If not, it’s in your best interest to return it and try another option.īased on my experience covering tech and devices like keyboards and mice, here are some highly-regarded keyboards I think are worth considering across different use cases. Give yourself a little time to adjust to the new setup and note if they relieve any discomfort. Be sure to take a look at the less traditional options below. However, if you’re finding yourself stretching your arms to relieve pain, then it’s time to invest in something that will ease any physical concerns. If you’re not experiencing pain or discomfort, then it doesn’t make sense to replace what’s working for you. The ultimate deciding factor for comfort, specs aside, is you.
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Shopping How to choose an ergonomic mouse Best ergonomic keyboards If you prefer clicky but solid response keyboards, you’ll want a blue switch - those who prefer a smoother, less noisy typing experience should opt for the red, which provides a quiet typing experience, or brown, which combines the best of both the red and the blue worlds. Mechanical keyboards slide along a stem for a smoother typing experience. More specialized keyboards use mechanical switches.
Keyboards run off of the “switches,” and depending on your preference, you may want the typical membrane switch that most keyboards come with. While low-profile palm rests are less problematic, you still could be putting unwanted pressure on your wrists, leading to long term harmful effects. In fact, Cornell’s ergonomic guide notes that “research studies haven't demonstrated any substantial benefits for wrist rests,” and you can run into the exact same Carpal Tunnel issues you see with the keyboard rise. Wrist rests, while seemingly beneficial, haven’t proven effective in the long term. This model from Bush Business Furniture is very adjustable, though the best model for you may depend on your desk setup - there are plenty of others on Amazon. No matter what keyboard you choose, consider also using an under-desk keyboard tray that allows you to tilt it downward, avoiding those wrist extension issues. Bush Business Furniture Keyboard Tray with Negative Tilt The best model will really depend on your desk setup, and you can find one that suits you best on retailers like Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart. If you’re still feeling like you’re angling your keyboard too high while it’s sitting on the desk, then an under-desk keyboard tray might be best for you (it’s something I use as a part of my ergonomics setup). The more adjustable your keyboard is, the more likely you’ll find a comfortable position that works with your body. In fact, wrist extension can worsen Carpal Tunnel symptoms, so it’s best to avoid those retractable feet on the keyboard’s undercarriage, no matter how tempting it is to raise them. While it may seem easier to tilt the keyboard higher so the top keys are taller than the bottom ones, this isn’t necessarily good for your wrists. Your keyboard’s tilt is an essential component of your setup. As Cornell University’s Human Factors and Ergonomics Research Group notes: “Most people can use a standard keyboard design without any risk of injury.” However, split-angle keyboards can increase comfort for some people, such as people with broad shoulders or those that struggle to keep their arms in proper ergonomic typing form.
Keep in mind that a split keyboard isn’t likely to solve all of your wrist pain. While the former is more common, a separated split keyboard will provide more adjustability for your setup. Some ergonomic keyboards will have a split layout, where the two halves of the keyboard are split to either a curved, more natural position or a completely separated set. When shopping for an ergonomic keyboard, consider the layout of its keys, potential for tilt, rests and switches. In fact, depending on how you work best at your desk, a typical "ergonomic" keyboard may not even be right for you. Shopping Do ergonomic chairs provide enough support? How to buy the right keyboardįirst things first: Keyboards are not designed for universal use - that's why many have adjustable features like wrist rests, splits and even key type.