The UK keyboard layout deviates from the standard US layout, which is predominantly used in English-speaking nations like the USA, Canada, India, Australia, and New Zealand. Interestingly, despite being an English-speaking country, the UK opts for a unique layout. However, it’s worth noting that using a US keyboard doesn’t hinder typing any words; rather, configuring the computer to recognize it as a UK layout resolves any potential issues.
Now, why do I advocate for the US layout? There are several compelling reasons.
- The left Shift key is notably larger, a feature I personally prefer.
- Additionally, accessing the pound sign (£) still involves the familiar Shift + F3 combination.
- The AltGr key also finds more utility on the US layout, offering various functions beyond just typing the euro symbol.
- Furthermore, AltGr allows for the typing of accented characters like ú.
- Typing the “#” symbol is simplified, requiring just a single key press, which is particularly beneficial for programmers.
- Moreover, the US keyboard can be converted to a US International layout, providing access to a wider array of symbols. Conveniently, switching between the US and US International layouts can be swiftly done from the taskbar.
Setting set up as a UK keyboard in Windows
to get this, press these keys [AltGr = Right Alt]
# = [\|]
\ = AltGr [\|]
| = AltGr Shift [\|]
“ = Shift [2]
£ = Shift [3]
€ = AltGr [4]
‘ = [‘“]
@ = Shift [‘“]
` = [`~]
¦ = AltGr [`~]
~ = Shift [\|]
á é í ó ú = AltGr [letter]
