For anyone who toils away in front of a computer all day, wrist pain and discomfort are quite common. That’s because the way most people position their hands when typing is unnatural. According to the Occupational and Safety Health Administration, your wrists should be straight and in-line with your forearms. However, as the Department of Labor group explains, traditional set ups “may cause you to bend your wrists sideways to reach all keys.” That’s why some people swear by ergonomic keyboards — you know, those curvy, wavy, angled and sometimes downright weird keyboards you sometimes see. If you spend several hours a day in front of a computer, though, it might be worth making the switch.
The Benefits of Using an Ergonomic Keyboard
Ergonomic keyboards are designed so that they allow your hands and wrists to rest naturally during long typing sessions. The idea is that spacing out your hands and working at the correct angle can help reduce strain on your neck, back, and shoulders, and perhaps prevent repetitive stress injuries to your hands and wrists like carpal tunnel. In addition, once typing becomes more comfortable, users say they are able to be more productive and type faster and more accurately than they did before. It’s important to note that there are no definitive studies that prove ergonomic keyboards can do all that. However, millions of typists who’ve made the switch swear by their effectiveness.
How to Know If You Need an Ergonomic Keyboard
Just about anyone who spends a significant amount of time typing should consider trying out an ergonomic keyboard. If you already experience pain or numbness in your hands and wrists, though, it’s probably best to consult with a medical expert who can recommend the best options for you. As for people who won’t benefit from an ergonomic keyboard? If you’re more of a “hunt and peck” user, meaning that you look at the keyboard and use one or two fingers when typing, then an ergonomic style will not really help you.
Features to Consider
Split design Most ergonomic keyboards literally split the keyboard down the middle, leaving space between TGB and YHN and the space bar, to help reduce wrist pain and discomfort. In some products, you’ll actually have two halves of a keyboard.Customizable Some ergonomic keyboards feature what’s called vertical “tenting,” which is the ability to adjust the angle of the keyboard halves. In some models, you can also tilt the entire keyboard up or down.Wrist/palm support Many ergonomic keyboards have padded palm rests at the front of the keyboard; some are more cushioned than others.Key type Do you prefer keys that are clicky, springy, and mechanical when you type? Or do you like working on keyboards that require less keystroke effort, and make for a more quiet typing session? Another thing to consider is that some ergonomic keyboards don’t features keys in a straight line, but in more of a wave or contoured pattern.Extras Just like with traditional keyboards, some are wireless and connect to your computer via Bluetooth, some are backlit, and there are a variety of special customizable function keys. You might also think about if you want a separate number pad (if you do a lot of calculating, it’s a must).Warranty Most keyboards have between a one- and three-year warranty, which is more important if you’re going with a higher-end model.
With all that in mind, here are our top 6 picks for the best ergonomic keyboards available today.
