Keyboard Layouts Guide: Full-Size vs TKL vs 75% vs 60%

The first question I get from people building their first setup: what size keyboard should I get? It's not a simple answer because it depends on what you do. Here's my honest breakdown.

TL;DR - Full-size: need a numpad for work? Get this - TKL (80%): no numpad, keeps arrows and F-row — great all-rounder - 75%: compact but keeps most keys — best for mixed use - 60%: no arrows, no F-row, maximum desk space

Full-size The classic. 104 keys with a numpad. I used one for years because I thought I needed the numpad. Turns out I only use it once a week for entering numbers. Who should get it: people who actually use numpad daily (spreadsheets, accounting) or just want the traditional layout. Apex K1 Pro is my pick here — gasket mount makes it feel way better than other full-size boards.

TKL (Tenkeyless) Full-size minus the numpad. Keeps arrow keys and the F-row. This is what I used before going smaller. It's safe, familiar, and gives you more mouse space without losing anything critical. Apex K3 TKL at $100 is the best value TKL I've found. Aluminum frame, PBT keycaps, no gimmicks.

75% TKL but more compact. Arrow keys are squeezed in, function row is there, but the whole thing is shorter. My current daily driver is a 75% and I don't miss anything. Apex K2 Compact is 75% with a rotary knob and OLED. I use the knob for volume every day.

60% The minimalist choice. No arrow keys, no function row, no numpad. You need layers (Fn+key combos) to do basic stuff. Takes time to adjust. I use my Apex K4 Wireless 60% for travel. It fits in a backpack with room to spare. Great for gaming, annoying for typing if you need arrow keys.

My recommendation New to mechanical keyboards? Get a TKL or 75%. You get the desk space savings without the frustration of learning layers.

— Jake, Apex Gear Team