Ergonomic keyboards provide much-needed comfort and relief for people who spend hours typing everyday. The curved designs, wrist rests, and specialized keys reduce strain on the wrists, hands and arms, helping prevent injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
I‘ve researched and reviewed the top ergonomic keyboards on the market today based on comfort, ergonomic design, extra features, connectivity options, and price. Here are the 6 best ergonomic keyboards you can buy in 2023.
1. Logitech ERGO K860 – Best Overall
Key Features:
- Curved keyframe reduces reach and strain
- Adjustable split keyboard layout
- Built-in palm rest
- Customizable special keys
- Shortcut keys for common functions
- Wireless Bluetooth or USB receiver connectivity
The Logitech ERGO K860 is the best overall ergonomic keyboard, with an innovative design focused on reducing strain during long typing sessions.
The curved keyframe brings keys closer inwards so your fingers don‘t have to stretch, promoting a natural hand position. And the adjustable split layout allows you to separate the keyboard for shoulder comfort.
An integrated palm rest cushions your wrists to further avoid fatigue. You also get eight customizable function keys to simplify shortcuts and one-touch controls for things like volume and media playback.
With wireless Bluetooth and USB connectivity options, battery life up to 2 years, and cross-platform compatibility, the Logitech ERGO K860 works perfectly with any desktop setup. It‘s the top choice for all-day comfort no matter your OS or devices.
2. Kinesis Freestyle Edge – Best for Programmers
Key Features:
- Split adjustable layout
- Genuine Cherry MX mechanical switches
- RGB backlighting
- Fully programmable keys
- Remappable macros
- "Lift kit" tenting accessory
- Wired USB connection
The Kinesis Freestyle Edge is a top-of-the-line ergonomic keyboard made specifically for heavy typing and advanced key customization. It‘s the ultimate option for programmers.
Genuine Cherry MX mechanical switches provide precision input with each keypress. And full RGB backlighting offers dynamic illumination effects during late night coding sessions.
Every single key can be remapped or programmed with custom macro functions. You also get a dedicated "SmartSet" key for on-the-fly reconfigurations.
While the adjustable split layout keeps your shoulders relaxed, an additional lift kit accessory lets you tent the keyboard halves at varying angles for even better ergonomics.
With this level of customizability and comfort, the Kinesis Freestyle Edge maximizes productivity for developers, programmers, writers and other power users.
3. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic – Best Wireless
Key Features:
- Bluetooth wireless technology
- Split tented keyboard design
- Curved layout follows fingers
- Cushioned palm rest
- Compatible with Windows, MacOS, iOS
- Long 2-year battery life
- 6 months battery life for number pad
For exceptional wireless connectivity and split ergonomic comfort, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic keyboard is a superb choice.
Utilizing Bluetooth technology, the keyboard connects seamlessly to desktops, laptops, tablets and phones with no cables or dongles required. And integrated batteries provide up to 2 years of use between changes.
The split and sloped layout keeps wrists straight and shoulders relaxed. A curved key shape mimics the natural motion of your fingertips. And a padded palm rest prevents contact stress on hard surfaces.
With cross-platform compatibility, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic works great whether you switch between Windows and Mac machines, or even iOS and Android mobile devices.
If you want one ultra comfortable wireless keyboard for all your typing needs at home, office and on the go, this product from Microsoft delivers exceptional flexibility and ergonomics.
4. Perixx PERIBOARD-512 – Best Budget Pick
Key Features:
- Split adjustable design
- Integrated palm rest
- Low-profile keys
- Multimedia hotkeys
- Wired USB connection
- Affordable price
The Perixx PERIBOARD-512 is an highly affordable split ergonomic keyboard without compromising on core features.
The adjustable split layout keeps wrists straight and shoulders relaxed. And a built-in palm rest cushions against hard surfaces to prevent soreness.
Multimedia and internet hotkeys provide convenient access to functions like volume control, music playback, email and web browsing. Low-profile keys allow for quicker and quieter typing.
While budget oriented, the PERIBOARD-512 still focuses on delivering essential ergonomic benefits for typists through its split form factor, wrist support and special keys.
For shoppers wanting an inexpensive starter ergonomic keyboard, the Perixx PERIBOARD-512 supplies basic typing comfort at a very wallet-friendly price point.
5. Logitech ERGO K350 – Best Non-Split Design
Key Features:
- Curved keyboard layout
- Built-in wrist rest
- Adjustable tilt legs
- Logitech unifying receiver
- 2.4Ghz wireless connection
- 2-year battery life
While most ergonomic keyboards utilize a split design, the Logitech ERGO K350 instead opts for an innovative curved shape in a single unified frame.
Mimicking the natural position of your hands, the waveform layout brings keys inward to reduce stretching. A soft cushioned palm rest keeps wrists comfortable. And adjustable reverse tilt legs allow you to find the perfect typing angle.
The slim keyboard can slide under low profile monitors while still providing front height adjustments. And utilizing Logitech‘s unifying receiver, the K350 seamlessly pairs to computers via 2.4Ghz wireless.
For typists wanting ergonomic benefits without a split keyboard style, the Logitech ERGO K350 supplies terrific value and comfort in sleek singular body.
6. Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless – Best for Small Spaces
Key Features:
- Compact 60% keyboard size
- Split spacebar
- Left-side trackball mouse
- 2.4Ghz wireless dongle
- Wired USB connectivity
- Rechargeable built-in battery
While full-size ergonomic keyboardsdeliver comfort, their large footprintmay not work on small desks. That‘s where the ultra-compact Kensington Pro Fit Ergo steps in.
At 60% scale, it takes up much less space while still integrating core ergonomic concepts through its split spacebar layout and integrated trackball mouse placement.
The left-side trackball reduces arm movement to control the cursor. A split space key brings thumbs closer together. And 2.4Ghz wireless technology connects the small keyboard to devices without clutter.
For workspace-constrained typists needing an ergonomic solution, the tiny yet comfortable Kensington Pro Fit Ergo keyboard and mouse combo fits anywhere.
What To Consider When Buying an Ergonomic Keyboard
Adjustability
Being able to tweak the keyboard‘s layout and angle is key for achieving optimal comfort and reducing strain. Consider options with split designs, detachable number pads, tilt legs, and tenting abilities.
Switch Type
The actual keys should have the right tactile response and travel depth for your typing style. Membrane, mechanical and scissor switch keyboards provide different feels.
Wrist Support
Integrated or detachable wrist/palm rests prevent stress injuries by cushioning contact points along the edge of the keyboard.
Connectivity
Wired and wireless ergonomic keyboards each have their own pros and cons. Evaluate your workspace setup and port availability to decide which works best.
Special Keys
Extra programmable keys, one-touch media controls, and specialty buttons can simplify shortcuts and streamline workflows. But they do add complexity.
Benefits of Ergonomic Keyboards
- Reduce wrist, hand and arm fatigue
- Prevent musculoskeletal disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome
- Allow for neutral body positioning
- Encourage proper curved hand and finger angles
- Improve typing accuracy
- Boost productivity through comfort
Wrapping Up
Investing in an ergonomic keyboard greatly improves comfort, health and efficiency for anyone who types frequently. And adding options like split designs, customization features, wrist rests and specialty keys further enhances the experience.
Out of all the excellent ergonomic keyboards available today, the Logitech ERGO K860 is my top overall pick for its superb blend of comfort, wireless functionality and unique curved layout.
But keyboard needs can vary between users. Hopefully these reviews give you a better idea of which specific ergonomic model best fits your typing requirements.
