Getting An Ergonomic Keyboard

Keyboards come in all shapes and sizes, with a variety of different configurations to suit the individual needs of a large number of users. Many people are accustomed to your standard, flat keyboard with a very similar layout on each one. In fact, you probably use one on a laptop if that is your daily driving computer.

Now, I know you’re probably aware that there are ergonomic keyboards available out there, but the sheer amount of features and options can be mind-boggling. If you can dream it up, there is probably a keyboard out there that has the feature you’re looking for.

No, really.

Having worked in a workplace that prioritizes the health of its employees, I can definitely tell you that walking between desks and seeing the different options for yourself is eye-opening. If you can imagine a way that you think you can be more comfortable, there is very likely an option for you.

I have personally seen a keyboard that allows the user to split it in half and raise it from the middle to allow the two halves to tilt in such a way that is comfortable for a much more natural wrist placement. You might think this is extreme, but many users of this style of keyboard will tell you that it’s only weird to type on because you are so accustomed to a flat keyboard for so long. They found that raising the keys slowly but surely allowed them to adapt over time, and they are now much happier using their split keyboard over a regular one, and feel much more comfortable in using it.

Another handy feature is the option for a separated number pad with a compact keyboard. This is especially useful for those who want to carry a keyboard to and from a workplace, or if you find you are using your number pad much more frequently than your average user (accountants, I’m looking at you!) I personally find the detachable number pad to be a bonus for me because of the option to leave it behind if I choose to do so. It makes carting around a keyboard much more manageable than having a full-size one to deal with all the time.

Did you know that there are different shapes for key caps? There are some that are extra thick and rounded, some with lots of keystroke travel, and others that are nearly flat and have very little travel. Some layouts also have shapes that flow from one row to the next. While it’s not important to know the names of the different key cap profiles, I feel I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that there are differences that you can look out for. The eager researcher can also easily find a list of them on many different websites.

So which keyboard is the best for you? My best suggestion would be to see if you can find a retailer who sells a few different styles and try them for yourself, or if others in your workplace have a few different options, see if they would be willing to let you try them for yourself. Additionally, some workplaces also offer ergonomic assessments to best determine which style of keyboard is right for you.

Whatever the case may be, I always suggest looking at your options. Even something as simple as having a two-key wide left shift button was on top of my list, and I am so glad I got the opportunity to choose a keyboard that suited my needs. Trust me, your hands will thank you later!