What is TKL keyboard? What are the advantages and disadvantages of TKL?

TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard is one of the most popular keyboard types and is loved by many users today because of its compactness and convenience. This is also the type of keyboard that tops the gaming community's choice list. So what is TKL? If you are also planning to buy a TKL keyboard in the near future, don't miss the following TipsMake article.

What is a TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard?

TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard or 80%, 87% keyboard is a type of keyboard that has removed the Numpad part (containing the number sequence from 0-9) on the left side. At the same time, function keys such as Enter, Del, Numlock,. are also removed, causing the keyboard area to shrink to only about 80-87% compared to a regular Fullsize keyboard.

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Regarding the number of keys, if a Fullsize keyboard has 108 keys, a TKL keyboard usually only has 87 keys. Some special TKL keyboard models only have a maximum of 92 keys. Besides this difference in quantity, the operation and shortcut functions and LED lights of the TKL keyboard are similar to regular keyboards.

Advantages and disadvantages of TKL keyboard

Before deciding whether to use a TKL keyboard or not, you need to clearly understand their advantages and disadvantages. Specifically:

Advantages of TKL keyboard

The main advantages can be mentioned as:

1. Compact size: TKL keyboard is a mechanical keyboard with a more compact size than a regular keyboard, so it will be very convenient for those who often travel. At the same time, the keyboard when placed on the table does not take up too much space, so users will have more space to use the mouse as well as place other objects.
2. Helps operate faster: The reason why some people type slowly when using a Fullsize keyboard is affected by the Numpad key. With the TKL keyboard, this key cluster will be removed so that users can focus completely on other keys, thereby increasing operation speed. This is also considered the optimal keyboard for those who often do text typing.
3. Suitable for gamers: Many gamers love using TKL keyboards because they have a compact design so they are easy to rotate and adjust to the optimal angle for the most operation process. The compact key size allows gamers to have a large space to move the mouse comfortably and conveniently, while performing operations on the keys is also more pleasant and comfortable.

>> See more: Main functions of the keyboard.

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Disadvantages of TKL keyboard

Although it has many advantages, the TKL keyboard also has some disadvantages:

1. Not convenient for entering numbers: The TKL keyboard does not have a separate number pad on the right side. Therefore, users will need to use the numeric keypad when they need to enter data. This can make users uncomfortable and uncomfortable when needing to operate many times. This is not the optimal keyboard for users who need to enter high numbers or frequently use the number key.
2. Not convenient for users with large hands: People with large hands may have difficulty operating on TKL keyboards because their size is smaller than regular keyboards.

Should I use a TKL keyboard to play games?

This is definitely a question that many users wonder when intending to buy a TKL keyboard to play entertainment games. With the characteristics analyzed above, it can be said that this keyboard line will bring smooth, high-speed gaming experiences that are equally comfortable and pleasant.

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With its compact size, you can easily adjust the key placement angle to 45 or 90 degrees during gaming. The key clusters are only concentrated in a small area to help you perform operations faster and reduce hand fatigue when typing continuously for long periods of time.

The small size of the TKL keyboard will also help make more space on the table to move the mouse. This helps maintain mouse operations continuously and accurately at high speed.

Frequently asked questions about TKL keyboards

Below are frequently asked questions about TKL keyboards that TipsMake has compiled to help you quickly answer some questions and concerns during the process of choosing to buy a keyboard:

Which users is the TKL keyboard suitable for?

This type of keyboard is best suited for users who do not need to use the Numpad keys much to enter or calculate data. It's usually a programmer or an office worker who frequently types text. In particular, the gaming community often chooses to use TKL keyboards because of their compactness and convenience.

Is the TKL keyboard easy to use?

In addition to removing the Numpad key cluster, the operations on the TKL keyboard are similar to regular Fullsize keyboards. So you don't need to worry about encountering difficulties while using the keys. At the same time, the compact size of the keyboard will help make the most of the space on the desk.

Does the TKL keyboard have any other names?

After removing the Numpad, the TKL keyboard only has about 80 - 87 keys left. This size is only about 80% of the standard Fullsize keyboard, so users often call it another name: 80% or 87% keyboard.

Is the cost of buying a TKL keyboard expensive?

Due to the smaller number of keys, TKL keyboards are often cheaper than standard full-size keyboards. However, there are also high-end TKL keyboards from famous brands with expensive prices. Thus, depending on brand factors, switch technology, distributors, etc., the cost for TKL keyboards will fluctuate at many different levels. Please base on your needs and budget to choose the appropriate product.

Epilogue

Above is all the information about the TKL keyboard that you need to understand before choosing to buy this type of keyboard. This will be the most optimal solution if you are looking for a keyboard for typing that is compact in size and easy to carry with you. If you encounter any difficulties in the process of choosing a TKL keyboard, please contact the TipsMake team immediately for the fastest advice and answers.

Kareem Winters

Update 03 October 2023