The Function Row: Do You Really Need It in 2025?

Computer hardware is still changing, yet one of its most ancient parts—the function row (F1-F12)—is still contentious. Now, in 2025, shortcuts and minimalism are the name of the game in tech. So, we need to pose an important question: Are the keys on top of this row a necessity, or an outdated feature that is no longer required? In this article, we'll discuss the purpose of the function row in modern society and whether users still require it.

What Is the Function Row and Why Does It Exist?

The row function is the F1 through F12 keys on a typical keyboard. It came into use when computers were text-based, prior to the popularity of mice and graphical user interfaces. The keys were originally intended as shortcuts for executing special commands, minimizing the amount of typing involved in lengthy commands.

IBM's older keyboards made the F-keys a household term, and they were an essential element of MS-DOS and early Windows existence for anything from help (F1), renaming (F2), or ending programs (Alt+F4). Even though mouse menus have rendered some of those applications obsolete, the function row on newer keyboards, especially laptops, typically includes buttons for screen brightness adjustment, volume, and media control.

Why You Might Not Need Function Row

Compact keyboards without a function row, like 60%, 65%, and 75% layouts, are very popular. They offer key advantages, particularly in desk space savings. Due to their smaller size, they allow for a more ergonomic desk setup, with the mouse closer to the keyboard, which can reduce shoulder and wrist strain. Their minimalist aesthetics also contribute to a sleek and clutterless workspace.

Good Alternatives Are Now Available

Not having a physical F-row does not cancel out its function. There are intelligent alternatives on new keyboards.

• The 'Fn' Key Layer: The most common choice is the "Function" or "Fn" key. On smaller keyboards, pressing Fn and a number key (e.g., Fn + 1) does the same thing as the F-key (F1). This arrangement allows all functions to be preserved without adding extra keys. For tasks you don't use often, two-key pressing is an acceptable compromise for a more compact keyboard.
• Advanced Customization Software: Both Windows and macOS now possess robust software to alter your keyboard settings. Windows users can utilize Microsoft's PowerToys to alter what keys do and create custom shortcuts for individual applications. Similarly, macOS provides a wealth of options in its System Settings for altering key function. Additional software such as AutoHotkey (for Windows) or Karabiner-Elements (for macOS) provides even more customization options, allowing users to devise their own much more powerful methods of working than the default F-key applications.

Why Many People Still Use Function Row

Even though simple designs are popular, the function row is not gone. For some users and types of work, the quick, one-press access it gives is still the fastest and easiest. The reason to keep it is that it's useful and people are used to it.

Necessary for Certain Jobs

For many professionals, the function row is a big part of their daily work, so they can't work without it.

• Programmers and Developers: In many programs for writing code (IDEs) like Visual Studio, F-keys are standard shortcuts for very important and common actions. These include debugging (F5, F10, F11), building projects, or renaming things. Having to press two keys (like Fn + F5) for a task you do hundreds of times a day can slow you down and break your focus.
• Gamers: For gaming, especially in complex games like MMOs and strategy games, the function row gives you extra keys that are easy to reach. You can use them for special abilities, items, or commands. Competitive FPS players often like smaller keyboards for more mouse space, but players who need many quick keyboard shortcuts find the F-row very necessary.

The Speed and Ease of Separate Keys

The row of functions is handy since it provides direct access; operations take only one keystroke. It is particularly convenient for older applications that use F-key shortcuts. For those who are used to older keyboards, commands such as Alt+F4 to close or F5 to refresh are faster than with a mouse.

Do You Need Function Row in 2025?

Whether you need the keyboard  function row in 2025 is not a simple question. It all depends on your own needs and how you work. The question is not if the function row is old, but which keyboard style fits how you work best.

Heavy users, like programmers and gamers, want keyboards with a function row. F-key shortcuts allow them to work rapidly, so full-size or Tenkeyless keyboards are the most speedy. A single key press is given more importance than the looks and comfort of smaller keyboards.

Most users do not require the function row anymore. They either work or type mostly in applications that are mouse-based. A compact keyboard provides benefits such as increased desk space, improved comfort, and a neater appearance. With features such as the 'Fn' key layer and powerful customization software, you can use F-key functions without utilizing additional space.