The main difference is usually the keyboard’s layout and default behavior—not whether it is attached to a laptop or desktop. Laptop top rows often combine F1–F12 with brightness, volume, and other controls. External desktop keyboards can do the same, but their controls and default modes vary by model. Check the key legends and the exact keyboard documentation to see which action a press will trigger.
What changes between laptop and desktop keyboards?
On many laptops, the compact top row assigns two actions to each key: a standard F1–F12 command and an alternate action such as changing brightness or volume. Depending on the laptop’s default mode, pressing a key may trigger either action; holding Fn may activate the other.
A desktop computer typically uses a separate keyboard, but that does not guarantee a conventional, single-purpose function row. Some external keyboards use Fn or F-Lock to switch between command sets, and some place system or media controls on the top row. Microsoft describes both Fn and F-Lock patterns for supported keyboards (Microsoft: Fn, F-Lock, and alternate command keys).
So, look at the keyboard itself rather than assuming its behavior from the computer it is connected to. An external keyboard’s Fn behavior is determined by that keyboard, not necessarily by the laptop or desktop’s built-in keyboard settings.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
What do Fn, Fn Lock, and F-Lock do?
- Fn: On keyboards with layered keys, holding Fn while pressing a top-row key accesses its alternate command. Which command is primary depends on the model.
- Fn Lock: On some laptops, this changes which layer activates when you press a top-row key. The toggle and default are model-specific.
- F-Lock: On supported external keyboards, this toggles between command sets. Microsoft notes that Fn and F-Lock provide two sets of commands on many keyboards, but their operation is not universal across devices.
These terms are related to switching key behavior, but they are not interchangeable labels for one universal setting. Check the keyboard’s legends and manual for the control it actually provides.
How to switch a top row back to F1–F12
- Inspect the top-row legends. Look for a smaller brightness, volume, media, or system icon alongside F1–F12. Check for an Fn Lock or F-Lock marking and any lock indicator.
- Try the documented alternate-key combination. If a key triggers a media or system action, hold Fn and press it to test whether that sends the standard F-key command. For a mode toggle, use the shortcut specified in the exact keyboard manual.
- Check the device documentation or keyboard settings. Manufacturers use different defaults and controls; do not assume one Windows-wide setting changes the behavior for every brand.
- If the keyboard is external, consult its manual. The computer’s laptop manual may not describe an attached keyboard’s Fn or F-Lock behavior.
For example, Dell documents the Latitude 5455 with multimedia actions as the default top-row behavior; on that model, Fn+Esc switches back to direct F-key behavior (Dell Latitude 5455 Owner’s Manual). Lenovo also documents Fn+Esc for a particular laptop family, but that example does not establish the shortcut for all Lenovo laptops (Lenovo: Use the keyboard shortcuts). Microsoft’s Surface keyboard guidance describes using Fn with top-row keys to access F1–F12 (Microsoft: Special keys and function keys for Surface Keyboards or Type Covers).
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How to choose a keyboard if you use F1–F12 often
Before buying or setting up a keyboard, verify these details for its exact model:
- Which action is the default on the top row: standard F1–F12 or media and system controls?
- How do you switch modes, and is the selected mode visibly indicated?
- Are the alternate controls still accessible when F1–F12 behavior is primary?
- Does the manual describe the same layout and controls as the keyboard you are considering?
Do not infer the answers from labels such as “laptop keyboard” or “desktop keyboard.” Even keyboards from the same broad category can differ in their defaults and mode controls. For identification guidance, see Lenovo: How Can I Identify the F-Lock Key?.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
