Is a Laptop with Numeric Keypad, Comfortable to Use?

Question

Hi guys, so far I've been using a laptop with Full Keyboard (NO Numeric Pad), but now I'm going to buy a new laptop, which has a Numeric Keypad, Just wondering how it feels to work on a laptop with Numeric Pad.

I mean the Num Pad covers quite a space on the Keyboard & makes it uncomfortable to use the rest of the keyboard, bcoz all keys & the touch pad is dragged a bit to the left. Please share your experiences.
Thanks.

Answer 1

I love using a num pad to type numbers and I type numbers out much faster when using it. I had no issues using a keyboard with a num pad.

Answer 2

If the laptop has at least a 15" monitor, then it should not be a problem. The touchpad/pointstick will almost always be centred on the main keyboard. It is no less uncomfortable than one without the number pad.



There may be a problem however, in that certain keys will be clumped together or missing all together. I am a software developer and the number pad is of no use to me. I would much rather have full-size F keys split into three groups, have a dedicated PrntScrn and Pause button and spacing in between the meta, control and alt keys.



So keep in mind that certain aspects of a keyboard may be compromised in order to accommodate the number pad. Unless you work as someone that enters numbers on a daily basis, there is little use for the number pad. There are also external number pads that you can use.

Answer 3

It all depends upon the type and size of keys. If they are full sized keys then it will be like using a regular desktop keyboard. They may be smaller than standard which can make them harder to work with if you have large hands. Personally, I much prefer having a numeric keypad. You could get a keyboard without the keypad and then get an add-on numeric keypad that plugs into a USB slot for when you need it.