A Simple Test to See if You Need an Ergonomic Keyboard Try this quick experiment: With your elbows tucked into your sides, bring your thumbs to touch in front of you. Now, angle your elbows slightly outward and separate your hands. If the second position feels more comfortable, you might benefit from an ergonomic keyboard. These keyboards are designed to open up your shoulders and chest while keeping your forearms and wrists in a more natural, aligned position. Ergonomic keyboards come in various designs. Some are fully split into two separate pieces, while others are unibody split designs, often called Alice layouts. Some use a columnar key orientation instead of the traditional staggered rows, and many feature programmable keys and thumb clusters. I tested over 15 models to help you find the best one for your needs. What to Look for in an Ergonomic Keyboard The two main styles are Alice and fully split. An Alice keyboard is a single board where the keys are rotated apart at the bottom, forming an A-shaped space. This subtle change pushes your elbows out, creating a more open feeling in your upper body. It is an easier transition from a standard keyboard. Fully split keyboards separate into two distinct halves. This allows you to position each side independently, placing them shoulder-width apart or at any angle you find comfortable. You can even put your mouse in the middle to minimize reaching. Other features to consider are tenting and negative tilt. Tenting raises the middle of the keyboard, bringing your hands into a more neutral handshake position. Negative tilt slopes the keyboard downward, lowering the number row, which can reduce strain for some users. You will also find columnar layouts, where keys are stacked in straight columns instead of the offset rows found on standard keyboards. This can feel more natural but requires a significant adjustment period if you are used to a traditional layout. Many ergonomic keyboards offer programmable keys. This allows you to remap keys, create macros, or set up layers for different functions, which is especially useful for boards with non-standard layouts like thumb clusters. Keyboards can be mechanical, membrane, or scissor-switch. Mechanical switches are typically more customizable and offer a tactile response, while membrane and scissor switches are quieter and often more affordable. You can also choose between wired and wireless connectivity based on your preference for a clutter-free desk or guaranteed low latency. Some keyboards include wrist rests, though their benefit is debated. Ideally, your palms should rest, not your wrists, to avoid putting pressure on tendons. How We Tested Our selection process began with extensive research into reputable brands and highly-regarded models. I acquired and used each keyboard for several days to weeks, evaluating comfort, design, build quality, and software features for programmability. The goal was to identify the best options for a wide range of users without requiring deep expertise in custom keyboards. Other Keyboards We Tested The Naya Create is a highly customizable split mechanical keyboard with modular platforms that can hold a touchpad, trackball, or joystick, aiming to replace your mouse. It is a premium option with a starting price of $500. The Kinesis Advantage 360 is a wireless, fully split keyboard with a distinctive curved key well and thumb clusters. It offers extensive programmability but has a unique look. The Periboard 835 is a wireless Alice-style mechanical keyboard with RGB lighting and programmable keys, offering a solid build for its price. The Goldtouch Elite Adjustable is a connected split keyboard with a ball joint that lets you adjust the tenting and splay angle. However, its specific tenting design may lift your wrists off the desk. The Kinesis Form Split includes a built-in touchpad between the halves. While the build quality is excellent, the trackpad gestures are limited to Windows, making it less ideal for Mac users. The Logitech Wave Keys offers a slight wave shape and a built-in wrist rest, but its lack of key separation means it provides minimal ergonomic benefit compared to true split designs. Frequently Asked Questions What kinds of ergonomic keyboard styles are there? The two primary styles are fully split and unibody split (Alice). Both aim to rotate the keys outward for a more comfortable typing posture. Which keyboard layout is the most ergonomic? There is no single best layout. Alternative layouts like Dvorak or Colemak aim to minimize finger movement, but they require relearning how to type, which may not be practical for everyone. When do I need a split keyboard? If you experience shoulder tension or want to open up your chest while typing, a split keyboard can help. It also allows you to place your mouse in the center to reduce reach. How long does it take to adjust to an ergonomic keyboard? Adjustment time varies. Alice layouts feel familiar quickly. Fully split boards, especially those with thumb clusters, can take weeks to feel completely natural, but many find the effort worthwhile for the comfort gained.
