Table of Contents
- Introduction to Keyboard Sizes
- Full-Sized Keyboards
- Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboards
- 60% and 65% Keyboards: Compact Powerhouses
- Custom and Ergonomic Layouts: Tailored for Comfort
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Keyboard Size
- Community Opinions and Trends
- Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Keyboard Size
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Your Ideal Keyboard Size[+]
- 1. What Keyboard Size Should You Get?
- 2. What Are the Advantages of a Full-sized Keyboard?
- 3. What Are the Advantages of a Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboard?
- 4. What Are the Advantages of a 75% Keyboard?
- 5. What Are the Advantages of a 60% Keyboard?
- 6. What Size Keyboard Is Best for Gaming?
- 7. What Size Keyboard Is Best for Typing/Productivity?
- 8. Are There Specialized Keyboards for Mac Users?
- 9. Can I Customize Keyboards to My Preferences?
- 10. How Do I Determine My Ideal Keyboard Size?
- 11. Where Can I Buy Mechanical Keyboards?
In the world of computing, the right tools can significantly enhance your experience, and one such crucial tool is the keyboard. When it comes to selecting the perfect keyboard, size matters. In this comprehensive guide titled “What Keyboard Size Should You Get: Your Ideal Keyboard Size”, we delve into the various keyboard sizes available, from the expansive full-sized boards to the compact 60% variants, and everything in between.
We’ll explore the pros and cons of each size, helping you understand which keyboard size aligns best with your needs, whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or a coding enthusiast. Join us as we navigate the world of keyboard sizes, ensuring you make an informed decision for your typing comfort and efficiency.
Introduction to Keyboard Sizes
When embarking on the quest to find the ideal keyboard, one of the first questions you’ll encounter is, “What Keyboard Size Should You Get?” This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality, comfort, and how the keyboard fits into your daily life.
Keyboards come in various sizes, each with its unique set of features. The most common sizes include the Full-Sized, Tenkeyless (TKL), and 60% keyboards. Each size caters to different user needs, from the feature-rich full-sized keyboards to the minimalist 60% variants.
Full-Sized Keyboards
Full-sized keyboards are the traditional choice, offering a complete range of keys, including the number pad, function keys, and sometimes additional media control keys. They’re ideal for users who frequently engage in data entry or require quick access to a numeric keypad.
Benefits of full-sized keyboards include:
- Comprehensive functionality with dedicated keys for various tasks.
- Easier transition for those accustomed to traditional keyboards.
However, they do have drawbacks:
- Their larger footprint might not be suitable for smaller desks.
- Less ergonomic due to the wider reach required.

These keyboards are perfect for professionals who rely on a numeric keypad for their work, like accountants or data analysts. For a deeper dive into full-sized keyboards, check out this Technoburst article.
Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboards
Moving to a more compact option, Tenkeyless keyboards eliminate the number pad found on full-sized keyboards. This reduction in size offers a more space-efficient design without sacrificing the essential keys.
Advantages of TKL keyboards include:
- More desk space, allowing for a more comfortable mouse placement.
- Enhanced portability, making them a great choice for those on the go.
Choosing a TKL keyboard is ideal when:
- Desk space is at a premium.
- The numeric keypad is seldom used.
Despite their smaller size, TKL keyboards maintain the functionality of their full-sized counterparts, minus the number pad. This makes them a popular choice among gamers and professionals who value desk space but still require the utility of function keys. For insights on when to opt for a TKL keyboard, consider reading this comprehensive guide by Hardware Canucks.
60% and 65% Keyboards: Compact Powerhouses
In the realm of keyboard sizes, 60% and 65% of keyboards stand out for their compact design and surprising functionality. These keyboards strip away the non-essential keys, focusing on space efficiency and a minimalist aesthetic. But don’t let their size fool you; they pack a punch in performance.
60% of keyboards are the epitome of space-saving design. They typically omit the number pad, function row, arrow keys, and sometimes even the home cluster. This results in a keyboard that’s not only portable but also gives your desk a clean, uncluttered look. Ideal for those who value desk real estate and portability, a 60% keyboard can be a game-changer.
65% of keyboards take a slight step up in size, adding back a few keys, usually including a column for arrow keys and a few additional function keys. This slight increase in size can make a big difference in usability, especially for users who find the arrow keys indispensable.
When comparing 60% and 65% keyboards, it’s a balance of space versus functionality. The choice hinges on your workflow and how much you rely on the missing keys. For a deeper understanding of these compact keyboards, check out this guide on mechanical keyboard sizes by Keyboard University.
Keyboard Size | Features | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Full-Sized | Complete layout with numpad | Comprehensive functionality | Larger footprint, less ergonomic |
Tenkeyless (TKL) | No numpad, compact | More desk space, portability | Numeric keypad missing |
60% | Compact, minimalist | Portability, clutter-free desk | Fewer keys, learning curve |
65% | Compact with essential keys | Balance between size and functionality | Still missing some keys |
Custom & Ergonomic | Tailored layouts | Personalization, ergonomic benefits | Limited availability, may require adaptation |

Custom and Ergonomic Layouts: Tailored for Comfort
Moving beyond conventional sizes, custom, and ergonomic keyboard layouts offer a personalized typing experience. These include sizes like 75% and 40%, each catering to specific user preferences and ergonomic needs.
75% keyboards are a neat middle ground, offering a compact size similar to 65% models but with an extra row for function keys. They’re perfect for those who need the function row but still want a smaller footprint.
40% of keyboards take minimalism to the extreme. They’re for the keyboard enthusiast who loves a challenge, as they require a learning curve to adapt to the condensed layout.
The real game-changer in this category is ergonomic keyboards. Designed with human anatomy in mind, these keyboards reduce strain and fatigue, making them ideal for long hours of typing. They come in various shapes and sizes, from split designs to curved layouts, each aiming to provide a more natural hand position.
The benefits of ergonomic keyboards are not just about comfort; they’re about long-term health. By reducing strain on your wrists and fingers, these keyboards can help prevent issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.

For those interested in exploring ergonomic options, a great resource is this Technoburst article on ergonomic keyboards. It delves into the different types and benefits of ergonomic keyboards, helping you make an informed decision for your typing health.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Keyboard Size
Deciding “What Keyboard Size Should You Get” isn’t just about picking the coolest-looking one. It’s a blend of practicality, personal preference, and how you plan to use it. Let’s break down the key factors:
Space Considerations:
- How much desk real estate do you have?
- Are you often on the move with your keyboard?
Usage:
- Do you need a number pad for data entry?
- Are function keys a must-have for your workflow?
Portability:
- If you’re always on the go, a compact keyboard might be your best friend.
Personal Preferences and Typing Habits:
- Do you prefer a minimalist setup or a full-range keyboard?
- Consider your typing comfort and ergonomics.
Factors to Consider | Questions to Ask |
---|---|
Space Considerations | – How much desk space do you have?<br>- Do you need a portable keyboard? |
Usage | – Do you frequently use the number pad?<br>- Are function keys essential for your work? |
Portability | – Do you need a keyboard for on-the-go use? |
Personal Preferences | – Do you prefer a minimalist or feature-rich layout?<br>- How important is typing comfort and ergonomics? |
Community Opinions and Trends
The keyboard community is vibrant and opinionated, especially on platforms like Reddit. Insights from these discussions can be incredibly valuable. For instance, a Reddit discussion on preferred keyboard sizes reveals a diverse range of preferences, from those who swear by the compactness of 60% keyboards to those who can’t live without a full-sized board.
Trends in Mechanical Keyboard Preferences:
- There’s a growing trend towards smaller, more customizable keyboards.
- Enthusiasts value both aesthetics and functionality.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Keyboard Size
In summary, the journey to find your ideal keyboard size is deeply personal. It’s about balancing the practical aspects of space and usage with your personal preferences and typing habits. Whether you’re drawn to the portability of a 60% keyboard or need the full range of a traditional layout, your choice should align with your lifestyle and work requirements.
We encourage you to explore and experiment. Maybe you’ll find a new favorite in a size you never considered before. Remember, the perfect keyboard is out there waiting for you – it’s all about finding the one that feels right under your fingertips.
Trends | Insights |
---|---|
Growing Trend | Smaller, more customizable keyboards are gaining popularity. |
Enthusiast Values | Keyboard enthusiasts prioritize aesthetics and functionality. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Your Ideal Keyboard Size
1. What Keyboard Size Should You Get?
- Your ideal keyboard size depends on your preferences and needs.
- Common sizes include Full-sized, Tenkeyless (TKL), 75%, 60%, and Mini.
- Full-sized for numeric keypad, TKL for compactness, and 60% for ultimate portability.
2. What Are the Advantages of a Full-sized Keyboard?
- Full-sized keyboards offer a complete layout.
- Ideal for data entry, number crunching, and gaming with a dedicated numpad.
- Suitable for users with large desk space.
3. What Are the Advantages of a Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboard?
- TKL keyboards are more compact without a numeric keypad.
- Great for a clutter-free desk setup.
- Ideal for gamers who need extra mouse movement space.
4. What Are the Advantages of a 75% Keyboard?
- 75% of keyboards offer a compact layout with essential keys.
- Suitable for a balance between portability and functionality.
- Perfect for typists who don’t need a numpad.
5. What Are the Advantages of a 60% Keyboard?
- 60% of keyboards are ultra-compact with a minimal layout.
- Best for those who prioritize portability and desk space.
- Ideal for travel and minimalist setups.
6. What Size Keyboard Is Best for Gaming?
- The best gaming keyboard size depends on your gaming style.
- Full-sized for MMOs, TKL for FPS, and 60% for competitive esports.
- Choose based on your preferred key layout and desk space.
7. What Size Keyboard Is Best for Typing/Productivity?
- For typing and productivity, consider a full-sized or TKL keyboard.
- Full-sized for heavy typists, TKL for a balanced approach.
- Ergonomic features may also impact your choice.
8. Are There Specialized Keyboards for Mac Users?
- Yes, there are Mac-specific keyboards with macOS shortcuts.
- Consider a keyboard with Mac compatibility for seamless integration.
- Some third-party keyboards also offer Mac layout support.
9. Can I Customize Keyboards to My Preferences?
- Many mechanical keyboards allow keycap customization.
- You can change key switches, and keycaps, and even build your own.
- Customization options vary by keyboard model.
10. How Do I Determine My Ideal Keyboard Size?
- Consider your primary use case (gaming, typing, coding).
- Assess your available desk space.
- Try out different keyboard sizes to find the most comfortable fit.
11. Where Can I Buy Mechanical Keyboards?
- You can purchase mechanical keyboards from online retailers, electronics stores, and specialty keyboard shops.
- Popular brands include Logitech, Corsair, Ducky, and more.
- Consider reading reviews and comparing prices before making a purchase.