In the ever-evolving world of mechanical keyboards, one form factor has risen to the top in recent years — the 87 keyboard, also known as the tenkeyless or TKL keyboard. With its compact size and ergonomic advantages, this layout is quickly becoming the preferred choice for gamers, professionals, and everyday users alike.
What is an 87 Keyboard?
An 87 keyboard refers to a keyboard layout that contains 87 keys — essentially a full-sized keyboard without the numeric keypad (also known as the numpad). This “tenkeyless” design provides all the essential keys, including function keys and arrow clusters, while eliminating the extra bulk of the right-side number pad.
This format strikes a perfect balance between functionality and space-saving, making it ideal for users who don’t rely heavily on numerical data entry.
The Appeal of Tenkeyless Keyboards
There are several reasons why the tenkeyless design is gaining popularity:
1. Space Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of the 87 keyboard is its compact footprint. Without the numpad, users gain more room on their desks for mouse movement and a cleaner, more minimalistic setup. This is particularly useful for gamers and designers who require broad mouse sweeps.
2. Ergonomics and Comfort
By removing the numpad, the mouse can be placed closer to the center of your body, reducing strain on the shoulder and wrist. This ergonomic benefit is a major reason why the 87 keyboard is favored in long work or gaming sessions.
3. Portability
Tenkeyless keyboards are lighter and smaller, making them easier to carry to LAN parties, office setups, or remote work locations. Many models even come with detachable cables and carrying cases.
4. Aesthetic and Customization
The cleaner look of an 87-key layout allows for more focused, customizable aesthetics. Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often prefer the TKL layout for building custom boards, thanks to its symmetry and wide support from keycap manufacturers.
Tenkeyless vs Full-Sized: Making the Switch
While full-sized keyboards remain popular for number-intensive tasks, more users are discovering that the numpad isn’t always essential. For casual typing, coding, gaming, and general productivity, the 87 keyboard offers everything most users need — in a smarter, more streamlined package.
Conclusion: Why the 87 Keyboard Is Here to Stay
The rise of the 87 keyboard is no passing trend. Its combination of functionality, comfort, and design has made it the go-to layout for users across many disciplines. As workspaces become more minimal and mobility becomes more important, it’s no surprise that tenkeyless is taking over desktops around the world.
