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Transitioning from JIS to US Keyboard Layout: Pursuing Aesthetics and Functionality
Introduction
Keyboards are the most basic tool in daily computer work. This small device significantly impacts our work efficiency and motivation.
I started using PCs in elementary school and have used JIS (Japanese) layout keyboards for about 20 years. Recently, however, I became interested in US (English) layout keyboards and decided to actually try one out.
In this article, I will share what was "good," "troublesome," and "neither good nor bad" about changing from a JIS layout to a US layout based on my actual experience. I hope this serves as a reference for those considering switching to a US layout.
Reasons why I decided to switch to a US layout
The following three points are why I decided to switch to a US layout:
- Because it looks stylish
- Because it's said to be easier for programmers to use
- Because the keyboard I wanted was only available in a US layout
Benefits of switching to a US layout
Stylish appearance
In modern times where most people use Romaji input, the JIS layout is unnecessary and, quite frankly, looks very uncool... Even though MacBooks are so stylish, only the keyboard looks clunky... I think even Steve Jobs would be disappointed if he saw it.
A good appearance leads to better motivation, so I felt this point was a very significant advantage.
More keyboard options
US layout keyboards are widely supplied globally, allowing you to choose from a diverse range of products. This allows users to select mechanical characteristics, key feel, and designs that match their preferences.
The keyboard I wanted was only available in a US layout, so it was great to be able to choose a keyboard that suited my tastes.
Difficulties with switching to a US layout
Switching between Japanese and English is a hassle
With a JIS layout keyboard, you can switch between Japanese and English with a single button. Also, since the keys for switching Japanese → English and English → Japanese are independent, even if you don't know the current input language, you can always start typing in the desired language just by pressing the button first.
On the other hand, with a US layout keyboard, you need to press two keys simultaneously to switch between Japanese and English. Furthermore, since the same key combination is used to toggle between the two, you might start typing in the wrong language.
By installing free software, you can use the Command keys (or Alt keys in Windows) to the left and right of the space bar like the "Kana" and "Eisuu" keys on a JIS layout keyboard. I thought, "This solves it!" but in practice, there was a problem.
I press Command just before I start typing, but if the next key input is too fast, it gets registered as "Command + [Key]," which can cause unintended operations.
Since I switch between Japanese and English frequently during work, this point was extremely stressful.
Hard to use when the laptop's built-in keyboard is JIS
Currently, my personal PC is a Mac with a JIS layout, my work PC is a Windows with a JIS layout, and my external keyboard is a US layout. Because of this, my work efficiency sometimes drops when using the laptop's built-in keyboard.
It's especially terrible when using a Windows laptop. I change the settings to US layout to match my external keyboard, but this also changes the settings for the laptop's built-in keyboard. In other words, even though the laptop's physical keyboard is JIS, the symbol mapping becomes US layout. This results in symbols being entered that are different from what is printed on the keys.
Usually, I use an external keyboard, so it's not an issue, but it's very problematic when this happens during meetings or while out and about.
By the way, in the case of a Mac, you can continue using the built-in keyboard as a JIS layout.
Things that were neither good nor bad
Among the advantages and disadvantages I researched beforehand regarding switching to the US layout, here are a few things that I felt were neither good nor bad after actually using it.
US layout's symbol placement is easy to understand
It is said that US layout keyboards improve work efficiency because symbols frequently used in programming, coding, and document creation are placed in more accessible positions, but I didn't feel this much of an advantage.
I believe that even with a JIS layout keyboard, symbol positions are not a problem once you memorize them. Since you naturally learn the positions as you use them, I didn't feel the merit of "easy-to-understand placement" that much.
Also, during programming, since many things are entered automatically using input completion or formatters, I didn't feel any improvement in work efficiency due to the symbol arrangement.
Mistyping the Enter key on the US layout
One downside mentioned about switching to a US layout is mistyping the Enter key due to the change in its size. Certainly, I did mistype the Enter key during the first week or two. However, once I got used to it, I was able to use it without any issues.
Therefore, I didn't find this to be much of a problem either.
Conclusion: Which one is better?
- JIS layout if you prioritize work efficiency
- US layout if you prioritize motivation
From my personal perspective, I think the JIS layout is better if you are looking for work efficiency. After all, the malfunctions when switching between Japanese and English were very stressful. This issue probably becomes more prominent for faster typists.
On the other hand, I think the US layout is better if you prioritize motivation. It looks stylish and offers many keyboard options, making it easier to find a keyboard that suits your taste.
I'm still undecided on which one to use as my main keyboard, but for now, since I want to prioritize motivation for work and study, I'm considering using the US layout keyboard as my main one.
I want to use it a bit longer to decide which one truly suits me.
I hope you also find a keyboard that suits you and create a comfortable work environment!
Discussion