Information for Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic keyboards have several advantages and disadvantages over traditional keyboards.

Ergonomic keyboards are cosmetically different from standard keyboards, and there are several design types to choose from when considering the purchase of an ergonomic keyboard. Also, an ergonomic keyboard may not be the right choice for everyone. Weigh the advantages and the disadvantages before your purchase.

Designs

Ergonomic keyboards are available in several different designs. Each design features a slightly different layout for the keys and other buttons found on a standard keyboard. Designs such as the fixed-angle split keyboard, specialist keyboards and one-handed keyboards all serve different functions and benefit different people.

Fixed-angle split keyboards have the keyboard split down the middle and spaced apart. These types of keyboards also come in several different styles. One such style places separate "Space" and "Enter" keys at each thumb, so minimal movement is required.

Specialist keyboards can help individuals with limited motor skills. These designs allow individuals to operate a series of switches that produce characters on screen, and may function by using touch alone without having to press a key.

One-handed keyboards come in many design possibilities such as half-QWERTY, which allows for certain keys to have multiple functions.

Advantages

The advantages of an ergonomic keyboard can be measured in multiple ways, and it all depends on what type of keyboard you need and how you want it to work for you. For example, a fixed-angle split keyboard works well for larger individuals or pregnant women, since the keyboards are split and allow for arms to not hug so closely to the user's body. One-handed keyboards are functional for individuals who are missing a limb or those who need to keep one hand free for other work-related activities while typing.

Disadvantages

Sometimes specialty keyboards require a bit of a learning curve to use, especially the specialist and one-handed keyboards, which can translate to a lower typing speed and less productivity. Some ergonomic keyboard designs may take up more space at a work station. An individual needs to assess these disadvantages and decide whether they are outweighed by the benefits.

References

• Ottowa Citizen: Blueprint for a Healthy Workstation
• NYSSCPA: Selecting a Keyboard
• Kinesis Corporation: Ergonomic Benefits of the Contoured Ergonomic Keyboard