Mechanical Keyboards: A Guide to Layouts and Sizes

Mechanical keyboards have gained a dedicated following among gamers, typists, and enthusiasts for their superior tactile feedback, durability, and customization options. However, choosing the right mechanical keyboard can be daunting due to the variety of layouts and sizes available. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common keyboard layouts and form factors to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Keyboard Sizes: How Compact Do You Need to Go?

Size refers to the keyboard’s physical footprint and the number of keys. Smaller sizes prioritize portability and desk space, while larger ones offer dedicated navigation or numpad keys.

1. Full-Size(100%)

Features:

Includes all keys: alphanumeric, function row (F1-F12), numpad, arrow keys, and navigation cluster (Home, End, etc.).

Pros:

Best for data entry, accounting, or anyone needing a numpad.

Familiar layout for most users.

Cons:

Bulky; takes up desk space.

Less ergonomic (requires reaching for the mouse).

Best For:

Office work, number-heavy tasks, or traditionalists.

2. Tenkeyless (TKL / 80%)

Features:

Removes the numpad but keeps the function row, arrow keys, and navigation cluster.

Pros:

Saves desk space; easier for ergonomic mouse placement.

Lightweight and portable.

Cons:

No numpad (a dealbreaker for some).

Best For:

Gamers, writers, and those who prefer a compact setup without sacrificing arrow keys.

3. 75% Keyboard

Features:

Squeezes the TKL layout into a smaller frame by clustering navigation keys (e.g., vertical arrow keys).

Retains the function row but removes excess spacing.

Pros:

Ultra-compact yet functional.

Great for small desks or travel.

Cons:

Key labels may be harder to read due to tighter spacing.

Best For:

Minimalists who still need function keys and arrows.

4. 65% Layout

Features:

Adds dedicated arrow keys and 4-6 function keys (e.g., Delete, PgUp/PgDn) on top of the 60% layout.

Maintains a compact size, narrower than 75% (without a function key row).

Pros:

Arrow keys are independent, no need for layer combinations—ideal for coding and writing.

More practical than 60%, more portable than 75%.

Cons:

Some keys require Fn combinations (e.g., Home/End).

Best For:

Minimalists or programmers who need arrow keys.

5. Alice Layout

Features:

Split design: The keyboard is divided into left and right sections, angled in the middle (usually 6-10°) to fit the natural curve of the palms.

Symmetrical spacebars: Two spacebars (left and right) or split spacebar for multiple functions.

Pros:

Reduces wrist pronation, relieving typing fatigue over long hours.

Customizable key layout for different hand shapes.

Cons:

Poor keycap compatibility (non-standard sizes).

Requires an adjustment period, especially for gamers.

Best For:

Writers and users with ergonomic needs.

6. 60% Keyboard

Features:

Removes the function row, numpad, and navigation cluster.

Relies on layers (accessed via Fn key) for missing keys (e.g., F1-F12, Home/End).

Pros:

Extremely portable and sleek.

Customizable via reprogramming (popular with enthusiasts).

Cons:

Steep learning curve for layer-dependent functions.

Best For:

Programmers, travelers, or mechanical keyboard hobbyists.

7. 40% Keyboard

Features:

The ultimate minimalist: no number row, function row, or navigation keys.

Requires heavy use of layers for numbers, symbols, and commands.

Pros:

Tiny footprint; reduces hand movement.

Highly customizable and lightweight.

Cons:

Not practical for beginners or number-heavy tasks.

Best For:

Experts willing to memorize layers or stenographers.

Keyboard Layout:

Layouts define the physical arrangement of keys, symbols, and modifiers. Regional preferences and language requirements often influence these designs.

1. ANSI (American National Standards Institute) Layout

Most common in the U.S. and Canada

Features a rectangular Enter key

Longer left Shift key

104-key full-size version (includes a number pad)

Best suited for English-language users

2. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Layout

3. UK QWERTY Layout

Based on ISO layout but includes specific changes for the UK market

“@” and “” symbols are swapped compared to the ANSI layout

Pound sign (£) is included

Commonly used in the UK and Ireland

4. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) Layout

5. AZERTY Layout

Used in France and Belgium

First six letters spell AZERTY instead of QWERTY

Shifted symbol placement compared to QWERTY layouts

Optimized for French language input

Select a layout based on your region or comfort, whether it’s the US ANSI, UK QWERTY, or ISO. For size, consider whether you need a numeric keypad or prefer a more compact design for space-saving or portability.

By understanding the differences in layouts and sizes, you can find the mechanical keyboard that best suits your workflow and typing habits.

Quick Comparison Chart