How to Use Arrow Keys on a 60% Keyboard With/Without “Fn”

60% keyboards are stylish and space-efficient, but they often lack dedicated arrow keys, which can be a hurdle for users.

This guide dives into easy methods to use arrow keys on these keyboards, with and without the Fn key.

Perfect for gamers, programmers, or everyday typing, our tips will help you make the most of your compact keyboard’s functionality.

Using Arrow Keys with Fn Key

Fn Key + WASD Keys

To use the WASD keys as arrow keys on a 60% keyboard, you’ll typically need to hold down the Fn key and then press the corresponding WASD key.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Identify the Fn key on your keyboard.
2. Hold down the Fn key.
3. While holding the Fn key, press W for the up arrow, A for left, S for down, and D for right.

This method is particularly useful for gamers or those used to WASD navigation in gaming. It provides an intuitive way to navigate without shifting your hands from the gaming position.

Fn Key + IJKL Keys

Another common method involves using the IJKL keys as arrow keys. This is similar to the WASD method but might be more comfortable for typing-focused tasks. Here’s how to use it:

1. Hold down the Fn key.
2. With the Fn key held down, use I for up, J for left, K for down, and L for right.

The benefit of the IJKL method over WASD is its location on the keyboard. It’s closer to the home row, where typists naturally place their fingers.

This positioning can make it more comfortable and quicker to access for those who type frequently, reducing the need to move hands away from the typing position.

Using Arrow Keys on 60% Keyboards Without Using Fn Key

Using arrow keys on a 60% keyboard without the Fn key involves alternative methods, particularly suitable for those who prefer or require a different setup. Here are the two straightforward ways to do that:

Programmable Keyboards

Programmable keyboards allow users to customize key functions according to their preferences. This flexibility is especially useful in compact keyboards like the 60% variety, where physical space limitations require more creative key usage.

Steps to Remap Keys to Arrow Functions:

1. Install the programming software that comes with your keyboard. This software varies depending on the keyboard brand and model.
2. Open the software and select the key you wish to remap.
3. Choose the arrow function (up, down, left, right) that you want to assign to that key.
4. Save your configuration, and the software will write it to the keyboard’s memory.

Using SharpKeys Software

For users who don’t have a programmable keyboard or prefer a software-based solution to remap keys on their 60% keyboard, SharpKeys is an excellent option.

It’s a free tool that allows you to remap keys in Windows without needing to delve into complex programming.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use SharpKeys:

Downloading and Installing SharpKeys

Visit the SharpKeys GitHub release page at SharpKeys v3.9.4.

Click on sharpkeys394.msi to download the installer.

Once downloaded, double-click the installer file and follow the installation instructions, choosing where to install the software.

Launching and Using SharpKeys

After installation, use the Windows search function in the bottom left corner of your screen to find SharpKeys.

Launch the SharpKeys application.

Click on the ‘Add’ button to start remapping keys.

You have two options to choose the key you want to remap:

Select the key from the given list.

Use the ‘Type Key’ feature to automatically detect the key by pressing it.

Repeat the same process to select the key you want it to function as (e.g., an arrow key).

Once you’ve set the keys, click on ‘Write to Registry’.

After writing the changes to the registry, you’ll need to reboot your computer for the changes to take effect.

Reverting Changes if Needed

If you decide to revert the changes, open SharpKeys.

Select the remapping you want to remove and click ‘Delete’.

Click ‘Write to Registry’ again and reboot your PC.

Using SharpKeys is a straightforward way to customize your 60% keyboard, especially for those who need arrow key functionality but don’t have access to a programmable keyboard. This method is simple, user-friendly, and does not require advanced technical skills.

Conclusion

We hope this guide helped you find the perfect method to use arrow keys on your 60% keyboard.

Whether you’re working with the Fn key or exploring software solutions like SharpKeys, each approach offers its unique advantages. Also, don’t forget to check our guide where we share the easiest tips on taking screenshots with 60% keyboards using different methods.

We’d love to hear which method you chose and how it’s working out for you. Feel free to drop a comment and share your experience below.