TKL Keyboard vs Full Size: Which is Better for You?

TKL vs full size keyboard is one of the most common decisions we see when people upgrade their setup—because the “right” choice depends less on hype and more on how you actually play, work, and use your desk space day to day. At Dareu, we design both tenkeyless keyboard layouts and full-size layouts for gaming and productivity, so we’ll keep this guide practical: what changes, what it affects, and how to pick confidently.

Choosing between a TKL and a full-size keyboard comes down to one question: Do you actually need the number pad every day? If not, TKL often gives you a more comfortable setup—especially for gaming—while still keeping the core keys most users rely on. 

If you want to start from the basics first (what TKL actually means, how 60/65/75/87 layouts compare), read: what is a tkl keyboard

Quick difference: what changes?

Let’s define it clearly:

• Full-size keyboard: includes the number pad (typically a 104-key layout). 
• TKL keyboard: removes the number pad, but keeps the function row, arrow keys, and navigation cluster (often an 87-key layout). 

From Dareu’s perspective, these layouts are both “complete”—they simply optimise for different priorities:

• TKL prioritises space and movement: a tighter setup without losing essential keys. 
• Full-size prioritises full input coverage: dedicated number entry and maximum key access. 

Desk space & ergonomics (the underrated factor)

Most people think “layout choice” is only about keys. In reality, it’s also about how your arms and shoulders sit for hours.

A TKL keyboard makes your setup narrower, which can:

• Bring your mouse closer to your main typing position
• Reduce shoulder strain by avoiding a “reaching out” mouse posture
• Give you more room for large mouse pads and wide mouse movement 

This is why TKL is often the better choice for a clean, modern gaming desk—especially if your desk isn’t oversized or you run a large mouse pad.

On the other hand, a full-size keyboard is designed for users who want everything in one place, including the number pad. Dareu’s full-size collection highlights the value of the dedicated number pad for data tasks, while still keeping the full function row for productivity shortcuts and gaming controls. 

A quick self-check:

• If your mouse often feels “crowded” or you’re constantly adjusting your keyboard position, TKL usually fixes that immediately.
• If you constantly type long strings of numbers, the number pad can save time and reduce mistakes.

Gaming performance

For competitive play, desk space and posture translate into performance more often than people expect.

TKL helps because:

• More mouse area = smoother tracking (especially for FPS)
• Easier low-sens aiming (larger arm movement without hitting the keyboard)
• Less chance of bumping your keyboard during fast mouse sweeps 

That’s why many people search for a tkl gaming keyboard—they want the layout that supports movement without removing the keys they still use in-game (function row, arrows, nav). 

In Dareu’s TKL lineup, models like the EK87 PRO are designed around that real-world flexibility: tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4G, Bluetooth) supports clean setups and multi-device gaming desks, while keeping the compact tenkeyless footprint. 

Full-size can still be excellent for gaming—especially if you play genres that benefit from extra keys or macros. Dareu’s full-size collection positions the 104-key layout as a “play and work” solution that retains complete functionality, including the number pad, and mentions macro capability for complex gaming commands. 

So, the difference isn’t “gaming vs not gaming.” It’s more like:

• TKL = space + movement advantage
• Full-size = maximum key access + number pad convenience

When full-size is still better

Full-size is still the right choice if you:

• Do heavy spreadsheet/accounting work
• Constantly input numbers (pricing sheets, invoices, datasets)
• Prefer dedicated keys over shortcuts/macros
• Want the most complete “one keyboard for everything” layout 

If your day-to-day includes frequent number entry, a dedicated number pad is not just “extra keys”—it’s a workflow tool.

And if you want full-size without giving up modern build features, Dareu also offers full-size performance boards that emphasise premium structure and modern controls (for example, full-size models described as 104-key, performance-focused, and featuring elements like gasket mount, RGB, hot-swap compatibility, and control features such as display/knob on certain models). 

Buying checklist (simple and practical)

Once you know which layout you’re leaning toward, the next step is choosing a board that fits your setup style. Here’s the checklist we recommend.

If you pick TKL, consider:

1) Wired vs wireless

• Wired is simplest and consistent
• Wireless/tri-mode is ideal for clean desks and flexible setups

For example, EK87 PRO highlights tri-mode connectivity, which is practical if you switch between PC/laptop/tablet or want a cable-free look when you’re not actively gaming. 

2) Hot-swap or not

Hot-swap helps you customise switch feel later without soldering. TKL models like the A87L are positioned as custom/hot-swap friendly in the product presentation. 

3) Switch type

Linear/tactile/clicky choice changes both feel and sound. The right switch is the one you can use comfortably for your longest sessions.

4) Stabiliser quality (spacebar matters)

On any mechanical keyboard, stabilised keys (spacebar, shift, enter) strongly affect perceived quality. If you care about feel, pay attention here.

5) Layout and desk fit

TKL is often the “sweet spot” because it keeps function keys and arrows while removing width. Dareu’s TKL collection describes it as simpler and tighter without going as compact as a 75 layout. 

If you pick full-size, consider:

1) Do you need the number pad daily?

If yes, full-size is likely correct.

2) Work + play balance

Dareu’s full-size positioning is specifically “play & work,” built around the 104-key layout with dedicated number pad and full function row. 

3) Extra features

If you want a full-size board that also feels premium, look for modern build structures and custom features (hot-swap, RGB, control options) as supported by your preferred model. 

Conclusion

When it comes to tkl vs full size keyboard, the best answer is the one that matches your real habits. If you want more mouse space, a cleaner desk, and a more natural gaming posture without sacrificing essential keys, TKL is usually the most balanced upgrade. If you rely on heavy number entry and want maximum key access with a dedicated number pad, full-size remains the most efficient “all-in-one” layout.

If you’ve decided TKL keyboard fits your setup, browse compact options here: tkl gaming keyboard. And if you want our recommendation framework for choosing a gaming-ready TKL, continue with: best tkl keyboard for gaming.