The Pros and Cons of the Most Common Foreign Language Keyboard Layouts

As globalization continues to bring people from different parts of the world closer together, the need for efficient communication has become increasingly important. With this need arises the necessity for foreign language keyboard layouts. A foreign language keyboard layout refers to the arrangement of keys on a keyboard to enable the typing of letters, symbols, and characters unique to a specific language.

In this table, we summarized the Pros and Cons for most of the keyboard layout in the mechanical keyboard industry:  

Keyboard Layout Pros Cons
QWERTY Most widely used and supported; can be used for many languages. Not optimized for specific languages.
AZERTY Optimized for French; allows for quick access to accented characters. Not widely used or supported; can be challenging for individuals used to QWERTY layout.
QWERTZ Optimized for German; allows for quick access to umlauts. Not widely used or supported; can be challenging for individuals used to QWERTY layout.
DVORAK Can increase typing speed and efficiency; optimized for English. Not widely used or supported; can be challenging for individuals used to QWERTY layout.
COLEMAK Can increase typing speed and efficiency; optimized for English. Not widely used or supported; can be challenging for individuals used to QWERTY layout.
KATAKANA Optimized for Japanese; enables efficient and easier typing in Japanese. Challenging for non-Japanese speakers to use; not optimized for other languages.
HANGUL Optimized for Korean; enables efficient and easier typing in Korean. Challenging for non-Korean speakers to use; not optimized for other languages.

 

japanese keyboard layout custom keycap sets

 

How to Choose Which Keyboard Layout ?

QWERTY Keyboard Layout

When deciding which layout to choose, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you're used to the QWERTY layout and primarily use English, sticking with QWERTY may be the best option for you. However, if you frequently type in a non-English language, it may be worth considering a layout optimized for that language.

AZERTY Keyboard Layout

For French speakers, the AZERTY keyboard layout may be the best choice, as it's optimized for the French language. Similarly, German speakers may prefer the QWERTZ layout, which is optimized for the German language. Russian speakers may find the JCUKEN layout to be the most intuitive, while Spanish speakers may prefer the HCESAR layout.

DVORAK / Colemak Keyboard Layout

If you're interested in an ergonomic and efficient layout, both DVORAK keyboard layout and Colemak keyboard layout are great options. However, it's important to note that these layouts are not widely used or supported, so you may encounter compatibility issues with certain software and devices.

AZERTY keyboard layout
AZERTY Layout Custom Keyboard from goblintechkeys.com

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision on which foreign language keyboard layout to use comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Consider the pros and cons of each layout and choose the one that best fits your individual situation. With a little bit of practice, you'll be typing away in your chosen language in no time!

No idea where to get a custom design keycap sets for foreign language keyboard layout ?

www.goblintechkeys.com offers a custom design interface that allows for 100% customization. You can upload photos and pictures, choose keycap background colors, and even customize legends and sub-legends on each key to your preferred keyboard layout.

custom design keyboard custom design keycaps

Alternatively, you can consult with their team, who will provide you with assistance in creating your ideal keyboard. Get your custom keycaps with your favorite foreign language keyboard layout now !

goblintechkeys design team
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