What "65%" or "Alice" actually means, drawn to scale — and which keycap profiles cover each layout. Diagrams are schematic: proportions and clusters, not exact keycaps.
Everything: F-row, nav cluster, numpad. Any keycap set covers it. ~104 keys.
Full-size minus the numpad. The esports & enthusiast default; every set covers it. ~87 keys.
Numpad squeezed next to the alphas. Check sets include a numpad kit.
F-row + compact nav column. Most mid/high-end sets include a 75% kit. ~80 keys.
60% + arrows & edit column. Needs 1.75u Shift etc. — the most common "missing kit" trap. ~68 keys.
Just the alpha block. Universally covered. 61 keys.
No number row at all. Sculpted profiles need dedicated 1u row kits; uniform profiles are safest. ~47 keys.
Split, angled halves (~7°). Sculpted caps need a mirrored Alice kit; uniform profiles sidestep it.
Two columnar halves. Buy uniform profiles or ortho kits with 1u caps. Great for posture, RSI and thumb clusters.
Fewer keys ≠ fewer features — it is about desk space and reach. TKL keeps everything a gamer or typist needs; 65% is the desk-real-estate sweet spot; 40% and split are deliberate ergonomic/lifestyle choices. Then check the compatibility checker for your switch × keycap combo, and the caps guide for row-kit details.