As the earlier X series 12" ThinkPads show, there is simply no reason to move keys around for "space". IBM showed it's easily done, that a full sized layout fits on a small device. These new laptops with compromised layouts are sad. It's just stupid mimicry or terrible "designers" putting questionable form over function.
Looking at available ergonomic mechanical keyboards, I think there must be a curse, that every kb designer must do something silly for no reason. I just bought a $200 ergo mech keyboard, and it comes with dedicated Undo/Copy/Paste keys. They actually added a key that sends CtrlZ, which is probably the easiest combo to hit, on a higher end keyboard aimed at pros. Wtf? (I'd pay hundreds for a MS Ergo 4000 with good switches.)
The situation with split mechanical keyboards is very odd. Fans of non-split keyboards have a wide range to choose from, including keyboards that have an entirely standard, fairly traditional layout, with every key in its usual place. Those that prefer split keyboards, on the other hand, have to choose between a selection of tenkeyless freaks of nature without even a standard navigation cluster between them.
(I would also buy a MS Natural 4000 with decent switches. Not sure I'd pay hundreds, though, because I'd like to buy several. Additionally, the fact the 4000 is so cheap is one of the reasons it's so good.)
These new laptops with compromised layouts are sad.
Especially when you see empty space on each side of the keyboard, which isn't being used for speakers or anything else.
I have an X60 and while its layout is not exactly like the standard 101-key, they did manage to fit all the keys in there including Scroll Lock/Pause Break.
Looking at available ergonomic mechanical keyboards, I think there must be a curse, that every kb designer must do something silly for no reason. I just bought a $200 ergo mech keyboard, and it comes with dedicated Undo/Copy/Paste keys. They actually added a key that sends CtrlZ, which is probably the easiest combo to hit, on a higher end keyboard aimed at pros. Wtf? (I'd pay hundreds for a MS Ergo 4000 with good switches.)