Do you spend long excruciating hours a day typing on your keyboard? If so, you know how important it is to have a keyboard that is comfortable and efficient to use. The wrong keyboard size can lead to pain, fatigue, and even errors! That's why it's so important to choose the right keyboard size for your individual needs. 

Why is choosing the right keyboard size important?

Well, for starters, a keyboard that is too large can be cumbersome and take up too much desk space. This can be especially problematic if you have limited desk space. A keyboard that is too small, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable and lead to typos.

The size of your keyboard will affect its portability, its functionality, and your typing experience. There are many different keyboard sizes to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of keyboard sizes for beginners, covering everything from the basics to the more advanced concepts. We will also discuss which keyboard size is right for you, depending on your individual needs and preferences.

7 Basic Keyboard Sizes 

The most common keyboard sizes are:

1. Full-sized keyboard (100%)

Play 100 | Zero Two Set by TheKapCo

Full-sized keyboards have all the keys you would expect on a traditional keyboard, including the number pad, function keys, and arrow keys. A 100% mechanical keyboard typically includes a full set of alphanumeric keys, including letters (A-Z) and numbers (0-9). Additionally, it features function keys, arrow keys, modifier keys, navigation cluster (home, end, page up, page down), dedicated media control keys, and the numeric keypad. These keyboards are the most versatile and offer the most functionality, but they can also be the largest and most unwieldy. 

2. Compact 100 (96%)

Compact 100 Keyboard by Hatsiu

Compact 100 or 96% keyboards have the same keys and function with a 100% keyboard, but with no “dead space” in between the key clusters. This keyboard is uncommon as many users prefer a decent about of space between the number pad and the rest of the keyboard. The 96% keyboards are slightly more narrow, so they are slightly smaller and more compact compared to the full-sized keyboards. This makes them easier to bring along anywhere and saves space too.

3. Tenkeyless [TKL]keyboards (80%)
   

PLAY TKL | Itachi Set by The KapCo

TKL keyboards remove the number pad from the full-sized keyboard, making them smaller and more portable. TKL keyboards generally has 87 keys, making it compact and easier to take on the go. This compact keyboard is also perfect for accommodating to smaller desk spaces. TKL keyboards still have the arrow keys, home cluster and function keys.These keyboards are a good compromise between size and functionality, and they are a popular choice for gamers and typists.

4. 75% keyboards

LMK81 Kyoto Set by The KapCo

75% keyboards are slightly smaller and compact compared to the  TKL keyboards. They retain the function keys, arrow keys, and some of the modifier keys. These keyboards are a good compromise between size and functionality. The arrow keys and home cluster are placed right next to each other and the home cluster is aligned vertically to save space. They are a popular choice for users preferring a keyboard with more dedicated keys than a 60% keyboard.

5. 65% keyboards

PLAY65 | Luffy Gear 5 Set by The KapCo

65% keyboards are a hybrid of the 60% and TKL keyboards. This keyboard optimizes space more effectively. They remove the number pad, but they retain the function keys and arrow keys. This is the smallest keyboard size you can get that will still have arrow keys. Perfect for gaming or typing on a compact desk, the 65% keyboard is a popular choice for portability, lightweight and practicality.

6. 60% keyboards

GMMK 60 by Amazon

60% keyboards are the smallest and most compact keyboards available. They remove the number pad, function keys, arrow keys, and even some of the modifier keys. These keyboards are great for people who want a minimal keyboard that takes up very little space. Because of its small size, it is affordable to buy switches and keycaps for customization. However, they can be challenging to learn to use, and they may not be suitable for everyone. 

7. 40% keyboards

Koolertron 40% by Amazon

40% keyboards are the smallest keyboard size available. They remove the number pad, function keys, arrow keys, and all of the modifier keys. More importantly, there are no numbers (0-9) and advanced punctuation (semi-colon and quotes) on this keyboard layout! These keyboards are only suitable for experienced users who are willing to learn a new keyboard layout.

Choosing the Right Keyboard Size for You

The best keyboard size for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a keyboard with all the functionality of a full-sized keyboard, then a full-sized or TKL keyboard is a good option. If you want a smaller and more portable keyboard, then a 60% or 65% keyboard is a good choice. And if you are looking for a challenge and want the smallest keyboard possible, then a 40% keyboard is an option.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right keyboard size for you is to try out different sizes and see what feels comfortable and works best for you. There are many different keyboards available, so you should be able to find one that is perfect for your needs.

The right keyboard size will depend on your individual needs and preferences. 

• If you have limited desk space, then a smaller keyboard will be a better option. (TKL, 75%, 65%, 60%, 40%)
  
  
• If you use the number pad frequently, then you will need a keyboard with a number pad. (100% or 96%)
  
  
• If you are a gamer, you may want a keyboard with dedicated macro keys or media keys. (100%, 96%, TKL, 75%)
  
  
• Keyboard prices vary widely, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.

So whether you're a gamer, a programmer, or just someone who spends a lot of time typing, TheKapCo has the perfect keyboard for you! We offer a wide variety of keyboards in different sizes, so you can find the perfect keyboard to fit your individual needs. Our keyboards are made with high-quality materials and construction, and they come with a variety of features to make your typing experience even better.

 So what are you waiting for? Shop for your new keyboard today at TheKapCo!