If you’re a tech enthusiast who values clear, concise explanations and trustworthiness in content, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to use arrow keys on a 60% keyboard, which is a compact mechanical keyboard without dedicated arrow keys. We’ll also discuss tips for selecting a 60 keyboard with arrow keys, using separate peripherals for arrow keys, and troubleshooting tips.
Mastering Arrow Keys on a 60 Keyboard
Learn how to use arrow keys on a 60% keyboard with these methods, tips, and troubleshooting tips:
– Methods for using arrow keys, including dedicated arrow keys, dual-function keys, layer keys, and customization
– Tips for selecting a 60 keyboard with arrow keys, such as arrow key placement and size, build quality, brand reputation, price, and unbiased reviews
– Using separate peripherals for arrow keys, including numeric keypads and cursor pads, as well as troubleshooting tips for common issues
Methods for using arrow keys on a 60 keyboard
Dedicated arrow keys
Some 60% keyboards come with dedicated arrow keys that make it easy to navigate through text or documents. These keyboards are designed to offer the same functionality as a full-sized keyboard but with a smaller form factor. If you’re looking for a 60% keyboard with dedicated arrow keys, there are a few options to choose from.
One such keyboard is the Anne Pro 2, which is a popular choice among gamers and typists alike. The Anne Pro 2 features dedicated arrow keys that are located on the right side of the keyboard. The keys are slightly smaller than standard keys, but they are still easy to use and provide a tactile feel.
Another option is the Vortexgear Pok3r, which is a compact keyboard that features a 60% layout and dedicated arrow keys. The arrow keys are located on the bottom right of the keyboard, and they are easy to use and provide a satisfying clicky feel.
Dual-function keys
If your keyboard doesn’t come with dedicated arrow keys, you can still use the arrow keys by using dual-function keys. These keys serve as both arrow keys and their primary function, and they can be activated by pressing a combination of keys.
For example, on a Mac keyboard, you can use the Function (fn) key in combination with the arrow keys to navigate through text or documents. On a Windows keyboard, you can use the Shift key in combination with the arrow keys to achieve the same result.
Layer keys
Another way to access arrow keys on a 60% keyboard is by using layer keys. Layer keys are keys that can be programmed to perform different functions when pressed in combination with other keys. By programming layer keys to access arrow keys, you can use them without having to reach for the arrow keys on the keyboard.
Some keyboards that support layer keys include the Ducky One 2 Mini and the Keychron K6. These keyboards allow you to program layer keys to access arrow keys, making it easy to navigate through text or documents.
Customization
If none of the above methods work for you, you can always customize your keyboard to access arrow keys. There are many third-party applications available that allow you to remap keys to access arrow keys.
One such application is Karabiner-Elements, which is a free and open-source software that allows you to remap keys on your keyboard. With Karabiner-Elements, you can remap any key on your keyboard to perform any other function, including accessing arrow keys.
Tips for selecting a 60 keyboard with arrow keys
When selecting a 60 keyboard with arrow keys, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Arrow key placement and size
The placement and size of arrow keys can have a significant impact on usability. Look for keyboards with well-designed arrow keys that are easy to use and provide a tactile feel.
One example is the Keychron K6, which features arrow keys that are located in the bottom right corner of the keyboard. The keys are slightly smaller than standard keys, but they are still easy to use and provide a satisfying clicky feel.
Other important considerations
Other important considerations when selecting a 60 keyboard with arrow keys include build quality, brand reputation, price, and unbiased reviews of popular 60% keyboards. Do your research and read reviews from trusted sources before making a purchase.
| Peripheral | Description |
|---|---|
| Numeric Keypad | A separate peripheral that can be used to access arrow keys. Compatible with both Mac and Windows. |
| Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad | A popular numeric keypad that features arrow keys that are easy to use and provide a tactile feel. |
| Cursor Pad | A compact peripheral that can be used to access arrow keys. |
| Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse | A popular cursor pad that features a large cursor pad that is easy to use and provides a tactile feel. |
Using separate peripherals for arrow keys
If you prefer not to use the arrow keys on your 60% keyboard, you can always use separate peripherals to access them. Here are two popular options:
Personal Experience: Using a Layer Key to Access Arrow Keys
As someone who frequently uses a 60% keyboard for work, I found the lack of dedicated arrow keys to be a bit of a challenge at first. However, after some research, I discovered that many 60% keyboards come with layer keys that can be used to access arrow keys.
One example is the Anne Pro 2 keyboard, which has a layer key that can be customized to access arrow keys on the bottom right corner of the keyboard. By pressing the layer key and the corresponding key for the arrow direction, I can easily navigate through documents and websites without having to move my fingers away from the home row.
Using a layer key for arrow keys does take some getting used to, but it has greatly improved my typing efficiency and speed. Additionally, it has allowed me to fully enjoy the compact design of a 60% keyboard without sacrificing important functionality.
Overall, I highly recommend exploring the layer key feature on your 60% keyboard to see if it can help you access arrow keys more easily and efficiently.
Numeric keypad
Using a separate numeric keypad to access arrow keys is a practical solution for those who need to navigate through text or documents frequently. Numeric keypads are compatible with both Mac and Windows, making them a versatile option.
One popular numeric keypad is the Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, which features arrow keys that are easy to use and provide a tactile feel.
Cursor pad
Another option is to use a cursor pad to access arrow keys. Cursor pads are compact and easy to use, making them a great choice for those who need to navigate through text or documents frequently.
One popular cursor pad is the Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse, which features a large cursor pad that is easy to use and provides a tactile feel.
Troubleshooting tips
If you’re experiencing issues with using arrow keys on your 60% keyboard, there are a few troubleshooting tips you can try:
Firmware updates
Check if your keyboard’s firmware is up-to-date and, if not, update it to the latest version. This can often solve compatibility issues and other problems.
Driver installations
Make sure that you have installed the correct drivers for your keyboard. This is especially important if you’re using a customized keyboard or a keyboard with non-standard layout.
!
Common Questions
Who can benefit from using arrow keys on a 60% keyboard?
Anyone who needs to navigate through text, code, or documents efficiently.
What are the arrow key shortcuts on a 60% keyboard?
The arrow keys are typically mapped to the function layer, accessed by holding the FN key.
How can I customize the arrow keys on my 60% keyboard?
Most keyboard software or firmware allows you to remap keys to your liking.
What if my 60% keyboard doesn’t have arrow keys at all?
You can use a software solution like AutoHotkey to create custom arrow key shortcuts.
How do I avoid accidentally activating the function layer?
You can disable the function layer altogether, or use a different key mapping that works better for you.
What if I’m used to a full-sized keyboard with dedicated arrow keys?
It may take some time to adjust to a 60% keyboard, but the benefits of a compact form factor can outweigh the learning curve.