Are Ergonomic Keyboards Worth It?

Whether you use a keyboard for work or recreation, they have become a vital part of our lives.

Most people use keyboards every day, whether as part of a desktop computer or built into a laptop.

Yet, most people experience discomfort when using keyboards.

If you want to change that, you should consider switching to an ergonomic keyboard. What are these devices?

Are they worth the money? We aim to answer these questions.

What Are Ergonomic Keyboards?

Essentially, ergonomics is a concept that focuses on making a person comfortable and efficient within the workspace.

Ergonomic keyboards are designed with the user in mind. This means that they are built to fit comfortably around certain body parts.

While standard keyboards maximize efficiency, they do not tend to be the most comfortable of devices.

Standard keyboards are just slabs of plastic that can be quite uncomfortable to use, particularly for the wrists.

This can lead to problems, such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). In contrast, ergonomic keyboards manage to be both convenient and comfortable.

There are loads of different types of ergonomic keyboards, which reflects the fact that everyone is different.

Here are some of the main varieties:

• Split design keyboard
• Contoured keyboard
• Concave keyboard
• Angled split keyboard

You should consider which keyboard is ideal for you before investing in one of these devices.

Are Ergonomic Keyboards Worth It?

Now that you fully understand what an ergonomic keyboard is, you can consider getting one.

Before you make a decision, we encourage you to read both sides of the argument.

This will allow you to determine whether or not an ergonomic keyboard is worth it.

Yes

The main benefit of ergonomic keyboards is that they can be more comfortable to use.

This reduces the risk of developing wrist and hand-based health problems.

This is an amazing advantage as it means that you won’t be in pain when using the keyboard.

Even if you have already developed a health issue, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, these keyboards are intended to alleviate symptoms.

Ergonomic keyboards can also strengthen the user’s posture.

Posture-related health problems are common among office workers, causing them to experience back pain.

Your muscle pain will be alleviated if you use an ergonomic keyboard.

Moreover, if ergonomic keyboards are utilized in workplaces, this could reduce injuries.

This would greatly benefit the company, as employee sickness would be reduced.

This would improve morale, save the company money, and increase efficiency.

Another reason why these keyboards may be worth it is that there are loads of different designs, as mentioned above.

Therefore, you can find one that is suitable for you.

For example, if you suffer from a particular health issue, you can find a keyboard designed to help you.

From a business perspective, ergonomic keyboards also demonstrate that an employer cares about their employees.

If you are considering buying keyboards for your office, it can help build a positive workplace environment.

This improved morale can lead to increased productivity. Finally, ergonomic keyboards are considered easy to use.

They are just like usual keyboards, but better designed.

You won’t have to worry about setting up these keyboards. All you need to do is plug them into your computer.

No

One of the reasons why you should not get an ergonomic keyboard is that it can adversely impact your typing speed.

The extent of the impact will depend on the style of ergonomic keyboard you select.

However, because many people are used to the design of a standard keyboard and have used them for years, typists are often slower when using different keyboards.

The design of ergonomic keyboards can also hinder typing speed. For instance, split keyboards result in keys being further apart.

This means that your finger will have to move further to type.

While this may not seem like a drastic impact, it can significantly reduce a person’s typing speed over a substantial period.

An additional downside of ergonomic keyboards is that they can be quite expensive.

They are often more expensive than typical keyboards, with many people paying 50% more for these products.

If you are shopping on a budget, ergonomic keyboards are not worth it.

Moreover, the claim that ergonomic keyboards can prevent health problems is contentious.

While the majority of research has found these claims to be valid, others haven’t.

These mixed results mean that while some users may feel much more comfortable when using an ergonomic keyboard, others may not experience such benefits.

Conclusion

In our opinion, ergonomic keyboards are only worth it if you use them a lot.

For example, if your job relies on you using a keyboard, you may want to invest in one.

Otherwise, they are not worth it for casual computer users. The price is simply too high and the potential benefits are not worth it.

If you decide to get an ergonomic keyboard, you should spend some time getting familiar with it.

This will help you to minimize the impact that it can have on your typing speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is An Ergonomic Mouse?

Like an ergonomic keyboard, an ergonomic mouse is designed to make the user experience more comfortable.

They have lots of different designs. For example, some ergonomic mice can allow you to program features.

Therefore, if there is an action on your mouse that you perform regularly, you can alter the device so that it does this in just a simple click.

What Keyboards Are Best For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Ergonomic keyboards, specifically those that are wave or curved shaped, are best for sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome.

These shapes are built to make keyboards more comfortable for users, specifically for the user’s hands and wrists.

Since CTS affects the wrists, this keyboard can ease symptoms of the condition.

Final Thoughts

There are lots of advantages and disadvantages to investing in an ergonomic keyboard.

As a consequence, you should weigh the pros and cons so that you can determine whether this device is suitable for you.

By using one of these devices, you can potentially maximize your workload!