Discover the AZERTY keyboard layout used in France and its neighboring countries, a variation of the English QWERTY keyboard. While AZERTY shares similarities with QWERTY, the two layouts differ in several ways. The name “AZERTY” comes from the first six consecutive letters in the upper left row of the keyboard.
Switching from QWERTY to AZERTY takes practice but is easier than switching to other layouts. For experienced touch typists, switching from QWERTY to Dvorak can be very challenging.
Most French-speaking countries in Europe use the AZERTY layout. Although France and Belgium each have their own national variants of the layout, Luxembourg and the French-speaking part of Switzerland use the Swiss QWERTY keyboard.
FAQs
What is the AZERTY keyboard layout?
The AZERTY keyboard layout is a variation of the English QWERTY keyboard used mainly in France and its neighboring countries. It was designed to make typing in French easier by swapping Q and A and Z and W, among other changes.
Why is it called AZERTY?
The name “AZERTY” comes from the first six consecutive letters in the upper left row of the keyboard.
Is it hard to switch from QWERTY to AZERTY?
Switching from QWERTY to AZERTY takes practice but is easier than switching to other layouts, like Dvorak.
What countries use AZERTY?
Most French-speaking countries in Europe use the AZERTY layout. Although France and Belgium each have their own national variants of the layout, Luxembourg and the French-speaking part of Switzerland use the Swiss QWERTY keyboard.
Conclusion
If you’re planning on typing in French, the AZERTY keyboard layout may be the best choice for you. While it takes some getting used to, it’s easier to switch to AZERTY than other layouts. Plus, it’s the standard in most French-speaking countries in Europe.
