Different 60% keyboard layouts

Because of the size restriction and keyboard estate limitations, many keyboard makers have come with many different methods hiding the navigation keys and meta keys.  Some very specialized keyboards can alter the entire layout based on which mode it is in.  It’s kind of like a super CAPS lock key if one can generalize it somewhat.  So, instead of K, it might be page down in one instance, or the number 2 or even a keyboard macro.  These multi-modal keyboards are very popular with the gaming crowds and programmers.  However, it can get tricky tracking which mode the keyboard is on without some handy indicators.  So, often Fn key becomes a critical player as it temporarily changes the meaning a key stroke without shifting to an entire mode.  In any case, Fn key placement becomes crucial as some people might prefer a single handed operation whereas some prefer the Fn key is elsewhere so that they don’t have contort the fingers just to reach some strange keyboard combo.  Instead, the more sane two handed approach is more appreciated.  Thus, different keyboard makers come up with different configuration schemes to address one or try to accommodate both.  Now, I am hearing people attempting that’s called 40% keyboard, which has even fewer keys.  So, that’s going to get complicated pretty quick.

So, now there’s more than just two key factors in the equation, we have to add another one, which is the layout.  Such thing is a minor consideration for the full size key and to most degrees the 84 TKL or variations of it, such as Cooler Master’s TK series.  However, with 60% or less, the layout and the operational factors for the necessary navigation keys will become a major deciding factor.  Fun times indeed.  What was a lot of personal preference is now even more so.  Perhaps this explains why some absolutely love Happy Hacking Keyboard and will never consider using another kind.  There are some other would rather burn it with fire.  I thought Topre keyboards were polarizing, try a Topre keyboard with 60% layout…..  :)  Now we are going full scale….  Super kamehameha!