# ergonomic keyboard

> computer keyboard designed for good ergonomics

**Wikidata**: [Q5385826](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5385826)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ergonomic_keyboard)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ergonomic-keyboard

## Summary
An ergonomic keyboard is a computer keyboard designed to promote comfortable typing and reduce the risk of injuries such as repetitive strain injury (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome. It achieves this through alternative layouts, curved or split designs, and adjusted key placements that align with natural hand and wrist positions. These keyboards prioritize user health and efficiency over traditional flat keyboard designs.

## Key Facts
- **Primary Goal**: Prevent repetitive strain injury (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome through improved hand/wrist alignment.
- **Subclasses**: Includes Microsoft ergonomic keyboards, Apple Adjustable Keyboard (1993), ortholinear keyboards, and the Alice layout.
- **Notable Models**: Logitech K350, Logitech Wave Keyboard (2007), and the Model 01 (2017).
- **Language Support**: Wikipedia articles in 10 languages, including English, Arabic, Japanese, and Korean.
- **Design Variations**: Features split, curved, or angled layouts to reduce finger movement and alternating hand use.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of an ergonomic keyboard?
A: The primary purpose is to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome by promoting natural hand and wrist alignment during typing.

### Q: When was the first ergonomic keyboard introduced?
A: Apple introduced the Adjustable Keyboard in 1993, one of the earliest mainstream ergonomic designs.

### Q: Are all ergonomic keyboards split or curved?
A: No—ergonomic keyboards vary in design, including ortholinear grids, slight curves (e.g., Logitech Wave), and fully split layouts.

## Why It Matters
Ergonomic keyboards address critical health challenges posed by prolonged typing on traditional flat keyboards. By redesigning key placement and layout, they mitigate risks of musculoskeletal disorders, which are common among office workers and gamers. These keyboards reflect a shift toward human-centered design in computing, emphasizing long-term user well-being over familiar aesthetics. Their impact extends beyond health, improving typing efficiency and accuracy by reducing finger stretching and alternating hand use. As computing becomes ubiquitous, ergonomic keyboards play a vital role in promoting sustainable work habits and reducing healthcare costs associated with repetitive motion injuries.

## Notable For
- **Apple Adjustable Keyboard (1993)**: One of the earliest commercial ergonomic keyboards with a split design.
- **Ortholinear and Alice Layouts**: Compact, grid-based designs that minimize finger movement.
- **Injury Prevention**: Explicitly engineered to reduce repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- **Diverse Models**: Includes membrane (Logitech Wave), mechanical (Model 01), and hybrid designs.

## Body
### Definition and Purpose
An ergonomic keyboard is a specialized input device designed to minimize physical strain during typing. Unlike traditional keyboards, it incorporates curved, split, or angled layouts to align with natural hand and wrist positions.

### History
- **1993**: Apple introduced the Adjustable Keyboard, a split ergonomic design.
- **2007**: Logitech released the Wave Keyboard, featuring a subtle curve.
- **2017**: The Model 01, a libre ergonomic mechanical keyboard, debuted.

### Key Designs
- **Split Keyboards**: Separate left/right modules for shoulder alignment (e.g., Microsoft Ergonomic).
- **Ortholinear Layouts**: Grid-based key arrangements (e.g., Planck, Alice).
- **Curved/Sloped Keyboards**: Contoured surfaces (e.g., Logitech Wave).

### Health Impact
- **Risk Reduction**: Targets repetitive strain injury (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- **Ergonomic Benefits**: Encourages neutral wrist posture and reduced finger extension.

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