Compact vs Full-Size Keyboard: Which Boosts Productivity?

Choosing a new keyboard feels like a small decision, but it’s one that impacts every moment you spend at your PC. Are you team full-size, with a trusty numpad and dedicated keys for everything? Or do you prefer a sleek, compact layout that gives your mouse more room to roam? This isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about optimising your workflow. Let's finally settle the compact vs full-size keyboard debate for your South African setup.

MARVO K604 Wired Gaming Keyboard / Membrane Switch / RGB Backlight / 10 million presses / 104 Keys / K604

R399.00In Stock

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Hot-Swappable Design / Compact & Durable / Orange Tactile Switches / Chroma RGB / MF Roller & Media Keys / Comfortable Wrist Rest - White / RZ03-05001700-R3M1

R4399.00In Stock

Gamdias HERMES M4 GG Keyboard / GAMDIAS Certified Mechanical Switches/ Anti-ghosting With N-key Rollover / HERMES-M4-GG

R999.00In Stock

Razer Huntsman V2 Optical Gaming Keyboard: Fastest Clicky Optical Switches w/Quick Keystrokes & 8000Hz Polling Rate - Doubleshot PBT Keycaps - Dedicated Media Keys & Dial - PUBG: Battleground Edition / RZ03-03932300-R3M1

R5299.00In Stock

CORSAIR K70 CORE RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Black / Pre-lubricated Corsair MLX Red Linear Keyswitches / Sound Dampening / Media Control Dial - iCUE Compatible / QWERTY NA Layout / CH-910971E-NA

R1999.00In Stock

Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed Wireless RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile Switch Options, LIGHTSYNC RGB, Advanced Wireless and Bluetooth Support - Tactile, Black / 920-009503

R4499.00In Stock

The Unbeatable Utility of a Full-Size Keyboard

For many, the traditional full-size keyboard is the default choice for a reason. It’s the workhorse of the office and the command centre for many gaming rigs. The biggest advantage? The dedicated numeric keypad. If your day involves spreadsheets, data entry, or coding, a numpad is non-negotiable for rapid-fire number input.

Beyond the numpad, you get a full row of function keys and dedicated navigation buttons (like Home, End, and Page Up/Down) without needing to press a secondary key. This familiarity means there’s virtually no learning curve. For those who want maximum functionality right out of the box, some of the best gaming keyboards offer this complete layout with incredible performance.

Why Compact Keyboards Are Taking Over Desks

So, why are so many gamers and professionals ditching the numpad? The answer comes down to two things: ergonomics and space. ⌨️

A compact keyboard (like a Tenkeyless or 65% layout) is significantly narrower. This allows you to keep your mouse closer to your body’s centreline, reducing shoulder and wrist strain during long sessions. For gamers, this extra mouse real estate is gold, allowing for wider, more precise movements without bumping into your keyboard.

Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard - Analog Optical Switches / Doubleshot PBT keycaps / Full 3.6 mm Actuation / 16.8 million RGB colors / Magnetic Plush Leatherette Wrist Rest / Multi-Function Digital Dial And 4 Media Keys / RZ03-03610100-R3M1

R4499.00In Stock

Glorious Mechanical Keyboard Keycaps - Black / Standard 105 Keys / UK Keyboard Layout / Double Shot Injection Legends / Backlight LED Compatible / Unique Dual-layer Casing / Designed to Improve LED Glow / G-104-Black

R399.00In Stock

Razer Mechanical Switches Replacement Pack for Gaming Keyboard: Gen-3 Yellow Linear Switches - 1.2mm Reset Point at 45g - Transparent Housing - 3 Pin - Box-Style Cross Stem - 36 pcs / RC21-02040100-R3M1

R699.00In Stock

Roccat Vulcan II MAX Mechanical Gaming PC Optical Keyboard with Customizable RGB Light Keys and Wrist Rest, Titan II Switches, Aluminium Plates, White / ROC-12-022

R999.00In Stock

Razer BlackWidow V4 HyperSpeed Low-Profile Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Green Switches Tactile & Clicky / Chroma RGB / Multi-function Roller & 11 Control Buttons / Durable textured PBT keycaps / Battery life up to 980 hours / HyperSpeed Wireless & Bluetooth connectivity / RZ03-05270100-R3M1

R4699.00In Stock

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Hot-Swappable Design / Compact & Durable / Orange Tactile Switches / Chroma RGB / MF Roller & Media Keys / Comfortable Wrist Rest - White / RZ03-05001700-R3M1

R4399.00In Stock

The minimalist aesthetic is another huge draw. A smaller board creates a cleaner, more organised desk. Plus, their smaller footprint makes them perfect for hybrid workers or anyone who needs a portable setup. You can find many affordable compact options that deliver a premium feel without breaking the bank.

Compact vs Full-Size Keyboard: The Productivity Breakdown

The right choice in the full-size keyboard vs compact showdown really depends on your primary tasks. There’s no single “best” option, only what’s best for you.

For the Number Crunchers & Programmers

If your job revolves around numbers or you use complex keyboard shortcuts in applications like Blender or Excel, the full-size layout is the clear productivity winner. The efficiency of a dedicated numpad is hard to replicate with the number row.

For the Gamers & Content Creators

Here, the debate heats up. Competitive gamers often prefer compact boards for the ergonomic benefits and mouse space. However, if you use macros extensively in MMOs or need to bind lots of commands, a full-size board's extra keys can be invaluable. Consider your entire setup; sometimes finding a matching keyboard and mouse combo in your preferred layout is the best approach. For ultimate comfort, think about pairing it with a quality wrist rest to support your hands. ✨

Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Cherry MX Speed / Polycarbonate Keycaps / RGB 16.8 Million Colors / Up to 8,000Hz Hyper-polling / Store up to 50 Onboard Profiles / CH-9109414-NA

R3199.00In Stock

Alienware AW420K Mechanical TKL Gaming Keyboard - Black / Programmable Hot Keys / Full anti-ghosting and N-key rollover / AlienFX RGB Backlighting / Customizable Display Keys / Double-shot PBT Keycaps / AW420K-B-WW

R2699.00In Stock

Glorious Gateron BROWN Mechanical Keyboard Switches / 120 Pack / Compatible With MX Based Keyboards / Compatible With MX Keycaps / PLATE Mounted / Transparent Switch Housing / SMD Led Compatible / GAT-BROWN

R699.00In Stock

Promate Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo, Slim Full-Size2.4Ghz Wireless Keyboard, 1600 DPI Ambidextrous Mouse, Nano USB Receiver, Quiet Keys, Angled Kickstand for iMac, MacBook, ASUS / ProCombo-13.EN

R349.00In Stock

Razer Tartarus V2 Chroma Gaming Keypad / Mecha-Membrane switches / Programmable Keys / Ergonomic Design / Detachable palm rest / RZ07-02270100-R3M1

R2199.00In Stock

Razer Huntsman V2 Optical Gaming Keyboard - Clicky Purple Switch / Doubleshot PBT keycaps / 100 Million Keystroke Lifespan / HyperPolling Technology / Up to true 8000 Hz Polling Rate / Fully programmable keys / Gaming mode option / Aluminum matte top plate / RZ03-03930300-R3M1

R4399.00In Stock

Beyond the Layout: Customisation is Key

Remember, the frame is just the beginning. The feel and sound of your keyboard can be just as important for productivity and enjoyment. The real magic happens when you start customising.

Your choice between a compact or full-size keyboard is the first step. The next is personalising it to perfection. By choosing the right keyboard switches—whether you prefer a silent linear feel for the office or a clicky tactile response for typing—you can completely change your experience. Top it off with a set of high-quality, durable custom keyboard keycaps to truly make your board your own.