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Switching from a conventional keyboard to an ergonomic one is, quite frankly, a bit of a leap. Whether you buy a curved unibody model or a two-piece split keyboard, it can take several weeks to reacquire the muscle memory needed to type quickly on one. Also, aside from a few notable exceptions, ergonomic keyboards tend to be considerably more expensive than the average office-focused model. That extra learning time and money required, while worth the effort with the right device, is more of an investment than most people are willing to make in a keyboard.If you’re motivated enough, whether by an injury or merely curiosity, we’ve outlined below our picks for the best ergonomic keyboards we’ve tested in PC Labs. Read on for our favorites, followed by the buying basics you should know when shopping for one. Also note: At the end of this article is a detailed spec breakout of our top choices in handy chart format.
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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Logitech Ergo K860
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Most Buyers
Why We Picked ItOl’ reliable to many users since its release, the K860 is a well-crafted split-layout keyboard for sparing your arms and wrists when the typing gets hot and heavy. With a curved, ergonomic shape, the Ergo K860 complements arm placement with its asymmetrical design and plush wrist rest, while certain sized-up keys and a full layout with a number pad make it easy to navigate across the board. These features make it relatively easy for newcomers to adapt to the curves of an ergonomic keyboard. The K860 is a great preventative measure if you’re already feeling the stiffness of everyday office work.Who It’s ForThe K860 is for buyers who are new to ergonomic keyboards and want a comfortable experience with a manageable learning curve.
PROS
Curved and split ergonomic shape.
Extra-comfortable wrist rest.
Front feet provide negative tilt.
Extended asymmetrical keys make it easier to find your way around.
Logitech Options and Flow software support.
CONS
Keys feel a little spread out.
No backlighting.
Takes up more space than you think.
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
109
Interface
RF Wireless, Bluetooth
Key Switch Type
Scissor-Switch
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Logitech Ergo K860 Review
Cloud Nine ErgoTKL
Best Split-Layout Ergonomic Keyboard
Why We Picked ItAmong ergonomic keyboards, the most distinctive design is the split-layout. A split keyboard takes time, patience, and more than a bit of practice to transition to. (You’ll reach out for keys that aren’t there, and working both hands feels like patting your head and rubbing your stomach.) But the reward is a less physically stressful typing experience, allowing you to keep your arms in a natural position.The Cloud Nine ErgoTKL is a wonderfully designed example of the kind. Magnetic snaps hold the halves together in three places; once separated, they can be positioned up to 8 inches apart, connected via a USB cable. Modern keyboard add-ons like RGB lighting, a USB pass-through, and a plush wrist rest are also included.Who It’s ForIf you hope to take keyboard comfort to the next level, the Cloud Nine ErgoTKL will suit you. The learning curve might be steep in the short term, but your hands, wrist, and shoulders will thank you in the long term.
PROS
Comfortable
Bright, varied RGB lighting
Additional USB passthrough included
Three mechanical key switches to choose from
CONS
Wrist rest requires installation
Split design takes some getting used to
Software is Windows-only
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
91
Interface
USB Wired
Key Switch Type
Kailh Red Box
Key Backlighting
Multi-Color LED
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
USB
Palm Rest
Detachable (Separate)
Learn More
Cloud Nine ErgoTKL Review
Matias Ergo Pro (2020)
A Solid Alternative to the Cloud Nine ErgoTKL
Why We Picked ItThe Matias Ergo Pro is a few years old but remains a solid choice for dedicated professionals looking for a split-design ergonomic board. It offers three USB pass-through ports, comfortable wrist rests, and flexible feet that provide ample tilt and tenting for additional height. Like the Cloud Nine ErgoTKL, this split keyboard has a learning curve. But those willing to take the time will find it a dependable daily driver with a comfortable typing feel, strong ergonomic features, and a couple of technical flourishes that set it apart.Who It’s ForMotivated users who see adjusting to a split keyboard as a challenge worth mastering will find productivity and comfort with the Matias Ergo Pro.
PROS
Split design provides good ergonomics
Three USB pass-through ports
Dedicated shortcut/macro keys
Built-in reverse tilt and tenting feet
Retractable bridge cable
CONS
Split keyboards come with a learning curve
No key backlighting
No config software
Only 19 programmable keys
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
87
Interface
USB Wired
Key Switch Type
Matias Quiet Click Switches (Silent Tactile, ALPS-Style)
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
USB
Palm Rest
Detachable (Magnetic)
Learn More
Matias Ergo Pro (2020) Review
Logitech Wave Keys
Best Budget Ergonomic Keyboard
Why We Picked ItThe Logitech Wave Keys shares some things in common with our top overall pick, the Logitech Ergo K860, but it’s much cheaper. Also, its undulating design is less pronounced, making the Wave Keys a more traditional keyboard than the K860. With a slight ripple at the center of the board, the keyboard’s curves give it a distinctive look, and the indents subtly position both hands just far enough from one another to promote comfort. A lightweight body and long-lasting battery make the Wave Keys an ideal companion if you’re looking for a keyboard for traveling, even if its build is a little flimsy and its wrist rest a little stiff.Who It’s ForUsers who want to improve their desk ergonomics without spending too much (and who don’t have the time to acclimate to a full-split design) should look closely at the Wave Keys.
PROS
Simple and effective ergonomic design
Compatibility across multiple operating systems
Long battery life
Lightweight
Reasonably priced
CONS
Build quality is a little flimsy
No backlighting
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
99
Interface
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Rubber Membrane
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
None
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Logitech Wave Keys Review
Logitech Wireless Keyboard K350
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for the Very Tightest Budgets
Why We Picked ItThe Logitech Wave Keys (profiled above) is aggressively priced, but it may not be within budget reach of every user looking for an ergonomic keyboard option. To that end, Logitech has kept its oldest ergonomic keyboard on the market at a bargain-basement price. The K350 has been kicking around since the early 2000s, but this elder keyboard has still got it. While its design is decidedly retro, it comes with customization options, a comfortable typing feel, and a stable wireless connection. For the price, we can easily overlook some of its blemishes.Who It’s ForThis cheapest of cheap ergonomic keyboards is for people who don’t mind sacrificing some modern keyboard aesthetics and features for a low-cost, comfortable daily driver.
PROS
Low-cost typing comfort
Customizable functions
Long battery life
Stable wireless connection
CONS
Chunky, dated design
Loud typing
No Bluetooth support
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
114
Interface
2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Membrane
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
Dedicated
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Logitech Wireless Keyboard K350 Review
Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Gamers
Why We Picked ItAnother split ergonomic keyboard joins our list, this one for gamers. Available with Cherry MX switches in three varieties, and featuring per-key customizable RGB lighting, the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard remains one of our favorite splits, almost five years on from when we tested it. With a layout reminiscent of a 75% keyboard, the split board is gaming-ready, even if it’s not quite esports-ready. The Freestyle Edge has adjustable feet at the inner sides of the board, though achieving an inverted-V “tent” angle requires Kinesis’ optional lift kit. Still, this keyboard is a perfect companion for health-conscious gamers spending hours on their favorite PC games.Who It’s ForGamers looking for an ergonomic alternative to standard gaming keyboards will find a unique combination of comfort and precision in the Kinesis Freestyle Edge.
PROS
True Cherry MX switches in a choice of three varieties.
Comfortable ergonomic design, once you’re accustomed to it.
Superb, plush wrist rest.
Per-key customizable RGB lighting.
CONS
Driverless SmartSet app is more work than we’d like.
Optional “lift kit” costs extra.
Steep learning curve.
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
108
Interface
USB Wired
Key Switch Type
Cherry MX
Key Backlighting
RGB Per-Key
Media Controls
Dedicated
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review
Kinesis TKO Gaming Keyboard
Best Compact Ergonomic Keyboard for Gamers
Why We Picked ItIt’s no sculpted oddity, but one of our favorite mini keyboards has enough ergonomic features to earn it a spot on this list. While 60% keyboards aren’t natural ergonomic fits, the Kinesis TKO has four feet that enable reverse-tilt and tenting options. A three-button space bar also allows you to customize the keyboard further, effectively adding two dedicated macro keys in the middle of the board. It’s a novel but helpful feature that helps the mini board stand out. Be warned, though—configuration and firmware updates are more difficult to install than with other keyboards due to the software.Who It’s ForIf you’re a gamer who prefers a very compact board, the Kinesis TKO offers surprising customization and comfort in a compact package.
PROS
Four ergonomic feet enable reverse tilt and tenting
Three-button spacebar
Nine onboard profiles
RGB underglow bar
Bundled carrying case
CONS
Driverless software makes configuration and firmware updates more difficult than usual
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
63
Interface
USB Wired
Key Switch Type
Kailh Box White (Clicky)
Key Backlighting
RGB Per-Key
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Kinesis TKO Gaming Keyboard Review
Keychron Q11
Best Ergonomic Keyboard With Hot-Swappable Key Switches
Why We Picked ItHot-swappable keyboards were once limited to enthusiasts and tinkerers, but recent keyboard releases have brought this functionality to the mainstream. The Keychron Q11 isn’t the top keyboard on the market, but it’s a rare combination of a split design and the ability to customize the key switches individually. The Keychron Q11 features an attractive color scheme and a unique jigsaw-puzzle split down the middle, giving the board its own aesthetic. It’s missing some of the features we’ve come to expect from modern ergonomic split keyboards, like angled feet and a wrist rest (the latter is sold separately). But it’s a premium board that looks and feels the part, and if you fancy keyboard tinkering, you might be willing to stomach its premium cost.Who It’s ForFor tinkerers who want to customize all aspects of their split keyboards—down to the key-switch mechanisms—the Keychron Q11 obliges.
PROS
Attractive color scheme
Multiple programmable macro keys
Two rotary knobs, one for each half
Compatible with VIA app
Available in a barebones version without key caps or switches
CONS
Expensive
No angled feet
Wrist rest sold separately
No option for a lift kit
SPECS
Name
Value
Number of Keys
89
Interface
USB-C
Key Switch Type
Gateron G Pro Red
Key Backlighting
RGB Per-Key
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Dedicated Shortcut Keys
Onboard Profile Storage
N-Key Rollover Support
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Keychron Q11 Review
Buying Guide: The Best Ergonomic Keyboards for 2024
Investing in an ergonomic keyboard is more than a technical upgrade; it’s an investment in your health. Ergonomic boards are designed to mitigate the damage that using a keyboard does to your hands, wrists, and shoulders after years of daily use. Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), which are caused by making the same motions over and over again over a long period of time, are endemic to using a keyboard and mouse. (The commonly known carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on the median nerve in the hand extending into the wrist, is a form of RSI.) If you sit at a traditional keyboard and type all day, five days a week, some damage is likely, if not inevitable. Ergonomic keyboards theoretically reduce that damage by eliminating some of the unnatural and, whether you notice it or not, strenuous motions involved with typing, gaming, and otherwise using a keyboard. To understand how ergonomic keyboards improve things for you, it helps to talk about all the ways that using a keyboard can cause RSIs. Typing on traditional keyboards forces you to make a series of unnatural movements. First, you twist your arms so they lay flat, parallel to the keyboard. Depending on the width of the keyboard, you may reach laterally, twisting your wrist in an unnatural way and overextending your fingers, to hit certain keys. If you lay your wrists flat on a table in front of your keyboard, you’ll have to bend your wrists up for them to reach the keys. Bringing your arms together in front of you to reach your default typing position also involves flexing muscles in your shoulders and back.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
To fix these problems, ergonomic keyboards reimagine the keyboard in ways that minimize or take these strenuous twists and bends out of the equation. Most ergonomic keyboards split the letter keys into two halves, rotating the keys so they point down toward the lower corners of the keyboard. Rotating the keys allows your arms to approach the keyboard from a more natural angle. Split keyboards, which spread the keyboard across two halves or chassis, give you the ability to customize your rotation by placing the two sides of the keyboard as far apart as you’d like.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
Most also use some means of “tenting,” reshaping the keyboard so it’s higher in the center, with the keys falling away on either side. Typing on an angled surface reduces how far your wrist needs to twist to lay flat on the keys. Some keyboards do this by curving the chassis of the keyboard up into an arc. Others use folding feet, similar to the ones you’ll find under a standard keyboard, to prop up the middle or inside edges. A few keyboards require an optional attachment to set up tenting; we recommend spending the extra money if the keyboard otherwise meets your needs.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
Speaking of feet, a good ergonomic keyboard will feature feet beneath the near side of the keyboard, not the far. This angle, known as reverse tilt, is also better for your wrists: From a natural position, the front end of the keyboard should meet your wrist. Every good keyboard will also come with a well-padded wrist rest. Having a pad that supports your wrists and forearms helps you maintain a comfortable position for an extended period of time.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
In addition to rotating and tenting, some ergo keyboards will set their keys at different depths to adjust for the different lengths of your fingers. Last, some ergonomic models take the drastic step of rearranging the keys. Normally, the letters remain in the QWERTY layout, but frequently used keys like Control, Alt, and the Windows/Apple key may get moved around. (The function keys should generally stay where they belong.)
(Credit: Tom Brant)
Changes to the keyboard layout increase the learning curve, but they can make for a better experience over time. Choosing the right key switches that suit your typing style can also go a long way in preventing RSIs and promoting overall keyboard comfort. You’ll want to consult with your doctor if you’re already experiencing pain; a light-touch key switch type like the Cherry MX Red might be a more beneficial choice than a Cherry MX Brown switch set, for example. The right mechanical keys are all down to your specific hand/wrist condition and comfort level. Some, but not all, ergonomic keyboards are mechanical keyboards at heart, with mechanical switches that can deliver precise feedback. There’s really no way to know until you try whether or not either will have a specific effect for you, though. The best you can do is make yourself aware of the custom-layout and key-switch options out there, and decide (in the case of a nonstandard layout) whether the extra acclimation work sounds worth it in the long run.Split or Stay? Unibody vs. Two-Part Designs Ergonomic keyboards come in a few different shapes and configurations, which operate on a sliding scale between the investment you need to put in (both in terms of adjustment time and cost), and what structural changes they’ll make to offer you a more supportive experience. Though different models tweak different things, such as relocating the Alt and Control keys, ergonomic keyboards generally break down into two categories: (1) single-piece/unibody ergonomic keyboards, which rotate the keys on the layout of a one-part chassis, and (2) as mentioned earlier, split-chassis models that physically separate into two adjustable halves.Unibody models are curved to reduce wrist twisting and include other features to reduce impact on your arms. These keyboards tend to be less expensive and offer a shorter learning curve because, while they’re not identical to conventional flat models, their typing experience is close to them. At the same time, there are certain ergonomic issues they cannot address, like the possibility that you may be reaching in with your arms to attain a proper typing position.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
An ergonomically ideal keyboard puts all of the keys you need at fingers’ length without forcing you to reach, bend your wrists, twist your arms, or curl your shoulder blades. That requires some amount of customization—we all have different body widths and wingspans—so for a guaranteed fit you’ll need a split keyboard. With the keyboard split into two halves, you control the width and the shape of the keyboard, so you can reposition it to fit your body.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
Numeric keypads, while helpful for spreadsheet work, force lateral finger and wrist movement, so an ergonomics-first keyboard will use the tenkeyless (TKL) form factor. That said, many split-keyboard makers sell a free-standing keypad as an optional attachment, letting you place the keypad so it doesn’t require any extraneous reaching or lateral wrist movement.While one version may be more beneficial than the other depending on your specific situation and use case, it’s best to judge ergonomic keyboards on a sliding scale based on need. If you’re already experiencing pain or numbness when you type, a split keyboard is bound to give you the most relief. (You should also see a doctor if you haven’t already.) Likewise, you should go for a split keyboard if damage down the road is a serious concern, you type a lot, and superior ergonomics is your goal for your next keyboard. If you’re a fan of mechanical keyboards, you’ll also want to go for a split model. Most split keyboards feature mechanical switches, while most unibody models use cheaper scissor switches or membrane-based keys to help keep the chassis slim and the price low. There are other features you’re more likely to find on one type of ergonomic keyboard than the other. Many unibody keyboards, even budget models, are wireless. Many split keyboards have dedicated macro or shortcut keys on the left edge of the board.That said, split keyboards don’t always have all the features that power users want. Even programmable models often lack configuration software, for example. If you’re in a quantitative field, you may not want to give up your keypad. If you don’t currently feel any pain or weakness when you type, it may make sense to compromise and go with a more familiar unibody design. The fact of the matter is, any good ergo keyboard should help keep your wrists and arms healthier longer than the typical flat keyboard.
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Time to Type: The Ergonomic Keyboard Learning CurveHow long it will take you to adapt to using an ergo keyboard? The answer depends entirely on the keyboard and the person. Some keyboards are easier to adapt to than others; generally speaking, adapting to a split keyboard takes more work than a unibody model, but the process varies based on your degree of typing skill and how much the physical change messes with your muscle memory.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
In my experience, the over-under on regaining basic typing proficiency should be one or two weeks for a unibody ergonomic keyboard or two to four weeks for a split. It will likely take longer for you to reclaim your gold-standard words-per-minute rate if you’re a typing ace. If you’re hesitant about trying, or suddenly need to type as fast as possible, going back to a standard keyboard usually requires little readjustment time. In our experience going back and forth between regular and ergo keyboards, it does get easier every time we need to readjust to ergonomic keys, but there’s always some adjustment period.You can take steps to train yourself, which can make the process feel slower and more time-consuming at first but will ultimately require fewer days. With a split keyboard, start by pushing the two sides together, then slowly pull them further apart as you get comfortable. Likewise, if the keyboard has adjustable reverse tilt or tenting, start on the lowest incline and work your way up as you become more proficient.An Ergo Board Is Only Part of the PuzzleIt’s worth taking a moment to note the limitations of using ergonomic keyboards. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health notes there isn’t conclusive evidence showing that ergonomic keyboards can prevent repetitive stress injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. The institute, which informs guidance from OSHA and the CDC, still recommends them, though, based on their impact on posture. There is also widespread evidence that, at the bare minimum, ergonomic keyboards can help people who suffer from pain or numbness while typing manage those symptoms.
(Credit: Mike Epstein)
If you’re looking to optimize the ergonomics in your home office, a new keyboard is only one of many steps you should take. Ergonomic mice, such as vertical mice and trackballs, can minimize stress on your mouse hand. It also helps to have a good office chair with lumbar support to promote good posture, and a desk that’s the appropriate height for your body while you’re sitting. The desk, depending on the design, may need a keyboard tray installed to help put the board at the proper level relative to your forearms. So, What Is the Best Ergonomic Keyboard to Buy?Now that you have a pretty good idea of how ergonomic keyboards vary and what to look for while shopping for one, we’ve detailed above and below some specific models based on our testing. Mechanical keyboard designs tend to predominate in the more expensive models. Most are standalone keyboards, but note that a few vendors offer an ergonomic mouse combo, with an ergonomic keyboard and an ergonomic mouse sold as one package. Those tend to be budget solutions; the best keyboard for you, though, likely lies in a standalone keyboard model.If you’re looking to go all in on optimizing your office space, also check out our guide to setting up an ergonomic home office. You should also look at the best ergonomic mice to find a new mouse to go along with your new keyboard.
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