TL;DR
Popular Ergonomic Keyboard Models
Several ergonomic keyboards are frequently recommended for their comfort and design. The Kinesis Freestyle2 is often praised for its split design which allows users to position the halves in a way that reduces shoulder strain [4:1]. The Logitech ERGO K860 is another popular choice, offering a curved layout that promotes a more natural hand posture
[4:2]. The Microsoft Sculpt is also well-regarded for its comfortable wrist rest and dome-shaped keys
[4:2].
Mechanical vs. Membrane Keyboards
The choice between mechanical and membrane keyboards depends largely on personal preference. Mechanical keyboards provide tactile feedback and can be beneficial for those who enjoy the sound and feel of typing [1:3]. However, if noise is a concern or if you prefer a softer touch, a membrane keyboard might be preferable. It's important to try different types to see which suits your typing style best.
Split and Ortholinear Layouts
For those seeking advanced ergonomic features, split and ortholinear keyboards are worth considering. Split keyboards, like the Moonlander, allow for customizable positioning to reduce strain on the shoulders and wrists [2:2]. Ortholinear layouts, where keys are aligned in straight columns rather than staggered, can help reduce finger movement and improve typing efficiency
[2:2].
Thumb Clusters and Customization
Thumb clusters, which relocate some keys to be operated by the thumb, can enhance comfort by reducing reliance on the pinky fingers. The Moonlander offers an adjustable thumb cluster, allowing for further customization [2:2]. Many ergonomic keyboards also support firmware customization, enabling users to tailor key functions to their specific needs
[2:2].
Considerations for Gaming and Work
For those who need a keyboard suitable for both work and gaming, it's important to consider the layout and key placement. Some users find columnar stagger layouts less ideal for gaming due to the non-standard WASD configuration [5:1]. Exploring options like the Sofle or Corne, which offer a balance between ergonomic typing and gaming needs, may be beneficial
[5:7].
In summary, choosing the best ergonomic keyboard involves considering factors such as layout, key type, and additional features like thumb clusters. Trying out different models and configurations can help identify the most comfortable option for your specific needs.
I've read that the best ones are the ones with wrist rests, slim, curved, but I don't know much more. I've also read that the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic is good.
But I want to know everything about keyboard in terms of ergonomics, typing for professional work, etc., for example, mechanical or membrane? what kind of switch I need, what is objectively the best one or ones on the market (do not tell me it depends on the person please), is it scientifically proven that these features are ergonomic, reduce fatigue, etc.?
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Greeting!
You can try one of those separated keyboards for cheap
Or pick a ergo keyboard from logitech, the mx ergo keyboard seems great
A mechanical keyboard will help you only if u like tactical/sound feedback, if that is not the case will not make much of difference since u just wanna to work with them
Also u can buy a wrist rest for ur kerb, just measure the height of u kerb from the desk
Microsoft has compiled a large collection of ergonomics information, which seems to simply be a side effect of it being a ludicrously massive technology company. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/setting-up-your-desktop-e9f3fc2c-e6fa-d27f-78c4-274b3669c425 This resource seems to be the most in-depth of everything I could find.
https://kinesis-ergo.com/solutions/ergonomic-resources/ Kinesis is one of the few companies producing a mechanical ergonomic keyboard, and they have a few resources on the topic. Their articles lean heavily towards the promotion of their own products.
There is a sizable hobbyist community centered around building "ergonomic" mechanical keyboards at r/ErgoMechKeyboards If you want a heavily personalized keyboard, it bears looking into. However, most of the work done is based on personal experience, basic hand anatomy knowledge, and a heavy bias towards "hey that looks cool!". Finger and wrist positions seem to be fairly well understood, but there is heavy debate here about what is a "good movement" for the thumb.
Finally Logitech has a few pages dedicated to ergonomics, https://www.logitech.com/en-us/ergo/digital-wellness.html but these seem to be almost entirely written with the purpose of selling Logitech's own products.
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I hope this helps!
Thanks a lot!!
Guys, if you have time and wish to spend time helping me out with the most ergonomic options, thank you very much.
Which options below provide the most comfort/best ergonomics for the keyboard?
- Ortholinear or columnar staggered or horizontal staggered(the most common one)
- Split or contoured? (Or any other ergonomic keyboard type?)
- With wrist rest or without?
- With thumb cluster or without? If with a thumb cluster, can the thumb cluster be angled? (for example the moonlander, which the thumb cluster can be angled, while the dygma raise cannot)
Some are the must I need:
- Customizable keys (like I can customize everything to my liking)
- Supports layers (such as the fn keys in your normal keyboard)
- Backlighting doesn't matter, but it is nicer to have it
- Doesn't have to be that portable, but a bit of portability is always nice
- Works on any operating system, with the configurations after I flash it to the keyboard at the firmware level.
- It would be better if the keycaps are blank, and all keycaps are at the same level, not like some of my keyboards where the number row is higher than the bottom row.
- Wired or wireless doesn't matter, but I would like it wired because I won't be moving it around too much and wired connectivity is much more time saving
- Supports USB type-c if available, if not the USB type a
Sorry if I ask any stupid questions, please answer this based on ergonomic and comfort. Thanks!!
Moonlander hands down.
Thanks for you reply, but can you please comment on the options?
I've also seen the moonlander, and it is quite nice
Moonlander has every option you listed.
Ortholinear is by far the best for ergonomics. As is a split keyboard allowing you to not arch your back to roll your shoulder in. Wrist rest is a meh, comes standard on the moonlander but are easily removed. Thumb cluster is great for moving “pinky” keys to so you are not reaching with the pinky. Moonlander supports 26 layers and is fully customizable with their firmware which is based off of QMK. The switches are hot swappable so you could in theory mix and match for the most comfortable typing experience. It folds up nicely and comes with its own carrying case for portability. Blank key caps are an option when ordering and they are all DSA profile which are the same height. It is usb c on the pc connection. So, in short it checks every one of your requirements and supports the best ergonomic options.
Check out r/ergomechkeyboards for some more options. A lot of those are a bit more DIY than the Moonlander, but have all the features you mention. If DIY isn't your style there are some pre-builts and several redditors who will build keyboards for you. If none of these options appeal, and you want something fully customized, let me know. I make Cyboards which are fully custom keyboards based on your hand size and preferences.
So you make a custom keyboard for comfort use? I've seen your website, if I really can't find any pre-built ones, I'll custom order from you! Thanks for caring!!
Indeed, we're just getting started but have a couple boards out "in the wild" now. Would be happy to work with you :)
still in development, but take a look at this https://touchboard.tech
We strive to resolve all the ergonomic issues of classic keyboard as much as possible.
One important criterion - to minimise unnecessary hand and finger movement when using home row.
Wow, that's cool! But what I really just need is an ergonomic mechanical keyboard, that's too advanced for me. Thanks for your awesome product!!
Regarding thumb keys, I think it is pretty critical that the thumbs are not over-used. It means that the thumb arc's (or cluster's) plane and the finger keys' plane should be nearly identical (or parallel, rather than perpendicular), the thumb opening angle (the angle between axis of the arc/cluster and that of finger keys' cluster) should be near-zero, and the range of thumb movement (the length of arc or the angle of the cluster) should be small. This limits the number of keys to 2 - 3 per thumb arc, and 4 - 5 per thumb cluster.
This keyboard is built with sturdy keys that create a satisfying clicking noise, making typing a fun experience! Its compact layout includes all the necessary keys for MMO gaming, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B16JFF54/
The rubber stops are designed to tilt the keyboard perfectly for your wrists, providing a comfortable typing experience, and the bright LED lights really stand out.
+ Fully customizable RGB illumination (the colors look really good and have just the right level of brightness)
+ Although the wrist pad isn’t cushioned, it still feels soft and comfortable
+ Nice build quality
+ Comes with a keycap remover so you can remove the keycaps
+ Full size layout means you can use this for work and play!
+ Has tilt legs if you prefer a raised keyboard
+ On-keyboard OLED screen to quickly switch settings
The keys feel AND sound amazing when pressed and are super responsive. Key presses are solid and they aren’t “clicky, clacky” sounding thanks to the sound-dampening foam.
I also like that you can adjust the actuation point. This, along with rapid tap and rapid trigger modes, are essential for gamers and all these combined will give them a competitive edge vs. those using a regular keyboard.
Super easy to use - can plug and play. This keyboard is a must buy!
I love the fact that this keyboard comes with a magnetically attached wrist rest. It can be used wirelessly or via a USB-A or C port if preferred. They include a cable, adapters, a key puller, and thorough instructions.
Paywall but you shan't worry, recap best to worst:
So many of these aren't even properly "ergonomic" keyboards... just some shit with a bend in it. Like the Comfort Desktop 5050 is a joke of a flat keyboard with a slight curve. I've probably used most of them at some point or another... but to be honest they're mostly all trash. If I'm going to be using a qwerty for a lot of typing, the Microsoft Natural 4000 is decent enough I guess... but for actual ergonomics and comfort, I greatly prefer my customized Kinesis Advantage 2. The problem is there's virtually nobody willing to learn newer and better layouts that are advantageous in an ergonomic sense. A Kinesis Advantage in qwerty is little better than any other sculpted ANSI/ISO keyboard. It's a problem with the inefficiency of typing on it, and the strain that typing patterns put on your hands. I couldn't use it, because then I'd just need to learn 'proper' touch typing all over again in an even less efficient way than I do right now with flat keyboards. I switched to Maltron for my Kinesis, and that is just a night and day difference.... and as a bonus, I don't need to un-learn flat keyboard qwerty to make it work.
That took planning and effort though, which most people aren't going to invest in a new way of doing something (typing) that they can already do.
I had a Freestyle2 and absolutely HATED the key arrangement. I never missed so many keys in my life. It was easier to learn a full ortholinear layout than that wonky BS where all the modifier keys were almost in the right place but not quite.
Maybe it's because it's getting late here, or maybe I'm just blind. But I looked at the product page for the Freestyle 2 and couldn't see what you mean. Looks mostly standard.
Huh.
The Dactyl Manuform didn't make the list? ��
Most people's first reactions to seeing a Dactyl Manuform is "how do you even type on THIS thing??" and add to this fact that it's far from being widely available for purchase.
It's interesting to notice that they ranked the Kinesis Freestyle higher up than the Advantage
weird boards like kinesis advantage and maltron are off putting for vast majority of people. and quite sure TFA targets the majority (lowest common denominator?). and let's be real here, all of the boards in the article are miles better than rectangle boards.
Didn't even review Ergo-dox. sham review.
Isn't this sub-reddit for ergo mech keyboards ?
Completely useless review, imho
Hello all, I'm currently in the market for an ergonomic keyboard, now that I've been getting some bad wrist pain from coding all day for work. After some research, I've narrowed it down to two options
Cheaper end: keychron k15 max Expensive option: Moonlander
But without being able to try them out myself, I'm having a tough time deciding. I was hoping someone here could give some insight or alternative suggestions
I'm a longtime software dev and gamer - I can only offer an alternative as my needs were based almost exclusively on not wanting to learn a new layout after 20+ years of using the same keyboards. Here is my post on what I chose and have been happy with:
Good luck with the search - and be sure to read up on desk/chair ergonomics as well!
I use keyball61, and any split keeb with number row will work perfectly fine. I play mmos, shooters, and never ever had an issue with proper split keeb. So sofle will work, lily as well, and all of that size. One thing for sure, change from wasd to esdf, it is simple and actually a must with the ergo keebs. You can even prepare a layer with those keys reassigned if a particular game wont support remaping. This depends on the keeb, with sofle you probably can live with standard position (due to less aggressive stagger) if game do not support remapping, but better to keep the correct hand position.
This is exactly what I would do - just explained better. For driving games I tend to use SDFC over ESDF, and I have a dedicated persistent layer for each.
The Moonlander was actually my first attempt at using a split ergo: I was lucky enough that I could borrow one from a colleague for 2 weeks. This sold me on the concept, and confirmed that the Moonlander is not the board for me: I did not like the thumb cluster and the complicated tenting solution, as well as the minimal stagger.
My preference would be the Q11. It's fully split. Alice layout still feels really cramped.
I would start there. While not popular on this sub - I see no benefits to learning a new layout unless you have too. You could always change the layout later if you want.
Did you consider option such as Corne, Sofle, Silakka54?
You should be able to get soldered kits incl case a lot cheaper than the Moonlander.
How have I not heard of the Silakka54? It's so much cheaper than other stuff I was looking at.
It's pretty new, from mid '24 I think: https://kbd.news/Silakka54-2468.html
I find my columnar stagger ergo to be worse for games that use wasd, it feels more like 2awd. Your mileage might vary, but something worth thinking about. I'm currently looking for an ortho with a number row and decent thumb cluster, as that would suit my needs of being a middle ground that's comfortable for both work and games, and prevents me from needing to reconfigure key bindings for every game I open. On that note, I use colemak-dh at work. It's nice and satisfying, but entirely not worth it. It took me around 1 year to get back to 100wpm from qwerty.
Since my daughter’s high school switched to distance learning, she now spends more time typing on the computer per day than she would if she were at school. Although she loves her Ducky One 2 TKL keyboard, she wants a more ergonomic keyboard for her all-day typing. Her requirements are:
She tried my X-Bows keyboard, but she doesn't like it. Right now, she is using my spare old Datadesk SmartBoard keyboard, which she says is a little strange but acceptable for now. I did a quick search and found these keyboards:
Can anyone share their experience with any of these keyboards? Am I overlooking any other obvious choices? Do you have any other suggestions?
>No thumb cluster key layout, since she thinks these would be too difficult to learn.
Did you let her get away with that reasoning when she wouldn't eat her broccoli?
Eliminating thumb clusters also eliminates most ergo features besides split and some tenting. Ortholinear keys, dished shape, etc. get very hard to find.
There is one compromise I'm aware of. Doesn't have a thumb "cluster" per se, but does use thumbs a lot more: https://trulyergonomic.com/ergonomic-keyboards/
Apart from that, the only two thumbless boards I've used that were really comfortable and not massive are the MS Sculpt and the Logitech Wave.
The Sculpt has a separate numpad and is reasonably compact. My only complaint about it after over a year is the shallow strike depth--it's like a laptop keyboard that way. Occasionally made my fingertips ache, but it's otherwise quite comfortable as long as everything else (chair height, monitor position, etc.) is right.
The Wave is full-size without being oversized like the older MS ergo boards, and took a surprising amount of time to get used to. It felt great, though. I actually miss it, even after getting a kinesis advantage 2. I had no complaints about it typing-wise, but that was the board I was on when I realized how bothersome numpads are. My solution was an ambidextrous trackball on the left of the kb. (Incidentally, trackballs take up far less desk space than a mouse.)
Just a comment on the Freestyle: apart from being split, it doesn't offer many ergo features. Things get better if you get the tenting accessory, but without that I wouldn't recommend it unless you find one for cheap.
I love my Freestyle Pro 2. I would not switch from a split keyboard layout.
I have the sculpt and love it. Bought a second one to use with my surface. Wife has one also and wants another for work.
I am also second-ing the sculp. Took me a couple days to get used to it, but love the thing now.
have you ever tried any vertical mice before? If there's anything that takes the most toll with repeated sessions on a computer, it's the mouse.
I am currently using a vertical mouse by Hama and also this one. The Hama one has a nicer feeling to the tough and thumb, index and middle finger are all very comfy. However, there is not much palm support to speak of and my pinky kind of has nowhere to go. The other mouse is more vertical, which is nice, and also has seriously good palm support (most mice actually just support your fingers, but not your hand). But the finger placement and wheel placement is a little bit awkward. I recommend them both, though. Hama might be the better option if you have small hands. A lot of people say that the evoluent mice are good and I personally really wanna try out the fellowe's penguin mouse, but they are both super expensive.
I looooovve the sculpt. I dont love that they've been somewhat unreliable over the years (I've had three now). But they're so good, they're worth it.
A semi-ergo layout like the Katana60 or the upcoming Tsuka60 sound like they’re not a bad fit. You’ll have to wait a while for them though, unless you go to mechmarket.
Interesting! But I need something for her right away, so I have already ordered the Microsoft Sculpt keyboard.
I own the sculpt ergonomic and it's ok. However, the Kinesis Advantage 2 keyboard is by far, above and beyond any keyboard I've ever used in 24+ years working in IT. Yes, it's wickedly expensive, and has a period of time to 're-learn' to type in a more efficient manner, but the build quality is excellent, and by using this type of keyboard, it greatly reduces your chances of repetitive stress injuries to the fingers and wrists. I'm also quite impressed with the improvement of accuracy as well. You can even reprogram the key locations to your own liking! The drivers for the keyboard are self contained within the keyboard, along with your 'reprogrammed' re-mapped keys. I truly consider the investment of such an expensive keyboard to be an investment in my body. Prior to the Advantage 2, I was using a Microsoft ergonomic sculpt and many others over the years. You might also want to invest in a vertical mouse as well, which also helps the promote proper hand /wrist angle and movement. Kinesis has one of those too, but I preferred my Logitech vertical mouse over the Kinesis one.
Looking for a keyboard that’s quiet, comfy, and built for long hours. Got any favorites or go-to brands?
I'm using Keychron K10 Max right now.
But not gonna lie, I had an internal debate with myself for a month, if it should be Keychron or Logitech MX.
you can never go wrong with logitec.
Heard great things about Logitech! Any specific model you'd recommend for all-day typing?
Keys start ghosting in 6-7 months, and you realise you could've purchased a cheaper red gear or cosmicbyte for the same result.
Same! Logitech user here
I’ve used is the Logitech MX Keys. I think its the the best office keyboard, super quiet, really comfortable to type on, and great for long hours.
I have been using the Aula F75 for work and it has been amazing - it has a creamy click which does not make it super loud for the mechanical keyboard feel that is gives. Pretty economical too imo!
Keychron K2 v2
have you already checked keyboardyeti? they have some good tips on comfy options for long hours
might help you narrow down the brands!
I didn't know much about ergonomic devices before, but I recently tried a colleague's ergonomic device and it felt really comfortable. So I wanted to purchase an ergonomic keyboard that I could afford. I took advantage of a sale on the latter and purchased this product and I really like it.
How do you like the mouse? I've been eyeing that one (among a bunch of other vertical mouse options), but haven't pulled the trigger yet since my hand size is right at their recommended size cut-off (7.5 in).
It's so cheap you stand nothing to lose. It's a bit too small for my hand and the scroll-wheel/side buttons aren't the best, but it's still extremely comfortable, and I use it for a bit every day (trackball ottherwise). Can recommend, especially for the price
Wait until you discover split keyboards
Welcome! Good to have you. And I hope the board treats you well.
Now its time to split S2
Sweet !
Would very much appreciate any recommendations for the most ergonomic and speed-efficient QWERTY-layout keyboard at maximum $100-150. I much prefer quiet and smaller/ more compact ones.
Thank you!
Lowfree Flow
Ghost-Tactile
Thank you! Will look into them
Imo higher keyboard + reduced key travel is better for speed instead of using a low profile keyboard. I use long pole tactile stems + speed switch body + trampoline mod so my switches have about 1.3-1.5 mm key travel. Around the same range as your laptop scissor switches.
Imo low profile = more accidental presses
Thank you so much for the information!
Yeah, what I'm talking about is a good keyboard that I could use for extensive typing hours. I wanna be able to type for long time with less wrist pain. I know body posture, hand and arm placement plays a good role in less painful typing too but I heard there are keyboards that are specifically made to help with that. So If you guys know some keyboards that fit, that would be great. I already have one in mind; which is the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic keyboard.
Thanks in advance.
I would ask yourself a few questions first. When I tried finding my first keyboard, it wasn't the easiest thing in the world because everyone has different preferences.
What's your ideal layout? Do you want a fully built or a barebones? Do you want linear, tactile, or clicky switches? Do you plan on using this for gaming as well? Is pricing important? Do you favour feel over sound, or sound over feel?
I'm not familiar and I don't have a concrete opinion on built/barebones, so I'll say fully built. I want it to be fully optimized for typing so I'm thinking from tactile to clicky switches. It will not be used for gaming. I don't want it to be pricey. And I value feel over sound.
Do you have an ideal layout?
Keychron has some good alice layouts if you like that and also their low profile boards are good.
Right, "alice layouts". I was thinking about those shapes but I didn't know it had that name.
Alice or Split layouts (where the board is in two physical pieces that can be positioned separately).
4 questions:
where do you live, us, europe or somewhere else? i.e, are you used to the ansi or iso layout
do you have a preference for switches? there are 3 types. linear have no bump or added sound when you click, tactile have a bump but no added sound, and clicky have a bump and an added click sound.
what's your budget?
are there any specific features or visual features you want, such as rgb, a knob, wireless, etc.?
it's ok, I already found a keyboard on Keychron.com I might like. Thanks
AULA F99
Best keyboard for the price and multi color programming you can change colors and patterns and even RGB
Best ergonomic keyboards for comfortable typing
Key Considerations for Ergonomic Keyboards
Design Type: Look for split or curved designs that promote a more natural wrist and hand position. This helps reduce strain during long typing sessions.
Key Switch Type: Consider mechanical switches for tactile feedback or membrane switches for quieter typing. Choose based on your preference for feel and sound.
Wrist Support: Integrated wrist rests or the option to add one can significantly enhance comfort and reduce wrist strain.
Adjustability: Keyboards with adjustable height or tilt allow you to customize the angle for better ergonomics.
Connectivity: Decide between wired and wireless options. Wireless keyboards offer more flexibility, while wired ones can provide a more stable connection.
Recommendations:
Logitech Ergo K860: This split keyboard features a curved design and a cushioned palm rest, promoting a natural typing posture. It also has adjustable height settings.
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard: Known for its dome shape and separate number pad, this keyboard encourages a more relaxed wrist position and provides excellent support.
Kinesis Advantage2: A premium option with mechanical switches and a split design, it offers customizable layouts and programmable keys for advanced users.
Takeaway: Choose a keyboard that fits your typing style and comfort needs. Investing in a good ergonomic keyboard can help prevent discomfort and improve your overall typing experience, especially if you spend long hours at the computer.
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