Adjustable Split Keyboards

Are you debating about whether or not you need an adjustable split keyboard? Well, here is a simple test: place your fingers on the “home row” of your current standard keyboard (left hand fingers on “a-s-d-f” and right hand fingers on “j-k-l-;”). Now take a look at your wrists. Are they angled sideways? Is your hand in line with your forearm?

If your wrist is angled (therefore placing your hand out of alignment with your forearm), you may very well be better off using an adjustable split keyboard. Keeping your elbows at such a wide angle can make using a standard keyboard uncomfortable, and it could lead to typing injuries.

However, if your wrists were straight when you did the abovementioned test, then you likely have no reason to spend your money on an adjustable split keyboard. Rather, if you are experiencing typing pains, you may only need an inexpensive wrist rest or other ergonomic tool. To find out what is best for you, it is a good idea to talk with a medical specialist.

But if you do decide to purchase an adjustable split keyboard, first ask yourself these questions:

Size – Will it fit easily in my keyboard tray? Will it take up too much room on my desktop? Some split keyboards take up more room both vertically and/or horizontally than standard keyboards.
Adjustability – Does it adjust both horizontally and vertically? How well can I truly customize it? Are the split and tenting angles as large as I need them to be?
Ease of adjustability – Is it easy to adjust?\
Comfort – Are my hands and arms comfortable while using this keyboard? Are they in a natural position? Are my wrists straight?
Palm rest – Does it have a built-in palm rest? Do I need a palm rest?
Stability – How stable is it? Is it still stable when I have it angled as wide as possible?
Fixed or adjustable – Would a fixed-split keyboard be just as beneficial? If you can find a fixed-split keyboard that fits you well, you can likely save money by purchasing it instead of an adjustable one.
Additional strain – Do I feel additional strain on my upper arms, shoulders, and/or neck while using an adjustable split keyboard? If so, then it is a good idea to try out either a different adjustable split keyboard or a different type of alternative keyboard. It is not good to reduce the strain in one area of your body only to increase it somewhere else!

When searching for an alternative keyboard, never be afraid to ask questions, and never be afraid to try out a few different models before settling on just one.