Specialty keyboards for computers are experiencing tremendous growth.
Part of that is because ergonomic disorders are still the fastest-growing category of work-related illness — particularly in the office, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
But there are as many ergonomic keyboards as there are definitions for “ergonomic”. So, now, we've got your laser keyboards, mirrors, and those made out of cloth.
The granddaddy of them all, the Kinesis Advantage, which started it all with the notion that not all your fingers are the same length. Hence, the concave wells for your fingers. A good start. Now, Kinesis’ latest contoured keyboard.
KINESIS CORPORATION: $299-359 USD, depending upon model.
Researchers will tell you that any keyboard is a good keyboard that enables you to rotate and pronate. The new Freestyle from Kinesis takes this 2 steps further. It rotates, pronates, elevates and tilts.
KINESIS CORPORATION: $99-139, depending upon model.
Rotation and pronation is what the Goldtouch keyboard is about, but with a simple ball-and-socket joint that can adjust both at the same time, then lock them in the a simple twist of a lever. We've been using them for years. They're compact enough to through into your bag with that notebook computer.
Key Ovation: $99-139. Numeric keyboard sold separately.
There is even a keyboard with side-view mirrors. The SafeType takes the pronation idea all the way, and because it might take some time to get used to the position of the function keys, they are labeled backward, so they appear correctly to you in the mirrors. Very popular with zydeco bands. It was surprising how fast you adjust to the position. However, it does require you to be a touch typist.
SAFE TYPE: Price on SafeType Online Store: $295
Das Keyboard has a great feel, because it uses classic mechanical switches. No labels on the keys. Why? To force you to learn to touch type, das why. The theory is, like with a piano, there are no keys to look at when typing, so your brain quickly adapts, memorizes the key positions, and your fingers will fly over the keyboard.
METADOT: Price on Das Keyboard Online Store: $89.95
For sheer cool, you can't beat the Saitek Eclipse. 3 different colors, an adjustable backlight, and multimedia controls. Saitek is particularly proud of its silent, cushioned keys. It also features large-area rubber feet so it won’t squirm off your desk.
SAITEK: Price on X-treme Geek.com: $69.99
There isn't an ergonomic keyboard for every application. For instance, pocket keyboards for pocket devices. The G-Tech keyboard uses smart fabric technology from elekTex. And, because it uses bluetooth, it's wireless. In fact, there isn't a wire to be found. And you can roll it up and put it into your purse.
G-TECH: Price on X-treme Geek.com: $99
And, then, there’s the keyboard that isn’t a keyboard at all, the virtual keyboard from i.tech. It uses a laser to project virtual keys right in front of you. It gives you audible feedback, and it works in even the brightest airport terminal. How's that for a light touch?
iTECH DYNAMIC, LTD:
Price at VKB Worldwide Shop $179.99
