Ergonomic keyboards are becoming more popular as the number of daily computer users rises. The last 10-20 years have brought on a sharp increase in the number of people who use a computer nearly every day. Consequently, the number of people diagnosed with repetitive stress injuries each year has risen just as fast. These types of ailments usually result from performing the same body motion over and over again for many hours each day, and for a prolonged period of time. This coincides with the way we interact with computers - repeatedly pushing, clicking and typing away on various data input devices. An ergonomic keyboard is designed to help keep your hands and wrists in a low-risk typing posture while computing. Those with professions or hobbies that involve heavy typing are the ones who are affected most by computer-related injuries; however everyone who uses a computer is susceptible to these conditions.
What Makes a Computer Keyboard Ergonomic?
According to Wikipedia, "An ergonomic keyboard is a computer keyboard designed with ergonomic considerations to minimize muscle strain and a host of related problems." 'Ergonomic considerations' is a phrase that can have many meanings so let's look at what a few of those are. Your hands, wrists, shoulders and back are the areas of your body most vulnerable to repetitive strain injury (RSI). This is due to how we sit and move about when using computers under normal circumstances. A good ergonomic computer keyboard is going to keep your hands, wrists and shoulders in a better position than a standard keyboard would. Your back is something that is not directly targeted by ergonomic keyboards but if the aforementioned parts of your body are properly supported then some back relief is produced. For complete body comfort as well as upper and lower spine support you need to look into buying a high quality ergonomic chair for your home or office.
What Types of Ergonomic Keyboards Are There?
There are a wide variety of ergonomic computer keyboards on the market in various shapes, sizes and colors, but there are two main types that are sold and used most often. The traditional look that most people are familiar with is the Microsoft Natural Elite™. This keyboard was one of the first of its kind with a revolutionary "Wave" or "Curved" key layout. Since the inception of this model dozens of high quality keyboards have entered the market with the same basic design principle - to contour the keys in such a way that the user's hands are in a more natural, slightly angled posture.
The other main type of ergonomic keyboards are the split keyboards. These feature a truly split-key design where the keyboard actually separates at one or more points - and the keys separate with each part. These are considered very advanced and most beginners are advised to try a standard type before attempting to use one of these, unless the symptoms are truly severe. A true split keyboard can also be a bit pricey so it is better to start with a natural keyboard first and work your way up. The most famous adjustable split keyboard is the Goldtouch Keyboard. This device separates and pivots from one central location at the top and it allows you to lock each half into an infinite number of positions. Goldtouch adjustable keyboards are currently manufactured by Key Ovation, who has recently changed their name and URL back to Goldtouch.
What's the Best Ergonomic Keyboard to Try First If I'm New to This?
If you're new to the world of computer ergonomics then it is recommended to start with a natural, curved ergonomic keyboard first, to see how well you can become accustomed to the new feeling and how long it takes you to get comfortable with it. This type of layout and feel is the easiest to get used to and is considered the best ergonomic keyboard for beginners. The Microsoft Natural 4000 is a great place to start your journey. Out of all "natural" type models the 4000 feels the absolute best as far as material quality and the feel and action of the keys. You can tell this was made by a good brand. That is why it is highly recommended as a great beginner keyboard. If for some reason you have something against Microsoft products, or you want to try something really inexpensive at first, there are plenty of other ok-to-decent models out there by other brands that should be able to wet your whistle. Just keep in mind that cheaper devices tend to feel well, cheap, and they also won't last very long before showing signs of deterioration. If you don't go with the 4000 we suggest trying either the standard Natural Elite model or one of the many keyboards offered by a company called Adesso. You may not have ever heard of them but they have been producing high quality computer input devices for a very long time. They are famous for their wireless keyboard with touchpad models that allow for greater portability and ease of use in small contained areas where you may not be able to fit two standard sized input devices.