40% keyboard: which one is the easiest to learn and/or most comfortable to use?

[menuhin]

I don't know why I'm starting this: because I'm using mostly the 70%-75% keyboards, i.e. those space savers still having the arrow keys. I am still reluctant to give up (or move them to the function layers) the function keys, not to mention the number keys.

However, quite a few 40% keyboards caught my eye: compact size, multiple thumb keys, and the philosophy of shorter finger travel distance (i.e. without R4).

For those who have experienced the 40% keyboard, do you like them? And which one is your favorite? And why?

Here are a few I've read about:

• Planck
• JD45
• JD40
• Van44 / miniVan
• MA42
• kb45p
• Golbat
• Minorca

[iamtootallforthis]

I love my JD45 but then again I have only used  a JD45.

[chuckdee]

I have a Planck, miniVan, kb45p, and two JD45s.

Didn't like the Planck at all.  The lack of the staggered layout really killed it for me.

I love my miniVan for writing.
I use my kb45p on my separate terminal.  It's the smallest of the lot, and is usable even 1-handed.
My JD45/BT JD45 are pretty much the one I use all around to connect to my laptop.  I just need to reprogram the BT one to the default layout; I haven't so far.

[Moistgun]

I can only comment that I prefer the normal layout boards over an ortholinear board.

much easier to learn a new keymap setup when the keys are generally in their normal spot

[oneproduct]

I use a Diverge TM, which you can find here: http://unikeyboard.io/

I would say it's likely more comfortable than many other choices due to the fact that it's a split keyboard, though at the same time that could make it harder to learn.

[S1llyC0ne]

I can only comment that I prefer the normal layout boards over an ortholinear board.

much easier to learn a new keymap setup when the keys are generally in their normal spot

Funny you ! Calling normal a layout designed because of the internals of a typewriter. "Traditional" would be more accurate.

@menuhin : I would have a look at the  Atreus 40%. Typing on a small keyboard can be hard on the wrists since the hands are kept close as long as you type.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

[PollandAkuma]

I don't know why I'm starting this: because I'm using mostly the 70%-75% keyboards, i.e. those space savers still having the arrow keys. I am still reluctant to give up (or move them to the function layers) the function keys, not to mention the number keys.

However, quite a few 40% keyboards caught my eye: compact size, multiple thumb keys, and the philosophy of shorter finger travel distance (i.e. without R4).

For those who have experienced the 40% keyboard, do you like them? And which one is your favorite? And why?

Here are a few I've read about:

• Planck
• JD45
• JD40
• Van44 / miniVan
• MA42
• kb45p
• Golbat
• Minorca

I really like your username OP. Could you be refering to our one and only Lord? 

I myself was thinking about getting a minivan. But now that I've found Diverge TM, I started thinking about whether I should go for a split ergo like Atreus. Not to mention, Atreus is the very board which atrracted me to this hobby 

I've literally seen zero videos of Atreus owners doing typing tests on it. I really want to know how it works IRL!

[Puddsy]

My vote goes for the JD40.

[PollandAkuma]

My vote goes for the JD40.

Where can one get a JD40? Haven;t been seeing them around, I've only seen JD45.

[Puddsy]

My vote goes for the JD40.

Where can one get a JD40? Haven;t been seeing them around, I've only seen JD45.

PM JD, check classifieds.

I haven't been around for a while, so there might be another outlet.

[chuckdee]

http://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/jd40

http://1upkeyboards.com/index.php?cPath=42_44

[dilbertprogrammer]

I've grown fond of the staggered offerings from Panc Co -- the Minorca and the Sebright.
Having the ability to program your own layout makes settling into the form factor that much easier.