Do Ergonomic Keyboards Make You Type Faster

Being able to type faster means getting things done faster! Can ergonomic keyboards make you type faster? The question involves addressing multiple aspects of keyboards and typing. What happens to new users who switch from regular to ergonomic keyboards? Can they type quicker, or does adjusting to the new keyboard design take time? Answering these questions can help you decide whether to switch to the trending ergonomic keyboard design or stick to the standard.

Traditional keyboard design can cause problems such as wrong posture, repetitive work, sustained exertions, forceful extensions, and mechanical stresses. Ergonomic keyboards address most issues and provide a comfortable and efficient typing experience. Let's examine how ergonomic keyboards relate to speed.

Ergonomic Keyboards and Speed

Researchers have been working to find the perfect keyboard type for typing faster with enhanced comfort, as both are deeply related. One research study by Lugay et al., 2022, suggests that mechanical keyboards are the best for typing speed compared to standard, laptop, and foldable keyboards. Modern ergonomic keyboards are also mechanical, which reduces mechanical stresses on the fingers. To establish a strong connection between ergonomic keyboards and typing speeds, let's dive deeper into various aspects:

Initial Switch to Ergonomic Keyboard

Most of us are used to the standard keyboard configuration. It provides the maximum typing speed as our body and muscles adjust themselves to cater to the stresses generated from its use. However, when we switch to an ergonomic keyboard, there is an initial learning curve. According to a study done by Kensington, it takes around four (4) days for a user to adjust to the new dynamics of the ergonomic keyboard.

The initial days of switching to an ergonomic keyboard can be challenging. Once users get the hang of it, they must be patient for the results to kick in. They will be typing faster and eventually increase productivity on an ergonomic keyboard.

Reduction in Muscle Fatigue with Ergonomic Keyboards

Fatigue Associated with Activation of Keypress

Fatigue can have a heavy impact on our typing speed. Our wrists are in a constant non-ergonomic position in standard keyboards, and the force required to activate a key is more extensive than in mechanical ergonomic keyboards. Therefore, keyboard switches such as Gateron Clear and Cherry MX Brown are great for typing.

Shoulder Pain and Ergonomic Keyboards

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it's probably due to the non-ergonomic posture. You must have a good posture to allow your body to move comfortably. An ergonomic keyboard increases the gap between your left and right hand, enabling your hands to align with your shoulder. It reduces stress on the shoulders, thus reducing muscle fatigue.

Wrist Pain with Standard Keyboards

Regular keyboards force your wrist to parallel the working surface or keyboard. It induces an unwanted constant strain on the wrist. As an experiment, simply place your hands on a standard keyboard with your fingers resting on the keycaps. Now, move your hand slowly into a handshake position. You will feel a sense of relief in your wrists and arms.

Ergonomic keyboards introduce an angle to the keyboard, which improves blood flow to the hands and provides a better position to reduce muscle fatigue. It eventually results in a decrease in wrist pain and faster typing speeds.

Longer and Consistent Typing Speed with Ergonomic Keyboards

We cannot rule out that more extended and consistent typing can result in better outcomes then fast and shorter typing speeds. Ergonomic keyboards provide more comfort while slightly costing you typing speed. However, some users will eventually gain their initial typing speed, but on a standard keyboard, the chances of pressing the wrong key are higher.

According to the Hand and Wrist Institute, poor ergonomics and unnatural typing positions can lead to more typing errors and a higher risk of developing RSI (Repetitive Strain Injuries).

How to Switch to Ergonomic Keyboard

The ideal time to make the switch to the ergonomic keyboard is critical. If you are a typist or your profession involves many typing tasks, timing your switch can become comfortable. Here are the key points you should consider before making the switch:

● It takes time to adjust to a new ergonomic keyboard. The learning curve is approximately four days.

● Switch when you have a low workload or are least stressed about work.

● Choose a keyboard with mechanical switches as they are the most ergonomic regarding typing experience and reliability.

● Find a tactile mechanical switch like Cherry MX Brown or Outemu Blue switch.

● A wrist rest for your keyboard can also improve your wrist position and reduce stress.

● Split keyboards are best for natural wrist position and fatigue reduction.

● Go for the keyboard and mouse combo for a better ergonomic computer setup.

● Ensure that you have the right table and and adjustable chair height for better positioning.

Tips to Make Your Typing Faster

Are you looking for a solution to your slow typing speed or want to increase your typing speed? You can improve your productivity by following these tips:

1. Consider tactile feedback mechanical keyboard switches that can enhance your typing feedback, thus reducing errors.

2. Practice maintaining an active posture, improving typing speed, and reducing fatigue for longer typing sessions.

3. Focus on typing accuracy rather than speed in the initial stages of learning to type on the ergonomic keyboard.

4. Engage in online typing games to increase engagement during practice. Learning to type on an ergonomic keyboard takes time.

5. Ensure your body is in proper ergonomic position before starting the typing process.

6. Place your fingers on the home row position, the right hand on the “JKL;” and the left hand on the “ASDF”.

7. Always stay ahead of when typing. Stay a word or two ahead of what you are typing.

8. Take breaks to adjust your body and do stretches. It may seem like you are losing time, but they reduce fatigue.

9. Every 15 or 30 minutes, take a 5-minute break to stretch your neck, shoulders, fingers, wrists and back.

10. Always go easy on yourself and take time to adjust to the new accessory.

If you want to improve your typing speed and ergonomics, check out the wide variety of ergonomic keyboard options by MENTION. They have an extensive lineup, including mechanical, membrane, 60%, or full-range keyboards that enhance the typing experience and cater to the requirements of different types of users. Gamers can also find ergonomic options for longer gaming sessions and better practice conditions.

You can also find mouse and keyboard combinations with 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity for a fast and reliable connection. Be sure to visit their website to explore all the ergonomic keyboards that can make you type faster!