Many ergonomic keyboards feature a raised arc design and a semi-split key layout that works to improve your typing posture. Others have a split-body design that allows you to expand space between the keyboard halves in a custom configuration.
Not all ergonomic keyboards are created equal, and what works for your co-worker or friend may not be comfortable or convenient for you. Some models have steep learning curves due to revamped designs that feature thumb-cluster keys or odd layouts designed for speed. Our experts created a list of the best ergonomic keyboards with a breakdown of core features like connectivity and system compatibility to help you find the perfect fit.
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The Logitech Ergo K860 is a near-perfect ergonomic keyboard. Its curved, split keyboard configuration and padded wrist rest help align your arms, wrists, and shoulders for more comfortable long-term typing. The palm lift feature also enables you to angle your wrist rest upwards for neutral arm placement at any position, whether you’re sitting or standing.
It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, ChromeOS, and Linux computers as well as Android and iOS mobile devices. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect the keyboard with up to three devices at once, which is perfect for multitasking and making presentations. And you won’t have to worry about tangled cables cluttering your workspace.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your workspace more comfortable, and the Kensington Pro Fit ergonomic keyboard is a great option at an even better price. The split, curved configuration and wrist rest help reduce muscle strain, while the chiclet-style keys ensure quick and quiet typing – a game changer in shared workspaces where loud, clacking keys can be a distraction.
The keyboard is also spill-proof, so there’s no need to worry about water, soda, or coffee ruining your new keyboard. The Kensington Pro Fit is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, so you can plug in this keyboard to start working right away.
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Sometimes you need more control over your ergonomic keyboard: enter the Cloud Nine C989M. This keyboard features a split-body design, so it can separate into two pieces for a custom layout. You can place the halves up to 8 inches apart to suit your natural arm placement. And its lift feet can reach 7 degrees of tenting, which means it can tilt to the right or left rather than forward and backward.
The left-hand side features a media wheel for adjusting volume and dimming keyboard backlighting, while the Cherry MX RGB mechanical switches provide a satisfying typing experience. You can use the keyboard’s USB passthrough to connect to other peripherals. And while the plug-and-play functionality works with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, the software that allows you to set custom keybindings and RGB lighting schemes only works with Windows.
The Kinesis Advantage 2 has a steep price and learning curve, but it’s worth the investment for comfort and convenience, especially for programmers. Each half of the Qwerty keyboard is concave and tented 20 degrees to establish a natural wrist and forearm position. The thumb keys can move tabs, backspace, and enter various peripheral keys to reduce pinky finger strain.
The Kinesis Advantage 2 features Cherry MX Brown switches, Dvorak layout options, and the ability to re-map keys for custom layouts. It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, Chrome, and Linux operating systems, so you can simply plug in the keyboard and start typing.
The ProtoArc EK01 is an excellent choice if you’re in the market for a wireless ergonomic keyboard. It’s one of the more affordable options on the market, yet it still offers plenty of premium-grade features. The integrated battery gives you up to 100 hours of use on a full charge, which means that you can work 8 hours a day for over 12 days before you need to even think about plugging in.
It connects to your computer with either a 2.4GHz USB dongle or Bluetooth, and you can control up to three computers at once with the multi-device mode. It has support for Windows, Mac, and Android-based devices so you can quickly and easily transfer files between your smartphone and laptop or work on two projects simultaneously.
If your job requires different keyboard inputs for coding and programming, you may want to spend extra money on a keyboard that allows you to configure the layout on the fly. It should allow you to switch tasks seamlessly and stay comfortable while doing so.
Your arms shouldn’t be fully resting on the desk or keyboard, but sort of “floating” just above them – this may feel weird at first, but it allows your wrists to maintain a natural arc that’s more comfortable in the long term.
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