Keyboard Size Guide
Keyboard sizes are expressed as percentages of a full-size (104-key) layout. The smaller the board, the fewer keys — and the more reliance on layers for missing keys.
Full-size (100%)
104 keys. Includes numpad, function row, navigation cluster, and arrow keys. The standard office keyboard. Takes up the most desk space.
When to use: You need a numpad for data entry, or you don't want to learn layers.
TKL / 80%
87 keys. Removes the numpad. Same function row and nav cluster. Popular with gamers who want more mouse space.
When to use: You don't use the numpad regularly and want a cleaner desk.
75%
Around 84 keys. Compact version of TKL — the keys are pushed together with no gaps. Often includes a rotary encoder (knob) in the top-right.
When to use: You want TKL functionality in a smaller footprint.
65%
66-68 keys. Removes the function row but keeps arrow keys and a few navigation keys (Delete, Page Up/Down). The sweet spot for most enthusiasts.
When to use: You use arrow keys daily but can live without F-keys (they're accessible via a layer).
60%
61 keys. Removes everything above the number row and the arrow cluster. Very compact, very clean.
When to use: You're comfortable with layers and want maximum desk space. Common for custom builds.
40%
40-50 keys. Removes the number row entirely. Everything is on layers. Niche but surprisingly usable once you adapt.
When you're a keyboard nerd who wants a challenge.
Split keyboards
The board is divided into two halves, one for each hand. Can be any size. Benefits: shoulders stay at a natural width, each half can be positioned independently. The Corne (42 keys, split) and Ergodox (76 keys, split) are popular examples.
Ortholinear vs Staggered
Traditional keyboards use row stagger — each row is offset horizontally, a leftover from typewriter mechanics. Ortholinear (ortho) keyboards arrange keys in a straight grid. Some people find ortho more comfortable; others prefer stagger because that's what they learned on. Neither is objectively better.