When you’re looking for a new keyboard, you’ll find a lot of options, from small, portable models to larger ones with extra bells and whistles. A full-size keyboard, sometimes called a 100% keyboard, gives you the most complete layout you can find. It’s designed to give you every key you could possibly need.
So, just how many keys are on a full-size keyboard? That’s what we’re going to cover, along with a look at why you might (or might not) want one.
The upside of a full-size keyboard is that you get everything, including that handy number pad. The downside? They take up a lot of space, and they aren’t exactly travel-friendly.
What is a Full-Size Keyboard?
A full-size keyboard, sometimes called a 100% keyboard, is what most people think of when they think of a standard computer keyboard. It has all the keys you’d expect to find, including the alphanumeric keys (A through Z and 0 through 9), function keys (F1, F2, etc.), arrow keys, a numeric keypad, and modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt).
The standard layout includes a numeric keypad on the right side, a row of function keys along the top, and arrow keys in the lower right.
How many keys are on a full-size keyboard? Typically, you’ll find between 104 and 108 keys on a full-size keyboard. A standard full-size mechanical keyboard usually has 104 keys.
Variations in Key Count: ANSI, ISO, and JIS Layouts
While 104 or 105 keys is generally considered to be “full size,” the precise number of keys on a keyboard can vary based on the layout.
ANSI Layout
ANSI, which stands for the American National Standards Institute, is a keyboard layout that’s common in the United States. Keyboards with an ANSI layout usually have between 101 and 104 keys.
ISO Layout
ISO, which stands for the International Organization for Standardization, is another common keyboard layout, especially outside the U.S. ISO keyboards tend to have between 102 and 105 keys.
JIS Layout
JIS, which stands for Japanese Industrial Standards, is a keyboard layout used in Japan. Keyboards with a JIS layout typically have between 104 and 109 keys.
Why do key counts vary?
You might notice that some full-size keyboards have more keys than others. Here’s why:
- Multimedia Keys: Some keyboards have dedicated keys for controlling media. These keys let you quickly change the volume, pause or play music, and do other things.
- Macro Keys: Some keyboards also include macro keys. You can program these keys to perform custom commands or shortcuts. This can really speed up certain tasks.
- Design Choices and User Needs: Ultimately, the number of keys depends on the design and what the keyboard is intended for. Keyboard makers might add or remove keys to appeal to different users and uses.
Why choose a full-size keyboard?
Full-size keyboards offer a few key advantages. If any of the following are important to you, a full-size keyboard may be the right choice.
- Complete Key Layout: Full-size keyboards have every key you could need for any function. This is important for long-form writing and entering data.
- Numeric Keypad: The numeric keypad on the right is essential for entering numbers quickly. If you work with spreadsheets or do accounting, you’ll want a full-size keyboard.
- Enhanced Productivity: Having dedicated function keys and a complete layout can help you get more done. You can access commands and functions quickly and easily.
- Comfortable Typing: Full-size keyboards tend to offer a comfortable typing experience. The spacing and key layout can reduce strain and improve your accuracy.
What are the drawbacks of full-size keyboards?
While full-size keyboards have advantages, they also have some downsides:
- Size and Desk Space: Because they’re larger, full-size keyboards take up more desk space. This is important if you have a small desk or want to maximize your workspace.
- Portability: Full-size keyboards aren’t easy to move around. If you travel a lot or like to work in different places, a smaller keyboard might be a better choice.
- Cost: High-quality mechanical keyboards in the full-size range can be expensive. The price might be too high for some people.
- Ergonomics: Full-size keyboards aren’t always comfortable. Their wide layout can force you to reach and stretch, which can sometimes cause pain or strain.
Choosing the right key count and keyboard size
Keyboards come in all shapes and sizes. So how do you know which one is right for you?
- Consider what you’ll use it for. What are your needs? Which keys do you absolutely have to have?
- Consider your desk space. Measure your desk. Will a full-sized keyboard fit comfortably, or do you need something smaller?
- Consider your preferences. What feels good to you? Experiment with different layouts and key types until you find the perfect fit.
Your keyboard is one of the main ways you’ll interact with your computer, so it’s worth taking some time to find one you like!
Conclusion
So, how many keys does a full-size keyboard have? The answer is usually somewhere between 104 and 108, depending on the layout and any extra buttons or features.
When choosing a keyboard, it’s important to consider what you need and what you like. A full-size keyboard offers a complete set of keys, which is great for many people. However, the larger size and higher cost of these keyboards may not be the best fit for everyone.