The layout of a mechanical keyboard refers to its assembly sequence, which can be understood as the number and arrangement of keys.
The most common key counts are 104 keys and 82 keys, often referred to as 100% and 75% of the total keys, respectively. The maximum number of keys is based on 108 keys, and most layouts are based on 104 keys with some reductions or consolidation of keys, giving users more options.
Mechanical keyboard layouts are distributed as follows:
104 or 108 Key Layout (100%)
Traditional layout, the most standard layout. The keyboard is fully functional, with a numeric keypad suitable for both gaming and office work. If space allows, buying a standard layout keyboard is always a good choice. The only drawback of a standard keyboard is its larger size; of course, with more keys, the cost is also relatively higher. For example: AK35I V4
87 Key Layout (80%)
The 87-key keyboard is also the most commonly used mechanical keyboard. It is based on a 104-key layout, but omits the numeric keypad area. The main purpose is to reduce the space occupied by mechanical keyboards. Other key layouts are consistent with the 104-key layout.
82 or 76-key layout (75%): This type of keyboard removes the numeric keypad from the 104-key layout and integrates the arrow keys into the main key area. Some function keys are removed. Similar to 96-key and 92-key layouts, it's a key integration to adapt to different needs. Essentially a custom mechanical keyboard. For example: AK820
61-key layout (60%): This type of mechanical keyboard is relatively rare. It only retains the main keyboard area, removing the arrow keys and numeric keypad. Users need to customize the keys themselves, such as the arrow keys. This type of keyboard is more difficult to learn and is not suitable for scenarios requiring a large number of number inputs or the use of the function keys. Its advantages are small size, portability, and high efficiency once the key combinations are mastered.
