Technology

    Comparison Between Tenkeyless (Tkl) Keyboard Vs 65% Keyboard

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    Introduction

    Mechanical keyboards have seen a surge in popularity in recent years among typists, gamers, and computer enthusiasts. Two increasingly common form factors are TenKeyLess (TKL) and 65% keyboards. Both remove the number pad to provide more compact and portable sizes while retaining most functionality. This article will compare TKL and 65% keyboards to help you decide which is better suited for your needs.

    What is a TKL Keyboard?

    A TenKeyLess or TKL keyboard has all the keys of a standard full-sized keyboard except for the number pad. This allows for a more compact keyboard that frees up space on your desk while still retaining the functionality of the arrow keys, function keys, and navigation cluster.

    TKL keyboards first became popular with gamers who wanted more room for their mouse but didn’t want to sacrifice the key functions used in many games. They are now also popular with programmers and typists who appreciate the ergonomics of a smaller keyboard.

    What is a 65% Keyboard?

    A 65% keyboard gets its name from having around 65% of the keys of a full-sized keyboard. It further reduces the size by also removing the function row, arrow keys, and navigation cluster. This leaves only the alphanumeric keys along with some function and modifier keys like Ctrl, Alt, Shift etc.

    The extremely compact size allows you to maximize desk space for other peripherals. It also makes the keyboard highly portable so you can easily carry it around. 65% keyboards are a popular choice for use with laptops and small form factor PCs.

    Key Differences

    Here are some of the main differences between TKL and 65% keyboards:

    • Size – TKL keyboards are around 80% the size of a full keyboard while 65% keyboards are around 60% the size. You can start with a barebone kit.
    • Arrow Keys – TKL retains dedicated arrow keys while these are absent on a 65%.
    • Function Keys – 65% keyboards lack function keys which are present on a TKL.
    • Navigation Keys – Keys like Page Up, Page Down, Home and End are present on a TKL but removed on a 65%.
    • Compactness – 65% keyboards are significantly more compact and portable.
    • Keys – 65% keyboards have around 65 keys while TKL have around 87 keys.

    Factors to Consider

    Here are some things to consider when deciding between a TKL and a 65% keyboard:

    • Size and portability – 65% keyboards are extremely compact and easy to carry around. TKL is more portable than full-size but not as much as 65%.
    • Key functions – Assess which keys like function keys, arrows, nav cluster you regularly use. 65% requires function key combos to access some keys.
    • Desktop space – 65% frees up maximum desk space for peripherals. TKL is good for freeing up some room.
    • Gaming needs – TKL retains keys like arrows commonly used in gaming. 65% requires combinations.
    • Ergonomics – More compact keyboards allow better positioning of peripherals. However, reaching for function combos on 65% can cause strain.
    • Aesthetics – 65% keyboards have a very minimalist and sleek look. TKL retains more of a classic keyboard aesthetic.

    Best Uses

    Here are ideal use cases for each keyboard:

    TKL – Gamers who want arrow keys, programmers who need function keys, people with dedicated number pads.

    65% – Those with very limited desk space, laptop users looking for compact keyboards for travel, minimalists.

    Conclusion

    TKL and 65% keyboards cater to different priorities in terms of size, key functions, and aesthetics. TKL strikes a good balance of portability and retaining commonly used keys. 65% keyboards are extremely compact and space-saving but require adjustments if you regularly use function and arrow keys. Assess your own usage requirements and desktop space to decide between these two increasingly popular compact keyboard form factors.