60% Keyboard: How To Use Arrow Keys

By Marlo Strydom

60% keyboards offer a compact, minimalist layout that's popular among gamers and programmers. While they don't have dedicated arrow keys, you can still access all essential functions through key combinations and layers.

Before You Start

  • Check your keyboard's manual for specific key combinations
  • Some methods require software installation
  • Practice the new key combinations to build muscle memory

Methods to Use Arrow Keys

1. Function Layer Method (Fn Key)

The most common way to access arrow keys on a 60% keyboard is through the function layer. Here's how it works:

Default Mappings

  • Up: Fn + I
  • Down: Fn + K
  • Left: Fn + J
  • Right: Fn + L

Alternative Placements

  • Fn + WASD
  • Fn + HJKL

2. Dedicated Arrow Key Mode

Many 60% keyboards allow you to toggle an arrow key mode, making the keys always active without holding Fn:

Enable Arrow Mode

Hold Fn + Q or Fn + Esc

Arrow Keys Active

Assigned keys function as arrow keys without holding Fn

Disable Arrow Mode

Press the same key combination again to revert

3. Custom Key Remapping

For more permanent solutions, you can remap keys using keyboard software:

Supported Software

  • QMK or VIA (custom keyboards)
  • Razer Synapse
  • Corsair iCUE
  • Logitech G Hub

Remapping Steps

  1. Open keyboard software
  2. Locate key remapping section
  3. Assign arrow functions
  4. Save and apply changes

4. AutoHotkey (Windows)

For custom solutions without built-in firmware support, AutoHotkey is a powerful option: 

#NoEnv
                      #SingleInstance Force
                      SetWorkingDir %A_ScriptDir%
                      ; Caps Lock + IJKL as arrow keys
                      CapsLock & i::Send {Up}
                      CapsLock & k::Send {Down}
                      CapsLock & j::Send {Left}
                      CapsLock & l::Send {Right}
                      ; Keep Caps Lock functionality with double-tap
                      CapsLock::
                      KeyWait, CapsLock
                      KeyWait, CapsLock, D T0.2
                      if ErrorLevel
                      return
                      SetCapsLockState, % GetKeyState("CapsLock", "T") ? "Off" : "On"
                      return

💡 Pro Tip

If you're new to 60% keyboards, start with the function layer method (Fn + IJKL) as it's the most common and doesn't require additional software. Once you're comfortable, you can explore other methods that better suit your workflow.

Understanding 60% Keyboards

60% keyboards are designed for users who value desk space and portability. While they lack dedicated arrow keys, they offer several advantages:

  • More desk space for mouse movement
  • Easier portability for travel or LAN parties
  • Cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic
  • Customizable through layers and software