Keyboard Sizes Matter

yxs 2025-04-17

image from github

Take a look at the picture. Smaller percentage means smaller keyboard:

  • 100%: Full size with numpad and arrow keys. Numpad is useless these days, so skip it.
  • TKL (Tenkeyless): No numpad, but keeps arrow keys.
  • 75%: Compact, most people prefer 75 these days.
  • 65%: Smaller, still has arrow keys, but no function keys.
  • 60%: Super compact, no arrow keys or numpad.

My picks:

  • Work/Programming: 65% — compact with arrow keys. Even though I use hjkl for programming and browsing, arrow keys help in some apps and in some scenarios.
  • Gaming: 60% — more mouse space. I use the Wooting 60HE.
  • Aesthetics: Exploded 65% and 75%.

Think about what you need: gaming, work, or portability, and then choose the right size.