To me it sounds like you have less keys but workarounds that you may prefer.

Having more keys is a workaround for not having extra layers :)

Layers are way faster and more versatile than having more keys. 60-65% is pretty ideal when you take the time to set up layers.

That's a memory and repetition issue.

No, it literally requires less hand movement and allows for more function.

Yeah, but it also requires a) setting up and b) learning really well, to put it in muscle memory. The end result may be worth it, but I guess for most people the journey there seems so daunting they never set out on it. (Or am I just judging everyone else after myself?)

Not sure why your response was killed, just vouched for it.

You’re right that it takes muscle memory and time to learn, but in reality it’s not that long. Layers take maybe a day or two to get used to and then you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Seriously, give QMK and layers a shot. You will probably find it much easier to get used to than you think!

But you could have all the keys and still use layers.

Before getting any hardware for such a keyboard, I worked on the configuration I'd use. Defining the layers and placing all the keys I wanted.

I initially though I wanted more keys, but as I went I found out I wouldn't use them. It made a lot more sense to have a couple of layers on the thumbs and place all I needed around the rest position. In the end I had nothing important to put on extra keys.