as they offer ergonomic advantages and create additional space for mouse movements. These small keyboards provide all the essential keys while saving space on the desk or being easy to carry.
By considering these aspects, depending on your personal needs and preferences, you can choose a keyboard size that improves your productivity, comfort and enjoyment of using the computer.
Conclusion
Choosing the right keyboard size and layout depends entirely on your individual needs. If you want a compact keyboard, models like 60% or 75% are ideal. If you want the complete functionality of a full keyboard, then a 100% or TKL keyboard is the best choice. Remember that your choice will also affect the user experience and comfort.
We hope this guide helps you find the right keyboard for your needs. If you have any further questions about keyboard sizes and layouts, or need specific recommendations, we're always here to help.
