What is an ANSI Keyboard?
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a ANSI and ISO keyboard? Or why some keys seem to be in different positions depending on the keyboard you're using? The answer lies in the ANSI keyboard layout.
ANSI stands for American National Standards Institute. It's a standard that defines the layout and key arrangement of keyboards primarily used in the United States and other countries adopting the US keyboard layout.
What Makes ANSI Keyboards Unique?
ANSI keyboards are distinguished by their Enter key shape, which is rectangular and takes up two rows. This is in contrast to ISO keyboards, where the Enter key is usually tall and narrow. Another defining feature is the positioning of the Backspace and backslash keys. On an ANSI keyboard, the Backspace key is located to the right of the Enter key, while on an ISO keyboard, the Backspace key is positioned to the left of the Enter key.
Advantages and Disadvantages of ANSI Keyboards
ANSI keyboards are known for their simplicity and familiarity for users in the US. They are often considered more intuitive for those accustomed to the US keyboard layout. However, they may not be as convenient for users who need to frequently use characters that are not part of the standard US English alphabet, such as those found in European languages.
Alternatives to ANSI Keyboards
If you find yourself needing to use characters outside of the standard US English alphabet, consider exploring ISO keyboards. These keyboards often include additional keys for accented characters and other special characters.
Choosing the Right Keyboard for You
When choosing a keyboard, it's important to consider your needs and preferences. If you primarily type in English and prefer a familiar layout, then an ANSI keyboard may be a good choice. However, if you frequently use other languages or need access to special characters, an ISO keyboard may be more suitable.
Conclusion
The ANSI keyboard layout is a standard keyboard configuration widely used in the United States and other countries that adopt the US keyboard layout. It's characterized by its rectangular Enter key and the positioning of the Backspace key to the right of the Enter key. When choosing a keyboard, understanding the differences between ANSI and ISO layouts can help you select the best option for your specific needs.