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Today, there is a greater variety of mechanical keyboard sizes and layouts than ever before, which may explain why you might not be familiar with the term TKL (tenkeyless) keyboard. In recent years, TKL keyboards have gained popularity, especially among individuals working from home with limited desk space. The TKL’s compact size makes it an excellent choice without compromising on the more traditional layout found in keyboards with 60% and 65% sizes, which often have a more condensed arrangement. This distinctive feature of TKL keyboards makes them a perfect form factor for those seeking a compact, portable, and user-friendly keyboard that requires little to no learning curve.

What is a TKL Keyboard?

A TKL keyboard, short for “tenkeyless,” does not adhere strictly to its name. Contrary to the literal interpretation, TKL keyboards do not have exactly ten fewer keys compared to full-sized keyboards. Instead, the term implies the absence of a numeric pad. By eliminating the numeric pad, TKL keyboards become smaller and more portable in size. In some cases, TKL keyboards are also referred to as 80% keyboards since they typically feature around 87 or 88 keys in total, representing approximately 80% of the keys found on a full-sized keyboard, depending on regional variations.

The Distinctions Between a 65% and a TKL Keyboard?

Although a TKL keyboard is smaller than a full-sized keyboard, it is not as compact as a 65% keyboard. When opting for a more streamlined option, one might consider a 65% keyboard. However, it’s important to note that 65% keyboards lack the function (F1-F12) keys found at the top of the keyboard, unlike TKL keyboards which include them. With a 65% keyboard, you will still have all the necessary letter, number, and arrow keys, along with a basic navigation cluster featuring keys such as page up, page down, insert, and delete.

Despite the absence of dedicated function keys, 65% keyboards can still offer additional functionality. Instead of traditional function keys, 65% keyboards incorporate an “Fn” key usually located at the bottom left or right. By holding down the Fn key in conjunction with the number rows, various functions can be executed on certain 65% keyboards.

The Distinction Between a 75% Keyboard and TKL

While a TKL keyboard is the closest in size to a 75% keyboard, there exists a significant difference between them. The TKL layout features three columns of keys to the right of the enter key, whereas a 75% keyboard has only a single column. Furthermore, a 75% keyboard typically adopts a non-traditional layout where the arrow keys are relocated, and the shift and enter keys are usually smaller in size.

A 75% keyboard includes the function key row; however, it often lacks spaces between each set of four function row keys, allowing for an additional key placement. Some 75% keyboards may only feature the F1-F10 keys, whereas most TKL keyboards encompass the entire F1-F12 range. By omitting the spaces between the F4-F5 and F8-F9 keys and excluding the F11 and F12 keys, space is freed up to accommodate keys like Number Lock, Print Screen, Scroll Lock, and Pause Break.

The Advantages of TKL Keyboards

TKL keyboards offer several benefits due to their smaller size compared to full-sized keyboards. By using it, you can create more desk space for other items like your phone, notepad, or even a plant. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who use a claw mouse grip, as a TKL keyboard allows the mouse to be positioned closer to the opposing hand. This can save time and effort when performing repetitive computer tasks that involve frequent transitions between the mouse and keyboard.

For gamers, TKL keyboards are highly favored because they are compact yet still retain essential gaming features such as arrow keys, navigation clusters, and function keys. Most gamers do not utilize the numeric keypad during gameplay, so a TKL keyboard reduces size without compromising gaming functionality (unless they rely on the numpad for programming macros, which is a rare exception). Some gamers prefer to tilt their keyboards at a 45-degree angle or more while gaming, aligning the right side towards the monitor. The size of a TKL keyboard makes this angled positioning feel more natural and visually appealing compared to a full-sized keyboard.

If you are accustomed to the layout of a full-sized keyboard but desire to free up desk space, a TKL keyboard is an excellent choice. With a TKL keyboard, you won’t need to adapt to a new layout, and as long as you can manage without a numeric keypad, you’ll gain more desk space. This arrangement can result in a more comfortable position, with the mouse situated closer to your non-dominant hand. Additionally, the smaller size of a TKL keyboard makes it lighter in weight and easier to fit into a backpack, enabling convenient portability and enjoyment wherever you go.

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