Best Arthritis Keyboards

If you’re living with arthritis, typing on a standard keyboard can be a painful and frustrating experience. The constant strain on your hands and wrists can exacerbate your symptoms and make it difficult to work or enjoy your favorite activities. But don’t despair – there are a variety of keyboards on the market specifically designed with the needs of people with arthritis in mind. In this article, we’ll review some of the best arthritis keyboards to help you find one that fits your needs and budget. From ergonomic designs to split keyboards and more, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Whether you’re a professional writer, a student, or just someone who enjoys spending time at the computer, an arthritis keyboard can make all the difference. Not only can it reduce pain and discomfort, but it can also help you work more efficiently and comfortably.

What is an Ergonomic Keyboard?

An ergonomic keyboard is a type of keyboard that is designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists, and to provide a more comfortable typing experience. These keyboards are often shaped in a way that follows the natural contours of the human hand, and may have features such as split keys, tenting, and palm rests to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. 

Ergonomic keyboards can be particularly beneficial for people with arthritis or other conditions that cause hand and wrist pain, as they can help to alleviate pressure on these joints and reduce the risk of further injury. Some ergonomic keyboards also have adjustable settings or customization options to allow users to tailor the keyboard to their specific needs and preferences.

Who Is an Ergonomic Keyboard Good for?

Ergonomic keyboards are good for anyone who spends a significant amount of time typing on a computer and wants to reduce strain on their hands and wrists. 

This includes office workers, writers, programmers, and students, among others. However, ergonomic keyboards may be especially beneficial for people who already experience hand or wrist pain, such as those with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions can make it difficult to use a standard keyboard for extended periods of time, and an ergonomic keyboard can help to alleviate pain and improve comfort. 

Additionally, ergonomic keyboards can be a good choice for people who are at risk of developing hand and wrist pain due to the nature of their work or hobbies, as they can help to prevent these issues from arising in the first place.

The 7 Best Keyboards for Arthritis

If you’re in the market for a new ergonomic keyboard, be sure to consider these top picks for people with arthritis.

Apple Magic Keyboard

The Apple Magic Keyboard is a great choice for people with arthritis who are looking for a comfortable and easy-to-use keyboard. One of the standout features of this keyboard is its flat and low design, which allows for minimal movement of the fingers and wrists. This can be especially beneficial for people with arthritis, as it reduces the strain on these joints and makes typing less painful. 

The keyboard also has Scissor switch keys, which are easy to press down and have a short traveling distance, making it easy to type quickly and accurately. Additionally, the Apple Magic Keyboard is wireless, has a reasonable battery life, and is cross-compatible, making it a versatile and convenient choice. While some users may miss the feedback of more traditional keyboards, the low-profile and easy-to-use design of the Apple Magic Keyboard makes it a great option for people with arthritis.

Sale
Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad: Wireless, Bluetooth, Rechargeable. Works with Mac, iPad, or iPhone; US English - White
  • WIRELESS, RECHARGEABLE CONVENIENCE — Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad connects wirelessly to your Mac, iPad, or iPhone via Bluetooth. And the rechargeable internal battery means no loose batteries to replace.
  • WORKS WITH MAC, IPAD, OR IPHONE — It pairs quickly with your device so you can get to work right away.
  • ENHANCED TYPING EXPERIENCE — Magic Keyboard delivers a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. Its extended layout features document navigation controls for quick scrolling and full-size arrow keys. The numeric keypad is ideal for spreadsheets and finance applications.
  • GO WEEKS WITHOUT CHARGING — The incredibly long-lasting internal battery will power your keyboard for about a month or more between charges. (Battery life varies by use.) Comes with a Lightning to USB Cable that lets you pair and charge by connecting to a USB port on your Mac.
  • SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS — Requires a Bluetooth-enabled Mac with macOS 10.12.4 or later, an iPad with iPadOS 13.4 or later, or an iPhone or iPod touch with iOS 10.3 or later.

Kinesis Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split Mechanical Keyboard

The Kinesis Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split Mechanical Keyboard is a top choice for people with arthritis who are looking for a keyboard that is both comfortable and programmable. 

One of the unique features of this keyboard is its adjustable linking cable, which allows users to customize the distance between the two key modules to suit their body type and preferences. The keyboard also has a zero degree slope form factor, which helps to reduce wrist extension and minimize strain on the joints. In addition to its ergonomic design, the Freestyle Pro offers full on-board programmability, allowing users to easily switch between different layouts or create their own. 

The keyboard also has Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches, which provide a low-force, tactile response to help reduce the impact on the fingers. For added comfort, the Freestyle Pro is also compatible with tenting accessories and padded palm supports. Overall, the Kinesis Freestyle Pro is an excellent choice for people with arthritis who want a customizable and comfortable keyboard.

Sale
KINESIS USB Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split Mechanical Keyboard (Cherry MX Brown Switches) - KB900-brn
  • Award-winning split design: advanced ergonomics for all body types and preferences via adjustable split, splay, and tent (tenting accessories sold separately). new cable storage compartment supports up to 20" Of separation when you need it.
  • Genuine Cherry mechanical switches for premium typing feel and performance: Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches feature a low activation force, tactile feedback, and are rated for 50 million key presses for unmatched durability.
  • Full onboard programmability with the Driverless SmartSet engine: 9 custom layouts, 8 Office hotkeys, on-the-fly macro recording, one-touch key remapping, pre-configured Mac and Dvorak layouts, settings saved to keyboards 4MB flash memory, and the SmartSet app GUI for Windows & Mac.
  • Plug-and-play with all major operating systems: Windows 7-10, Mac OS X, Linux, Chrome.
  • 2 year manufacturer's warranty: buy with confidence knowing that KINESIS engineers all our products in the USA to the highest standards and stands behind them 100 percent since 1992.

Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard

The Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard is a sleek and low-profile keyboard that is designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists. 

One of the standout features of this keyboard is its adjustable design, which allows users to customize the distance between the two key modules to suit their body type and preferences. The keyboard also has a zero degree slope form factor, which helps to reduce wrist extension and minimize strain on the joints. In addition to its ergonomic design, the Freestyle2 has low-force, tactile membrane key switches, which provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience. 

The keyboard also has driverless hot keys for commonly used mouse actions, such as Internet page forward and back, undo, and web home, as well as a familiar key layout to minimize adaptation time. For added comfort, the Freestyle2 is also compatible with optional padded palm supports, which help to keep wrists neutral and reduce wrist extension. 

Overall, the Kinesis Freestyle2 is an excellent choice for people with arthritis who want a comfortable and customizable keyboard.

KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard for PC (9" or 20" Separation) (9" Separation)
  • AWARD-WINNING SPLIT DESIGN: Unlike fixed ergonomic keyboards, the Freestyle2 allows you to rotate and separate the key modules up to 9" to achieve natural hand, wrist and forearm positions for your specific body type and preferences.
  • STANDARD WINDOWS LAYOUT: The Freestyle2 for PC features a standard Windows layout with hotkeys like Cut, Copy, Paste, multimedia keys, and an embedded numeric 10-key to boost your productivity. No software or special drivers required.
  • LOW-FORCE KEY SWITCHES: The Freestyle2 uses a custom membrane key switch that features a low-activation force and tactile feedback to reduce finger fatigue, impact and strain.
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: Freestyle2 USB Wired keyboard with a standard Windows Layout, detachable pivot tether for adjustable splay, and Quick Start Guide. Plug-and-Play for Windows 7-10.
  • PLUG-AND-PLAY: Windows 7-10, Linux, and Chrome. No software or special drivers required.

Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard

The Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard is a top choice for people with arthritis who are looking for a comfortable and customizable keyboard. 

This keyboard features Kinesis’ patented Contoured design, which includes concave keywells, a tented layout, and integrated palm supports to reduce strain on the hands and wrists. The Advantage2 also has low-force Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches, which provide a tactile response to help reduce the impact on the fingers. 

In addition to its ergonomic design, the Advantage2 has a powerful programming engine, allowing users to customize the keyboard to boost productivity. Overall, the Kinesis Advantage2 is an excellent choice for people with arthritis who want a keyboard that is designed to reduce hand and wrist strain.

Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard (KB600), Black top case, Cherry MX Brown Switches, QWERTY keycaps
  • CONTOURED ERGONOMIC SHAPE PROVEN TO INCREASE COMFORT AND PRODUCTIVITY: Patented design features split keywells with concave shape, thumb keys, orthogonal layout, 20 degrees of tenting, and integrated palm supports with cushioned palm pads.
  • GENUINE CHERRY MECHANICAL SWITCHES FOR PREMIUM TYPING FEEL AND PERFORMANCE: Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches feature a low activation force, tactile feedback and are rated for 50 million key presses for unmatched durability.
  • Full onboard programmability with the Driverless Smart Set engine: Custom layouts in QWERTY or Dvorak, on-the-fly macro recording, one-touch key remapping, Windows, Mac, PC modes, settings saved to keyboards 4MB flash memory, Smart Set app GUI for Windows
  • Plug-and-play with all major operating systems: Windows 7-10, Mac OS X, Linux, Chrome.
  • 3 YEAR MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY: Buy with confidence knowing that Kinesis engineers all our products in the USA to the highest standards and stands behind them 100 percent since 1992.

Logitech MK550 Wireless Wave Keyboard

The Logitech MK550 Wireless Wave Keyboard is a great choice for people with arthritis who want to reduce strain on their hands and wrists. 

One of the standout features of this keyboard is its comfort curve design, which combines a dynamic curved layout with the familiarity of a straight keyboard. This helps to position the hands comfortably on the keyboard and offers a cushioned palm rest for added support. The keyboard also has a wave-shaped keyframe, which helps to reduce strain on the fingers and wrists. 

Additionally, the Logitech MK550 is a wireless keyboard and mouse combo, which allows for greater flexibility and convenience. Overall, the Logitech MK550 is a comfortable and ergonomic keyboard that is well-suited for people with arthritis.

Sale
Logitech MK550 Wireless Wave K350 Keyboard and Mouse Combo — Includes Keyboard and Mouse, Long Battery Life, Ergonomic Wave Design with Wireless Mouse (with Mouse)
  • ERGONOMIC WAVE DESIGN – The MK550 uses Logitech’s Constant Curve layout for reduced stress and better, more natural typing. The layout is familiar, so there is little to no learning curve to begin using it fluidly
  • INTEGRATED PALM REST – Experience lower wrist fatigue with the integrated palm rest , Three options for leg height allow you to adjust the keyboard to the height that feels most comfortable to you.
  • PRECISION-LASER MOUSE – Say goodbye to your touchpad with the included MK510 precision-laser mouse
  • K350 keyboard has a battery life of up to 3 years, and the mouse, up to 2 years, with 2 standard AA batteries in each device
  • SIMPLE SETUP – There’s no additional setup involved when using the MK550—simply plug in the Unifying receiver, and you’re ready to go

Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard

The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is a top choice for people with arthritis who are looking for a comfortable and ergonomic keyboard. 

This keyboard is built on advanced ergonomic principles, with a split layout that keeps wrists and forearms in a relaxed position and a cushioned palm rest to provide wrist support. The domed shape of the keyboard helps to reduce and correct wrist pronation, which can cause pain and limited mobility. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is designed for productivity, with a natural arc layout that follows the curve of the fingertips for a more natural way of typing. 

The keyboard also has a reverse tilt design that positions it at the correct angle to give you a straight, neutral wrist position. Additionally, the shape of the mouse is designed for maximum wrist comfort and the Windows button provides one-touch access to the Windows Start Menu. 

Overall, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is an excellent choice for people with arthritis who want a comfortable and ergonomic keyboard.

Sale
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard for Business (5KV-00001 )
  • Split keyset design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position.Wireless Type : ‎2.4 GHz Radio Frequency
  • Cushioned palm rest provides support and promotes a neutral wrist position
  • Domed keyboard design positions wrists at a natural, relaxed angle
  • Separate number pad provides greater flexibility for workspace setup
  • Natural arc key layout mimics the curved shape of the finger tips

Mistel BAROCCO MD770 TKL Split Mechanical Keyboard

The Mistel BAROCCO MD770 TKL Split Mechanical Keyboard is a great option for those with arthritis, as it offers a unique split design that allows you to keep your wrists at a neutral angle, reducing pressure and strain over time. 

The keyboard is also lightweight and slim, with a height of only 34.5mm, making it easy to use for extended periods of time. Additionally, the keyboard features Cherry MX Blue Switches, which are tactile and heavy-clicky, providing feedback to the user with a tactile bump and audible click. However, the Cherry MX Blue switches may be too loud for some corporate workspaces. The Mistel BAROCCO MD770 TKL also has programmable macro and remapping support, allowing you to customize the keyboard based on your specific needs, whether you are a gamer, typist, or programmer. 

The keyboard also has built-in memory, allowing you to save up to three layers of configurations to handle multiple usage scenarios. The keycaps on the Mistel BAROCCO MD770 TKL are made with PBT double shot material, providing durability and stability, as well as legends that won’t fade. The keyboard also has rubber feet with more aggressive tilting ability.

Mistel BAROCCO MD770 TKL Split Mechanical Keyboard with Cherry MX Blue Switch, Ergonomic Keyboard with Orange Letter PBT Double Shot Keycaps for Windows and Mac, Programmable Macro Support, ANSI/US
  • ▼ Mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Blue Switches (Tactile and Heavy-clicky): A very tactile and clicky variety, extra resistance that kicks in right before complete activation. Cherry MX Blue switches are ideal for typists who enjoy feedback from their keyboards with a tactile bump and audible click. However, the Mechanical keyboard with Cherry Blue switches might be too loud for some corporate workspaces.
  • ▼ Unique Split and Lightweight Keyboard: LEAN AND MEAN New Slim, Light-Weight Design. With Only 34.5mm Tall. The split keyboard lets you keep your wrists at a neutral angle, decreasing pressure and strain over time. You can also adjust the width between the two halves, placing them in front of your shoulders to reduce internal shoulder rotation.
  • ▼ Programmable Macro and Remapping Support: Entire keyboard is programmable to assign a macro and remapping to most keys and create key bindings so you can customize keyboard based on your needs no matter you are a gamer, typist or programmer.
  • ▼ 3-Layer Custom Configurations: Built-in Memory, after keyboard keys be set up, it can be stored in keyboard's MCU, and no need reset the keyboard even replace the computer. Can save 3-layer of configurations to handle multiple usage scenarios. Perfect not only for gamers but also for so many other types of users including designers and video editors.
  • ▼ PBT Double Shot Keycaps: Each keycap is created using their special two-shot molding process, ensuring more durability, more stability and legends that won’t fade. Features rubber feet with more aggressive tilting ability.

Budget Arthritis Keyboards

If you’re looking for an ergonomic keyboard that’s a little more affordable, check out these options:

SaleBestseller No. 1
Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard - Split Keyboard, Wrist Rest, Natural Typing, Stain-Resistant Fabric, Bluetooth and USB Connectivity, Compatible with Windows/Mac
  • Wireless range:10 m (33-ft) wireless range
  • Improved Typing Posture: Type more naturally with a curved, split keyframe and reduce muscle strain on your wrists and forearms thanks to the sloping keyboard design
  • Pillowed Wrist Rest: Curved wrist rest with memory foam layer offers typing comfort with 54 per cent more wrist support; 25 per cent less wrist bending compared to standard keyboard without palm rest
  • Perfect Stroke Keys: Scooped keys match the shape of your fingertips so you can type with confidence on a wireless keyboard crafted for comfort, precision and fluidity
  • Adjustable Palm Lift: Whether seated or standing, keep your wrists in total comfort and a natural typing posture with ergonomically-designed tilt legs of 0, -4 and -7 degrees
SaleBestseller No. 2
Logitech K350 Wave Ergonomic Keyboard with Unifying Wireless Technology - Black
  • Wave design with Constant Curve layout: Curved layout guides hands into just the right position
  • Ease and comfort: Cushioned palm rest makes work easier and fun more fun
  • Longer battery time: This feature gives you up to three years of battery life. (Battery life based on a calculation of an estimated 2 million keystrokes per year in an office environment. User experience may vary.)
  • Logitech Unifying receiver: The tiny Unifying receiver stays in your notebook, so there's no need to unplug it when you move around. And you can easily add compatible wireless mice and keyboards to the same wireless receiver
SaleBestseller No. 3
Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard - Black. Wired, Comfortable, Ergonomic Keyboard with Cushioned Wrist and Palm Support. Split Keyboard. Dedicated Office Key.
  • Exceptional comfort. Work all day, with reduced risk of fatigue and injury, on our Ergonomist-approved design.
  • Excellent support. Improved cushion and ergonomically tested palm rest covered in premium fabric provides all-day comfort and promotes a neutral wrist posture.
  • Be more productive with built-in shortcuts, including dedicated keys for office 365, emojis, search, easy access to media controls, and more.
  • Designed to last — Wired for reliable speed and accuracy.
  • Crunch numbers Fast, with a dedicated integrated pad.
Bestseller No. 4
BOYI WK68 Hot Swappable RGB Mechanical Keyboard,Wireless Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Wired Type-C Tri-Mode PBT Sublimation Keycaps 65% Gaming Keyboard(Gateron Yellow Switch,Weather Theme XDA Keycaps)
  • 【65% Compact Hot-swappable keyboard】Gateron Mechanical 3 pins switches can be hotswapped at wish and replaced by other switches. Ultra-compact layout with only 68 keys allows you to replace 3 pins/5 pins switches freely without soldering issue. No additional number keys, can meet you demands in office or home.With this 68 keyboard,you will don't worry to miss the arrow or function keys at all.
  • 【3 Modes Connectivity Wired& Wireless Keybaord】Connect up 3 devices at the same time via Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless. And equipped with a detachable USB type-c cable and a 2.4GHz dongle(adaptor). Plug-and-play, no complicated connection process.Even If the keyboard is out of power on Bluetooth Mode, you can still use it normally in N-key rollover (NKRO)wired mode.★Strong Suitable for Mac and Windows System★ Multi-system,Multi-device connection by Boyi 68 keyboard!
  • 【 XDA Profile PBT Sublimation Colorful Keycaps】With XDA Profile PBT SublimationTheme High-quality Dye Sublimation Keycaps, Advanced five-side Dye sublimation technology in the PBT coloring process, makes the font of keycaps clear and non-fade.Provides you top-notch durability and a great feel for your typing.
  • 【RGB Presets Varied&Pro Software Customizable】This is the True RGB Backlighting Gaming Keyboard. With Rainbow LED RGB backlit mechanical USB gaming keyboard 12 different lighting effects and multiple brightness level breathing adjustable speed precision engineered keycaps offering crystal clear uniform backlighting. You can press:"FN+P "Key to changing lighting effects, or customize your own vibrant lighting effects with Boyi software.RGB presets are nice and varied.
  • 【Ergonomic Design&Best Gift for Gamer】 Is built with an ergonomic,matches with to your natural arm and hand positions Integrated palm rest to support your wrists in a comfort position. Reducing strain on your wrists.Automatically enter sleeping mode 10 minutes without operation and backlights off, any key press will awaken and backlights on. Built in 3500mA large capacity polymer battery,Compatible with Multiple systems! Very nice Gift of 68 key RGB Hotswappable wireless mechanical keyboard!

Final Thoughts

If you are living with arthritis and are in need of a keyboard that will alleviate strain on your hands and wrists, there are several options available on the market specifically designed with your needs in mind. 

Ergonomic keyboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with features such as split keys, tenting, and palm rests to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. These keyboards are suitable for anyone who spends a significant amount of time typing and wants to reduce strain on their hands and wrists, including office workers, writers, programmers, and students. They may be especially beneficial for people with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as those who are at risk of developing hand and wrist pain. 

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