A Quick Guide to Ergonomic Keyboards (What Are They and Do You Need One?)
How to Choose an Ergonomic Keyboard
The standard keyboard design is over 109 years old. While technology has advanced, little thought has been placed on how to enhance the degenerative impact of using an ordinary keyboard for many hours every day.
That’s where ergonomic keyboards come in — they are designed to be more natural and healthy than traditional keyboards. The trick is finding one that is right for you.
Many workers experience discomfort and even pain as a result of incorrect keyboard positioning, which leads to the question: should I invest in an ergonomic keyboard? This guide will go over some basics about these keyboards and what to look out for when purchasing one.
What is an Ergonomic Keyboard?
Ergonomic keyboards are not a new concept, although they have been refined in recent years to be more diverse and user-friendly. In 1992 Kinesis Corporation started selling the very first ergonomic keyboard, The Model 100.
An ergonomic keyboard is a keyboard that has been designed to reduce the amount of strain that is put on your hands and wrists.
The most common type of ergonomic keyboard is the split keyboard, which is designed to keep your hands in a more neutral position as you type. This can help to reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome or other hand-related injuries when spending time on a keyboard typing.
Another type of ergonomic keyboard is the vertical keyboard, which aims to place your hands in a more natural position as you type. This can be beneficial for those who have a hard time adjusting to split keyboards and don’t mind a slightly goofy-looking keyboard on their desk.
These are also only two types or styles of ergonomic keyboards. Keep in mind that an “ergonomic keyboard” is not a regulated term, it can mean any keyboard that is adjustable to better fit someone.
What to Look for in an Ergonomic Keyboard
When deciding whether or not you should buy an ergonomic keyboard, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First of all, if you have a history of hand-related injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or any other type of injury that affects your hands and wrists, then it is best to consult a Physical Therapist, or other medical professional before investing in an ergonomic keyboard.
The Best Type of Ergonomic Keyboard
The best keyboard is the one that feels the best to you. As I previously said, there are a lot of different styles out there and price ranges too! Find one that is going to give you the most comfort.
Personally, I have two different styles of ergonomic keyboards that I use and one is clearly my favorite. At home, I have a Microsoft Sculpt and at work, I have a gold touch freestyle, which I will review soon. I prefer the Microsoft sculpt over the freestyle. This is great for me since it is the more budget-friendly of the two!
An often-overlooked factor that should be taken into consideration is the size of the keyboard and whether or not it will fit on your desk. Many ergonomic keyboards are much larger than a standard layout and will take up more room, so make sure to measure your desk before purchasing or using one.
If you spend a long time on your computer, and especially if you already experience any discomfort in your hands and wrists, then an ergonomic keyboard may be the solution to eliminating pain and preventing future injuries.
It might seem like a pricey investment, but in the long run, it can be a lifesaver.
How do I pick the right ergonomic keyboard for me?
When choosing an ergonomic keyboard, it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include:
- amount of space
- wireless or wired
- number keypad attached or not
- price range
- adjustability
- key feel
- layout
- work type
The most popular ergonomic keyboard is the split keyboard, which has two halves that are connected by a hinge. Within the split keyboard category, there are many different versions.
Another common type of ergonomic keyboard is the vertical keyboard. As the name suggests, this keyboard is designed to be held in a vertical position, with your hands in a more natural typing position. Some people find this design more comfortable than the split keyboard, while others find it difficult to get used to.
There are also a variety of ergonomic keyboards on the market and finding the right one for you comes down to personal preference.
When considering an ergonomic keyboard, it’s important to keep in mind that not everyone will find the same design comfortable. It’s important to try out a few different keyboards before making a purchase to find the one that feels best for you.
A final thing to keep in mind when looking for the right keyboard for you is the type of work that you do! There are specific keyboards that are better for gamers, coders, etc!
A little research will go a long way in finding the perfect fit for you!
Final Thoughts on What is an Ergonomic Keyboard
If you spend a lot of time on your computer, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid injuries. An ergonomic keyboard is one step you can take to protect your hands and wrists from pain and discomfort.
There are many different types of ergonomic keyboards on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that is best suited for your individual needs.
Remember, not everyone will find the same design comfortable, so it’s important to try out a few different keyboards before making a purchase.
Also, keep in mind the type of work you do and invest in a keyboard that is tailored to your specific needs!
I hope this guide was helpful in explaining what ergonomic keyboards are and how to choose the right one for you! If you have any additional questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!
Related Links to Ergonomic Keyboard Guide
A Beginner’s Guide to Ergonomic Keyboards
