Switching from a conventional keyboard to an ergonomic one is a giant leap. Whether you buy a curved one-piece keyboard or a two-piece split-layout model, developing the muscle memory needed to type quickly can take weeks. Also, some ergonomic keyboards are much costlier than your average office model. The extra learning time and money can be worth it, but starting with the proper hardware is crucial. PCMag analysts have been testing keyboards for decades, and if you're motivated enough to switch to one of these specialty devices, whether due to an injury or just curiosity, we've outlined here the best ergonomic keyboards we've tested. Our current best ergonomic keyboard for most people is the Logitech Ergo K860. But before you commit, check out our basic buying advice, and know that we stand behind all our picks for different budgets and usage scenarios.
Overview
-
Jump To Details
![Logitech Ergo K860]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Most BuyersLogitech Ergo K860
-
Jump To Details
![Matias Ergo Pro (2020)]()
Best Split-Layout Ergonomic KeyboardMatias Ergo Pro (2020)
-
Jump To Details
![Logitech Wave Keys]()
Best Budget Ergonomic KeyboardLogitech Wave Keys
-
Jump To Details
![Keychron Q11]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard With Hot-Swappable Key SwitchesKeychron Q11
-
Jump To Details
![Asus ROG Falcata]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for GamersAsus ROG Falcata
-
Jump To Details
![Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best Compact Ergonomic Keyboard for GamersCorsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless
-
Jump To Details
![Contour Balance Full-Size Wireless]()
Best Reverse-Tilt Ergonomic KeyboardContour Balance Full-Size Wireless
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
-
![Logitech Ergo K860]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Most BuyersLogitech Ergo K860
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Ol' reliable to many users since its release, the K860 is a well-crafted split-layout keyboard for sparing your arms and wrists when the typing gets hot and heavy. With a curved, ergonomic shape, the Ergo K860 complements arm placement with its asymmetrical design and plush wrist rest, while certain sized-up keys and a full layout with a number pad make it easy to navigate across the board. These features make it relatively easy for newcomers to adapt to the curves of an ergonomic keyboard. The K860 is a great preventative measure if you're already feeling the stiffness of everyday office work.
Who It's For
Newbies: The K860 is for buyers who are new to ergonomic keyboards and want a comfortable experience with a manageable learning curve.
Users who value comfort: A comfortable typing experience goes a long way. This ergonomic keyboard is easy on the hands, and we especially like the plush wrist rest.
Apple users: Like many Logitech accessories, the Logitech K860 is fully Apple compatible, so you can still tweak settings to your preferences without compromise.
Specs & Configurations
Interface Bluetooth Interface RF Wireless Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Scissor-Switch Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 109 Palm Rest Integrated Passthrough Ports None Learn More Logitech Ergo K860 Review Review -
-
![Matias Ergo Pro (2020)]()
Best Split-Layout Ergonomic KeyboardMatias Ergo Pro (2020)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Matias Ergo Pro is more than a few years old, but it remains a solid choice for dedicated professionals seeking a split-design ergonomic keyboard. It offers three USB pass-through ports, comfortable wrist rests, and flexible feet that provide ample tilt and tenting for additional height. Like all similar split models, this split keyboard has a demanding learning curve. But those willing to take the time will find it a dependable daily driver with a comfortable typing feel, strong ergonomic features, and a couple of technical flourishes that set it apart.
Who It's For
Users interested in a split keyboard: If you're someone who sees adjusting to a split keyboard as a challenge worth mastering, you will find productivity and comfort with the Matias Ergo Pro.
Users who want flexibility in their workflows: The Matias Ergo Pro is a few years old now, but it's still a productivity powerhouse for people who perform various specialized tasks on their PCs, such as navigating spreadsheets or editing images.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Matias Quiet Click Switches (Silent Tactile, ALPS-Style) Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 87 Palm Rest Detachable (Magnetic) Passthrough Ports USB Learn More Matias Ergo Pro (2020) Review -
-
![Logitech Wave Keys]()
Best Budget Ergonomic KeyboardLogitech Wave Keys
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Logitech Wave Keys shares some features with our top overall pick, the Logitech Ergo K860, but it's much cheaper. Also, its undulating design is less pronounced, making the Wave Keys a more traditional keyboard than the K860. With a slight ripple at the center of the board, the keyboard’s curves give it a distinctive look, and the indents subtly position both hands just far enough from one another to promote comfort. A lightweight body and long-lasting battery can even make the Wave Keys an ideal travel companion, though its build is a little flimsy and its wrist rest a little stiff.
Who It's For
Budget-savvy shoppers: Users who want to improve their desk ergonomics without spending too much (and who don't have the time to acclimate to a full-split design) should consider the Wave Keys.
Users who want to maximize their productivity: Compatibility with the Logi Options software for tweaking settings and much more helps the Wave Keys punch above its weight class.
macOS users: Logitech's platform-agnostic approach to its devices and software means that the Wave Keys has full functionality on Apple's operating system as well as Windows.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Rubber Membrane Media Controls None N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 99 Palm Rest Integrated Passthrough Ports None Learn More Logitech Wave Keys Review -
-
![Keychron Q11]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard With Hot-Swappable Key SwitchesKeychron Q11
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Hot-swappable keyboards were once limited to enthusiasts and tinkerers, but recent keyboard releases have brought this functionality to the mainstream. The Keychron Q11 isn't the top keyboard on the market, but it's a rare combination of a split design and the ability to customize the key switches individually. The Keychron Q11 features an attractive color scheme and a unique jigsaw-puzzle split down the middle, giving the board its own aesthetic. It's missing some of the features we've come to expect from modern ergonomic split keyboards, like angled feet and a wrist rest (the latter is sold separately). But it's a premium board that looks and feels the part, and if you fancy keyboard tinkering, you might be willing to stomach its premium cost.
Who It's For
Users who want to customize their keyboards: For tinkerers who want to customize all aspects of their split keyboards—down to the key-switch mechanisms—the Keychron Q11 obliges.
Split keyboard users who prioritize comfort: The distinctive split-keyboard design sets it apart from other ergonomic keyboards, and the angled feet and wrist rest provide users with ample freedom to find the most comfortable position.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Gateron G Pro Red Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 89 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Keychron Q11 Review -
-
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Asus ROG Falcata]()
Best Ergonomic Keyboard for GamersAsus ROG Falcata
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Asus ROG Falcata is an ergonomic gaming keyboard with a split-body design, comprising halves that can be used attached or spread out separately. It's comfortable, and packed with all of the modern gaming niceties you expect from an Asus gaming keyboard. Hot-swappable key switches and a hefty wrist rest make the ROG Falcata a premium board, and per-key adjustable RGB backlighting and customizable actuation points help sweeten the deal. It's expensive, but it might be worth it for gamers who want to save their hands and wrists during long play sessions.
Who It's For
Gamers interested in split keyboards: Gamers seeking an ergonomic alternative to standard gaming keyboards will find a unique blend of comfort and precision in the Asus ROG Falcata.
Tinkerers: The ROG Falcata is a hot-swappable keyboard, which means you can change out individual key switches if you don't like the stock ones (and don't mind rolling up your sleeves).
Specs & Configurations
Interface 2.4GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Asus ROG HFX V2 Media Controls Volume Roller Only N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 80 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest Optional Passthrough Ports None Learn More Asus ROG Falcata Review -
-
![Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best Compact Ergonomic Keyboard for GamersCorsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
It's no sculpted oddity, but one of our favorite mini keyboards has enough ergonomic features to earn it a spot on this list. While 60% keyboards aren't natural ergonomic fits, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless has two adjustable feet and three rubber grips to hold it in place. The board is compact and lightweight, measuring 1.6 by 11.6 by 4.3 inches (HWD) and 1.4 pounds. And Corsair's iCue software is easy to use and robust, supporting up to 50 profiles. Accessible and aesthetically pleasing, this bite-sized keyboard punches well above its weight class.
Who It's For
Gamers looking for a compact keyboard: If you're a gamer who prefers a very compact board that still offers a few basic ergonomic adjustments, the K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless is for you. It offers a surprising amount of customization and comfort in a compact package.
Gamers looking for a lightweight keyboard: If you're a gamer frequently on the move, the K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless is a great companion. It's small, lightweight, and easy to toss into a book bag, tote bag, or even just hold in your hand as you move from the kitchen to the gaming den.
Specs & Configurations
Interface Bluetooth Interface RF Wireless Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Cherry MX Speed Silver Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 61 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless Review -
-
Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Contour Balance Full-Size Wireless]()
Best Reverse-Tilt Ergonomic KeyboardContour Balance Full-Size Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Traditional in design, the Contour Balance is a professional-grade ergonomic keyboard that doesn't do anything too radical, like splitting its board in two or curving its frame. Instead, the Balance delivers a traditional full-size layout that focuses on the subtle physics of hand placement—letting you tilt the board down instead of up.
What sets the Contour Balance apart from other ergonomic keyboards is its support for negative, neutral, and positive angles, with small legs at the bottom of the board that you can fold out to adjust the angle of elevation. Switching among these angles is simple and lets you find the exact position that feels best for your workstation height. It doesn't check every box for what we seek in a productivity keyboard, but for those looking for an ergonomic keyboard that supports all angles, the Contour Balance can be a wrist reliever.
Who It's For
People interested in angle adjustment: The Contour Balance's four small legs provide plenty of room to adjust the keyboard to your preferred angle.
People uninterested in learning a split keyboard layout: Every ergonomic keyboard doesn't need to reinvent the wheel—or in this case, the board. Split keyboards can be intimidating and have a bit of a learning curve, unlike the Contour Balance.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Scissor-Switch Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 109 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Contour Balance Full-Size Wireless Review -
Compare Specs
Our Pick | ||||||||||
Rating |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
3.5 Good |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
3.5 Good |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Most Buyers | Best Split-Layout Ergonomic Keyboard | Best Budget Ergonomic Keyboard | Best Ergonomic Keyboard With Hot-Swappable Key Switches | Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Gamers | Best Compact Ergonomic Keyboard for Gamers | Best Reverse-Tilt Ergonomic Keyboard | Best Ergonomic Keyboard for Most Buyers | Best Split-Layout Ergonomic Keyboard | Best Budget Ergonomic Keyboard |
Number of Keys | 109 | 87 | 99 | 89 | 80 | 61 | 109 | 109 | 87 | 99 |
Interface | Bluetooth, RF Wireless | USB Wired | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless | USB-C | 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C | USB-C, Bluetooth, RF Wireless | USB-C, Bluetooth | Bluetooth, RF Wireless | USB Wired | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless |
Key Switch Type | Scissor-Switch | Matias Quiet Click Switches (Silent Tactile, ALPS-Style) | Rubber Membrane | Gateron G Pro Red | Asus ROG HFX V2 | Cherry MX Speed Silver | Scissor-Switch | Scissor-Switch | Matias Quiet Click Switches (Silent Tactile, ALPS-Style) | Rubber Membrane |
Key Backlighting | None | None | None | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | None | None | None | None |
Media Controls | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | None | Shared With Other Keys | Volume Roller Only | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | None |
Dedicated Shortcut Keys | ||||||||||
Onboard Profile Storage | ||||||||||
N-Key Rollover Support | ||||||||||
Passthrough Ports | None | USB | None | None | None | None | None | None | USB | None |
Palm Rest | Integrated | Detachable (Magnetic) | Integrated | None | Optional | None | None | Integrated | Detachable (Magnetic) | Integrated |
Buying Guide: The Best Ergonomic Keyboards for 2026
Investing in an ergonomic keyboard is more than a technical upgrade; it’s an investment in your health. Ergonomic boards are designed to mitigate the damage that using a keyboard does to your hands, wrists, and shoulders after years of daily use. Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), which are caused by making the same motions over and over again over a long period of time, are endemic to using a keyboard and mouse. (The commonly known carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on the median nerve in the hand extending into the wrist, is a form of RSI.) If you sit at a traditional keyboard and type all day, five days a week, some damage is likely, if not inevitable. Ergonomic keyboards theoretically reduce that damage by eliminating some of the unnatural and, whether you notice it or not, strenuous motions involved with typing, gaming, and otherwise using a keyboard.
To understand how ergonomic keyboards improve things for you, it helps to talk about all the ways that using a keyboard can cause RSIs.
Typing on traditional keyboards forces you to make a series of unnatural movements. First, you twist your arms so they lay flat, parallel to the keyboard. Depending on the width of the keyboard, you may reach laterally, twisting your wrist in an unnatural way and overextending your fingers, to hit certain keys. If you lay your wrists flat on a table in front of your keyboard, you’ll have to bend your wrists up for them to reach the keys. Bringing your arms together in front of you to reach your default typing position also involves flexing muscles in your shoulders and back.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)To fix these problems, ergonomic keyboards reimagine the keyboard in ways that minimize or take these strenuous twists and bends out of the equation. Most ergonomic keyboards split the letter keys into two halves, rotating the keys so they point down toward the lower corners of the keyboard. Rotating the keys allows your arms to approach the keyboard from a more natural angle. Split keyboards, which spread the keyboard across two halves or chassis, give you the ability to customize your rotation by placing the two sides of the keyboard as far apart as you'd like.
Most also use some means of "tenting," reshaping the keyboard so it's higher in the center, with the keys falling away on either side. Typing on an angled surface reduces how far your wrist needs to twist to lay flat on the keys. Some keyboards do this by curving the chassis of the keyboard up into an arc. Others use folding feet, similar to the ones you'll find under a standard keyboard, to prop up the middle or inside edges. A few keyboards require an optional attachment to set up tenting; we recommend spending the extra money if the keyboard otherwise meets your needs.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Speaking of feet, a good ergonomic keyboard will feature feet beneath the near side of the keyboard, not the far. This angle, known as reverse tilt, is also better for your wrists: From a natural position, the front end of the keyboard should meet your wrist. Every good keyboard will also come with a well-padded wrist rest. Having a pad that supports your wrists and forearms helps you maintain a comfortable position for an extended period of time.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)In addition to rotating and tenting, some ergo keyboards will set their keys at different depths to adjust for the different lengths of your fingers. Last, some ergonomic models take the drastic step of rearranging the keys. Normally, the letters remain in the QWERTY layout, but frequently used keys like Control, Alt, and the Windows/Apple key may get moved around. (The function keys should generally stay where they belong.)
Changes to the keyboard layout increase the learning curve, but they can make for a better experience over time. Choosing the right key switches that suit your typing style can also go a long way in preventing RSIs and promoting overall keyboard comfort. You'll want to consult with your doctor if you're already experiencing pain; a light-touch key switch type like the Cherry MX Red might be a more beneficial choice than a Cherry MX Brown switch set, for example. The right mechanical keys are all down to your specific hand/wrist condition and comfort level.
Some, but not all, ergonomic keyboards are mechanical keyboards at heart, with mechanical switches that can deliver precise feedback. There's really no way to know until you try whether or not either will have a specific effect for you, though. The best you can do is make yourself aware of the custom-layout and key-switch options out there, and decide (in the case of a nonstandard layout) whether the extra acclimation work sounds worth it in the long run.
Split or Stay? Unibody vs. Two-Part Designs
Ergonomic keyboards come in a few different shapes and configurations, which operate on a sliding scale between the investment you need to put in (both in terms of adjustment time and cost), and what structural changes they’ll make to offer you a more supportive experience.
Though different models tweak different things, such as relocating the Alt and Control keys, ergonomic keyboards generally break down into two categories: (1) single-piece/unibody ergonomic keyboards, which rotate the keys on the layout of a one-part chassis, and (2) as mentioned earlier, split-chassis models that physically separate into two adjustable halves.
Unibody models are curved to reduce wrist twisting and include other features to reduce impact on your arms. These keyboards tend to be less expensive and offer a shorter learning curve because, while they're not identical to conventional flat models, their typing experience is close to them. At the same time, there are certain ergonomic issues they cannot address, like the possibility that you may be reaching in with your arms to attain a proper typing position.
Recommended by Our Editors
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)An ergonomically ideal keyboard puts all of the keys you need at fingers' length without forcing you to reach, bend your wrists, twist your arms, or curl your shoulder blades. That requires some amount of customization—we all have different body widths and wingspans—so for a guaranteed fit you’ll need a split keyboard. With the keyboard split into two halves, you control the width and the shape of the keyboard, so you can reposition it to fit your body.
(Credit: Molly Flores)Numeric keypads, while helpful for spreadsheet work, force lateral finger and wrist movement, so an ergonomics-first keyboard will use the tenkeyless (TKL) form factor. That said, many split-keyboard makers sell a free-standing keypad as an optional attachment, letting you place the keypad so it doesn't require any extraneous reaching or lateral wrist movement.
While one version may be more beneficial than the other depending on your specific situation and use case, it's best to judge ergonomic keyboards on a sliding scale based on need. If you're already experiencing pain or numbness when you type, a split keyboard is bound to give you the most relief. (You should also see a doctor if you haven't already.) Likewise, you should go for a split keyboard if damage down the road is a serious concern, you type a lot, and superior ergonomics is your goal for your next keyboard.
If you're a fan of mechanical keyboards, you'll also want to go for a split model. Most split keyboards feature mechanical switches, while most unibody models use cheaper scissor switches or membrane-based keys to help keep the chassis slim and the price low. There are other features you're more likely to find on one type of ergonomic keyboard than the other. Many unibody keyboards, even budget models, are wireless. Many split keyboards have dedicated macro or shortcut keys on the left edge of the board.
That said, split keyboards don't always have all the features that power users want. Even programmable models often lack configuration software, for example. If you're in a quantitative field, you may not want to give up your keypad. If you don't currently feel any pain or weakness when you type, it may make sense to compromise and go with a more familiar unibody design. The fact of the matter is, any good ergo keyboard should help keep your wrists and arms healthier longer than the typical flat keyboard.
Time to Type: The Ergonomic Keyboard Learning Curve
How long it will take you to adapt to using an ergo keyboard? The answer depends entirely on the keyboard and the person. Some keyboards are easier to adapt to than others; generally speaking, adapting to a split keyboard takes more work than a unibody model, but the process varies based on your degree of typing skill and how much the physical change messes with your muscle memory.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)In my experience, the over-under on regaining basic typing proficiency should be one or two weeks for a unibody ergonomic keyboard or two to four weeks for a split. It will likely take longer for you to reclaim your gold-standard words-per-minute rate if you're a typing ace. If you're hesitant about trying, or suddenly need to type as fast as possible, going back to a standard keyboard usually requires little readjustment time. In our experience going back and forth between regular and ergo keyboards, it does get easier every time we need to readjust to ergonomic keys, but there's always some adjustment period.
You can take steps to train yourself, which can make the process feel slower and more time-consuming at first but will ultimately require fewer days. With a split keyboard, start by pushing the two sides together, then slowly pull them further apart as you get comfortable. Likewise, if the keyboard has adjustable reverse tilt or tenting, start on the lowest incline and work your way up as you become more proficient.
An Ergo Board Is Only Part of the Puzzle
It's worth taking a moment to note the limitations of using ergonomic keyboards. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health notes there isn't conclusive evidence showing that ergonomic keyboards can prevent repetitive stress injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. The institute, which informs guidance from OSHA and the CDC, still recommends them, though, based on their impact on posture. There is also widespread evidence that, at the bare minimum, ergonomic keyboards can help people who suffer from pain or numbness while typing manage those symptoms.
If you're looking to optimize the ergonomics in your home office, a new keyboard is only one of many steps you should take. Ergonomic mice, such as vertical mice and trackballs, can minimize stress on your mouse hand. It also helps to have a good office chair with lumbar support to promote good posture, and a desk that's the appropriate height for your body while you're sitting. The desk, depending on the design, may need a keyboard tray installed to help put the board at the proper level relative to your forearms.
Ready to Buy the Right Ergonomic Keyboard for You?
Now that you have a pretty good idea of how ergonomic keyboards vary and what to look for while shopping for one, which will you buy? Mechanical keyboard designs tend to predominate in the more expensive models. Most are standalone keyboards, but note that a few vendors offer an ergonomic mouse combo, with an ergonomic keyboard and an ergonomic mouse sold as one package. Those tend to be budget solutions; the best keyboard for you, though, likely lies in a standalone keyboard model.
If you're looking to go all in on optimizing your office space, also check out our guide to setting up an ergonomic home office. You should also look at the best ergonomic mice to find a new mouse to go along with your new keyboard.