The 8 Best Ergonomic Keyboards
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How does an ergonomic keyboard differ from a regular keyboard? Ergonomic keyboards separate the standard keyboard layout into two halves. Splitting the keys in half roughly around the center of the keyboard allows the designer to tilt each half in a way that encourages a more natural hand and wrist position when addressing the keys, and reduces joint and muscle strain while typing. How can you adjust to using an ergonomic keyboard? If possible, start by using an ergonomic keyboard in much the same way you would a standard keyboard, to give your hands (and brain) time to adapt to the slight differences in key layout. Then, when you're generally familiar with the new deck, start adjusting the keyboard to best suit your hands and typing style; many ergonomic keyboard will allow you to adjust not only the horizontal tilt of the separate halves, but also the vertical lift. Find the angle and height that are most comfortable for your hands and seated position.
The 8 Best Ergonomic Keyboards
Typing solutions for carpal tunnel, bad wrists and more
By David Beren David Beren Writer Nova Southeastern University David Beren is a former tech and commerce writer for Lifewire with 10+ years' experience. He has written and managed content for companies like T-Mobile, Sprint, and TracFone Wireless and contributor for sites like WebGeekStuff and MakeTechEasier. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on February 14, 2022 Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr University of Maryland Baltimore County Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. lifewire's fact checking process We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Tweet Share Email Computer Components Keyboards Monitors Mice Cards CPU USB/USB-C Storage Laptop Bags & Backpacks Printers The best ergonomic keyboards, when combined with an ergonomic mouse and monitor, will create the perfect space-saving desktop. Ergonomic designs are also made to be more comfortable than the standard keyboard. These devices position your wrists in a more natural way than straight keyboards, which allows for more comfort. They're a great option for anyone who spends a significant amount of time each day working with a keyboard and wants to put less stress on their wrists. When looking for your new keyboard, things to take into consideration are PC vs Apple, size, and usage. Some keyboards are made for gaming like the KINESIS Gaming Freestyle Edge RGB at Amazon, which will keep your wrists secure even during the most intense battle. If you have a Mac, the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue (view on Amazon) is a perfect match for Apple products because it has Apple-specific shortcuts ingrained. No matter your needs or system, the best ergonomic keyboard is out there for you. The Rundown Best Overall: Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Business: Logitech Ergo K860 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Wireless: Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard at Amazon Jump to Review Best Bluetooth: Logitech K350 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Macs: Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Fellowes Microban Split Design Keyboard at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Portability: MoKo Universal Foldable Keyboard at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Gaming: KINESIS Gaming Freestyle Edge RGB at Amazon Jump to Review in this article Expand Our Picks About Our Trusted Experts What to Look for in an Ergonomic KeyboardBest Overall: Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard
4.4 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Best Buy View On B&H Photo Video What We Like Low Profile Slick Design Included wrist rest What We Don't Like Wrist rest isn't detachable Only available with membrane switches Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard Review: A Great Value Widely recognized as the best ergonomic keyboard on the market, Microsoft's Sculpt for Windows computers is a standout choice for all-day comfort. The split keyboard design immediately assists in positioning your wrists into a more natural position rather than the straight-on approach favored by most keyboards. The domed design helps maintain positioning throughout the day, keeping your wrists at a more relaxed angle, which helps to eliminates the discomforts that come from other models. Beyond its split design, the natural arc keys mimic the curved shape of your fingertips to create a more natural look and feel, which increases overall comfort and reduces strain on your hands and wrists. Rounding out its ergonomic design is a cushioned palm rest that allows your wrists to relax and form a completely natural feel from your fingertips to your wrists. A separate number pad allows you to choose its position for an ideal comfort level beside the Sculpt keyboard. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Wireless receiver, Bluetooth RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: NoBest for Business: Logitech Ergo K860
Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Best Buy View On Lenovo What We Like Excellent ergonomic design Awesome battery life Wrist rest is second to none What We Don't Like No backlighting A bit pricey This latest ergonomic workhorse from Logitech has pulled out all the stops. Featuring much of the tech used in their vaunted wireless MX Keys keyboard, the MX Ergo K860 looks set to become the front runner for wireless workplace keyboards. The split layout of this particular keyboard can present a slight learning curve for users who aren't fluent touch-typists but is easily one of the most comfortable, and sleek keyboards available. The keyboard has both Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz connectivity for either Windows or Mac OS, and can reportedly operate for up to two years on just a single pair of AAA batteries. The long battery life is certainly a plus, but the lack of backlighting is a bit of a drag. The K860 features an integrated wrist rest that is among one of the most comfortable we've used. While it does provide excellent support and is something of a necessity with ergonomic keyboards, the inability to separate the wrist rest from the keyboard itself could present a problem if it ever wears out, forcing you to buy a new unit altogether. The price may be a bit steep, but wireless connectivity and extensive battery life make this ergonomic keyboard one of the best wrist-friendly options available. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Wireless receiver, Bluetooth RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: NoBest Wireless: Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard
4.9 Lifewire / Emily Isaacs View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy What We Like Clean design Easy connectivity Extensive battery life What We Don't Like Membrane keys only Wrist rest isn't detachable Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard Review: High-Quality Beyond its durability, the Surface keyboard excels at protecting your hands and wrists through its keycap geometry, split space bar and a more natural design that works to prevent wrist and hand strain. The expert build quality allows for a smooth typing experience that’s whisper-quiet with excellent stability for use on nearly any surface. Designed specifically for Microsoft’s Surface line of computers, this ergonomic keyboard is designed with comfort in mind and is a great choice for finding a natural arc. Powered by Bluetooth 4.0/4.1 and three AAA batteries with a 12-month lifespan, the Surface keyboard is wirelessly compatible up to 32 feet away from your device. When you’re in front of the computer, you’ll find that the double-cushioned palm rest, which is covered in a mix of polyester and polyurethane, is both durable and stain-resistant. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Wireless receiver, Bluetooth RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: No "The Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is a high-quality Bluetooth keyboard that’s well worth the splurge" — Emily Issacs, Product TesterBest Bluetooth: Logitech K350
Courtesy of Walmart View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy What We Like Long battery life Budget friendly Low learning curve What We Don't Like Occasional input lag The Logitech K350 is a good choice for anyone looking for a basic wireless keyboard that also features an ergonomic design. This keyboard is a single-piece unit, which means you won't have to spend a lot of time re-learning how to type. Each key features a wave design that flows perfectly to the next, making long-term typing much more comfortable. The keyboard also features a padded wrist rest and adjustable legs for added comfort. The universal wireless receiver lets you connect mice and even other keyboards without having to use other USB dongles; great for computers where USB ports are at a premium. The Logitech K350 uses two AAA batteries for power and can theoretically run for up to three years before swapping them out. The keyboard features dedicated media keys for streaming music and movies, as well as fully customizable F-keys to help streamline your workflow. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Wireless receiver RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: Yes The 7 Best Mechanical Keyboards of 2022Best for Macs: Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue
4.8 Lifewire / Emily Isaacs View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Extensive compatibility Awesome battery life Dedicated text edit macro keys What We Don't Like Membrane keys Split layout isn't for everyone Freestyle2 Blue (Mac) Review: Perfect for Apple Users Apple computer users should look no further than the Kinesis Freestyle2 blue wireless ergonomic keyboard that comes with a bevy of Apple-specific keyboard shortcuts, including cut, copy, paste and undo. Connecting to your Apple machine via Bluetooth 3.0, a single battery charge on the Kinesis should last around 300 hours or six months (based on two hours per day of typing). You’ll immediately discover that the negative slope design reduces the required extension of your wrist to hit each key. Available with three different channels, the Bluetooth-based functionality allows for a total of three devices to be synced at one time (switching between the devices requires the single press of a key). Additional buttons include a shortcut for hiding (and showing) the dock, advanced controls for multimedia playback and volume. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Wireless receiver RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: Yes "The Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for Mac is an excellent split ergonomic keyboard for the price" — Emily Issacs, Product Tester 5 Things to Consider When Buying a KeyboardBest Budget: Fellowes Microban Split Design Keyboard
3.8 Lifewire / Emily Isaacs View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Dedicated media playback and function buttons Inexpensive What We Don't Like Unconventional layout Wired only Fellowes Microban Wired Keyboard Review: The Best Budget Option Premium comfort at an affordable price, the Fellowes Microban split design keyboard offers more natural comfort without breaking the bank. Part of the Microban family of products, the antimicrobial protection will help keep your keyboard clean while still offering a more natural hand and arm position. Created with Windows machines in mind, the Fellowes includes seven dedicated media playback keys, as well as one-touch web browser access. The dedicated number pad reduces the need for external hardware and having to look for the numerical numbers at the top of the keyboard. While there’s undoubtedly an adjustment period to any ergonomic keyboard, the immediate benefit of reduced pain and stress combined with Fellowes outstanding wrist support will quickly have you asking why you didn’t switch to an ergonomic keyboard sooner. Type: Mechanical Connectivity: USB RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: No "A neat perk of the Sculpt, in contrast to the Fellowes, is that the Sculpt has a detached numpad and a magnetic riser is also provided." — Emily Issacs, Product Tester Expert Tested: The 9 Best Wireless Mice in 2022Best for Portability: MoKo Universal Foldable Keyboard
4.6 Lifewire / Emily Isaacs View On Amazon What We Like Compact, without sacrificing functionality Clever, intuitive design Affordable What We Don't Like Dense key placement leads to typing errors Limits typing speed MoKo Universal Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard Considering how thin and sleek it is, the MoKo keyboard's size alone could likely qualify it as the most portable on this list. But when you factor in that this ergonomic keyboard is foldable, things look even better. Weighing only 6.2 ounces and sporting dimensions of 6.2 x 4 inches (with an unbelievable thickness of only half an inch), the tech accessory feels more like a Kindle than a full-sized keyboard when stowed in your bag. It connects via Bluetooth and is laid out into two key sections to support the standard two-hand ergonomic feel. The 110 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery takes about two hours to charge, but that’ll give you up to 30 days of standby time and 40 hours of continuous type time. The company also promises about a 3 million keystroke lifespan, so this keyboard will be kicking for a while. To round out its collection of neat features, this intuitive gadget automatically powers on and off just by opening and closing it. Type: Membrane Connectivity: Bluetooth RGB: None Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: No Dedicated Media Controls: No "The MoKo’s charge time is just under two hours and it can support up to 40 hours of uninterrupted work or 30 days of standby time." — Emily Issacs, Product TesterBest for Gaming: KINESIS Gaming Freestyle Edge RGB
Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart What We Like Fully customizable Tenting stands available Windows/Mac/Linux compatible What We Don't Like Reports of issues with SmartSet app Reports of damaged units May be uncomfortable for those with larger hands Whether you're a professional or hobbyist, gaming can take a toll on your wrists and hands. The Kinesis Freestyle Edge keyboard is here to keep you comfortable during all but the most intense gaming sessions. This keyboard has two separate pieces that can be placed in various configurations to feel more natural. The left section of the keyboard can be used on its own as a gamepad to make room for a larger mouse space, microphone, or other equipment you may need. Both halves of the keyboard can be placed up to 20 inches apart for more comfortable typing and to make room for additional peripherals. The keyboard features Cherry MX Blue switches for a clicky, tactile response and durability. Each of the 95 keys can be custom backlit with over 16.8 million color combinations and 10 different effects. They can also be remapped on the fly with Kensis' SmartSet app, and up to nine different user profiles can be stored in the keyboard's onboard 4MB memory. This keyboard features plug-and-play functionality for Windows, Mac, and Linux bases systems, so you don't have to worry about downloading extra drivers or software. Type: Mechanical Connectivity: USB RGB: Per-Key Tenkeys: Yes Palm Rest: Yes Dedicated Media Controls: No The 8 Best Gaming Keyboards, Tested by Our Editors Final Verdict Microsoft's Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard's (view at Amazon) design allows your wrists to type in a more natural position with a cushioned rest around the edges. On the other hand, if you're looking for a model more compatible with a Mac's IOS, the Logitech MX Ergo K860 (view at Amazon) will offer better support in more ways than one.About Our Trusted Experts
David Beren is a tech writer with more than 10 years of experience in the industry. He has written and managed content for tech companies like T-Mobile, Sprint, and TracFone Wireless. FAQ Do ergonomic keyboards really help? While there's no enough evidence available to establish that ergonomic keyboards can prevent RSI, carpal tunnel, or other ailments, they have been shown to reduce strain on the body by allowing for more natural angles and positioning while typing. That said, if you're experience symptoms like numbness or nerve pain, you should immediately consult your doctor.How does an ergonomic keyboard differ from a regular keyboard? Ergonomic keyboards separate the standard keyboard layout into two halves. Splitting the keys in half roughly around the center of the keyboard allows the designer to tilt each half in a way that encourages a more natural hand and wrist position when addressing the keys, and reduces joint and muscle strain while typing. How can you adjust to using an ergonomic keyboard? If possible, start by using an ergonomic keyboard in much the same way you would a standard keyboard, to give your hands (and brain) time to adapt to the slight differences in key layout. Then, when you're generally familiar with the new deck, start adjusting the keyboard to best suit your hands and typing style; many ergonomic keyboard will allow you to adjust not only the horizontal tilt of the separate halves, but also the vertical lift. Find the angle and height that are most comfortable for your hands and seated position.