The three most commonly used sizes of keyboards used are TKL, 60% and Full Sized. Each come with their own advantages and disadvantages that you should consider when making a choice on what kind of keyboard you should get.
Full Size Keyboards
A full size keyboard has many advantages which come at the expense of the size. The overall increased size allows for manufacturers to get more creative and fill the keyboards with more features. With more high end full sized keyboards you may notice extra keys and media controls, however not all come with these.
The media controls are usually located at the top right of the board whilst the keys are typically on the left. These media dials and buttons typically give you control over your device audio. Allowing you turn the sound up, down and even mute. Depending on the brand and software available you may be able to change their function.
The excess keys that you may find on a full sized keyboard are Macro Keys. These are programed via the appropriate software. Macros can be incredibly useful for saving time and have many uses inside and outside of gaming.
Extra keys can translate to more functionality especially when referring to brands like Logitech, SteelSeries and Razer. With premium brand keyboards you get the ability to customise the binds of your keys or even use macros. This feature can give the numpad a new function and work as a quicker way to perform tasks.
TKL Keyboards
The TKL keyboard is the middle ground of the three, providing a reduced size without losing too much functionality. TKL or tenkeyless keyboards may also be referred to as 80% or TE. They include all the normal keys you can expect to see on a keyboard, however are missing the numpad on the right. This has some drawbacks as the side enter key performs different functions in some programs, and you may have a habit of using those numbers. Because the numpad keys aren’t used for gaming the TKL keyboards are common amongst gamers, creators and esports professionals.
The smaller size of a TKL keyboard allows for more desk space. Allowing for you to have more room for your mouse, or make the most out of a small desk. Another advantage of the smaller layout is the ability to have your hands positioned closer when simultaneously using your keyboard and mouse.
60% Keyboards
The most compact version of the three is the 60% keyboard. With a 60% keyboard there are even fewer keys, removing all of the function keys and everything to the right of enter. To make up for the less keys 60% keyboards will typically use layer formats to allow their uses to still use the keys that are missing.
You can use the provided FN keys on these boards to enable different layers. Getting used to this format may be difficult for some, but because the majority of the keys on layers aren’t commonly used it shouldn’t be too big of an issue for most people.
The major advantage of a 60% keyboard is how small they are. The compact size gives you even more room on your desk and can be very easy to travel with. The size is a major reason why a lot of professional gamers are choosing to make the switch.
Factors to Consider when choosing a Keyboard
Customising your binds
This allows for you to change how the keystroke you make will be read. For example you could shift the “8” key on your numpad to read as if you’re pressing “Q” instead. This may be useful for lefthanders to allow for them to simultaneously use keyboard shortcuts while operating their mouse more comfortably.
Macros
Macros are a lot like keybinds just taken to the next level. Instead of having your keystroke reading as a different key, it will play a series or sequence of steps. There are many cool uses for Macros and your preference will depend on what programs you use and tasks you find yourself doing on the computer. An example of a macro is setting up a keyboard shortcut such as “Ctrl + Alt + Num5” to launch a program, and assigning that specified key combination to a key on your keyboard. Doing this will mean that whenever that key is pressed your computer will read it as if you’re pressing the specified key combination.
Key Layout
This refers to the arrangement and size of the keys on the keyboard. Most keyboards follow the standard key set however some use their own custom variation. A common alternative is to have all the keys follow the standard layout just with a different bottom row. You can customise your keyboard by replacing all or some of the keycaps. Different key layouts can restrict options for keycap customization.
Form Factor
The way you like to position your keyboard on the desk can make a big difference to what sized keyboard you get. A lot of gamers tend to tilt their keyboard to allow for more room and closer spread when playing.
Mechanical Switches
Mechanical Switches are the components that sit under the key on a mechanical keyboard. There are other types of keyboards available, however mechanical keyboards are becoming the standard. There are so many types of mechanical switches available which all work differently to achieve a different purpose. The three types of switches are Linear, Clicky and Tactile.
- Linear Switches are smooth on travel and are typically quiet and feel light. Linear switches are typically the choice for competitive gaming.
- Tactile Switches have a noticeable bump when compressing. This tactile feedback is good for typing.
- Clicky Switches have the familiar tactile bump matched with a clicky sound. This can also be good for typing and preventing typos.
Software Support and Capabilities
Many premium keyboard brands bring more customizability and functions to their devices through the use of software. So when choosing the optimal keyboard you may also want to look into the software available for the device and its capabilities. These programs can allow you to customise key binds, setup macros and even change the lighting on backlit keyboards.
Removable Cables
Some keyboards come with removable cords which can be handy for travel and convenience. Typically smaller devices like TKL and 60% keyboards will have this feature. Commonly the full sized keyboards have a fixed cord.
An additional benefit that comes with removable cables is the ability to switch out the cord for a custom braided cable. Although this doesn’t add any performance value it can help with the aesthetic of your setup.
Wrist Rest
Wrist rests can help give increased elevation and comfort when typing or using your keyboard. They’re not for everyone, and because of this not all keyboards have one as an option. If you’re a fan of using wrist rests then be sure to look out for one when making your purchase. There are always options for third party wrist rests that you could use as well.
Durability
For the most part premium keyboards will be fairly durable and made with solid components. An advantage that you may notice with TKL and 60% keyboards is the perception of increased durability. Due to their overall smaller compact size they get the feel of being even sturdier and more durable.
Wired or Wireless
Although wireless technology is constantly becoming more competitive wired keyboards still perform better. Wired keyboards have the advantage of low latency which is crucial when gaming. Wired devices also have the advantage of being cheaper due to the price of wireless technology. Wireless keyboards have the major advantage of being convenient and allow for a longer use radius. Unfortunately they also need batteries or to be charged which can be a major drawback if you find yourself using the keyboard extensively.
Conclusion
The more space, better positioning and travel convenience that TKL and 60% keyboards allow for make them optimal for gamers. The smaller keyboards are also great for small work areas and creating a simplistic setup. The beauty of full sized keyboards is the expansive use for programs and multi-functionality.
