Keyboard Sizes & Layouts

✨Keyboard size refers to how many keys a keyboard has and how they’re arranged. Choosing the right layout affects desk space, comfort, and how you work day to day✨

There is no “best” size — only what best fits your needs.

🧱100% (Full-Size) Keyboards

A 100% keyboard includes every standard key.

✅What you get:

  • Function row (F1–F12)
  • Arrow keys
  • Navigation cluster (Home, End, PgUp, PgDn)
  • Dedicated numpad

🎯Best for:

  • Data entry and spreadsheets
  • Office and productivity work
  • Users who rely on the numpad
  • Those who prefer a traditional layout

⚠️Things to consider:

  • Takes up the most desk space
  • Mouse may sit farther to the side

🧩96% - 98% (Compact Full-Size / 1800 Layout)

These layouts keep nearly all the keys of a full-size keyboard, including the numpad, but remove extra spacing to reduce width.

✅What you get:

  • Numpad included
  • Arrow keys and function row
  • Compressed navigation cluster
  • Smaller footprint than 100%

🎯Best for:

  • Users who want a numpad without a bulky keyboard
  • Smaller desks
  • A cleaner, more compact setup

💡Good to know:

  • Often listed as 96%, 98-key, or 100-key
  • Still considered “compact full-size,” not true 100%

🎮75% Keyboards

A 75% keyboard removes the numpad but keeps most essential keys in a compact layout.

✅What you get:

  • Function row
  • Arrow keys
  • Navigation keys (condensed)

🎯Best for:

  • Balanced work and typing
  • Users who don’t need a numpad
  • Smaller desks without sacrificing functionality

⌨️65% Keyboards

A 65% keyboard removes the function row and numpad but keeps arrow keys.

✅What you get:

  • Alphanumeric keys
  • Arrow keys
  • Some navigation keys via shortcuts

🎯Best for:

  • Minimalist setups
  • Gaming and casual typing
  • Desk space flexibility

🧳60% Keyboards

A 60% keyboard removes arrow keys, function row, and navigation keys.

✅What you get:

  • Letters and numbers only
  • Everything else is accessed through key combinations

🎯Best for:

  • Ultra-compact desks
  • Travel setups
  • Users comfortable with keyboard shortcuts

⚠️Things to consider:

  • Steeper learning curve
  • Not ideal for heavy productivity work

🤔Choosing the Right Size

Ask yourself:

  • 🔢Do I use a numpad?
  • 📏How much desk space do I have?
  • ⚖️Do I prefer simplicity or full functionality?

 

Alternative Keyboard Layouts

✨Not all keyboards follow the traditional straight layout. Some designs focus on ergonomics and comfort, especially for users who type for long periods✨

🪑Alice Layout (Ergonomic)

The Alice layout features a gently angled design that follows the natural position of your hands.

✅ What you get:
• Ergonomic, angled typing position
• Split spacebar
• Typically found in 65%–75% layouts

🎯Best for:
• Long typing sessions
• Comfort-focused setups
• Users looking to reduce wrist strain

Alice layouts are popular among writers and office users who want improved comfort without fully switching to a split keyboard.

↔️ Split Keyboards (Ergonomic)

Split keyboards separate the left and right halves entirely, allowing for more flexible positioning.

✅ What you get:
• Physically separated keyboard halves
• Adjustable spacing and angle
• Varies in size depending on model

🎯Best for:
• Ergonomic desk setups
• Users with wrist or shoulder discomfort
• Maximum posture customization

Split keyboards are ideal for users who want full control over their typing posture and workspace layout.

💡Good to Know

Alternative layouts may take a short adjustment period, but many users find them more comfortable over time — especially for extended typing.

At SwitchSmiths, we highlight layout styles clearly so you can choose what feels best for your hands, workflow, and comfort level💜