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9 Types Of Keyboard Sizes And Layouts You Should Know

When you play games or frequently type in your job, having a keyboard with the right type, size, and layout can make a big difference.

Keyboard size and layout are important factors when looking for a new keyboard. The most common keyboard sizes are full-sized, tenkeyless, and mini keyboards. 

Full-sized keyboards have a number pad on the right side, while tenkeyless keyboards do not. Mini keyboards or pads are smaller and only have a few keys.

Many different keyboard layouts are available, including the standard QWERTY layout, the Dvorak layout, and the Colemak layout. However, choosing a keyboard size and layout that suits your needs and preferences best can take time and effort.

Read on to understand the various types of keyboard sizes and layouts available in today’s market.

Factors To Consider While Selecting A Keyboard

Source: Amazon

Some of the factors to consider while selecting a keyboard include:

Switches

If you’re a power user or somebody who spends a lot of time typing, the switches can make a big difference in comfort and performance.

Below are the most common types of switches:

Membrane switches are popular because they’re relatively inexpensive to manufacture. They are also faster and more responsive than traditional mechanical switches. However, they’re the least durable and do not offer the best typing experience.

Scissor switches are a step up in quality, but they’re still not as good as mechanical switches. They are quieter and often cheaper than other types of switches.

Mechanical switches are the most expensive to manufacture but are the most popular since they’re durable and provide the best gaming and typing experience. They also provide a consistent, responsive keypress. So if you’re looking for a keyboard that will last you for years and provide a great typing experience, consider the type of switch before making your purchase.

Work Type

One of the most important factors to consider while choosing a keyboard is your work type. Are you a programmer who spends hours typing code? A writer who needs to churn out articles? A designer who works with image and video editing software? Or an avid gamer? Depending on your line of work, you’ll need a keyboard tailored to your needs.

For example, programmers will want a keyboard with plenty of shortcuts and keys that are easy to access. On the other hand, writers might prefer a wireless keyboard that offers flexibility. And designers will need a keyboard with multimedia keys for quick access to photo and video editing software.

Take a moment to think about your work before you buy a new keyboard. Doing so will help you find the perfect choice for your needs.

Design

Keep a few factors in mind as you consider the design of a keyboard. First, think about how you will be using the keyboard. You’ll want to choose a comfortable keyboard if you intend to use it for long periods.

Some keyboards are designed for gaming, while others are more suited for general use. If you’re a gamer, you’ll want to choose a keyboard that provides the best gaming experience. There are a variety of gaming keyboards on the market, so it’s essential to do your research to find the one that’s right for you.

The Sound Of The Keyboard

The keyboard’s sound is one thing that people tend to have strong opinions about. Some people prefer a quiet keyboard, feeling that the sound of each keystroke is somehow intrusive or disruptive. Others don’t mind a little noise and may even find it somewhat soothing. There is a split between those who prefer a quiet environment and those who don’t mind a little background noise.

It’s essential to consider how vital sound is to you when choosing a keyboard. If you prefer complete silence, you’ll want to look for a keyboard that produces minimal sound. On the other hand, if you don’t mind a little typing noise, then any keyboard will do. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right balance for your work style.

Size

For some people, a larger keyboard is essential to type comfortably and accurately. For others, especially gamers, a smaller keyboard is preferable to save space on their desk. There are a few factors to remember when deciding on keyboard size. First, think about how much space you have on your desk. If you have a lot of other devices or papers, a smaller keyboard might be a better option.

Consider your preferences. Doing so can help you narrow down your choices. Finally, don’t forget about aesthetics. Choosing a keyboard that looks good on your desk can be just as important as choosing one that fits your needs. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect keyboard for you.

Types Of Keyboard Sizes

Keyboards come in different sizes, right from the standard keyboard to one with the mere necessities. Each type of keyboard has its features, advantages, and drawbacks.  The most common ones are full-sized, tenkeyless, and mini keyboards.

Full-sized keyboards have all the keys you need, including a number pad on the right side. They’re great for general use and gaming but can be cumbersome since they occupy a large space.

Tenkeyless keyboards miss the number pad, making them more compact and easier to transport. They’re ideal for people who use the number pad sparingly.

Mini keyboards are even more compact than tenkeyless keyboards and can be great for travel or use in small spaces. However, they can be harder to type since the keys are so close together. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which keyboard size is right for you.

Below are the most common types of keyboard sizes in more detail:

  • Fully sized keyboard, commonly referred to as the 100% keyboard
  • 1800 keyboard
  • “TenKeyLess” or TKL keyboard, also referred to as the 80% keyboard
  • 75% keyboard
  • 65% compact keyboard
  • 60% compact keyboard

40% keyboards

  • Number Pad
  • Macro Pad

Full Sized Keyboard

Source: Amazon

For extended typing sessions, you really can’t beat a full-sized keyboard. Here are some of the features that make full-sized keyboards ideal for long-form typing.

The first obvious advantage is that you have a lot more space to work with. You don’t have to worry about hitting the wrong keys as your fingers move around the keyboard. This can be especially important when you’re touch typing at high speeds.

Another big advantage is that you have access to a dedicated numeric keypad. This is great for data entry tasks or anytime you need to do a lot of number crunching. The keypad also includes a variety of other symbols that can be handy in certain situations.

Finally, full-sized keyboards usually come with a wrist rest. This can help to reduce fatigue and prevent pain during extended typing sessions.

TenKeyLess keyboard

60% keyboard: Asus ROG Falchion keyboard
Source: Amazon

TenKeyLess keyboard omits the numeric keypad. The “ten key” in the name refers to the number pad with ten keys on the full-sized keyboard, while TenKeyLess keyboards omit this feature. This makes them smaller and more portable, ideal for gamers with limited desk space. In addition, the reduced size can make reaching all of the keys easier with your hands, resulting in a faster typing speed.

TenKeyLess keyboards are also popular among people who use a lot of shortcuts, as they allow for more space for mouse movement. Whatever your reason for choosing a TenKeyLess keyboard, you will appreciate the compact design and enhanced portability.

This keyboard has 104 to 108 keys depending on the keyboard’s layout.

1800 Layout Keyboard

The 1800 Layout Keyboard is a QWERTY-based keyboard layout popularized in the late 1800s. The layout is designed to allow for easy typing of common English words and phrases, and it has become the standard keyboard layout for English-speaking countries.

While the 1800 Layout Keyboard has remained unchanged over the years, some minor variations have been made, such as the addition of accent keys for French and Spanish speakers.

The 1800 Layout Keyboard is not without its critics. Some find the layout to be inefficient and difficult to learn.

75% Keyboard

A 75% keyboard is a compact keyboard that includes all the keys you need for everyday typing, gaming, and navigation, while still being small enough to take with you wherever you go. Unlike 60% keyboards, which leave out important keys like the arrow keys and function keys, 75% keyboards strike the perfect balance between portability and convenience.

And because they’re smaller than full-sized keyboards, they’re also easier to use in confined spaces, making them ideal for use in dorm rooms, offices, and even on airplanes.

Whether you’re looking for a keyboard to take with you on the go or just want a more convenient option for your desktop computer, a 75% keyboard is the perfect solution.

65% Compact Keyboard

Thanks to technology, manufacturers have produced a smaller keyboard with essential functionalities. The 65% compact keyboard provides a spacious typing or gaming space while offering you the best experience.

In addition, they often feature dedicated arrow keys and other important keys, making them more user-friendly. If you’re looking for a more comfortable typing or gaming experience, a 65% compact keyboard may be the perfect solution.

60% Keyboard

A 60% keyboard is the way to go if you want an excellent typing or gaming experience. The smaller size of these keyboards means they are often more comfortable to type on, as your hands won’t have to stretch as far to reach all the keys. Plus, the lack of unnecessary keys reduces the chance of accidental key presses.

If you want a keyboard that is completely customized to your needs, a 60% keyboard is the perfect option. These keyboards allow you to choose which keys are included, so you can add or remove keys as you see fit. This makes them great for those who want to create the perfect layout for their needs.

40% Keyboards

40% keyboards are great for gamers and typists alike. They offer a more comfortable typing experience by allowing you to use fewer keys for common commands. This can reduce strain on your hands and fingers and help you type faster.

Once you’ve decided on a switch type, consider the keyboard’s layout. 40% keyboards typically have a smaller footprint than their larger counterparts, so they save on desk space. They also have a more compact layout, which is helpful for touch typists and gamers alike.

When shopping for a 40% keyboard, it’s crucial to find one that fits your needs. Consider the type of switch you want, the layout of the keys, and your budget. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a keyboard that’s perfect for you.

Number Pads

A number pad is a keypad that contains numbers, symbols, and arrows. They are great for data entry into a computer or other electronic device. Number pads are typically found on the right side of keyboards. However, number pads are independent, and you can place them on whichever side of the keyboard.

Number pads are often used by accountants, cashiers, and other people who enter a lot of numeric data into computers. They can also be used for gaming or to control multimedia playback. Some number pads have additional features, such as a built-in calculator or the ability to program macros.

You can connect number pads to a computer via USB or Bluetooth. They are available in a variety of sizes, from mini to full-size. You can find them in various colors, including black, white, and silver.

Macro Pads

A Macro Pad is a type of keyboard that allows you to input a series of keystrokes or commands with a single button press. Typically, you use them for gaming or other applications where you need to perform a complex series of actions quickly and easily.

Macro Pads come in various sizes, from small 4-button keypads to larger 16-button units. The number of buttons is not necessarily indicative of the quality or usefulness of the device.

When choosing a Macro Pad, one crucial consideration is how many “layers” it supports. A layer is a different set of button functions you can access with a button press or key combination. This is useful if you need to perform different actions in different situations. For example, you could have a “Movement” layer for when you’re moving around in a game and a “Combat” layer for when you’re fighting.

Macro Pads typically connect to your computer via USB, although some wireless models are available. They usually don’t require special drivers or software, although some more advanced units may have dedicated software for configuring the buttons.

Different Types Of Keyboard Layouts

You may be familiar with the standard QWERTY keyboard layout because it’s the default layout on most computers and keyboards. However, many different keyboard layouts are available, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. The Dvorak layout, for example, is designed to be more ergonomic and efficient than QWERTY, and as a result, it can help to reduce typing errors. The Colemak layout is another alternative to QWERTY that offers a more balanced approach with an emphasis on efficiency and comfort. Ultimately, the best keyboard layout for you is the one that feels most comfortable and efficient for your needs.

Below are some of the most common types of keyboard layouts:

  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
  • ISO keyboard layout
  • Japanese International Standard layout
  • QWERTY keyboard layout
  • COLEMAK keyboard layout

Here is A closer look at these layouts.

American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a keyboard layout primarily used in the United States. It is also used in other countries, such as Canada, Mexico, and the Philippines. The ANSI layout is based on the English alphabet. The main difference between the ANSI layout and the QWERTY layout is that the ANSI layout has a dedicated key for the dollar sign ($).

The ANSI layout also has a few other minor differences, such as the position of the @ symbol. It is estimated that about 95% of all keyboards in the United States use the ANSI layout.

International Standard Organization (ISO) Keyboard Layout

The ISO keyboard is a standardized layout based on the Latin alphabet, and various countries around the world use it, including much of Europe and South America. Unlike other keyboard layouts, the ISO layout includes additional keys for accented characters and special symbols, making it an ideal choice for users who need to type in multiple languages.

The ISO layout is also widely used in Software Development, including all the keys needed for programming languages. As a result, it is a popular choice for developers. While the ISO layout is not perfect for everyone, it remains a popular choice for those who need to type in multiple languages or work with software development.

Japanese International Standard Layout

Japanese International Standard keyboard is a computer keyboard that is designed for use in the Japanese language. The keyboard has several features that make it well-suited for typing in Japanese. For example, the keyboard includes several keys dedicated to creating Japanese characters. In addition, the keyboard is designed so you can reach all the keys without moving your hands from their home position. As a result, the Japanese International Standard keyboard can help you to type Japanese characters quickly and accurately.

QWERTY Keyboard Layout

The QWERTY keyboard layout is one of the world’s most widely used keyboard layouts, named for the first six keys on the top row of letters. The QWERTY layout was designed for mechanical typewriters. The developer designed the layout to prevent jams by separating commonly used letter pairs.

Today, the QWERTY layout is still used on most keyboards, even though more efficient designs exist. Many believe the QWERTY layout is slower than alternative layouts, such as Dvorak or COLEMAK.

However, research has shown no significant difference in typing speed between keyboard layouts. The QWERTY layout has become so entrenched that it is unlikely to be replaced anytime soon. 

COLEMAK Keyboard Layout

The COLEMAK keyboard layout is a popular alternative to the standard QWERTY layout. With COLEMAK, the most commonly used letters are positioned under the home row, making it more ergonomic and efficient. In addition, COLEMAK eliminates several inefficient keystrokes in QWERTY, such as the need to stretch your fingers to reach the right shift key. As a result, COLEMAK can help you type faster and with less fatigue. If you’re looking for a more efficient way to type, COLEMAK is worth considering.

How Do The Keyboard Layouts Differ From One Another?

Regarding keyboard layouts, there are three main options: QWERTY, Dvorak, and Colemak. QWERTY is the most common layout, named after the six keys in the top left corner of the keyboard. Dvorak is a less common layout designed for increased efficiency, and COLEMAK is a relatively new layout that falls somewhere between QWERTY and Dvorak in terms of efficiency.

The main difference between these three layouts is the placement of the keys, which can take some time to get used to if you’re switching from one layout to another. However, once you’ve mastered a particular layout, you’ll be able to type much faster and with fewer errors.

How To Test Which Keyboard Layout Is Faster For You

If you’re looking for a new keyboard or want to see if you’re fastest on QWERTY, DVORAK, or another layout, there’s a simple way to test it.

First, find a piece of text that you can type reasonably quickly and accurately. This could be something from your favorite book, an article you’ve been meaning to read, or just a random string of characters. Once you have your text, time yourself as you type it using your standard keyboard layout. Then, switch to the layout you want to test and time yourself again. Try this several times with different pieces of text to get an accurate idea of your typing speed on each layout.

Of course, speed is only part of it. If you make more errors on one layout than another, that’s also worth considering. Ultimately, the best keyboard layout is the one that feels most comfortable for you and allows you to type quickly and accurately. So feel free to experiment until you find the perfect fit.

The Benefits Of Using A Specific Keyboard Layout

Computer users have been stuck with the standard QWERTY keyboard layout for years. But there are several other layouts out there that can offer a more ergonomic and efficient typing experience. One such layout is the Dvorak keyboard, which arranges the most commonly used letters more intuitively. The result is a much easier keyboard to type on and can help reduce strain on the hands and wrists.

Choose A Keyboard Size And Layout That Best Suits Your Needs And Preferences

When it comes to keyboards, size and layout matter. If you’re constantly hitting the wrong keys or wish for a different layout, it’s time to research and find the keyboard that best suits your needs. Start by considering the size of the keyboard.

Do you want a full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad, or would you prefer a more compact model? Once you’ve decided on the size, look at the layout. If you’re used to a standard QWERTY keyboard, you may be more comfortable with a similar layout.

However, other options, such as Dvorak or Colemak, can help improve your typing speed and accuracy. With so many choices available, it’s easy to find a keyboard that’s just right for you.

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