What is the most common configuration for computer keyboards?

The most common configuration for computer keyboards is QWERTY. This layout was developed in the 19th century for typewriters and has become the standard for most English-speaking regions. The name "QWERTY" derives from the first six letters in the top row of the keyboard. Its design was intended to reduce jamming on early typewriters by placing frequently used letter combinations apart from one another.

This layout has persisted over time, finding its way into modern computer keyboards, and is predominant in the United States and many other countries. The widespread use of QWERTY means that nearly all mainstream keyboard designs are based on this configuration, making it the default choice for typing in English and ensuring that most users are familiar with it.

Other layouts, such as Dvorak, are designed to increase typing efficiency and speed but have not achieved the same level of adoption. Similarly, AZERTY and QWERTZ are variations used in specific regions or languages—AZERTY being prevalent in French-speaking countries and QWERTZ in German-speaking regions. However, the global dominance of the QWERTY layout in markets makes it the most recognized and utilized keyboard configuration.