Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic keyboard consideration must start with the mouse and how the combination of mouse and keyboard affects your posture.

Prior to mice being ubiquitous, split or domed keyboard designs were thought to be ergonomic. However now the major issue for computer keyboard ergonomics is the length of keyboard and the effect of numeric and function keypads to the right of the standard keys. These extra keypads force the mouse to be further away from the computer and so the user’s elbow is further away from the body and their shoulder is holding a suspended arm. All this creates tension between the neck and hand and is the source of many painful RSI conditions.

Keyboard RSI where the problem liesOur recommendation is to select a good compact keyboard without numeric and function keypads and an ergonomic vertical mouse. If you need a number pad, consider having a separate one which can be pushed out of the way when you’re not using it. Your wrist shouldn’t be bent when using a keyboard so look for feet at the back so that the back can be raised slightly if necessary.

Video explaining why a compact keyboard is better than full-size

Ergonomic Mouse & Keyboard Buying Guide

The Evoluent VerticalMouse 4 regular size models which are sometimes called 'large' (Right Wireless, Right Mac, Right Bluetooth, Right and Left) are for hands at least about 7 inches or 178 mm from the tip of the middle finger to the wrist crease. Hands shorter than 7 inches/178 mm may be more suitable for the VerticalMouse 4 Small.

Evoluent mice sizing guide

Measure your hand from the first crease on your wrist to the tip of your middle finger.

  • SMALL 0-16 cm (0-6 ins approx)
  • MEDIUM 16-18 cm (6-7 ins approx)
  • LARGE 18 cm + (7 ins + approx)
Evoluent mice sizing guide

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