Choosing the right keyboard layout can significantly affect your comfort, productivity, and overall desk setup. If you want a keyboard that saves space without sacrificing essential keys, the 98 key mechanical keyboard is one of the most practical options available today.
In this guide, we’ll break down what a 98 keyboard is, how it differs from other layouts, how many keys and switches it has, and who this layout is best suited for.
A 98 key keyboard, often referred to as a 98-key keyboard, is a compact mechanical keyboard layout designed to keep nearly all the keys of a traditional full-size keyboard in a smaller footprint.
Unlike a full-size keyboard, which usually has wide gaps between the main typing area, navigation keys, and the number pad, a 98 keyboard compresses these sections into a tighter layout. The result is a keyboard that still includes:
All of this is achieved without unnecessary spacing, making the keyboard shorter in width while remaining familiar to use.
Many users find full-size keyboards uncomfortable on modern desks, especially when combined with large mouse movements or multi-monitor setups. On the other hand, smaller layouts like TKL keyboards or 75% keyboards often remove the number pad entirely.
The 98 keyboard layout exists to bridge this gap:
For professionals, gamers, and students alike, the 98 layout offers a smarter use of desk space without forcing major layout adjustments.
A standard 98 keyboard has exactly 98 keys.
These keys typically include:
Some manufacturers may slightly adjust spacing or labeling, but if a keyboard is marketed as a 98-key layout, it will follow this general structure.
In mechanical keyboards, each key corresponds to one switch.
That means a 98 key mechanical keyboard uses 98 switches.
Most modern 98 keyboards support:
This flexibility makes 98 keyboards popular among users who want to fine-tune their typing feel or gaming performance.
A 98 key keyboard keeps the arrow keys and navigation keys in positions that feel familiar to full-size keyboard users. The main difference is reduced spacing between keys, which helps minimize hand movement while preserving muscle memory.
One of the defining features of the 98 layout is its fully functional number pad. While it’s slightly closer to the main typing area than on a full-size keyboard, it remains comfortable for frequent numeric input.
This makes the 98 key mechanical keyboard particularly efficient for users who regularly work with numbers but want a more compact setup.
If your daily tasks involve spreadsheets, accounting, programming, or data entry, a 98 keyboard provides the numeric keypad you rely on without taking over your desk.
It’s an excellent choice for professionals who want to maintain efficiency while improving ergonomics.
While many gamers prefer compact layouts, certain game genres benefit from extra keys. A 98 key keyboard offers more flexibility for macros and shortcuts while keeping the desk area cleaner than a full-size keyboard.
If you’re interested in taking your setup a step further, many 98 keyboards also support customization and DIY upgrades. From hot-swappable switches to different keycap profiles, building or modifying a 98 keyboard allows you to fine-tune both feel and sound. Learn more in our 98 Keyboard Kits & Customization Guide.
A full-size keyboard typically has 104 keys and wider spacing. A 98 keyboard delivers nearly identical functionality in a more compact form, making it easier to fit into modern desk setups.
TKL keyboards remove the number pad entirely. If you frequently use numeric input, the 98 keyboard is the better option, offering both efficiency and space savings.
Still deciding which keyboard layout fits your desk and workflow best? Seeing the differences side by side can make the choice much easier. Compare 98 keyboards with full-size and other layouts here.
A 98-key keyboard is ideal if you want:
The 98 key keyboard is one of the most balanced keyboard layouts available, especially for users who don’t want to choose between compact design and full functionality.
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