How to choose a keyboard
Find a high performing keyboard with maximum comfort
All keyboards are designed to input information into a computer
Laptop
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Lumbar adjustment
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Backrest angle
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But they aren’t all created equal
Using an unsuitable keyboard set up may lead to
Muscle discomfort or pain
Pressure or strain to joints, ligaments or nerves
Acute or chronic arm, wrist or hand injuries
Treatment and rehabilitation costs
Reduced productivity
Around 20 tonnes of force is pushed through the fingers in an average work week when typing at just 40 words per minute!
Get comfortable with the right style of keyboard to fit you and the way you work
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Select the appropriate number pad configuration
No number pad
Shortens the keyboard width and reduces shoulder overreach to the mouse which may reduce discomfort. Use if number keys are not frequently used.
Detached
Separates the number pad for positioning flexibility. May be used to alternate use of hands or closer positioning of the mouse to reduce discomfort.
Connected
Traditional configuration for frequent use of the number pad. Increases reach distance to the mouse and risk of potential discomfort.
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Create a comfortable wrist angle
Maintaining a neutral wrist position may be more comfortable when typing
Linear
Standard design, may require user to type with outward turned wrists. May be associated with wrist discomfort in some users.
Split
Angled key configuration encourages naturally straight wrist posture and potential comfort for some users. Adjustable designs available.
Separated
Each side can be individually moved for comfort and user placement preference. The most flexible design to fit a user’s wrist posture.
And tilt positions
Level
Tend to encourage typing with hands down, forearms rotated and wrists extended. May be associated with wrist and forearm discomfort in some users.
Tented
Forearms are positioned in more neutral angle with less pressure to the wrist’s carpal tunnel. Fixed or adjustable tenting angle options available.
Negative tilt
Downward sloping angle away from the user reduces wrist extension. Feature can reduce forearm strain when typing
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Other features
Actuation force
Effect body force required to depress keys. Preferred between 0.5 N to 0.6 N to minimise users applying more force than required.
Programmable
Assign custom keyboard actions, rearrange keys, record macros, to increase comfort and boost productivity. QUERTY or endless alternative layouts.
Palm support
Reduce pressure, support the weight of the hands and reduce wrist extension. Not designed to rest the wrists as this may increase carpal tunnel pressure.
Overall size
Effect finger positioning and reach along the keys. Repetitively overreaching or cramped movements may lead to discomfort and hand fatigue.
Key mechanics
Mechanical keyboards have a premium reputation being more durable, responsive and configurable. Membrane keyboards are cheaper and quieter.
Invest in the right equipment to maintain productivity and promote long term comfort and health
Get set up with Swivel
Having the right equipment is only half the solution, it must be correctly adjusted to fit your body to maximise comfort and reduce risk of injury.
Commonly considered questions
Which is the best keyboard?
There’s likely many that will suit you, just ensure it is an ergonomically designed with the listed features to fit you and the way you work. Perhaps trial a few to find out.
Should I use an ‘ergonomic’ keyboard?
Ergonomics describes the ability to fit a keyboard to the user with the aim of being more comfortable and productive. So yes! Find a keyboard that encourages you to work with your arms in a more neutral posture without having to bend them to fit the keyboard design.
