Everything You Need to Know About ANSI Keyboards and Why Awekeys Keycaps Are the Perfect Fit

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there’s a lot of technical jargon and various layouts to choose from. One of the most widely used layouts is the ANSI layout, which is commonly seen in North American keyboards. If you're new to the mechanical keyboard world or looking to upgrade your existing setup, understanding the ANSI layout is essential. Plus, if you're considering keycap customization, Awekeys keycaps are a fantastic choice that can be used with both ANSI and ISO layouts, offering a versatile and stylish option for every keyboard enthusiast.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the ANSI keyboard layout, its key features, and how Awekeys keycaps can be the perfect solution for your custom keyboard build, regardless of whether you use an ANSI or an ISO layout.

What is an ANSI Keyboard Layout?

 the photo above is Awekeys copper eagle keycap set and periodic keycaps

The ANSI layout (American National Standards Institute) is the standard layout used by most keyboards in North America. It is the default layout for many computers, laptops, and keyboards, especially in English-speaking countries. Understanding the key features of the ANSI layout is essential for anyone looking to customize their keyboard.

Key Features of an ANSI Keyboard Layout:

1. Key Count: The ANSI layout typically includes 104 keys in a standard full-size keyboard, which consists of alphanumeric keys, function keys (F1-F12), navigation keys, and a number pad.

2. Enter Key: The Enter key is large and rectangular in shape, which is one of the defining characteristics of the ANSI layout. It’s wider compared to other layouts like ISO, which have a smaller, L-shaped Enter key.

3. Left Shift Key: The Left Shift key is larger in the ANSI layout compared to ISO. This key provides more space for typing and is favored by users who need more room for key presses.

4. Key Placement: The arrangement of keys like Backslash, Right Shift, and Alt is standard, making the ANSI layout ideal for those who type primarily in English. The key placement is logical and ergonomic, offering a comfortable typing experience.

5. Standardization: ANSI is the most common layout used in the United States and Canada, making it the most familiar layout for many users. Its design is optimized for English-language typing and general computing tasks.

What is the Difference Between ANSI and ISO Layouts?

Before we talk about how Awekeys keycaps can fit both layouts, it’s important to understand the key differences between ANSI and ISO layouts:

1. Enter Key: The most notable difference between ANSI and ISO is the Enter key. In ANSI, it’s a wide rectangle, while in ISO, it is L-shaped and smaller.

2. Left Shift Key: The Left Shift key in ISO is shorter than in ANSI, making room for an extra key between Z and Shift. This additional key is used for special characters or symbols specific to European languages.

3. Additional Key: ISO layouts typically have one extra key to the left of the Z key, which is not present in the ANSI layout. This extra key allows for typing characters like < or >, often used in languages with accented letters.

Despite these differences, both layouts serve a similar function and are popular across different regions, particularly in Europe for ISO and North America for ANSI.

Why Awekeys Keycaps Work for Both ANSI and ISO Layouts

 the photo above is Awekeys gold keycap set 

One of the biggest challenges in the mechanical keyboard world is finding keycaps that are compatible with different layouts. Whether you prefer the ANSI layout (widely used in North America) or the ISO layout (common in Europe), Awekeys keycaps offer a solution that fits both layouts. Here’s why Awekeys keycaps are a perfect match for your keyboard:

1. Universal Compatibility

Awekeys keycaps are designed to fit both ANSI and ISO layouts with ease. Whether you have the wider Enter key on your ANSI keyboard or the L-shaped Enter key on your ISO keyboard, Awekeys ensures that the keycap set is compatible with both. This makes it an ideal choice for users who switch between layouts or have multiple keyboards with different layouts.

2. Customizable Key Sizes

The Left Shift key and Enter key vary in size between ANSI and ISO keyboards. Awekeys keycaps offer a set of custom sizes to accommodate these differences, so you don’t have to worry about mismatched or incompatible keycaps. The flexibility of Awekeys keycap sets ensures that your keyboard layout—whether ANSI or ISO—will look and feel great.

3. Durable, High-Quality PBT Plastic

Awekeys keycaps are made from premium PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) plastic, known for its durability and resistance to shine. Unlike ABS keycaps, which tend to wear out over time, PBT keycaps maintain their appearance and feel even after prolonged use. This makes them a great long-term investment for your keyboard setup.

4. Variety of Styles and Designs

Awekeys offers a wide range of keycap designs, including various colors, profiles, and finishes. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist aesthetic or a bold, vibrant theme, you’ll find an Awekeys keycap set that suits your personality. Best of all, you can enjoy these designs regardless of whether you have an ANSI or ISO layout.

5. Easy to Install

Awekeys keycaps are designed for easy installation on most mechanical switches. Whether you're using Cherry MX, Gateron, or other popular switches, Awekeys keycaps fit seamlessly, ensuring a hassle-free experience when upgrading your keyboard.

Benefits of Awekeys Keycaps

• Enhanced Durability: The PBT plastic used in Awekeys keycaps resists wear and tear, providing a longer-lasting typing experience.
• Smooth Typing Feel: The keycaps are designed for comfort and satisfaction, whether you’re typing, gaming, or programming.
• Wide Range of Profiles: Choose from various profiles like Cherry, SA, and others, offering a more personalized and comfortable typing experience.
• Stylish Customization: Awekeys keycaps come in a variety of vibrant and creative designs, allowing you to tailor your keyboard’s appearance to match your aesthetic.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ANSI layout?

The ANSI layout is a keyboard layout standard used predominantly in North America. It features a wide rectangular Enter key, a larger Left Shift key, and is optimized for the English language.

2. How is the ANSI layout different from the ISO layout?

The ANSI layout has a wide rectangular Enter key, while the ISO layout has an L-shaped Enter key. The Left Shift key is larger in ANSI, and ISO includes an extra key next to the Z key for specific symbols used in European languages.

3. Can Awekeys keycaps fit both ANSI and ISO keyboards?

Yes, Awekeys keycaps are designed to fit both ANSI and ISO layouts. They offer keycaps in various sizes to accommodate the different shapes and sizes of keys in both layouts.

4. What material are Awekeys keycaps made of?

Awekeys keycaps are made from high-quality PBT plastic, which is known for its durability, resistance to shine, and long-lasting performance.

5. How do I know if Awekeys keycaps will fit my keyboard?

Awekeys keycaps are compatible with most mechanical keyboards that use either the ANSI or ISO layout. Additionally, Awekeys keycaps fit most popular mechanical switches, including Cherry MX, Gateron, and similar types.

6. Are Awekeys keycaps easy to install?

Yes, Awekeys keycaps are designed for easy installation on standard mechanical keyboard switches. Whether you have an ANSI or ISO layout, installation is simple and straightforward.

7. Can I use Awekeys keycaps for a 60% or 65% layout?

Yes, Awekeys offers keycap sets for various layouts, including 60% and 65% keyboards. Be sure to check the keycap set details to ensure compatibility with your specific layout.

Conclusion

 the photo above is Awekeys copper eagle keycap set

Understanding the ANSI keyboard layout is key when it comes to building or customizing your mechanical keyboard. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, Awekeys keycaps are a fantastic choice for both ANSI and ISO layouts. With their premium quality, durability, and universal compatibility, Awekeys keycaps provide the versatility and style needed to elevate your typing experience.

By choosing Awekeys, you’re investing in a high-quality, long-lasting keycap set that will make your keyboard stand out in both form and function. Happy typing!