When you come across the term “Custom Keyboard,” the first thoughts that come to mind are colorful, sleek, good-sounding, and thocky keyboards that enthusiasts create—hence the word custom. Another association with custom keyboards is the word expenses, which comes true because some can cost you thousands of pesos to have a more “premium” experience.
Along with the premium title, they also hold odd designs for the sake of ergonomics. These keyboards are designed to be more comfortable and efficient for users than traditional, flat ones.
What are the available ergonomic keyboards?
As of the time of writing, there are three well-known ergonomic keyboards: the split, contoured, and angled keyboard. If you look at the example below, it is a keyboard with all three in its design, and it looks mighty weird, to tell you honestly.
From Alan Resnick Official GIPHY
This is done so to allow the user a more natural typing position that reduces strain on the wrists, hands, and fingers. For a further run-down, check out the following descriptors:
- Contoured - These keyboards are shaped like domes or waves that help the arms feel natural when typing. Instead of laying flat on the table, it allows your arms and wrists to sit comfortably.
- Split - This is straight up a keyboard that is split in half. The keyboard is designed to come in segments that allow proper spacing between hands when typing.
- Angled - This type of keyboard is more prominent in brands that promote ergonomics because it provides users a ready-made wrist rest instead of a separate one.
What do you get from this?
The main selling point for these gimmicks is a reduced risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. This syndrome is a condition where the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, causing pain, numbness, and an overall weakness in the hand and fingers—a gamer’s worst nightmare. This is often caused by repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as typing or using a computer mouse for extended periods.
These keyboards are narrower and smaller, which reduces the strains your arms go through when reaching for certain letters. Additionally, they promote a comfortable posture overall and not just for your arms. Since split keyboards are specially segmented, they can be adjusted accordingly to your preferred arm position. If you sit closer to your desk, your elbows will tend to rest on it. The split keyboard will allow your arms to be in a reverse V position, which can then accommodate your forearm position better.
From Creative Courage Official GIPHY
If you have a hard time imagining that, just picture a gamer who tilts their keyboard just so their whole arm can rest on the desk. This will allow better posture and faster typing speeds.
Do you need it?
That question can only be answered by you. Having an optimized experience can lead to enjoyable moments at your desk instead of remorseful complaining at the end of your day. If you look beyond the “high-end” and unravel its practicality, even the price points of these custom ergonomic keyboards can be overlooked. Just make sure your pocket can actually purchase one without repercussions.
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