Going Beyond ANSI - Keyboard Layout Designer ā TypingMaster .kbd from KLE JSON
Convert Keyboard Layout Editor (KLE) JSON into TypingMaster-ready .kbd files. Fine-tune key sizes, labels and coordinates to match any physical keyboard and export a layout that TypingMaster accepts immediately.
What this tool does
This converter/designer takes a KLE JSON layout and transforms it into a .kbd layout file compatible with TypingMaster Typing Tutor. It removes the need for manual coordinate editing and gives you control over how the software visually represents your keyboard.
- Import a KLE JSON layout from Keyboard Layout Editor (KLE).
- Adjust per-key sizes, labels, and coordinates to match split, staggered, ortholinear, or custom form factors.
- Preview how the layout will appear in TypingMaster and export a ready-to-use
.kbdfile in seconds.
Who should use it
Use this tool if you need TypingMaster to reflect non-standard hardware accurately:
- Custom mechanical keyboard builders
- Layout designers (Colemak, Dvorak, Workman, and custom layouts)
- Mechanical keyboard hobbyists and layout testers
- Typing instructors using non-ANSI/ISO hardware
How it works ā step by step
- Create or open your layout in Keyboard Layout Editor and export the layout as KLE JSON.
- Upload or paste the KLE JSON into the converter.
- Adjust key sizes, labels and coordinates in the designer UI as needed.
- Preview the layout and export the final
.kbdfile for TypingMaster.
Exported files are ready for immediate import into TypingMaster ā no extra formatting required.
Benefits and features
- Fast workflow: Design and export a TypingMaster layout in seconds.
- Accurate visuals: Labels and key sizes match physical keycaps for better training feedback.
- Flexible: Handles split, staggered, ortholinear and other non-standard layouts.
- Beginner-friendly: No manual file format knowledge required ā uses KLE as the source of truth.
Tips for best results
- Start from an accurate KLE export ā make sure each key has the label you want TypingMaster to show.
- Use the designer's coordinate grid to align keys visually; small offsets can affect how shapes appear in TypingMaster.
- Check modifiers and non-printing keys (Ctrl, Alt, Fn) ā label them clearly in KLE so they map correctly in the exported layout.
Get started
Create your JSON layout at Keyboard Layout Editor, then copy+paste it into the Custom Keyboard Layout Converter / Designer to generate a TypingMaster-ready .kbd file.