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A 102 keys keyboard has the same number of keys as the standard keyboard, but it does not have a number pad. While some people prefer the number pad so they can do calculations, the 102 keys keyboard without the number pad is advantageous for various reasons. It leaves more room for the mouse on the desk, and it is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
The 102 keys keyboard comes in a variety of types, which include:
Due to the features and functions of a 102-key keyboard, it is employed across multiple industries.
Gaming
Gamers have a particular liking for the 102-key because it offers a range of keys needed for a gaming experience. Using a 102-key gaming keyboard makes it easy to map specific game actions to commands.
Public Sector
The public sector, which includes government, non-profit organizations, and public schools, uses the 102-key keyboard due to the affordability and standardization of normalizing keyboards across federal workplaces. Institutions that process large amounts of data believe the 102-key layout is better suited for typists because it reduces errors and increases efficiency.
Consumer Electronics
The mass production of consumer electronic products has led to a higher demand for 102-keyboards. These are prevalent in consumer gadgets like laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
Finance Sector
Companies or businesses in the finance sector, such as banks, investment firms, and insurance companies, rely heavily on repetitive data entry tasks. The full-size keyboard is a popular choice in this sector because it facilitates smooth data entry, financial modeling, and other tasks that require accuracy and efficiency.
Retail Industry
The retail industry employs 102-keypads to perform a variety of tasks, such as inventory management, point-of-sale transactions, and data entry. The keyboard offers a simple way to navigate computer systems, entering product information quickly and efficiently. Workers in the retail industry can use the 102-key keyboard for customer service suring point-of-sale transactions.
Mechanical vs Membrane
Membrane keyboards use a soft, smooth pressing system, while mechanical keyboards are preferred by gamers and typists for their distinct individual key switches. Some membrane keyboards offer semi-mechanical switches that provide a similar clicking feel as mechanical keyboards. These semi-mechanical switches are typically more cost-effective.
Noise Level
Noise levels vary among different types of 102-key keyboards. Mechanical keyboards tend to be the loudest because of their individual key switches. Membrane keyboards are quieter because their keys don't click when pressed. Some semi-mechanical keyboards strike a balance between noise and click feel by being quieter than totally mechanical models but still offering some level of sound when typing.
Switch Type
The switch type on a mechanical keyboard can vary greatly between models. This is important because it determines the feel of the key presses and the noise level when typing. Models that have Cherry MX switches are found most often and come in a variety of colors indicating different feel and noise levels.
Budget and Value
The cost of 102-key keyboards varies widely depending on features and build quality. Membrane styles are the least expensive, with prices starting under a certain amount. Semi-mechanical keyboards cost a bit more, while fully mechanical options can be the priciest. It is important to keep in mind what the budget is and to look for a good value within it. While the type of switch will greatly affect cost, other features and the overall build should also be considered when evaluating budget versus value.
Durability
When it comes to how long a keyboard will last, it is good to know that membrane options tend to wear out the fastest over time. Fully mechanical models are generally the most durable because they have individual switches for each key. The parts inside are made to handle the rigors of heavy typing. The durability of semi-mechanical keyboards falls in between membrane and fully mechanical designs.
Warranty
The warranty is an important factor to consider when deciding on a particular 102-key keyboard. Each type of model has different levels of coverage from the manufacturer. Membrane keyboards typically only have a one-year warranty. Semi-mechanical models also have a one-year warranty. Fully mechanical models can have warranties ranging from one to three years, with some brands offering even longer warranties. The warranty on a keyboard can be an indication of how long it is expected to last.
Q: What is the purpose of the extra keys on a 102 keys keyboard?
A: The additional keys on a 102 keys keyboard are primarily function keys, multimedia keys, and keys for controlling the cursor.
Q: Are 102 keys keyboards necessary for all computer users?
A: No, not all users need a 102 keyboard. Only some users may benefit from the extra keys and have preferences for their keyboards.
Q: Are 102 keys keyboards ergonomic?
A: A 102 keys keyboard can be ergonomically designed to minimize strain and discomfort while typing. These keyboards are sometimes simple to use and can be used by people with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Q: Can the keys on a 102 keys keyboard be customized?
A: Yes, some 102 keys keyboards allow keycap customization to personalize the keyboard's appearance and fit to preferences.