Do you feel tired and have muscle aches after spending several hours in front of the computer?
Screen work is far from harmless for the body. The static effort exerted by the forearms and the prolonged extension of the wrists while typing can accelerate the onset of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
These first warning signs should make you rethink the ergonomics of your workstation.
Let's discover how an ergonomic keyboard is effective, what its benefits are, and how to choose the right one.
Summary (table) of the best ergonomic keyboards
|
Model |
Keyboard Type |
Strengths |
|
Logitech Ergo K860 |
Curved Split |
Maximum comfort, quick to get used to |
|
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard |
Curved Split |
Renowned for its optimal comfort |
|
Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard |
Curved |
Premium range, very comfortable |
|
Kinesis Freestyle2 |
Modular Split |
Customizable position |
|
Kinesis Advantage2 |
Concave Keyboard |
Maximum comfort Intensive use |
|
Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard |
Adjustable Split |
Adjustable hand opening |
|
Perixx Periboard-612 |
Compact |
Good value for money |
|
Logitech Wave Keys |
Compact Curved |
More compact form factor, suitable for small spaces |
|
TypeMatrix 2030 |
Orthogonal Compact |
Limits finger movement |
|
Matias Ergo Pro |
Split, Mechanical |
Precise typing Suitable for intensive use |
What is an ergonomic keyboard?
An ergonomic keyboard is specially designed to limit prolonged strain on the hands, wrists, forearms, and shoulders while typing.
Unlike a classic computer keyboard, whose key layout requires wrist flexion and rotation, an ergonomic keyboard aims to maintain a natural position as much as possible.
The goal of a keyboard better adapted to morphology is to provide greater comfort to reduce muscle and joint tension.
Why use an ergonomic keyboard?
Prevent pain and limit the risk of wrist and hand MSDs
Santé Publique France reported 44,492 sick leaves in 2019 caused by musculoskeletal disorders.
The leading cause of work-related morbidity and also the primary cause of compensation for occupational diseases in France, MSDs have become a scourge to combat. According to l'Assurance Maladie, MSDs increased by 6.7% between 2023 and 2024.
Ailments of the joints, muscles, and tendons primarily appear in the upper limbs, following prolonged strain on:
- Wrists and fingers (31%): this can cause carpal tunnel syndrome (compression of the median nerve) or thumb tendinitis, also called De Quervain's tenosynovitis (inflammation of the lateral tendons of the wrist and at the base of the thumb).
- Shoulders (37%): with a risk of rotator cuff syndrome (irritation of the shoulder tendons).
- Elbows (23%): this can lead to lateral epicondylitis, an injury to the elbow tendons.
Professional activity plays a major role in the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders. Classic computer keyboards constantly solicit the forearms, keep the wrists bent, and raise the shoulders. This demanding posture increases the risk of MSDs.
The ergonomic keyboard adapts to your morphology instead of straining your body.
It helps reduce tension in the hands, wrists, forearms, and even shoulders, as it limits:
- Constant wrist extension
- Their deviation
- Forearm rotation
Improve overall posture at the office
Improving your posture at the office is essential to preserving your health. Hands properly positioned on an adapted keyboard facilitate the opening of the rib cage.
In this more comfortable position, the risk of tension is reduced: shoulders no longer rise, trapezius muscles and neck relax.
Reduce fatigue during prolonged use
Our body is not made to remain immobile; prolonged static sitting increases health risks. Muscle fatigue, linked to office work, is the first sign of an ailment that can quickly worsen.
As such, an ergonomic keyboard prevents the tensions accumulated by constraining postures, especially if you work on a computer all day.
Increase productivity
The ergonomics of the computer keyboard promotes concentration and increases productivity. It's not about typing faster, but about sustaining performance throughout the day.
Thanks to the comfort of an adapted workstation and the use of an ergonomic keyboard, breaks are no longer as necessary to relieve pain and muscle tension.
Is an ergonomic keyboard really effective?
Scientific evidence shows that using an ergonomic keyboard can significantly reduce MSD-related symptoms (pain and tension), without loss of typing speed.
However, an ergonomic keyboard alone is not enough to combat MSDs. To be truly effective, the keyboard must be integrated into a global ergonomic approach to the workstation.
Clinical trials published in 2021 show that an adapted workspace arrangement reduces pain in the neck, shoulders, back, wrists, and hands.
How to choose your ergonomic keyboard?
According to your pain (wrist, shoulder, forearm)
If you suffer from chronic pain, the choice of keyboard should focus on your tension areas.
An ergonomic keyboard for wrist pain
Opt for a keyboard with wrist rests to promote forearm alignment and limit wrist extension.
An ergonomic keyboard designed to combat carpal tunnel syndrome offers a negative tilt (the front of the keyboard is elevated).
An anti-tendinitis ergonomic keyboard is separated into two blocks (split) or has a "V" shape.
An effective ergonomic keyboard for shoulder pain
Opt for a compact keyboard, which reduces arm spread and unnecessary ranges of motion.
An ergonomic keyboard to combat forearm pain
A split or curved keyboard helps limit forearm rotation and offers a more natural position.
According to your use (office, telework, intensive)
For classic office use, a standard ergonomic keyboard provides sufficient comfort.
For telework or intensive keyboard use, opt for a compact, split, or curved model that aligns more naturally with the wrists, forearms, and shoulders to limit tension. Adding a wrist rest can also offer more comfort.
According to your configuration (Mac / Windows) and compatibility
Before any purchase, it is important to check the keyboard's compatibility with your computer and the operating system you are using.
Even though most ergonomic keyboards work on both Mac and Windows, some features may be exclusive to a specific operating system.
According to the workspace
The workspace available to you influences the choice of keyboard. A compact, wireless keyboard adapts well to small desks, while larger keyboards with wrist rests are better suited for large workspaces.
According to budget and brands
The price of an ergonomic keyboard varies greatly depending on the brand, features offered, and quality of finish:
- An entry-level keyboard generally costs around €50.
- Most brands (Logitech, Microsoft, Perixx, Kinesis) offer quality ergonomic keyboards for a budget between €80 and €150.
- For a high-end ergonomic keyboard, expect to pay more than €200.
Different types of ergonomic keyboards
Split keyboard (separated into two)
The split keyboard is separated into two halves, one for the left hand and one for the right hand.
Advantages
The split ergonomic keyboard offers a more natural hand position. It promotes the alignment of wrists and forearms and thus allows for:
- Avoiding wrist extension
- Minimizing forearm rotation
- Reducing tension in the shoulders and wrists
For whom?
The split keyboard provides maximum comfort. If you suffer from chronic pain or are an intensive computer keyboard user, then the split keyboard is for you.
Model examples
Split ergonomic keyboards on the market such as the Kinesis Freestyle2, the Matias Ergo Pro, or the Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard, offer varied features depending on needs (adjustable keyboard position, mechanical keys, etc.)
Curved / contour keyboard
The curved (or contour) keyboard is the most popular ergonomic keyboard. As its name suggests, the curved keyboard forms a curve that follows the natural arc of the arms and hands.
Advantages
- Provides better typing comfort
- Quick to get used to
For whom?
The curved keyboard is ideal for a smooth transition to an ergonomic keyboard and more comfort.
Model examples
Among the best curved keyboard models are the Logitech Wave/Ergo K860 or the Microsoft Sculpt.
Compact ergonomic keyboard
The compact keyboard offers a tighter key layout by removing the numeric keypad, to limit shoulder spread and bring the mouse closer to the body's axis.
Advantages
Compact ergonomic keyboards are particularly interesting for:
- Saving desk space
- Reducing tension in the right shoulder
- Improving overall posture
For whom?
Compact ergonomic keyboards are recommended for:
- Small workspaces
- Those who use the numeric keypad infrequently
Model examples
Among the compact ergonomic keyboard models, you'll find the Perixx Periboard-612, which offers excellent value for money, or the TypeMatrix 2030, which features an orthogonal key layout.
Keyboard with integrated wrist rest
Some ergonomic keyboards feature an integrated padded wrist rest to improve posture. The ergonomic keyboard with a wrist rest helps align the wrists more closely with the forearms, reducing their inclination.
A source of comfort, the wrist rest should support the palm of the hand, not the wrist itself. It should not be used as a permanent support, encouraging a fixed posture, as this risks increasing pressure on the carpal tunnel.
Advantages
The main benefits of keyboards with wrist rests are:
- Typing comfort
- Better wrist alignment
- Reduced fatigue during prolonged keyboard use
Who is it for?
Keyboards with wrist rests are recommended for intensive users.
Examples of models
Many ergonomic keyboards are designed with wrist rests, such as the Microsoft Ergonomic Desktop or the Logitech Ergo K860.
Wireless vs. Wired Keyboards
A wireless keyboard offers greater freedom of movement and helps maintain a clutter-free desk. It is also the ideal keyboard for height-adjustable desks.
Wired keyboards, on the other hand, are often less expensive than wireless ones and do not require recharging, ensuring a permanent connection.
Desk Pain: Why the Keyboard is Only Part of the Problem?
An ergonomic keyboard alone cannot alleviate pain related to an uncomfortable posture. To be fully effective, it must be integrated into a workspace specifically designed to prevent strain.
Ergonomics: From Furniture to Accessories, Including Attitude
The comfort of a workstation lies in a holistic approach: an ergonomic setup combined with good habits can truly make a difference.
Therefore, it's important to:
- Choose appropriate ergonomic furniture and accessories for your needs
- Adjust the height of your desk, chair, and screen
- Adopt a seating position that allows you to change positions regularly to avoid staying fixed
- Maintain good posture at your desk (straight back and head, feet flat on the floor, etc.)
- Take active breaks to move your body and relieve tension
- Stay in shape by exercising regularly
The Winning Duo: Pairing it with an Ergonomic Mouse
Among office workers, overuse of the hands and constant wrist flexion accelerate the onset of MSDs (tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, computer mouse syndrome, etc.).
Combining an ergonomic keyboard and mouse allows for a much more natural hand position. A vertical mouse prevents "breaking" the wrist and reduces pressure on tendons and the carpal tunnel.
The Importance of Dynamic Seating
Wrist pain caused by long hours spent sitting at a desk is not solely the result of an unsuitable keyboard. Overall posture plays a major role in the onset of MSDs and work fatigue.
Sitting at the correct height relative to your desk allows you to align your wrists and elbows with the keyboard:
- If your office chair is too low, wrist flexion increases.
- If your chair is set too high, it leads to pelvic tilt, a hunched back, and a forward-tilted head.
The entire postural chain is thus unbalanced.
Conversely, an ergonomic sitting posture keeps the shoulders relaxed, feet flat on the floor, and knees forming a 90° angle.
Dynamic seating is recommended to maintain a more natural posture, integrate movement throughout your workday, and reduce tension.
For example, balance ball chairs encourage constant micro-movements to maintain position and adjust balance, promoting pelvic mobility. Bloon Active Seating™ strengthens the abdominal core and promotes spinal alignment. By staying active while sitting, you combat a sedentary lifestyle and promote your well-being.
Ergonomic Keyboard vs. Ergonomic Mouse
The ergonomic keyboard and ergonomic mouse are complementary elements of a work environment that prioritizes your comfort.
Each has its own characteristics aimed at limiting MSDs and fatigue caused by demanding fixed positions.
While the ergonomic keyboard reduces typing strain, the ergonomic mouse is designed to relieve tension associated with prolonged computer mouse use.
Comparison: The 10 Best Ergonomic Keyboards
Ergonomic Keyboards for Beginners
1. Logitech Ergo K860
The Logitech Ergo K860 is the leading split curved ergonomic keyboard for the general public, ideal for getting started.
Advantages
Easy and quick to get used to, the Logitech split keyboard offers both a split and curved design to provide maximum comfort.
Disadvantages
Its dimensions make the keyboard a bit bulky, which may not be suitable for small spaces. Its full size does not allow for position adjustment.
Budget
The Logitech Ergo K860 allows you to get an ergonomic keyboard at a lower cost, with an average budget between €80 and €110.
2. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard
Usage
The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is another leading split curved ergonomic keyboard, popular with the general public for its optimal comfort, even during long typing sessions.
Advantages
Its design promotes a more natural posture and offers maximum comfort over time.
Disadvantages
The separate numeric keypad may seem less practical and more cumbersome.
Budget
Expect to budget between €100 and €150 for a Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard.
3. Logitech Wave Keys
Usage
With the Wave Keys keyboard, Logitech offers a more compact version than the K860, better suited for teleworking and small desks.
Advantages
Its compact format allows it to be easily integrated anywhere, even in the smallest spaces. It is also easy to transport.
Disadvantages
Less ergonomic than a split keyboard, the compact wavy keyboard does not offer the same level of comfort.
Budget
The Wave Keys is ideal for small budgets. Its price range is between €70 and €100.
Modular Split Keyboards: Optimal Ergonomics
4. Kinesis Freestyle2
Usage
The Kinesis Freestyle2 is a modular split keyboard specially designed for intensive use.
Advantages
Very flexible, the Freestyle2 offers two completely separable and adjustable parts for maximum comfort. It's the keyboard to adopt to prevent pain and MSDs related to intense typing.
Disadvantages
An adaptation period is necessary to get used to it.
Budget
Expect to pay between €120 and €180 for a Kinesis Freestyle2 keyboard.
5. Goldtouch Adjustable
Usage
The Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard is recommended for professionals who want a fully modular keyboard.
Advantages
This adjustable split keyboard allows you to adjust the hand opening to customize your posture.
Disadvantages
Less intuitive than classic keyboards, getting used to the Goldtouch requires an adaptation period.
Budget
The budget for the Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard is between €110 and €160.
Premium Models for Intensive Use
6. Matias Ergo Pro
Usage
This mechanical split keyboard, featuring individual mechanical contacts under each key, is particularly recommended for high-volume typing.
Advantages
Its mechanical keyboard offers precise typing and optimal comfort, very pleasant during long sessions.
Disadvantages
As it is more technical, its price reflects this, and the adaptation period is longer.
Budget
Expect to pay around €115 to acquire this high-end mechanical keyboard.
7. Microsoft Surface Ergonomic
Usage
This premium curved keyboard is designed for intensive use.
Advantages
The Microsoft Surface Ergonomic offers smooth typing and a sleek design with meticulous finishes.
Disadvantages
Its dimensions are not suitable for small spaces, and its high price may exclude users on a tight budget.
Budget
The average budget for investing in a Microsoft Surface Ergonomic is around €140.
Atypical and Advanced Formats
8. TypeMatrix 2030
Usage
This orthogonal keyboard is designed for experienced typing professionals.
Advantages
The orthogonal keyboard is perfect for reducing pain, due to the arrangement of its keys which limits finger movement.
Disadvantages
The atypical format of the orthogonal keyboard is not suitable for everyone. Even for the most experienced, getting used to it requires some adaptation time.
Budget
The price of a TypeMatrix 2030 keyboard is between €180 and €230.
9. Kinesis Advantage2
Usage
The Kinesis Advantage 2 is reserved for intensive and experienced users.
Advantages
The concave shape of its keys makes the keyboard very ergonomic and highly efficient for high volumes of typing.
Disadvantages
The concave shape of the keys requires a long learning period to adapt. Its atypical format also drives up the purchase price.
Budget
The budget for the Kinesis Advantage2 is over €400.
The Accessible Alternative for Small Budgets
10. Perixx Periboard-612
Usage
The Perixx Periboard-612 provides an ergonomic and economical solution for those on a tight budget.
Advantages
The Perixx Periboard-612 offers excellent value for money.
Disadvantages
Its ergonomics could be further developed, and its finishes could be more refined.
Budget
With a budget of around €70, it's the ideal keyboard for those on a shoestring budget.
Common Ergonomic Mistakes at the Office to Avoid at All Costs
When working on a screen, one might mistakenly believe that a single solution can resolve the pain experienced after a day of sitting still.
However, the entire work environment needs to be rethought to reduce tension.
Here are the common ergonomic mistakes made by screen workers:
Believing that the keyboard is enough to solve all problems
Workstation ergonomics must be considered as a whole to truly impact health. The keyboard is just one element among many for adding more comfort.
Not adjusting screen, desk, and seat height
To reduce tension in the neck, shoulders, and arms, it's essential to adjust your furniture to your body shape. Adjust the height of your seat, desk, and screen to maintain:
- A straight back
- Head aligned with the spine
- Feet flat on the floor
- Elbows at desk height
- Knees forming a 90° angle, slightly lower than your hips.
Neglecting the ergonomic mouse
While working on a screen, the mouse is sometimes used more than the keyboard. Therefore, the risk of MSDs caused by intensive use of the computer mouse should not be overlooked.
The combination of an ergonomic keyboard and mouse is very effective in preventing tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other wrist or forearm pains.
Maintaining a prolonged static posture
The ergonomics of your workstation cannot erase the accumulated tension from a day spent sitting in a static position. There's no point in investing in a state-of-the-art ergonomic keyboard if you adopt the wrong posture and give no rest to your muscles, tendons, and joints.
The body is made to move, so the best position is one that allows you to integrate constant movement, regularly change your support points, and engage your deep muscles to adjust your posture. This is precisely what Bloon ball chairs offer: regularly varying positions to adopt the correct posture.
Ergonomic Keyboards FAQ
What is the best ergonomic keyboard?
The best ergonomic keyboard is one that suits your needs and work environment. A well-suited keyboard should be chosen based on your pains, usage, and budget.
Ergonomic or classic keyboard?
An ergonomic keyboard better respects the natural position of the hands, wrists, and forearms. It reduces tension and can prevent musculoskeletal disorders.
Ergonomic keyboard for carpal tunnel?
Split models (separated into two blocks) with wrist rests are ideal ergonomic keyboards for carpal tunnel syndrome. They prevent median nerve compression and preserve the natural alignment of the wrists.
Ergonomic keyboard for remote work?
Adopting an ergonomic keyboard for remote work improves your daily comfort. However, the keyboard must be an integral part of an overall ergonomic setup (adapted screen, desk, and seat height) to be fully effective.
Is it useful against pain?
While a classic keyboard can cause fatigue and pain, an ergonomic keyboard is designed to limit muscle and joint tension. Wrist rests, split or curved keyboards – the design of the ergonomic keyboard is intended to offer maximum comfort of use and to adapt to your body shape.
How long does it take to get used to an ergonomic keyboard?
Generally, a few days are enough to get used to an ergonomic keyboard. Some models, very different from standard keyboards, such as orthogonal keyboards, require a longer adaptation time (about two weeks).
What is the best keyboard for relieving elbow tendinitis?
The best ergonomic keyboards for relieving elbow tendinitis are split or curved keyboards. These models respect the alignment of the hands and arms and limit tension.
Microsoft or Logitech ergonomic keyboard: which to choose?
Both manufacturers offer ergonomic keyboard models with similar comfort and quality. Microsoft and Logitech are leaders in the ergonomic keyboard market and offer different ranges depending on the desired level of ergonomics and budget.
Ergonomic keyboard, do you also need a vertical mouse?
Yes, the ergonomic mouse is a complementary keyboard accessory that fits into overall postural coherence. Like the keyboard, the computer mouse puts a lot of strain on the hand and wrist. An ergonomic mouse can therefore limit tension and reduce fatigue.
Ergonomic keyboard and wrist pain: is it enough?
An ergonomic keyboard alone does not alleviate pain, such as wrist pain, caused by the biomechanical constraints of computer work. It is part of a set of factors (seating, screen height, desk, mouse, duration of immobility...). To reduce pain, overall workstation ergonomics is recommended.
Conclusion
The ergonomic keyboard provides real daily comfort to reduce joint and muscle pain related to typing. Curved, split, with wrist rests, the many models of ergonomic keyboards meet different needs, uses, and budgets.
However, the ergonomic keyboard must be part of a global ergonomic approach to the workstation. Alone, it cannot remedy all the ailments caused by screen work and the static seated posture it entails.
To prevent musculoskeletal disorders and limit tension, each element must adapt to your morphology and naturally accompany your movements.