I’d like to propose an additional keyboard module option for the Framework 12 and 13: one where all four arrow keys are half-height and equal in size, forming the classic inverted-T layout - just like on Laptop 16. I imagine the unused button space could be filled with something like always-pressed dummy button shape, to geometrically blend with cover’s body.
The problem with the current design:
Right now, the left and right arrow keys are full-height, while up and down are half-height. To me, this feels very counterintuitive, even after 3 years of using such laptop keyboards. I personally have no problem using full size, small size arrow keys - but when up, down are small and left, right are big - it just breaks physical/tactile intuitiveness completely.
If this resonates with you, please add your voice.
I would have bought a frame.work years ago if it wasn’t for the arrow keys. They finally fixed it on the frame.work 16, but I really wanted a 13. My old home laptop finally gave up so I ended up buying the frame.work 13 with these frustrating arrow keys. Super disappointing to see the upcoming 13 developer laptop still with the full size left/right half size up/down. No way am I changing my work rig without properly sized arrow keys - but maybe I’ll go with a 16 for that one anyway. Does anyone have an explanation to why you prefer the mixed sized keys? I’d be curious to read it.
The unboxing today was pretty cool though. Still lame I have to deal with these arrow keys, but will hold out hope a replacement keyboard becomes available before the system becomes obsolete in another 5 years or so.