> I could imagine that some people never use the function keys. Or never use the numpad keys. To some people they might be completely useless... Which would make a smaller keyboard understandable.
>
> Now, people who do need all those keys and yet still go for a smaller keyboard is harder for me to understand. :)
Right, I don't think anyone goes "I need these keys, I should get a smaller keyboard".
But, no one is saying "I don't need those keys, I can use a smaller keyboard". e.g. 40% keyboards like the planck lack a number row, as well as lacking a number pad; of course they'll have to have access to type in numbers somehow.
> boutique and expensive that I don’t think that people are forfeiting a dozen or so keys in order to save some money.
Right, I don't think it's a persuasive/compelling point; but it is a benefit. Comparing the cost of getting switches for 110-keys vs for 48 keys, you can either afford nicer keys, or don't have to pay as much.
Right, I don't think anyone goes "I need these keys, I should get a smaller keyboard".
But, no one is saying "I don't need those keys, I can use a smaller keyboard". e.g. 40% keyboards like the planck lack a number row, as well as lacking a number pad; of course they'll have to have access to type in numbers somehow.
> boutique and expensive that I don’t think that people are forfeiting a dozen or so keys in order to save some money.
Right, I don't think it's a persuasive/compelling point; but it is a benefit. Comparing the cost of getting switches for 110-keys vs for 48 keys, you can either afford nicer keys, or don't have to pay as much.