Living with arthritis can make typing on a standard keyboard a painful challenge, often exacerbating symptoms during work or leisure computer activities. However, there is a solution: arthritis-friendly keyboards are specifically designed to minimize hand and wrist strain, making typing more comfortable and sustainable. This guide explores the best keyboards for arthritis sufferers, helping you choose the ideal option to meet your needs and budget.
Discover a variety of ergonomic keyboards that cater to those with arthritis, including models with split designs and specialized ergonomic mice. These keyboards are perfect for anyone from professional writers and students to casual computer users, offering not only relief from pain but also enhanced efficiency and comfort during computer use.
Whether you’re looking to reduce discomfort or improve your typing speed, our review of arthritis-friendly keyboards will assist you in finding the right tool to enhance your computing experience.
What is an Ergonomic Keyboard?
An ergonomic keyboard is a keyboard designed to minimize hand and wrist strain, providing a more comfortable typing environment. These innovative keyboards are tailored to align with the natural hand positions and often feature split keys, tenting, and palm rests, which are essential for preventing musculoskeletal disorders.
Particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis or similar conditions that result in hand and wrist pain, ergonomic keyboards help relieve joint pressure and reduce the risk of further injuries. Many of these keyboards offer adjustable settings and customizable options, allowing users to personalize their setup according to their specific needs and preferences. By integrating best ergonomic keyboards into their workspace, users can enhance their typing comfort and potentially improve their overall productivity and health.
Who Is an Ergonomic Keyboard Good for?
Ergonomic keyboards are an excellent choice for anyone who spends considerable time typing, aiming to minimize hand and wrist strain. Ideal for office workers, writers, programmers, and students, these keyboards are designed to enhance comfort and reduce potential injuries associated with prolonged keyboard use.
They are particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from hand or wrist pain, including those diagnosed with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a standard keyboard can be challenging for such individuals, but an ergonomic keyboard can significantly alleviate discomfort and enhance typing ease.
Additionally, ergonomic keyboards are recommended for those at risk of developing hand and wrist issues due to their professional or hobby-related activities. By opting for an ergonomic design, users can proactively prevent the onset of musculoskeletal problems, ensuring a healthier, more comfortable typing experience.
The 10 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. Its standout feature lies in its flat and low design, which minimizes finger and wrist movement, thereby reducing strain on arthritic joints and alleviating typing discomfort.
Key highlights of the Apple Magic Keyboard include Scissor switch keys, renowned for their ease of pressing and short travel distance, enabling swift and accurate typing. Moreover, its wireless functionality, decent battery life, and cross-compatibility enhance its versatility and convenience.
Although some users may miss the tactile feedback of traditional keyboards, the Apple Magic Keyboard’s low-profile, ergonomic design renders it an ideal option for arthritis sufferers.
- 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.
- 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 option crafted to alleviate strain on 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
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.
- Split keyset design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position.Wireless Type : 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency.NOT COMPATIBLE : iOS 7, iOS 6..Hard Drivespace : 150 MB Hard Drive.
- 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.
- ▼ 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.
MoErgo Glove80 Mechanical Keyboard
The MoErgo Glove80 Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent choice for individuals with arthritis due to its exceptional ergonomic design. This keyboard features a split, wireless layout that allows users to position each half at a comfortable shoulder width, minimizing strain on the shoulders and wrists.
The integrated tenting kit helps maintain a natural wrist angle, reducing forearm pronation, which is a common issue for arthritis sufferers. Additionally, the concave key wells and columnar layout follow the natural curvature of the fingers, reducing the need for awkward lateral movements and allowing for more comfortable, extended typing sessions. The innovative thumb cluster design further alleviates strain by enabling easy access to frequently used keys without moving the palms.
Overall, the Glove80’s thoughtful ergonomic features make it an ideal solution for those looking to type with less pain and fatigue.
Logitech ERGO K860 Keyboard
The Logitech ERGO K860 is an excellent keyboard for those with arthritis, designed to enhance comfort and reduce strain. Its split, curved keyframe promotes a natural hand, wrist, and forearm posture, significantly alleviating discomfort. The pillowed wrist rest provides enhanced wrist support and reduces wrist bending, which is beneficial for arthritis sufferers.
Additionally, the adjustable palm lift feature helps maintain a natural wrist position, whether seated or standing, further reducing muscle activity and promoting a relaxed typing experience. Overall, the ERGO K860 combines ergonomic design with productivity, making it a great option for comfortable and efficient typing.
- 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
ZSA Moonlander Keyboard
The ZSA Moonlander is an ergonomic keyboard designed to offer maximum comfort and customization, making it an excellent choice for those with arthritis. Its split design allows each half to be positioned independently, reducing strain on the wrists and shoulders. The tenting system helps maintain a natural wrist angle, alleviating discomfort during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the thumb cluster minimizes hand movement, and the adjustable palm rest ensures that hands remain in a neutral position, further enhancing comfort.
This keyboard is highly customizable, featuring hot-swappable switches, programmable RGB backlighting, and a modular design that includes a carrying case for portability. Users can select the key feel that best suits their needs without soldering, and the integrated palm rest can be adjusted for optimal comfort. Overall, the ZSA Moonlander combines ergonomic design with extensive customization options, making it ideal for reducing the strain and discomfort associated with arthritis while typing.
Budget Arthritis Keyboards
If you’re looking for an ergonomic keyboard that’s a little more affordable, check out these options:
- Compact keys: Wave Keys’ compact size allows you to bring your mouse closer to your body, resulting in a more natural shoulder position compared to a full size keyboard
- Type in comfort all day long: The wavy design of this compact keyboard places your hands, wrists and forearms in a natural typing position
- More palm support, less pressure: A cushioned palm rest with memory foam supports you all day long and gives you more wrist support (1)
- Smoother days, your way: Personalize your Wave Keys experience using the Logi Options+ App, where you can choose shortcuts that save time and keep your work flowing (2)
- Ergo-certified: The Wave Keys Ergonomic Keyboard has been designed and tested according to criteria set out by leading ergonomists and is approved by United States Ergonomics
- 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
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - Split-key and 3-D design matches with to your natural arm and hand positions Integrated palm rest to support your wrists in a comfort position
- TACTILE KEYSTROKES - Keystrokes are tactile in order to reduce pressure when you press the keys and to give you a more comfortable typing experience
- PLUG AND PLAY FEATURE - Just plug your keyboard in your computer and use it It uses a USB interface and has 6 0 Ft cable 7 Multimedia Hot keys built-in
- NEW WAY OF TYPING - The ergonomic split keyboard is different from the traditional desktop keyboard and it will take you a few days or weeks to get familiar with it
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS - Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11; Wired USB connection via USB 2 0 Package includes 1x PERIBOARD-512
- Split Design Ergonomic: Split design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position.
- Wrist Rest: Soft cushioned wrist rest helps you to rest your wrist and forearm while typing and makes work easier and more comfortable.
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 2 brightness level and auto sleep feature to maximize power usage.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.8M (6 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB Wired Ergonomic Split Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
- 【ERGONOMIC CURVED KEYBOARD】 Director-mini keyboard features a subtly curved design that promotes a natural hand posture, minimizing strain and enhancing comfort for prolonged typing sessions.
- 【STABLE WIRED CONNECTIVITY】Experience consistent and reliable performance with the wired connection, eliminating the need for batteries and avoiding potential wireless interference, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.
- 【EFFICIENT AND COMFORTABLE COMPACT KEYBOARD】 Designed to save space without sacrificing functionality, the Director-mini keyboard includes a soft palm rest to support your wrists, reducing fatigue and ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
- 【VERTICAL ERGONOMIC MOUSE DESIGN】 The accompanying vertical mouse encourages a natural hand position, reducing wrist strain and improving comfort. It includes two side buttons for seamless forward and backward navigation.
- 【PRECISION DPI SETTINGS】 The mouse features four adjustable DPI settings (1200/1800/2400/3600), allowing for precise cursor control tailored to your specific needs, whether for detailed tasks or rapid movements across the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use these ergonomic keyboards on both Windows and Mac computers?
Yes, all of the featured ergonomic keyboards are compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. Plus, they come with specific shortcut keys for each system to ensure a seamless typing experience.
Does the split design really make a difference in reducing strain and discomfort?
Absolutely. The split design helps to position your wrists and forearms in a more natural, relaxed position, reducing muscle strain and discomfort that can occur with traditional keyboards. Plus, the split design allows for a more customizable typing experience to fit your personal preferences.
Are these keyboards wireless or wired?
There are both wireless and wired options available among the featured ergonomic keyboards. Choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. And for wireless options, they all come with the convenience of rechargeable batteries.
Final Thoughts
For individuals living with arthritis seeking a keyboard to alleviate strain on their hands and wrists, the market offers a range of options designed with specific ergonomic features.
Ergonomic keyboards, available in various shapes and sizes, incorporate split keys, tenting, and palm rests to mitigate musculoskeletal strain. Ideal for individuals spending prolonged periods typing, such keyboards cater to office workers, writers, programmers, and students alike, aiming to minimize hand and wrist strain.
These keyboards are particularly advantageous for individuals with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or those at risk of hand and wrist pain. Their ergonomic design aims to enhance comfort and reduce the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders associated with extended typing sessions.
