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We spent hundreds of hours working at our lab stations with the 8 most promising ergonomic keyboards available today in a mission to determine the most enjoyable typing device for your office. We paid mindful attention to each model's overall comfort, the learning curve required to use each one, and how loud they are to your housemates or coworkers. Our findings can help just about anyone to search out the right model for their needs. Whether you are looking for a mellow transition into a new keyboard, full customization, or if you are a bargain shopper, we have you covered.
The Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 Adjustable is a solid, all-around ergonomic keyboard with an impressive expanse of lateral and tenting settings. It can operate flat as a standard keyboard, or you can adjust it to split outward so that your elbows are at a more natural angle, adding a tent-shaped slope to the device's center to relieve pronation stress on your wrists. This model is one of the easiest to learn when switching from a standard keyboard or laptop keyboard, thanks to its array of settings. We're huge fans of its overall simplistic design and love that the buttons on this device require minimal effort to push.
Our one major gripe with the simple layout of the Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 is that there are no dedicated media keys or a numeric pad. You may want to look for a model with these elements to maximize efficiency. Still, we think the Goldtouch is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for the best performance out of an ergonomic keyboard.
The tenting articulation offered by this model provides the utmost degree of comfort.
Our favorite budget model is easily the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless. This Bluetooth-enabled model has three different power settings that allow you to dial the bandwidth down to conserve battery life if you're near your computer or turn it up to stay connected from a distance. A knocked-over beverage is nearly inevitable at some point for those who spend 40 hours a week at the desk. The Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless is spill-resistant, so you can rest assured knowing that you won't destroy your investment in an accidental coffee splash. We love that this model offers adjustability for reverse tilt for those that stand while they type or like their wrists to be angled downward.
It's nice to control your music or other media with dedicated keys. The Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless has this option, but you'll need to hold the function button to use them. It's also great that this model has a small USB receiver, but keep careful track of it because there is nowhere on the keyboard to store it. Our testers found the keys on this device to be a bit light and not quite as comfortable as the higher-end models. Despite these few small flaws, we still think the Kensington Pro is the way to go for folks on a budget.
This model is a great option if you're shopping for a budget-friendly wireless ergonomic keyboard.
For those who know exactly what they want from a keyboard and are ready for full customization, we recommend the Kinesis Freestyle2. As a standalone purchase, this model is made to be used as-is like any standard keyboard, articulated using the included flexible pivot, or the two halves can separate for virtually unlimited positioning. If you desire any degree of tenting up to completely vertical, a wrist wrest, or a dedicated numeric keypad — no problem. Kinesis offers all of these options.
On that note, one thing we weren't thrilled about with this keyboard is that you'll have to pay extra if you want any of the bonuses mentioned above. The Freestyle2 is decently priced as a base model, but once you start adding bells and whistles, the total cost can quickly multiply. We also found that having the function key as a toggle was a bit silly. Most of our team like to hold the function button down in the same manner as a shift, command, control, or option key. Caveats aside, we still think that the Kinesis Freestyle2 is an excellent option for those who know exactly what they want and are ready to accessorize their purchase immediately.
The two halves of the Kinesis Freestyle 2 are only connected by a cord allowing the user to position them however they feel most comfortable.
Easy transition from a standard keyboard or laptop
Large assortment of media keys
Tiny USB receiver
REASONS TO AVOID
Can be noisy
Have to press the keys somewhat hard
For those who are a bit wary about fully committing to a completely different hand and wrist positioning than they're used to, we recommend the Logitech K350 Wireless Wave. This device offers a mellow amount of articulation compared to a standard or laptop keyboard, so it doesn't take much getting used to. If you're into shortcut keys and media keys, the K350 has you covered. This model has large buttons, either preprogrammed or ready to be programmed for various tasks. We also love that the wireless USB receiver is so small — once you insert it into a USB port, there is no need to remove it, even when transporting a laptop.
We noticed that the Logitech K350 could be very noisy, depending on the user. If you work in a quiet office where distracting coworkers is a concern, you may want to choose a quieter model. Our testing team also noticed that the keys are a bit hard to press on this device, and to get them to work, they have to move rather far. If you are a light typer or somebody used to a keyboard with low-profile buttons, this device may not be the right choice. Flaws aside, we still think this is a great choice for somebody ready to relieve their wrists without going to extremes with their purchase.
Our testing team found that the Logitech K350 was the easiest ergonomic to learn with.
If you need a comfy pad for your palms and wrists, look no further than the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic. This model has an extra-large pad that provides an area for resting your palms and wrists. The pad nearly matches the size of the area of the keys themselves, so your hands will never get achy from sitting on a hard desk all day. The separated number pad included with the Sculpt is wireless, perfect for those who want to customize their workspace layout completely. Our favorite feature of the Sculpt is that it's quiet, creating a peaceful workspace, both for the user and the people around them.
For those that like lots of media keys and shortcuts, the Microsoft Sculpt is not the best option. While there are shortcuts to functions such as play, pause, and skip, they are shared with the function keys, and you'll need to toggle between them to have them operate as desired. We also noticed that to get the keys to register, you must press them further than most other keyboards. If you're used to a modern keyboard with a shallow actuation depth, this might take some getting used to. That said, this model is the way to go if you're aiming for an ergonomic keyboard with a big, comfortable palm and wrist rest.
Our testing team found that the Logitech Ergo K860 is on the quieter end of the scale, which is nice for those working in crowded offices or who don't want extra noise in the house. This model has connectivity for up to three devices, and it's easy to toggle between them with three dedicated buttons located between the qwerty and the number pad. For those who like negative tilt, the K860 has three angles — 0°, -4°, and -7°.
The Logitech Ergo K860 has media keys, but we aren't thrilled to discover that you must hold the function key to use them. Additionally, this model is huge. Although some folks may not mind the size, those with a smaller desk or a standing desk converter might need a more compact model.
The K860 has dedicated buttons for toggling between three devices.
The Kinesis Advantage2 KB600 has some attractive traits. We were pleased to find out that it will work straight out of the box with any operating system — some models require drivers and plug-ins to set up for specific computers. This device also has response keys that mechanically let you know when the button is about to register so that you'll never need to bottom the keys out, which can significantly reduce impact, especially over months or years. The qwerty keyboard's two halves are separated by a reasonable degree of distance. If you feel like your current model should be wider, this is a great choice.
If you're a big fan of large, obvious shortcut and media keys, you may not appreciate the Kinesis Advantage2. Although the keyboard is highly customizable and supports completely different lettering layouts, changing them takes some serious know-how and dedication. This device is particularly hard to become comfortable with if you're used to a standard keyboard. It may be worth learning over time, especially if it adds to productivity and relieves pain, but be prepared to deal with a big learning curve. Despite its drawbacks, the Kinesis Advantage2 is still a good option for those looking for wide shoulder width, a plug-and-play interface, or keys to minimize impact.
The unique setup of this model is perfect for those that like to keep their hands spaced out.
It's hard to beat the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic 4000 if you're shopping on a budget — this model costs a fraction of many others we tested. Its built-in articulated lateral split, slight vertical tenting, and deep wrist rest make it comfortable to use. If you're a fan of shortcut keys, you'll love this model. The Natural 4000 has many preprogrammed media keys and programmable buttons that immediately direct you to your email, websites, and folders. They even thought of adding a zoom toggle above the spacebar for when the font on the screen is too small to read comfortably.
Strangely, the spacebar was unusually loud, even though the rest of the buttons were relatively quiet. Besides that, we found a few other models in our review to be a bit more comfortable overall. Still, we think these are small trade-offs for the value and performance offered by the Microsoft Natural 4000, especially if you're used to a traditional keyboard.
If you want an economic keyboard, but you don't want to drain your bank account, we recommend the 4000.
Credit: Laura Casner
Why Trust GearLab
It is the digital era, and we pride ourselves on our adept team of virtual wordsmiths. This product category was an obvious choice because here at GearLab, we like to keep our team as comfortable as possible. We started by researching the market and purchasing 8 top ergonomic keyboards. Our testers then logged hundreds of hours shredding the qwerty during the workweek and spent a hefty dose of leisure time gaming so that we could get an all-encompassing feel for each model's overall performance.
An avid gamer for decades, Austin also boasts an average typing speed of 75 words per minute, so you can trust that he has put these devices under the utmost amount of scrutiny. Ross has more than ten years of product testing experience, most recently in the tech product realm. He has reviewed all kinds of electronic devices, ranging from power tools to Bluetooth trackers. With their combined knowledge and experience, you can rest assured that you are reading an unbiased and straightforward review.
The mirrors on either side of the SafeType V902 allow you to see what your fingers are doing.
A gentle slope and a bit of articulation might be all of the relief that your wrists need.
We think the Kinesis Advantage2 is great for people that want an extra-wide model.
Analysis and Test Results
We used our in-house team of typing wizards to compare the keyboards side-by-side to meticulously assess every model's strengths and weaknesses in our review. We broke our score down into three metrics — ergonomics, learning curve, and noise.
Ergonomics
The primary purpose of these devices is to minimize discomfort. We dedicated the bulk of our evaluation to each model's natural feel and pleasantness for this reason. We used our panel of professional product testers to use each keyboard for multiple hours in an everyday work setting to measure its ergonomic value. After weeks of testing, it was clear which models were the most comfortable.
When it comes to ergonomics, finding the right model keyboard will largely depend on your inclinations, hand size, and potentially any pain or discomfort you experience with your current setup. It is imperative to consider these factors before you make a purchasing decision. The right model for you may be the worst model for somebody else, and vice versa — personal preference is everything.
Lateral Angle
One feature that nearly all ergonomic keyboards have in common is they split the keypad itself down the middle and angle the two halves outward toward the elbows to give the typist a more relaxed and natural feel. There is a large amount of variance between the keyboards on the market regarding this particular design piece.
The Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 and the Kinesis Freestyle2 are our two favorite models when it comes to lateral angle options. The Freestyle2 allows you to leave the two halves wholly assembled like a standard keyboard, articulate the device at the upper split using a flexible pivot, or completely detach the sides and angle them however you'd like. The Goldtouch can also be used as a standard keyboard or spread outward at the middle pivot up to 30 degrees.
Multi-piece models such as the Kinesis Freestyle 2 allow for an unlimited amount of positioning options.
Credit: Laura Casner
Most ergonomic keyboards have a set degree of lateral wrist angle, which seems to work fine for most people as long as you have a general idea of the angle you prefer. If you prefer an articulated and bent keyboard — which is still more ergonomic than a standard or laptop version — it's worth considering the Logitech K350 Wireless Wave and the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless.
Tenting
Tenting refers to the inclination between the two halves of a split keyboard. The purpose is to reduce hand pronation, which is when your palms face straight down. Your wrists are typing at more natural angles with a tented keyboard, which many people find much more comfortable than a flat keyboard. Ergonomic keyboards that are currently available on the market offer tenting angles anywhere from 0 to 90 degrees.
If you want a bit of adjustability and you're ready to spend a bit more on an accessory for your keyboard, the Kinesis Freestyle2 has a platform available for purchase that adjusts between 20 and 90 degrees.
Tented keyboards allow your wrists to rest at more natural angles.
Credit: Laura Casner
If you want a keyboard with adjustable tenting options but know that you aren't going to go too crazy with your angles, check out the Goldtouch GTN-0099. Sometimes it's nice not to worry about different settings and adjustments. If you want a static one-piece model that still offers a bit of tenting, check out the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless or the Logitech K350 Wireless Wave.
Slope
The slope of a keyboard refers to the angle set between your fingertips and the bottoms of your palms. This front-to-back setting can have a drastic effect on your overall comfort, and that comfort level largely depends on your chair and desk's height. For some, a keyboard with a slope toward the typist will make the most sense, while for others, a negative slope will be the best.
The Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless can be used flat or tilted forward by lifting two small kickstands below the front of the base.
Credit: Laura Casner
If you're seeking a positive slope, the Logitech K350 Wireless Wave offers settings at 0, 4, and 8 degrees. If you are looking for a negative slope, the Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 includes feet that provide a minimal angle, and the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless can be used flat or with a negative slope.
Palm Rest
One of the more luxurious features of many ergonomic keyboards is the palm rest. If you are a typist that leans heavily on your palms, this feature is a must-have. The Logitech K350 Wireless Wave and the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless are good options for this feature.
Palm rest size and positioning is an essential factor to consider while shopping for an ergonomic keyboard.
Credit: Laura Casner
Learning Curve
If you are used to typing on a traditional keyboard, or especially on a laptop, adjusting to a raised, vertical, or articulated keyboard will take some getting used to. We took detailed notes on which keyboards we thought were more challenging to learn to use and which ones were intuitive and simple to use right from the get-go.
The easiest ergonomic keyboards to get used to are the ones that are most similar to standard and laptop keyboards. If you want an ergonomic feel but don't want to spend much time cutting into productivity to make the switch, we think the Logitech K350 Wireless Wave and Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless are fantastic options.
The easiest ergonomic keyboards to get used to are those closest to traditional models.
Credit: Laura Casner
Our favorite learning models are the most adjustable because you can begin with a standard layout and try out the angles and setting to see which are the best for your individual needs. The Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 is the best for this if you're looking for a standalone model. If you're ready to accessorize, we recommend the Kinesis Freestyle2.
If you're looking to ease into a different hand and wrist positioning than you're currently used to, we'd recommend an adjustable model such as the Goldtouch V2.
Credit: Laura Casner
Noise
The amount of sound that these devices produce can be a deciding purchasing factor for some people and an insignificant element for others. If you work in an office, your coworkers might find your keyboard to be boisterous and distracting. On the other hand, if you're using it for gaming at home, you likely already have the volume on your speakers turned up, so extra noises may not matter. We used our panel of professional product testers to subjectively judge each model in case there were any that were especially loud or annoying.
The Goldtouch GTN-0099 is about average, and we did not find it annoying in the slightest. Next, the Logitech K350 Wave isn't too loud, so long as you aren't rampaging on the keys. The Kinesis Freestyle2 was only slightly louder than the Logitech. Finally, we found that the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless is noisy if you are a quick typist, but not so bad for those who type at an average or slow pace.
In a crowded workspace, keyboard noise levels can make a big difference to people sharing your area.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Conclusion
Ergonomic keyboards are a fantastic tool to help your typing experience or gaming life become more comfortable. The devices that we tested provide an array of different features, and each one may not be the best choice for a different person. In an ocean of products, it is our goal to help you navigate to the model that best suits you and your personal needs.
