Keyboard DIY
News Reviews How-To's
Layouts
There are a countless number of layouts due to the vast variety of needs of users. There are many factors including: Ergonomics, aesthetics, functionality (macro keys and numpad), desk footprint and efficiency.
Full Size (104 Key)
Full Size keyboards are by far the most common. They will have either 104 keys or 108 keys (4 extra media keys) and include the standard alpha cluster, function keys, navigation cluster with arrow keys, and the numpad. They are great for functionality, one of the great things about mechanical keyboards is they come in all shapes and sizes.
TenKeyLess
Tenkeyless boards are essentially Full Sized boards but without the numpad. They still offer standard alpha cluster, function keys and navigation cluster with arrow keys. It's great for people who don't normally use the numpad.
60%
60% keyboards have roughly 60% of the keys in a Full Size keyboard. They contain only the alpha cluster. They are highly portable and take a minimal amount of desk space. There are no dedicated function keys, navigation keys, or arrow keys. These keyboards rely on function layers to access those missing keys. I reprogrammed my Cap Lock key to access a function letter and for my arrow cluster to be IJKL. If I want to go down, I will press CapsLock+K. There is a bit of a learning curve to using layers like this, it makes me more efficient because now I don't have to leave my home row to access my arrow keys.
Why Any Less than Full-Size?
Full Size keyboards seem to have all the functionality you would ever need in a keyboard. Why would you want a keyboard with less functionality?
Ergonomics- Having a smaller keyboard allows you to have your mouse closer to your other hand, putting less strain on your shoulder.
Portability- Having a smaller and lighter keyboard makes it easier to travel with.
Smaller desk footprint- If you have a desk like mine, having a smaller keyboard makes my desk a lot more functional and spacious
Individual needs- I don't use numbpad or the function keys very often in my line of work so I would rather have the benefits of a smaller keyboard. I have a separate numpad for when I do need to crunch a lot of numbers.
Aesthetics- Smaller keyboards look less cluttered and more minimal which some people love the look of.
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Other Layouts Outside and in between
