When shopping for new keycaps, you’ll often see terms like ANSI and ISO. These refer to different keyboard layouts, and they affect whether a keycap set will fit your keyboard. But what do ANSI and ISO actually mean, and how do they differ?

ANSI Layout (American Standard)

ANSI (American National Standards Institute) is the most common layout, especially in the US. Key features include:

  • Rectangular Enter key
  • Long left Shift key
  • No extra key next to the left Shift

Most aftermarket keycap sets are designed primarily for ANSI, making it the easiest layout for compatibility.

ISO Layout (European Standard)

ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is common in Europe. Key features include:

  • L-shaped Enter key
  • Shorter left Shift key
  • Extra key next to the left Shift

ISO layouts are less common globally, so not all keycap sets include the right keys. Many premium sets offer ISO kits to cover this layout.

Main differences between ANSI and ISO

Feature ANSI ISO
Enter key Rectangular L-shaped
Left Shift Long Short with extra key
Extra key No Yes, next to Shift
Region US, Asia Europe
Keycap availability High – most sets support Lower – needs special kit

Pros and cons

ANSI: Easier compatibility, more aftermarket keycap support, but fewer keys for localization.

ISO: Better for multi-language typing, but fewer sets available and more expensive.

Community insights

On Reddit and Geekhack, ANSI is often recommended for beginners due to its wider compatibility with custom keycap sets. ISO users often mention frustration with limited availability, though many prefer ISO for local language layouts.

Which layout should you choose?

If you’re in the US or using a custom mechanical keyboard, ANSI is usually the safer choice. If you’re in Europe and need language-specific keys, ISO may be necessary. Just remember to buy keycap sets that specifically support your layout.

Find keycaps for both ANSI and ISO at RGBKeys

At RGBKeys, we stock keycap sets that include options for both ANSI and ISO layouts.

How Do I Know if Keycaps Fit My Keyboard?

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