[Veltliner]

I wonder if any of you is using an ergonomic keyboard and what your experiences are?

I really like the clickety feeling of the mac keyboard, but maybe other keyboards are better for your hands and elbows if you spend many hours behind your computer.

[larrinski]

I recently switched over to the dvorak format, and that may make your hands feel better. There is a steep learning curve though...

[Veltliner]

What's the dvorak format?

Does it really feel better than a standard keyboard?

[larrinski]

It is a different key layout. It allows far more typing to be done on the main line, with most of the common keys above you. Here is a link to a wiki article.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvorak_Simplified_Keyboard

[Wiskedjak]

Dvorak is ergonomic in that the keys are more efficiently organized and using your primary fingers for the most commonly hit letters. As said, very steep learning curve, unless you're just learning to type. While you can simply switch your current keyboard to Dvorak through the OS, it's somewhat tricky to find a keyboard with the keys arranged in Dvorak format.



However, if you're looking for a split keyboard (the ones people usually refer to as "ergonomic") then I would say that there is no all-around best one as it become more an issue of which one fits you best. Of course, the easiest to try out are Microsoft and Logitech, and both are very well made. Personally, I prefer Microsoft's keyboards.

[Veltliner]

Thanks for the dvorak format info.

How about those keyboards, that break up the keys in two groups, and place them at an angle, which ressembles more the natural angle the hands have when you put them in front of you?

[Wiskedjak]

Originally Posted by Veltliner 

How about those keyboards, that break up the keys in two groups, and place them at an angle, which ressembles more the natural angle the hands have when you put them in front of you?

Those are the ones I was referring to as "split" keyboards. Some people love them, some hate them. I used an older Microsoft Natural Keyboard for a very long time and really liked it. Lately, though, I've switched to this Logitech to get rid of the number pad and the slimmer design. I haven't felt any difference in comfort.

[gradient]

I've been using the Microsoft Comfort Curve keyboard for awhile and its pretty good. It doesn't split the keyboard but just curves it, into a slight 'U' shape. I do find that it feels more natural for my arms and wrists then the traditional style keyboard, though it took a little be of getting used to at first.

[Veltliner]

I will definitely look at the curve keyboard.

Even though I am not sure yet if I switch at all.

The logitech in the link states it is windows only.

[gradient]

Any USB keyboard should work with osx, as far as I know. The mapping may be a little off, however - on my Microsoft keyboard I had to swap CMD and CTRL in the keyboard preferences to get them back in the right place.