QWERTY vs Dvorak vs Colemak
QWERTY is the layout almost everyone uses. Dvorak and Colemak move the letters around to put common ones on the home row. Switching can feel more comfortable to some people, but there is little proof that it makes you faster.
Where they come from
- QWERTY was designed in the 1870s for early typewriters.
- Dvorak was designed in the 1930s by August Dvorak and William Dealey to put common letters on the home row.
- Colemak was released in 2006 by Shai Coleman. It changes fewer keys than Dvorak and keeps shortcuts like copy and paste in place.
What research says
Studies of speed benefits from Dvorak and Colemak have been small and mixed. Some typists report less finger movement and more comfort. Others see little difference. Speed is mostly decided by how well you touch type, whichever layout you use.
The cost of switching
Learning a new layout takes weeks or months, and your speed on QWERTY may suffer, especially if you often use other people's computers. Keyboard shortcuts designed for QWERTY feel odd on Dvorak.
Should you switch?
For most people, no. If you are curious, or you have strain problems, try one for a while. For speed, you will get further by practising touch typing on the layout you already have. Start with the typing lessons.
Questions
Is Dvorak faster than QWERTY?
Not proven. Some people type faster after switching, mostly because they practise a lot while learning.
Is Colemak easier to learn than Dvorak?
Many people find it easier, because it changes fewer keys and keeps common shortcuts.
Why is the keyboard layout called QWERTY?
It is named after the first six letters on the top row.