60% vs 65% vs TKL vs Full-Size: Which Layout Is Right for You?

Picking the **right layout** affects comfort, speed, and desk space. Here’s a clean guide to 60%, 65%, TKL, and Full-size—what you gain, what you lose, and who each fits best.

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## Quick Picker

- **I play FPS and want maximum mouse room:** → **60%** or **65%**
- **I need arrows but still compact:** → **65%**
- **I type a lot and use F-row, but no numpad:** → **TKL**
- **I work with numbers and spreadsheets:** → **Full-size**

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## At-a-Glance Comparison

| Layout | Keys | Arrows | F-Row | Numpad | Desk Space | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| **60%** | ~61 | ❌ via Fn | ❌ | ❌ | ★★★★★ (smallest) | FPS, portable, minimal |
| **65%** | ~67–69 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ★★★★☆ | Gaming + daily drivers |
| **TKL (80%)** | ~87 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ★★★☆☆ | Typing, coding, all-round |
| **Full-size (100%)** | 104/108 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ★★☆☆☆ (largest) | Office, spreadsheets |

*Note: Some brands add nav clusters or media keys; exact counts vary.*

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## 60% — Ultra Compact
**Pros**
- Smallest footprint → huge mouse space
- Portable; clean, minimal desk
- Great for FPS and LAN setups

**Cons**
- No arrows or F-row without **Fn layers**
- Steeper learning curve for shortcuts

**Best for:** Aim-heavy gaming, travel, minimalists.  
**Pair with:** Compact **PBT keycaps** for durability → [Shop Keycaps](/collections/keycaps)

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## 65% — Compact + Arrows
**Pros**
- Adds **dedicated arrows** (and often a few nav keys)
- Still compact; easy daily driver
- Sweet spot for gaming + typing

**Cons**
- No F-row (still on Fn)
- Limited prebuilt choice vs TKL/full

**Best for:** Gamers who want arrows, students, hybrid work/play.  
**See boards:** [Mechanical Keyboards](/collections/mechanical-keyboards)

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## TKL (Tenkeyless) — Balanced Standard
**Pros**
- **Arrows + F-row** for shortcuts & dev tools
- More space than full-size for mouse movement
- Huge switch/keycap ecosystem

**Cons**
- No numpad; finance/data tasks slower
- Larger than 60/65%

**Best for:** Typists, coders, general use; also solid for gaming.

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## Full-Size — All Keys, No Compromise
**Pros**
- Full **numpad**; fastest for spreadsheets & data entry
- No layers needed for F-row/insert/home/etc.

**Cons**
- Largest footprint; less mouse room
- Heavier to move; pricier cases & mats

**Best for:** Accounting, office power users, creators who need *every* key.

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## Gaming vs Typing (What Actually Matters)
- **Gaming:** Linear switches, low latency, 60/65/75 or TKL for mouse room; macros on layers.  
- **Typing/Productivity:** Tactile switches, TKL or Full for direct access to F-row/numpad.  
- **Ergonomics:** Closer mouse = better shoulder posture; compact layouts can help.

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## Keycap Compatibility Notes
- Check your **layout** (60/65/TKL/Full) and **standard** (**ANSI** vs **ISO**).  
- Watch the **bottom row** (1.25u vs non-standard).  
- For RGB builds: choose **shine-through** or **pudding** styles.  
Explore size-inclusive kits → [Shop Keycaps](/collections/keycaps)

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## Connectivity & Extras
- **Wired/2.4 GHz** for gaming speed; **Bluetooth** for multi-device convenience.  
- **Hot-swap** sockets if you want to try different switches later.  
- **Dampening & stabs** improve sound/feel on any layout.

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## TL;DR Recommendations
- **FPS & clean desks:** 60% or 65%  
- **One board for everything:** TKL  
- **Heavy numbers & Excel:** Full-size

Ready to choose?  
→ **[Mechanical Keyboards](/collections/mechanical-keyboards)**  
Finish the build with durable sets → **[Keycaps](/collections/keycaps)**  
Cables, tools & stands → **[Accessories](/collections/accessories)**