An ergonomic keyboard changes the angle of your hands so that your wrists stay straighter while you type. There are several designs, and they suit different desks and habits. This guide walks through the five decisions that matter and points to a keyboard for each.
1. One piece or two halves
Most ergonomic keyboards are one piece with the keys divided into a left and a right group, angled outward and raised in the middle. They stay put on the desk and are the easiest to get used to. A keyboard made of two separate halves lets you set the distance and angle between your hands yourself.
- One piece: the PERIBOARD-512 (wired) and PERIBOARD-612 (wireless) have a fixed split and an integrated palm rest.
- Two halves: the PERIBOARD-624 is two wireless halves with no cable between them and an adjustable tilt on each side.
2. Full size or compact
A full-size keyboard has the number pad attached, which is convenient if you enter figures all day. A compact keyboard leaves it out, so the mouse sits closer to your body and your right arm reaches less.
- Full size: PERIBOARD-512 and PERIBOARD-612.
- Compact: the PERIBOARD-818 is 13.6 inches wide and connects to up to four devices.
- Compact with a separate number pad: the PERIDUO-606IIA set adds a keypad you can place on either side or put away.
3. Key feel
| Key type | Feels like | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Membrane, long travel | A classic desktop keyboard | Typists who press keys all the way down |
| Scissor, short travel | A laptop keyboard, quiet | Shared offices and light touch typing |
| Low-profile mechanical | A clear, precise click or bump | Long writing or coding sessions |
- Membrane: PERIBOARD-512, PERIBOARD-612, PERIBOARD-624.
- Scissor: PERIBOARD-818 and the PERIDUO-606II set.
- Mechanical: PERIBOARD-535 II (wired), PERIBOARD-735 (wireless) and PERIBOARD-835 II (wireless with RGB backlighting and macros).
PERIBOARD-512
PERIBOARD-612
PERIBOARD-624
PERIBOARD-818
PERIDUO-606II
PERIBOARD-535 II
PERIBOARD-735
![PERIBOARD-835 II Wireless Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboard [Firmware Updated]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0550/9703/2858/files/USA-12509-301.jpg?v=1782825858&width=480)
PERIBOARD-835 II
4. Cable, receiver or Bluetooth
A cable never needs charging or pairing. A USB receiver works on any computer without set-up. Bluetooth frees a USB port and lets one keyboard serve a laptop, a tablet and a phone.
- Wired: PERIBOARD-512 and PERIBOARD-535 II.
- Receiver and Bluetooth: PERIBOARD-612, PERIBOARD-818 and PERIBOARD-735.
5. Keyboard only, or a set with a vertical mouse
A vertical mouse keeps your forearm in a handshake position. If you are changing your keyboard for comfort, changing the mouse at the same time makes sense, and a set uses a single receiver for both.
- PERIDUO-512: wired full-size split keyboard and vertical mouse.
- PERIDUO-614: wireless and rechargeable, with a cushioned wrist rest.
- PERIDUO-606II: compact wireless keyboard and vertical mouse.
Before you order
Every keyboard in this guide is sold in the US (ANSI) layout; the PERIBOARD-512 and PERIBOARD-612 are also offered with a Spanish layout. If you are replacing a Microsoft keyboard, see our guide to Sculpt and Natural 4000 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get used to an ergonomic keyboard?
Most people adapt within one to two weeks. Typing is slower for the first few days, especially if you are used to reaching across the middle of the keyboard with one hand.
Will an ergonomic keyboard cure wrist pain?
No keyboard is a medical treatment. A split layout reduces how far your wrists bend outward, which many people find more comfortable. If you have persistent pain, see a doctor or physiotherapist.
Is a split keyboard good for programming?
Yes, as long as the layout matches what you are used to. Programmers often prefer a US layout and mechanical keys; the PERIBOARD-535 II and PERIBOARD-735 offer both.
Do I need a wrist rest?
A palm rest supports your hands between bursts of typing. The keyboards in this guide have one built in, so a separate rest is not needed.
