When diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, you’ll quickly discover a variety of layouts and sizes. Among them, the 75% keyboard—often referred to as a 75 keyboard—is gaining popularity for its balance between functionality and compactness. But what is a 75 keyboard? Everything you need to know about this keyboard layout is covered in this guide.
What Is a 75 Keyboard?
A 75% keyboard, or 75 keyboard, is a compact mechanical keyboard layout that includes around 84 to 87 keys. It retains most of the essential keys from a full-sized keyboard—including the function row (F1–F12), arrow keys, and navigation cluster (like Home, End, and Delete)—but condenses them into a tighter form factor.
What sets it apart is its efficient use of space. Unlike tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards, the 75% layout places keys closer together, usually in a single, continuous block with minimal gaps between clusters.
Key Features of a 75 Keyboard
1. Compact Design Without Losing Essentials
A 75 keyboard keeps the important keys while eliminating the numpad. This makes it ideal for people who want a smaller desk footprint without sacrificing too much functionality.
2. Functional Key Row
Unlike 60% and 65% keyboards, the 75% layout retains the function row (F1–F12), making it a favorite among programmers, gamers, and productivity users who rely on those keys.
3. Navigation Keys Included
Home, Page Up, Page Down, and Delete keys are typically present—often tucked just above or beside the arrow keys.
Why Choose a 75 Keyboard?
1. Space Efficiency
The compact layout is great for minimal desk setups, giving more room for your mouse or other peripherals.
2. Portability
Thanks to its smaller size, a 75% keyboard is easier to transport than full-sized or even TKL keyboards.
3. Aesthetic Appeal
Many users prefer the symmetrical and clean look of a 75 keyboard. It offers a modern, professional aesthetic that fits well in both office and gaming environments.
Customization and Availability
As the mechanical keyboard hobby grows, more brands and enthusiasts are embracing the 75% layout. Custom builds and pre-built options are readily available, often featuring hot-swappable switches, RGB lighting, and premium materials. Keycap compatibility is also generally good since the layout doesn’t deviate much from standard row profiles.
Downsides to Consider
While the 75% layout is efficient, it may not be ideal for users who frequently use the numpad, such as accountants or data-entry professionals. Also, the compressed design can take a bit of getting used to, especially if you’re transitioning from a full-sized keyboard.
Final Thoughts
So, what is a 75 keyboard? Everything you need to know can be summarized in one sentence: It’s a compact yet fully functional keyboard layout that strikes the perfect balance between space-saving and usability. Whether you’re a gamer, coder, or just someone who appreciates a tidy desk setup, a 75 keyboard might be the perfect fit for your needs.
