Keyboard Sizes & Layouts Explained: Which Is Best for You?

Keyboard size affects more than just desk space. It influences your typing speed, comfort, and performance. The layout you choose determines which keys are within easy reach and which require key combinations to access. 

This guide breaks down everything from full-size keyboards with dedicated numpads to minimal 40% layouts that maximize mouse room, as well as common typing configurations. Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or exploring premium options like GravaStar’s innovative keyboards, understanding these fundamentals will help you make the right choice. 

Different Keyboard Sizes 

Keyboard size refers to the physical key count compared to a full-size (100%) keyboard. The percentage system (100%, 80%, 75%, etc.) shows how many keys remain relative to a standard full-size board, making it easy to understand what you're gaining or losing with each format. 

As keyboard sizes shrink, they lose keys in a predictable order: first the numpad disappears, then the navigation cluster, followed by the function row, and finally the arrow keys on the smallest layouts. This systematic reduction means you can choose exactly how much functionality to trade for desk space and portability. 

Full-Size 

A full size keyboard has 104 keys, including a numpad or number pad, full navigation keys, arrow keys, and a complete function row. The physical size of about 17 to 18 inches gives each section clear separation, allowing users to locate dedicated keys quickly without looking down. 

This spacing improves accuracy during high-speed typing and reduces the likelihood of pressing the wrong key. Because the keyboard layout size includes every standard key, it eliminates the need for layered shortcuts, making it faster for repetitive input tasks. 

The larger footprint also supports a consistent typing experience for long sessions, as hand positioning remains stable across different applications.

Best for: Office workers, gamers, software developers, and anyone who prefers a full key range for productivity, shortcuts, and versatility. Suitable for users with large desks who value comfort and speed over compactness.

96% Compact (1800 Layout) 

A 96% compact keyboard keeps almost the entire key range of a full size keyboard but reduces the physical size to about 15 to 16 inches. The number pad or number pad is still present, positioned closer to the main keys. The navigation keys and arrow keys are condensed to save desk space. 

This compact layout removes most of the gaps found in a standard layout. The tighter grouping shortens finger travel between sections and can increase typing efficiency once you adapt. It offers the best of both worlds by retaining the productivity benefits of a full-sized keyboard while providing more room for mouse movement.

Best for: Popular among developers and professionals who prefer a smaller footprint without losing the number pad. 

80% (Tenkeyless, TKL) Keyboards 

An 80% keyboard, also called a tenkeyless keyboard or TKL keyboard, removes the numpad to create a layout that is around 14 to 15 inches wide. This reduction frees up desk space for greater mouse movement, which can improve precision in gaming and reduce strain during extended work sessions. 

The keyboard layout size still includes the function row, arrow keys, and navigation keys, making it suitable for users who need these for productivity or programming. The absence of the number pad makes the physical size more portable while keeping most of the familiar standard layout intact.

Best for: Programmers, gamers, and general users who want a balance between usability and a smaller footprint. A common pick for those who rarely use the number pad but still want a full typing experience.

75% Keyboard 

A 75% keyboard retains most of the keys found on a TKL keyboard but compresses the keyboard layout size by removing the gaps between sections. It typically has 82 to 84 keys, including the function row, arrow keys, and some navigation keys, all placed in a tighter, compact layout. 

This design reduces physical size to about 12 to 13 inches wide, which helps save desk space while still keeping the keys needed for daily work. The denser grouping means less hand movement between commands, which can improve typing efficiency, but it may take time to adjust if you are used to the spacing of a standard keyboard.

Best for: Coders, writers, and professionals who want a clean, space-saving setup without losing essential keys like the function row and arrow keys. Suitable for users who value portability but still want an almost full typing experience.

65% Layout 

A 65% keyboard keeps the full alphanumeric section and dedicated arrow keys but removes the function row and most navigation keys. It typically has 67 to 68 keys, fitting into a compact layout that is about 12 inches wide. 

This keyboard layout size appeals to users who want a smaller footprint than a TKL keyboard but find a 60% keyboard too limiting. The inclusion of arrow keys makes it more practical for editing documents, navigating spreadsheets, and casual gaming compared to smaller models. 

Its reduced physical size improves portability and frees up desk space, but certain functions will require key combinations or the use of an FN key.

Best for: Travelling professionals, hybrid workers, and users who want a portable keyboard for work while keeping the arrow keys. Ideal for those who find 60% layouts too limiting but don’t need a number pad.

60% Keyboard Layout 

A 60% keyboard removes the function row, arrow keys, and most navigation keys, leaving only the alphanumeric section, number row, and modifiers. This results in a compact keyboard that is about 11 to 12 inches wide. The missing keys are accessed through layers using an FN key, meaning you must memorise new shortcuts. 

This keyboard layout size is popular among competitive gaming players and minimalists who want maximum desk space for mouse movement. The smaller physical size makes it highly portable, but the reliance on programmed layers can slow down workflows for data-heavy or editing tasks.

Best for: Gamers, coders, and users who want the most space-saving form factor while retaining essential typing functions. Works well for small desks and travel setups where portability is a priority. 

40% and Ultra-Compact 

A 40% keyboard reduces the number of keys to between 40 and 50, keeping only core letters, modifiers, and a few punctuation keys. This smaller keyboard removes the arrow keys and function row, most symbols, and all navigation keys, forcing users to rely on programmed layers for even basic commands. 

Its form factor offers an even more compact alternative for extreme portability, but it demands a steep learning curve. These boards often have a non-standard layout, such as ortholinear keyboards or other unconventional keyboard designs, which change key positioning entirely. 

The keyboard layout size appeals mainly to keyboard enthusiasts and custom keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy tailoring every function. This type of keyboard is rare among mainstream brands and is most often built by members of the keyboard community experimenting with different layouts.

Best for: Hobbyists, collectors, and ideal for users who want the most space-saving option possible. Choosing a keyboard in this category best suits those willing to adapt their workflow for portability or a unique typing challenge.

Different Keyboard Layouts 

Keyboard layouts determine how letters, numbers, and symbols are arranged across the keys. While most users stick with the familiar QWERTY layout, alternative arrangements can offer improved typing speed, reduced finger strain, and better ergonomics for those willing to invest time in learning them. 

Typing Arrangements 

• Standard QWERTY: The most widely used layout, developed in the 1870s for typewriters. It places commonly used letters like A, S, D, F under the left hand and semicolon, L, K, J under the right. Its nearly universal compatibility with all devices and software makes it the default choice, though its design prioritizes mechanical constraints over typing efficiency. 

• Dvorak: An alternative layout that places the most frequently used letters on the home row to reduce finger movement. Vowels (A, O, E, U, I) sit under the left hand while common consonants occupy the right side. Studies suggest that it can increase typing speed and reduce strain, but it has a steep learning curve and has limited hardware support. 

• Colemak: A modern layout designed to improve upon QWERTY while requiring less adjustment than Dvorak. It keeps common shortcuts like Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+X, Ctrl+C in familiar positions while optimizing letter placement for English text. This layout offers better finger balance and reduced same-finger sequences compared to QWERTY, making it popular among programmers. 

• Workman: A newer layout optimized to reduce lateral finger movement and improve hand alternation during typing. It positions the most common letters on the strongest fingers while minimizing awkward key combinations. This was designed specifically for modern computing rather than historical typewriter limitations, though it has a smaller user community than other alternatives. 

Physical Layouts 

• ANSI: The standard layout used in North America, featuring a horizontal Enter key and a smaller left Shift key. It’s the most widely supported by keycap manufacturers and custom keyboard builders, making it the easiest format for modifications and replacements. 

• ISO: Common in Europe and other international markets, characterized by a vertical Enter key and an additional key next to the left Shift. The larger Enter key and extra symbol key accommodate different language requirements and typing habits. 

How to Choose the Right Keyboard Size & Layout 

Selecting the right keyboard depends on balancing your functional needs against space limitations and personal preferences. Consider how you’ll use the keyboard, your available desk space, and whether you need portability. The goal is finding a size that supports your workflow without creating unnecessary bulk or missing essential keys for your tasks. 

Space Constraints 

Your available desk space directly influences which keyboard sizes will work comfortably in your setup. Smaller keyboards not only save surface area but can improve your overall workspace ergonomics by allowing optimal mouse placement and reducing arm reach. 

65% or 75% layouts provide essential functions without overwhelming small workspaces. Compact keyboards allow tighter mouse positioning and better overall ergonomics. 

• Large desks (20+ inches): Any size would work. 

• Medium desks (16 to 20 inches): TKL or smaller works best. 

• Small desks (under 16 inches): 75% or smaller. 

Main Activity 

Your main computer tasks should be a big factor in guiding your keyboard choice. Different work styles benefit from specific key arrangements, and choosing the wrong size can slow down your productivity or create unnecessary frustration during daily use. 

Tasks Involving Frequent Numbers 

For accounting, spreadsheets, engineering, and other jobs that have you crunching numbers often, your best option is a keyboard with a full numpad. A full-size or 96% keyboard gives you everything you need. 

Software Development and Coding 

Mid-range sizes from 75% to tenkeyless give you quick access to function keys for IDE commands while keeping your hands positioned efficiently. There’s no need to go for a full-sized keyboard unless you want to. 

Competitive Gaming 

Compact keyboards free up the space you need for rapid mouse movements. Many professional gamers prefer 60% layouts for tournament play, as there’s less space for your fingers to move between commands. 

Portability 

If you frequently work from different locations, LAN with friends, or travel with your keyboard, size and weight become important factors. A portable keyboard need to fit comfortably in a bag while still providing a satisfying typing or gaming experience. 

Keyboards around 60% to 65% in size strike the right balance between travel-friendly dimensions and retaining important keys for productive work away from your main desk. 

Keyboard Sizes & Layouts Explained | FAQs 

What are function layers? 

Function layers are additional key mappings accessed by holding down a modifier key, usually labeled FN (Function). When you press and hold the FN key, other keys temporarily change their function to provide access to missing features like F1 to F12 keys, navigation commands, or media controls.  

For example, on a 60% keyboard, you might press FN + number keys to access function keys, or FN + arrow key combinations to get Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down commands. This system allows compact keyboards to retain full functionality despite having fewer physical keys. 

Can I get a separate numpad? 

Yes, standalone numpads are widely available and connect easily via USB or wireless connection to your computer. They let you enjoy the space-saving benefits of a smaller keyboard while still having dedicated number entry when needed. 

Many users prefer this modular approach because they can position the numpad on either side of their keyboard or store it away when it’s not in use. Separate numpads work with any keyboard size and often include additional features like programmable keys or calculator functions. 

What is a split keyboard? 

A split keyboard divides the standard layout into two separate halves, literally separating the left and right hands’ key sections into two sections. They come in various configurations. Some are fixed with a gap in the middle, while others feature completely separate halves connected by a cable. 

Many split designs also incorporate ergonomic features like tenting (angling the keyboard halves) or curved key layouts to further improve comfort. This design allows users to position each half at shoulder width and angle them for more natural wrist alignment, potentially reducing strain during long typing sessions.