Type with Comfort: The Best Budget Ergonomic Keyboards for Under $50
June 2, 2023
5 min read
Ergonomic keyboards minimize strain on the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing the risk of developing health issues. Furthermore, they offer a more comfortable typing experience, increasing typing speed and accuracy.
Top 5 Budget Ergonomic Keyboards Under $50
1. Perixx Periboard-512
The Perixx Periboard-512 is a popular budget ergonomic keyboard, retailing under $50. It features a split-key design and integrated palm rest, ensuring comfort during prolonged use.
The 3D curvature helps reduce wrist strain and promotes a natural typing position. The Periboard-512 has seven multimedia keys for added convenience and boasts a tactile membrane key switch system that offers a quiet typing experience.
Its durable build quality and ease of use make it a great option for office and home environments. For those seeking an affordable ergonomic keyboard, the Perixx Periboard-512 is a top contender.
2. Microsoft Sculpt Comfort Keyboard
The Microsoft Sculpt Comfort Keyboard is a well-designed, budget-friendly ergonomic option. Its contoured key layout and cushioned palm rest aim to provide optimal comfort while typing.
One standout feature is the detachable palm rest, which can adjust to suit individual preferences. This keyboard also includes customizable shortcut keys for increased productivity.
In addition, with its wireless connectivity, the Microsoft Sculpt Comfort Keyboard offers a clutter-free workspace. This Microsoft offering suits users with a reliable and affordable ergonomic keyboard.
3. Logitech K350 Wireless Wave Keyboard
The Logitech K350 Wireless Wave Keyboard is a budget-friendly ergonomic keyboard with a unique "Wave" design. This design consists of a curved, cushioned palm rest and a wave-shaped keyframe, which adapts to the varying lengths of your fingers, allowing for a more comfortable typing experience.
It also features programmable F-keys for customizable shortcuts and boasts a long battery life of up to 3 years. In addition, the K350 uses a unifying receiver, making connecting multiple Logitech devices to a single USB port easy.
As a result, the Logitech K350 is a strong contender for users seeking an ergonomic keyboard that provides comfort and functionality at an affordable price.
4. Havit HV-KB395L Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard
The Havit HV-KB395L Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard offers a slim, sleek design, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers who prefer mechanical keyboards. It uses Kailh low-profile blue switches, providing a satisfyingly tactile and audible click without being overly loud.
The ergonomic design includes a slightly concave shape for the keys, which reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The HV-KB395L also features customizable RGB backlighting, adding a touch of personalization to your setup.
This budget-friendly mechanical keyboard offers both style and ergonomics at an affordable price.
5. X9 Performance Split Ergonomic Keyboard
The X9 Performance Split Ergonomic Keyboard is designed for comfort and productivity. Its split-key layout and adjustable tenting angles help promote a more natural hand, wrist, and forearm position, reducing strain and discomfort.
The keyboard also features integrated palm support and cushioned keys for added comfort. In addition, it comes with 7 quick access keys for media controls and shortcuts, enhancing productivity.
The X9 Performance Split Ergonomic Keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a versatile choice for users on a budget seeking an ergonomic solution for their typing needs.
What To Look for When Buying an Ergonomic Keyboard
Key Layout and Shape
Pay close attention to the key layout and shape when buying an ergonomic keyboard. The keys should be well-spaced to reduce hand and finger strain. Consider keyboards with a curved or contoured design, which follow the natural arc of the fingers and promote a more comfortable typing position.
Additionally, look for keyboards with sculpted or concave surfaces, as these provide better tactile feedback and can help reduce typing errors. Ultimately, the best key layout and shape will depend on your typing style and preferences.
Adjustable Height and Tilt
An ergonomic keyboard should have adjustable height and tilt features to cater to different users and their preferred typing positions. These adjustments can help maintain a neutral wrist position and reduce strain on wrists, hands, and shoulders.
Look for keyboards with adjustable legs or feet, and consider those with a negative tilt, which angles the keyboard down and away from the user, encouraging a more neutral wrist posture. Experiment with different heights and angles to find the most comfortable position.
Split Design
Split-design ergonomic keyboards separate the keyboard into two halves, enabling users to position each half at a comfortable distance and angle. This design reduces strain on the wrists, arms, and shoulders by allowing for a more natural hand and arm position.
In addition, there are fixed-split keyboards, which have a set angle between the two halves, and fully adjustable-split keyboards, which allow for customization of the angle and distance between the halves. Choose a split design that accommodates your typing style and workspace setup.
Palm Rest
Palm rests are important ergonomic features that support the wrists and palms, helping to reduce pressure and strain during long typing sessions. Look for a keyboard with a built-in or detachable palm rest that is well-padded and made from a comfortable, non-slip material.
The palm rest should be at the same level as the spacebar to promote a neutral wrist position. In addition, a properly designed palm rest can reduce the risk of developing repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Dedicated Media Keys
Dedicated media keys are optional for ergonomics, but they can improve efficiency and convenience, reducing the need for awkward key combinations or reaching for separate devices. Instead, look for keyboards with dedicated keys for volume control, play/pause, and other frequently used functions.
Some ergonomic keyboards also include programmable keys that can be customized to perform specific tasks, further streamlining your workflow and reducing hand and arm movements.
Wired or Wireless Connectivity
When choosing an ergonomic keyboard, consider whether you prefer a wired or wireless connectivity option. Wired keyboards typically offer a more stable connection and don't require battery replacements or recharging.
On the other hand, wireless keyboards can reduce desk clutter and provide greater flexibility in positioning, which can be especially beneficial for split-design keyboards. Finally, weigh the pros and cons of each connectivity option, considering factors like potential interference, battery life, and your workspace setup.
