We currently have many different types of keyboards on the market, depending on our needs. But this goes further; we now have different types of keyboard layouts depending on our needs. When we talk about formats, we refer to different sizes.
Times have changed, and users' tastes and needs have also changed considerably. While there is an increasing tendency to use only keyboards with mechanical switches, there is also a tendency to look for compact keyboards. Users increasingly want very compact keyboards that take up little space on the desk.
Corsair K55 - Available in our stores
What sizes or types of keyboards are available?
If you're looking for a new gaming keyboard, you've probably noticed that not all have the same design. Some are labeled TKL (Ten Key Less), or some have all the keys too close together and lack the numeric keypad. Well, that's because there are different standardized keyboard formats. We'll explain these different formats and their main features.
Full Size
These are the most common keyboards on the market and are usually the most in-demand by users. These keyboards include a numeric keypad, function keys, arrow keys, and action keys (enter, home, end, etc.). Some of these full-size keyboards add management keys, such as volume up/down, pause, and others. They also, in some cases, include additional keys that allow you to record different commands, also known as macro keys. Within this range of products, we find a huge variety of keyboards with different designs and features. The most basic ones usually have membrane or similar switches, while those more focused on gaming tend to use mechanical switches. We can even find full-size keyboards that are more or less compact. This depends on the type of switches used and the features each manufacturer chooses to add.
Ten Key Less o TKL
It's basically a full-size keyboard with the numeric keypad removed. The action and arrow keys, as well as the function keys, remain. This allows for a reduced width of the keyboard. This type of keyboard is quite common on the market, and you can find different variations. Some make them more compact, while others add additional keys such as audio and lighting management keys.
Redragon Kumara K552 Mechanical Keyboard - Available in our stores
Keyboard 75%
The designation from this point on changes and is based on percentages. What they indicate is a size reference relative to a standard full-size keyboard (i.e., without macros or other nonsense). These 75% keyboards indicate a 25% reduction in size compared to a conventional keyboard. They are characterized by being more compact than TKL keyboards, reducing or eliminating the space between the "F" keys and the row of numeric keys. The arrow keys are fully integrated, eliminating spaces, and the action keys are reduced to a minimum. It's a design that has its fans, but it's not one of the most popular.
Format 65%
They're essentially the same as 75% keyboards, but in this case, the function key set has been removed. By removing this row of keys, the keyboard's size is slightly reduced. The function key row, or "F" keys, is not removed; instead, it's integrated into the numeric key row. To make them usable, an FN key is added, allowing these function keys to continue to be used. They still have the arrow keys and some specific action keys, such as delete or page up/down. There are a wide variety of these keyboards on the market, and they're for those looking for a compact keyboard with certain features they want to maintain.
The 60% format
No function keys, no arrow keys, no action keys—this keyboard eliminates all unnecessary keys. Basically, we have a simple keyboard with letters and numbers, as well as essential keys like Enter, Control, Shift, and so on. It's worth noting that the function keys, action keys, and other additional keys have been integrated into the keyboard itself. The function keys are added directly to the numbers, and the key sequence is combined with the letters. The FN key is added to make use of these additional keys. These keyboards are gaining popularity due to the custom designs sold, which are very striking and attractive. Many people also choose these keyboards because they have limited space or want a very minimalist setup.
Redragon Draconic 60% Mechanical Keyboard - Available in our stores
Types of Technology
Another important thing you should know is that there are several types of keyboard technology:
Membrane Mechanism
Membrane keyboards are the most common type of desktop keyboard. They have a plastic part that, when pressed, activates the membrane that connects to the circuit. Their main advantage is that they come in many types, are fairly inexpensive, and don't produce much noise.
Mechanics
The button is made up of several components called switches, which are activated differently depending on the type. They are the best for gaming keyboards because they have an excellent response time and are also more durable than membrane keyboards.
Conclusion
You can see that there are different types of keyboards depending on our needs. Everyone will have their own preferences and needs, and they're sure to find a keyboard that suits them. Let us know in the comments what keyboard layout you use and why.
Author: Roberto Sole
Source: HardZone