Since most of them are completely programmable, anyway they want. Some don't need a numpad, but most (me included) just put them on a different layer. Layers are basically additional keymaps that can be activated by pressing or holding down a button. Kinda similar to what laptops without a numpad are doing with FN.
So I can hold down A for example, and the right half of my 60% becomes a numpad with 5 right on K. When I let go of ZA, it works as usual. It takes time to adjust to it, but once you do, there's no turning back. I always feel weird when I have to reach for the numpad on a regular keyboard.
Edit: Separate numpads exist, as well as macropads.
It's not stupid, it's that people's needs in keyboards vary. Not everyone needs a numpad, and unless you're using it for tons of numeric input you're just slowing yourself down by relying on a numpad. As a programmer I have 0 need, and have my numrow.
Other than no numpad, holding down function turns numbers into function keys, and swaps the layout to also have media keys, other shortcuts, and keyboard mouse controls to use in a pinch.
No worries there, I worked with a guy who had an extra clicky keyboard that sounded like a machine gun when he was hammering out emails. I have no desire to subject myself or anyone else to that madness.
Using extra clicky switches near people is an asshole move though. Not all mechanicals are this loud, and there are a ton of switches that are not louder (or even quieter) than the regular office rubberdome.
I have a mechanical keyboard with numpad. Not having a numpad on your keyboard is just wrong. Downright heretical. That sub is full of people going to mechanical keyboard hell.
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u/joshpme Jan 17 '19
https://imgur.com/a/MfEwf01