What is the best alternative to Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard?

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score 59 · Answer 1

Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000

Top Pro

Ergonomic and comfortable

The 4000 keyboard is designed to be more comfortable to type on than regular rectangular keyboards. Its key rows curve to match the human hands’ angled resting position, eliminating the wrist strain that happens with regular keyboards. This is an important factor in reducing the risk of injury. See More

Top Con

No mechanical switches

The 4000 keyboard uses the same traditional rubber dome switches found on common keyboards, unlike the mechanical switches found on many other good programming keyboards. Rubber dome switches are inconsistent and always need to be bottomed out with each key press. They are also not especially durable, lasting about a quarter of the time their mechanical counterparts last. It should be noted this switch option is one of the main reasons why this keyboard is so affordable. See More

Top Pro

Great value for money

With a retail price of $96.86, (although often selling for $27-$50) this keyboard is considerably more affordable than most ergonomic keyboards on the market. It doesn’t have the same caliber as more premium keyboards, but it’s a top option for those on a budget who are looking for a good ergonomic option. See More

Top Con

Key printing gets erased after a short time

After 2 or 3 months of use, the most used keys loose their printed symbols. See More

Top Pro

Can be used with a negative tilt

While the 4000 keyboard can be raised at the back like conventional keyboards, it also comes with a detachable platform that raises the front of the keyboard. This creates a negative tilt more natural to the arm-hand alignment. See More

Top Con

Not very portable

With external dimensions of 19.8’’ x 10.3’’ x 3.26’’ (503 mm x 262 mm x 82.8 mm) and weighing 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg), this keyboard is not easy to carry around. See More

Top Pro

Ergonomic wrist support

Foam cushions support one’s wrists while typing, preventing “hanging hands,” which can cause fatigue over extended periods. See More

Top Con

Noisy

Despite not using mechanical switches, the 4000 keyboard is quite noisy, so it’s not the best pick for those looking for a silent option. See More

Top Pro

Great for people with big hands

Due to its size, this keyboard is great for those who have big hands. See More

Top Con

The space bar is hard to press

While it's new, the space bar needs quite some force to be pressed down. See More

Top Pro

Standard ancillary key layout

The number pad, the arrow keys, Insert, Home etc. are all in their standard positions which is not common on Ergonomic keyboards. See More

Top Con

Key layout is hard to reconfigure

It's hard to reconfigure the 4000's default key layout. Some users would like to have the option of moving a few keys around, which is very difficult with this keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Several additional, personalizable keys

This keyboard has hotkeys for things like media control, zoom or launching applications. The function keys also have secondary functions, activated by an F-lock key. Some of them are customizable via a companion app (for Windows and macOS) that ships with the keyboard. See More

Top Con

No USB ports

Can't connect any external devices, since there aren't any USB ports. See More

Top Pro

Key swapping for macOS

On macOS, users have the option of swapping the Windows and Alt keys, so they match the Option and Command key order found on standard Apple keyboards, even if no alternate keycaps or stickers are provided for use with this OS. See More

Top Con

Almost all the keys are hard to press

The keys can feel too rigid due to the force needed to press them down. This hinders the typing process, making it less fluid. See More

Top Con

Most of the extra functionality keys are not supported on macOS

This keyboard has a lot of extra functionality keys useful for daily tasks, like media controls or back/forward keys. Unfortunately, most of them are not supported on macOS, even after driver installation. See More

Top Con

Only solves some RSI problems

While this does help with many RSI problems, it still has the ergonomic disadvantages of a standard keyboard layout. See More

Top Con

No right hand Windows key

There is no right hand Windows key. See More

Specs

Weight:1.3 kg / 2.9 lbs

59 12

score 138 · Answer 2

CM Storm Quickfire Rapid

Top Pro

Great value for money

The QuickFire Rapid keyboard is often recommended as a great beginners' keyboard on pretty much every enthusiast community out there due to its value for money. Its build quality is great, it's easy to find online & it comes with a good selection of switches for about half the price of the top-of-the-line options. See More

Top Con

No numpad

The tenkeyless design (no numpad on the right) makes the keyboard more compact, but isn't great for anybody that works with spreadsheets and data entry. See More

Top Pro

High quality mechanical key switches

The CM Storm QuickFire Rapid uses genuine Cherry MX key switches which are generally considered the best available mechanical switches. Their reputation is well-deserved, due to their excellent durability and superior performance and reliability. They go through vigorous testing to ensure they meet the desired quality standards. Moreover, because they're standard Cherry MX switches, they are interchangeable with custom keycaps. Down the road, if you prefer you can get your own custom keycaps and totally change the look of your board. From a minimalist design like this to a custom image like this, or even different shaped keys like this you can modify them to your hearts content. See More

Top Con

Keycap design

Media labels are on the top of the keycaps while FN labels should be on the front of the keycaps (OEM profile). Hence the user experience is not the best. See More

Top Pro

Solid build quality

This keyboard is made by the same OEM as the Filco keyboard, so it's of comparable build quality. Given that the Filco costs a lot more money and has one of the best reputations in the industry for quality, this is a great selling point for the Quickfire Rapid. See More

Top Con

No backlighting

The QuickFire Rapid can be hard to use in the dark, since it has no backlighting. Also, some people feel backlighting gives a more premium look to the keybard. There is, however, an alternate version of this keyboard that comes with backlighting (the Rapid-i). See More

Top Pro

Good for those new to mechanical keyboards

One of the main objections against getting a mechanical keyboard is how much it usually costs. This keyboard combines good quality and an affordable price. This makes it a good choice for beginners that aren't positive the investment on a mechanical keyboard will pay back. See More

Top Con

No alternate layouts

There is no simple option when ordering this keyboard to have it set up for alternate keyboard layouts such as DVORAK. While it is possible thanks to the DSA style keycaps and included keypuller, a new set of keys to swap out will need to be ordered from a third party. See More

Top Pro

Easily changeable keycaps

Included with the keyboard are 6 extra keycaps as well as a keypuller. The keypuller allows for easy removal of the installed keycaps, in order to switch them out with caps of the users liking. See More

Top Con

Modifier key difficult to use

The dedicated Fn modifier key that activates the Fn keys’ secondary features, like media control or display settings, is inconveniently placed next to the right Control key, making use inconvenient. See More

Top Pro

Pretty portable

The USB cable connecting the keyboard to one's computer is easily detachable at the base of the keyboard, thanks to the micro USB connection. This makes it easy to detach and reattach the keyboard at will. Couple this with the fact that this is a tenkeyless keyboard that weights just 2.1 pounds, and you can understand how easy it would be to remove the keyboard and throw it into a bag in order to travel with it. See More

Top Con

No spare parts offered on manufacturers site

While the keyboard does come with 6 extra keycaps, if the purchaser wants more or different keycaps (or other parts) they will need to go to a third party. For convenience's sake, it would be easier to get them from the manufacturer. See More

Top Pro

Switch customization options and alternate versions available

There are 4 different kinds of Cherry MX switches (Blue, Red, Brown and Green) to choose from. There are also alternate versions of the Quickfire Rapid that offer options the original version doesn’t have, like backlighting, numbers pads or media function keys. See More

Top Pro

Very sturdy

The included rubber feet and fold out back feet allows for a sturdy hold on one's desk. This keyboard does not move or slide around in the slightest, whether the back feet are folded out or not. See More

Top Pro

Great cable solution

Not only is the braided cable detachable, but it has cable routing as well. If you want, you can swap out the included braided cable for a longer/shorter/different coloured one that suits your setup better. Also, if you break the cable (or your pet does), it's cheap to get a new one and very easy to do. Cable routing helps organize your cables in a more pleasing way. Instead of having the cord come right out the middle of the back, you can have it go on either side of the back which can help make your setup look cleaner. See More

Top Pro

Hides wear and tear well

The soft touch coating on the the keyboard's surface makes wear marks minimal, as it tends to hide small scratches and doesn't wear off as easily as some paints do. It has the bonus of making the surface pleasant to touch, because of its softness. See More

Top Pro

Reliable Costar stabilizers

Costar stabilizers offer less friction in their key motion use. Often Cherry branded stabilizers are a bit more mushy when the key is pressed, which is why many prefer Costars stabilizers. See More

Specs

Weight:2.1 lbs ( 0.95 kg )

Dimensions:355 x 135 x 35 mm ( 14” x 5” x 1”)

Warranty:2 years

Cable:Braided, removable

See All Specs >

See All

138 12

score 81 · Answer 3

Kinesis Advantage2

Top Pro

Clusters of keys under each thumb means less reaching

Having multiple keys under the thumbs lets you keep the rest of your hands still, and helps prevent reaching. For example, the backspace key on a regular keyboard is way in the top right corner, while on the Kinesis keyboard it's under the left thumb. So, to hit the backspace button you just need to move your thumb while on regular keyboards you need to move your whole right hand and stretch your pinky to reach it. See More

Top Con

Quite bulky, therefore not very portable

As a direct consequence of its unconventional ergonomic shape, the Advantage2 is quite bulky. At 16.5 in’ x 8 in’ x 2.88 in’ (419 mm x 203 mm x 73 mm), it's not the most portable keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Optimised, ergonomic shape that significantly reduces the risk of RSI

This keyboard is sculpted to fit the curvature of your hand more naturally than regular flat boards. This helps reduce the risks of suffering repetitive strain injuries. See More

Top Con

Proficiency means overcoming a learning curve

Becoming an expert at using this keyboard’s optimized design needs time and patience, since it’s so different from what most people are used to. Some of its drastic layout changes can be disorienting at first. For example, the four arrow keys are separated: up and down on the right side cluster; left and right on the left side cluster. It’s also built to enforce healthier hand posture and movements, that may feel weird at first. For instance, the keyboard trains you (using a deactivatable key feedback) to press keys smoothly instead of smashing down, which reduces hand strain. Usually, it takes between two to four weeks of regular use to feel completely comfortable at using this keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Tweaked layout that saves your hands

This keyboard has numerous ergonomic advantages over a keyboard with a standard layout. Some of them are obvious and some are subtle, but they are synergistic and result in a typing experience that places far less stress on the hands. Learning a tweaked keyboard layout is a small price to pay to avoid RSI (repetitive strain injury). See More

Top Con

Not for heavy shortcut users

Top Pro

No need to constantly move hands sideways

One of this keyboard's best features is that the keys are vertically aligned in straight columns, so that you're not constantly exercising the muscles to move your fingers slightly to the left or to the right. It makes a huge difference. See More

Top Con

Not great for gaming

This keyboard is amazing for typing, but not great for gaming. Many games make intensive keys such as the Arrow keys or the Alt, Control and Shift keys. With this keyboard, it's not very comfortable to use them so frequently. See More

Top Pro

Prepared for macOS, Windows and Linux

Besides the option of easily changing between pre-programmed layouts of these 3 systems, extra OS-specific keycaps come with the keyboard. See More

Top Con

Can be a bit flakey at times

The downside of this keyboard is that it can occasionally act up. The biggest problem is that the up-event for a key occasionally gets lost and then some key will auto-repeat until you press it again. Or even worse, it's a key that has no visible effect like an Alt key, and then you have to figure out which key it is that is in the virtual down position, and press it again. It has had this same problem for the last 20 years. You learn to live with it for the sake of your hands. See More

Top Pro

Good for learning how to touch type

This layout, because of its uniqueness, is perfect to learn touch typing. Even for those that were never able to learn it with common keyboards. It still requires practice to get proficient, of course. See More

Top Con

Different switches for the function keys

The functions keys are not build with the same switches than the other keys: they use Cherry ML switches instead of Cherry MX Brown switches. Because of their shorter travel distance, the ML feels quite different. It's awkward to have such different sensations for different parts of the keyboard. See More

Top Pro

No thumb conflict over the spacebar

On common keyboards, both thumbs rest over the spacebar, meaning they can knock against each other. On the Advantage 2 keyboard, only one thumb can press the keyboard, eliminating this problem. See More

Top Pro

No undesirable movements

Because of its size, this keyboard stands firmly on the desk and doesn't suffer from unwanted movement during use. See More

Top Pro

Comfortable palm rests

The large, raised palm rests provide comfort while typing. See More

Top Pro

Very programmable

This keyboard has several programmable options, like Macro recording, key remapping or keyboard layout (the keyboard can be changed from QWERTY to Dvorak with the touch of a button). See More

Specs

Weight:1 kg / 2.2 lbs

Warranty:3 years

Accessories:Quick Start Guide, self-adhesive palm pads, keycap puller and 4 extra keycaps ( 2 Command keys, 1 Alt/Option key and 1 Alt key)

Available Switches:Cherry MX Brown

See All Specs >

See All

81 14

score 51 · Answer 4

ErgoDox

Top Pro

Ultimate customizability

You can map any key to any position easily using a simple GUI, including making hardware key layers. And, since the firmware is open source, you can modify it to do anything you want. Many of the hardware components can also be altered/replaced by equivalent parts. See More

Top Con

Needs to be assembled

This can be fun, but some people just want a working keyboard without having to spend three hours with a soldering iron. It's tricky to find pre-assembled ErgoDoxes, and they're not mass-produced. It is also possible to commission an enthusiast to build one up as well. Some Massdrops of the ErgoDox kit did came with an option allowing one to choose whether to have it pre-made or not. However, you can order and ErgoDox EZ preassembled here. See More

Top Pro

Split design lets you optimize positioning

You can arrange each side of the keyboard to match your hand positions. Helps keep your body straight and improve your posture. See More

Top Con

Expensive

Getting a complete kit from Massdrop costs about $400. Sourcing each part individually ends up a bit under $200. See More

Top Pro

Open source

The ErgoDox has an open design, so if you want to modify anything at all, you can fork the Github repository. See More

Top Con

Tends to move around during use

Due to its split structure and lack of sturdiness, it tends to move during use. See More

Top Pro

Many easily accessible keys for touch typists

There are more keys which are easily accessible for touch typists than on common keyboards. See More

Top Con

Difficult to source individual components

You have to either source the individual components and build it yourself or wait for a Massdrop group purchase. However, you can order it preassembled here. See More

Top Pro

More actions for the thumb

Unlike other keyboards, like the Lexmark M15 and Cherry G80-5000, where the only action performable by the thumbs is punching the spacebar, ErgoDox has extra keys placed near the spacebar, within thumb reach. This prevents the thumbs from being a bit redundant. See More

Top Con

Hard to use with small hands

Because of its size, it's hard to use for those who have small hands. See More

Top Pro

Key rows are aligned

Almost all the keyboards have a small row offset (for example, on a standard QWERTY keyboard, the A key is not directly below the Q key. On the ErgoDox, this isn't the case: keys form straight columns. Together with the movability of the two parts you can stretch your fingers straight on, not slightly sidewards. This helps with touch typing, since you just need to stretch your fingers straight onward to reach the key above, rather than stretching it onwards and sideways. See More

Top Pro

Firmware updates

Because of the nature of ErgoDox, within an open source community, there are advancements in firmware being made continuously. See More

Top Pro

Comfortable for those with broad shoulders and large hands

Because of its split design, the ErgoDox lets you optimize the positioning of its halves according to what's best for your body shape, even if you have broad shoulders and large hands. See More

Top Pro

Customization settings saved on the keyboard

With most programmable keyboards, you have to use their software in order to save and reuse your customizations. Using such keyboards on other systems "degrades" them to their default setting. Since with the ErgoDox the settings are saved directly on the keyboard, no matter the system where you're using it, your macros, tap dances and layers are always available. See More

Top Pro

Split design forces correct hand position

The Ergodox doesn't allow you to reach over the centerline to hit T and H with a single finger, or whatever other bad habits you might have. The split design forces you to keep your hands in the right position. See More

Top Pro

ErgoDox EZ offers a 2-year warranty

The pre-assembled version offers an extensive 2-year warranty, provided you haven't taken it apart or physically broken it. See More

See All

51 5

score 16 · Answer 5

Kinesis Freestyle2 w/ VIP3

Top Pro

Ergonomic design

The Freestyle 2 has an ergonomic design, aimed to promote healthier and more comfortable typing. See More

Top Con

Not very solid

This keyboard's construction is not very sturdy and it feels flimsy. See More

Top Pro

Reduces wrist pain

The wrist support offered by this keyboard alleviates wrist strain. See More

Top Con

Bad for spreadsheet work

Since it has no numeric pad, the Freestyle 2 is not convenient for spreadsheet work. See More

Top Pro

Encourages "proper" touch typing

By splitting the left and right hand of the keyboard and leaving out a numeric pad it encourages users to use the home row numbers as typically taught in American English typing classes. See More

Top Pro

Flexible positioning

The left and right side of the keyboard can be positioned independently and tilted as desired. See More

16 2

score 44 · Answer 6

Das Keyboard Model S

Top Pro

Tasteful Branding

This keyboard's branding is polished and attractive. See More

Top Con

Loss in build quality after a change of manufacturer

There was a noticeable decrease in build quality after manufacturer change. See More

Top Pro

NKRO on all models

All Das Keyboard models come standard with N key roll over. This means that the keyboard can handle all simultaneous inputs, making it great for gaming or for really really fast typists. See More

Top Con

Large footprint

The Das Keyboard range does not come in tenkeyless variants, so all the keyboards are pretty big. See More

Top Pro

Available as a silent variant

With the Cherry MX Browns the Model S Professional is very silent and suitable for an office environment. Key presses rarely "bottom out" and it comes with o-rings to prevent noise from being generated when you do. See More

Top Con

Fingerprint magnet

After some time, the glossy finish used for the case clearly shows fingerprints. See More

Top Pro

30 day money back guarantee

If you get this keyboard directly from Das and, within 30 days, decide you don't want it, you can return it for a refund. See More

Top Pro

Uses Costar stabilizers

Costar stabilizers significantly reduce friction in key motion. See More

Top Pro

Heavy base

Great for staying put and not sliding around the desk under energetic typing. See More

Top Pro

Provides a two-port USB hub

Two powered USB inputs are available on the Model S, making plugging in a wired mouse or other devices really easy and helps clean up your desk wiring. See More

Top Pro

You can get it with Linux keycaps

Instead of having to deal with Windows or Mac branded modifier keys, you can configure the Model S to come with keycaps designed for Linux. See More

Top Pro

Media keys

This keyboard has convenient key functions for media control. See More

See All

44 5

score 9 · Answer 7

Tomoko 87

Top Con

Noisy switches

This keyboard uses Outemu switches, which are very noisy. See More

Top Pro

Affordable

This keyboard's price is quite attractive. See More

Top Con

No backlighting

The Tomoko 87 doesn't have backlit keys. See More

9 0

score 46 · Answer 8

Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch

Top Pro

High quality components for a low price

The practical design of this keyboard is typical of high-end mechanical keyboards, only differing in the details. The matte black chassis has rounded corners and a simple design. This keyboard uses Cherry MX switches, common among keyboards that cost significantly more than the Leopold. See More

Top Con

Easily bends

This keyboard easily suffers from a bit of flexing, something other keyboards in this price range don't suffer from. See More

Top Pro

Grainy keycaps

This Leopold keyboard ships with PBT (short for "polybutylene terephthalate") keycaps which have a grainy texture that some might prefer as it helps prevent fingers from slipping. They are also known to withstand wear well. See More

Top Con

No backlighting makes night-time use harder

Backlighting is common among high-end keyboards, but the Leopold doesn't have this feature. While most users looking for a mechanical keyboard will be able to type without looking at the keys, sometimes the special characters can still be hit or miss. In the dark, it might take a few tries before getting the intended special character. See More

Top Pro

Cherry stabilizers

The Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch uses Cherry stabilizers on all of its keys. See More

Top Con

No extra features (such as macros or USB passthrough)

This is an affordable board, therefore it lacks some of the more premium features found on more expensive boards. It doesn't have any macro capabilities which can be useful for heavy users (macros are recorded key sequences which can be activated with a single button press - these can be used in games to automate some tasks, or in other programs to get repetitive tasks done quicker). There's also no USB passthrough option. Some keyboards let you plug your mouse or a USB key right into the keyboard, which helps keep cables looking tidier, while being more accessible. See More

Top Pro

Removable USB cable

While this might not seem like a big deal, having to replace your beloved keyboard because the cable has been broken through frequent wrapping can be frustrating. See More

Specs

Available Switches:Cherry MX Brown

USB Hub:No

Full Media Controls:No

Key backlighting:No

See All Specs >

See All

46 4

score 8 · Answer 9

TypeMatrix 2030

Top Pro

Compact

This keyboard has a small footprint, only 324 by 133 mm. This not only leaves more room on the desk, but also and mainly reduces the lateral travel distance of the right hand to grab the mouse. It still offers a good numeric keypad thanks to the matrix layout. See More

Top Con

Unusual layout

The central position of the Enter and Backspace keys, on top of the matrix arrangement, requires some time to get used to. See More

Top Pro

Ergonomic keyboard

The matrix layout reduces the travel distance of fingers. The keys feature membrane switches with double-scissor substrate, which are quite comfortable and very quiet. See More

Top Pro

BÉPO and Dvorak layouts

These layouts are not easy to find, especially the first one. While they don't necessarily increase the typing speed, they greatly reduce the travel distance of the fingers, and have a much better distribution of the keys than regular AZERTY or QWERTY layouts. See More

Top Pro

Skins

Numerous skins are available, making it simple to keep the keyboard clean and even quieter. They also allow for multiple layouts. See More

Top Pro

Increased typing accuracy

This keyboard's matrix layout allows for increased typing accuracy. It gets rid of the typewriter keyboard legacy in favor of a more logical layout. See More

8 1

score 17 · Answer 10

Apple Wired Keyboard with Numeric Keypad

Top Pro

Less typing fatigue

The low profile is comfortable and the traveling distance is short. The keys are light to press, leading to less typing fatigue. See More

Top Con

Feels like a laptop keyboard

This keyboard feels like a laptop keyboard, since it's too flat. This isn't ideal for coding and makes this a pointless option for laptop owners who want an external keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Solid construction

Thanks to its thin aluminum enclosure, this keyboard is sturdy. See More

Top Con

Lacks feedback

Compared to other keyboards, it lacks a tactile feel when typing. See More

Top Pro

Aesthetically impressive

Nothing really comes close to the Apple device's aesthetic flair. See More

Top Con

Easy for fingers to slide off the keys

Due to the keys having no concavity, it's easy for fingers to slide off the keys. See More

Top Pro

Two USB ports

Handy for device connection See More

Top Pro

Widely available

Since this keyboard is mainstream, many big companies have it. So, if working at a big company, it is likely it is quickly available and for "free". See More

Top Pro

Ergonomic and good for fast typing

The low-profile, short-travel construction makes this keyboard more ergonomic than previous Apple keyboards and allows for fast typing because keys have only a small distance to go before registering. See More

Top Pro

Portable

This keyboard is very light and can be easily carried around. See More

See All

17 6

score 39 · Answer 11

Apple Wireless Keyboard

Top Pro

Aesthetics

Visually more appealing than your typical all-black keyboard. See More

Top Con

Uncomfortable typing experience

Like the other Apple chiclet keyboards, it is not meant for touch typing: the switches are mushy and lack the tactile feedback, the keycaps are flat and so is the keyboard profile (not DSA or DCS, just plain ... flat). See More

Top Pro

Solid, but compact

Achieves a solid feel without feeling heavy or bulky. See More

Top Con

Tenkeyless

This keyboard doesn't have a numeric pad. See More

Top Pro

Very lightweight keys

The easy-click keys allow minimum effort when typing. See More

Top Con

Works well only with Apple gear

It doesn't work properly with hardware that's not from Apple. See More

Top Pro

Takes up little space

A small keyboard means your mouse and/or trackpad can be closer to you, while having your keyboard right in front of you. See More

Top Con

It's missing some useful keys

It doesn't have dedicated Insert, Home, End, Page Up or Page Down keys. See More

Top Pro

Wireless

Being wireless makes it easy to carry around in your backpack and also means less wire clutter on the desk. See More

Top Pro

Fully compatible with any MacBook series keyboard

You will be instantly familiar with MacBook keyboards. See More

Top Pro

Tenkeyless

This keyboard doesn't have a numeric pad, making it more compact. See More

Top Pro

Works with iPad

This keyboard can be used with iPads. See More

See All

39 14

score 27 · Answer 12

Vortex KBC Poker II

Top Pro

Easily customizable (both programmatically and with new keys)

It has a 100% standard ANSI layout and you can program keys to perform media control functions if desired. See More

Top Con

Suffers from side flex

Since it doesn't have a faceplate, the Vortex KBC Poker II suffers from a bit of flex on its sides. See More

Top Pro

Doesn't take much space

The Poker II takes less space than most keyboards, since it's tenkeyless. See More

Top Pro

Great quality

The materials and overall design is of good quality. See More

27 1

score 6 · Answer 13

Noppoo Choc Mini

Top Pro

5-Key rollover

Registers up to 5 keys pressed simultaneously. See More

Top Pro

Portable

This is a compact keyboard, so it's very portable. See More

Top Pro

Good quality mechanical switches

The Choc Mini uses Cherry mechanical switches, know for their durability and reliability. See More

6 0

score 6 · Answer 14

Azio Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Top Pro

RGB model available under $100 as well

While the RGB model costs $80, it provides full per-key RGB lighting complete with different effects. While this doesn't offer any extra functionality, it adds some flashiness to your build. See More

Top Con

Uses knockoff switches

This keyboard uses the Kailh switches instead of the more common Cherry MX switches. Kailh switches are made in China instead of Germany where the Cherry MX switches are made. The Kailh switches don't last as long, and the quality testing isn't as vigorous as Cherry's. The switch naming scheme is very similar, however Kailh switches are typically heavier than the comparable Cherry switches. See More

Top Pro

White backlight has adjustable brightness levels

The base model of the keyboard offers a white backlight (no RGB), and the brightness of the backlight can be adjusted to suit the ambient lighting. See More

Top Con

Not adjustable/programmable, and no macro support

Other than brightness levels (and lighting modes for the RGB model), this is a basic board. It doesn't support macros, and there are no profiles you can adjust. This will be fine for most users, however heavy users will miss these features. See More

Top Pro

Choice of brown or blue switches

There are two switches to choose from: Kailh blue or Kailh brown. The blue switches offer a bump at the activation point as well as a click, while the brown switches offer a bump without the click. These switches are slightly heavier than the corresponding Cherry MX switches, but are similar in the way they act. See More

Top Pro

Minimal, sleek looking design

The bezels of the keyboard are small, and the design of the board is minimal instead of gaudy gamer-focused designs. It has a volume roller in the top right accompanied by the mute button which makes the board feel more premium than it's price point would suggest. The keys also appear to be floating - while most keyboards have their keys recessed behind the casing, these ones aren't. this leaves their side exposed, and makes for a more unique design than other boards. See More

6 0

score 37 · Answer 15

Model M

Top Pro

Tactile and "clicky" buckling-spring key switches

Buckling-spring switches are hardly used anymore, but they give some of the best tactile response when activated. See More

Top Con

Very hard to acquire

Out of stock for decades. See More

Top Pro

Very sturdy

Although heavier than a modern keyboard, this keyboard is built like a tank. There is no flex, and the components were built to last. See More

Top Con

Noisy to type on

Floss mod is available for the Type M to make the keyboard a little more quiet. However, since it's still a mechanical keyboard, it will be noisy. This keyboard will not be appreciated in the office. See More

Top Pro

Solid construction

Quality construction, good materials. See More

Top Con

Some driver issues with USB-only computers

Using a PS/2 to USB adapter can kill rollover. See More

Top Pro

Removable / replaceable keycaps.

With a hook beneath the caps that you have to get to, you can detach those keycaps and replace them with others. See More

Top Con

Very large

Measuring nearly 20'' x 8.5'' x 2" ( 50 x 21.5 x 5 cm), this is a very big keyboard. It will be hard to fit into a minimalistic styled desk setup, and might even be too big for some smaller desks. See More

Top Pro

Clear separation of key groups

Top Con

Lacks some modifier keys

The Model M lacks both of the meta/super/cmd/Windows (depending on the OS in question) keys and a menu key. See More

Top Pro

Attitude

Clearly signals that I'm serious about what I do and how I do it. See More

See All

37 2

score 4 · Answer 16

MechanicalEagle Z77

Top Pro

Coloured lighting (not RGB)

This keyboard offers colourful lighting, and a number of lighting modes from reactive (which lights up the buttons you press) to pinwheel or linear movement. You can also program which keys you want to light up, and create your own custom lighting mode. See More

Top Con

Uses knockoff mechanical switches

This keyboard uses the Outemu blue switches which are clones of the massively popular Cherry MX blue switches. There isn't much information available on these Outemu switches, but they are made in China and likely aren't help up to the same standard that the German made Cherry switches are. See More

Top Pro

Real mechanical switches provide comfortable typing

While the keyswitches aren't the popular Cherry MX switches, they are still mechanical switches: more specifically Outemu blue switches. These switches are made in China, and work similarly to the Cherry MX blue switches. They offer a tactile bump and a click at the activation point (about half way down) which is not only satisfying to hear and feel, but also provides more accurate and comfortable typing. See More

Top Con

Per-row lighting only (not RGB)

Each key only has a single LED beneath it, and can only illuminate a single colour. When all lit up, it looks colourful however the QWERTYUIOP (top row) keys will always be green, and the ZXCVBNM (bottom row) keys will always be purple. See More

4 0

score 46 · Answer 17

Leopold FC660C

Top Pro

Topre switches at a good price

Topre switches are a high end switch which typically cost a hefty premium. They have mechanical components protected underneath a rubber dome which makes them more durable. See More

Top Con

Non standard key sizes

Non standard key sizes means your aftermarket keycap options are limited to non-modifiers. This issue also exists with virtually every other keyboard that utilises the Topre switch. See More

Top Pro

Solid construction

Heavier than the HHKB (Happy Hacking Keyboard). See More

Top Con

Can suffer from squeeky "plastic on plastic" rubbing with the case

Top Pro

Compact and portable footprint

If you love your keyboard enough to want to use it everywhere, it should be portable, especially if it's as expensive as this one is. The FC660C is very compact and easy to carry around. See More

Top Pro

Topre switches are plate mounted

Topre switches aren't stand-alone switches, as in they are mounted to the plate. This means that the overall board is much stiffer (less flex) and less likely to have a key that feels bouncy. See More

46 3

score 40 · Answer 18

Topre Realforce 104UB

Top Pro

Uses Topre key switches

Topre switches are a mix between mechanical switches and rubber dome switches. They have mechanical components, however they are covered beneath a rubber dome which protects the switch. They bring a mechanical feel, and mix it with the durability of a rubber dome switch. See More

Top Con

Generally not cheap

When the keyboard is not sourced directly from Japan the price may vary (usually higher). At the same time, sourcing directly from Japan may only save one a couple of dollars here and there (after including the forwarding/proxy costs). Ideally, the best solution is to shop around and do one's homework, to see what is more viable in the long run. See More

Top Pro

Variable key weights

Variable weights under each specific groups of keys was done in a bid to prevent RSI (repetitive strain injury). For instance, the groups of keys that the pinky finger hits are much lighter/softer than the rest of the groups of keys that are pressed by the rest of the fingers. Variable weights are achieved by having either heavier or lighter rubber domes. Whilst this idea is very useful for normal typing, for gaming it's not so great: for instance, when dealing with First Person Shooter games that requires WASD keys, those sets of keys feel very light when fingers other than the pinky are used to actuate them. See More

Top Con

Lack of customisation available

As is the case with virtually every Topre based keyboard, the 104UB comes with the disadvantage of lacking customisation options. This is mitigated by the fact Realforce generally sells a wide range of coloured keycaps for their keyboards. See More

Top Pro

PBT keycaps

PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps last longer than other keycap materials, and are more durable. They are more expensive than ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), which is why they are less commonly found. See More

Top Con

Keys can occassionally chatter

It's pretty rare (maybe once every 3 months), but Realforce keyboard keys can "chatter" (at least on the Realforce 87u and 103u keyboards). The key is not physically stuck in the keydown position, but nevertheless, the input will continuously and endlessly repeat as if the key was being held down. Further keyboard input is ignored until you unplug the USB cable. It's an uncommon annoyance, however an annoyance nonetheless. See More

Top Pro

Silenced option are available

Silenced Topre switches are designed for those who do not particularly like the sound of keyboards being tapped on or for those who may be concern over disturbing others when using a noisy keyboard. Silencing is done mainly by placing a material that absorbs the sound of the slider when it makes contact with the slider housing. This thereby prevents excessive noise when the key has been released after it has been actuated. The overall effect of a silenced Topre is quite astounding as it may give the impression one is on a cheap keyboard (obviously, the reality is actually the opposite). See More

Specs

Available Switches:Topre

See All

40 3

score 24 · Answer 19

Ultimate Hacking Keyboard

Top Pro

Ergonomic design

The UHK has a split design, since two keyboard halves result in a more natural typing posture. The halves are connected by a bridge cable, which expands and contracts as needed, occupying minimal desk space. The halves can be merged together as one, which is useful for transportation purposes or if you happen to prefer a one-piece keyboard. See More

Top Con

Not shipping until Spring 2017

The HKB is not shipping yet. Manufacturers predict they will start shipping during Spring 2017. See More

Top Pro

Programmable

Through the use of an app called Agent, users can configure the UHK to their liking. See More

Top Pro

Modular and disassembly friendly

The UHK is modular and has disassembly instructions embossed onto components and even printed on the circuit board. It records use data, so when key switches have reached the end of its lifespan, users can replace them. See More

Top Pro

Feature customization via add-on modules

You can attach trackpoint, trackball, trackpad and additional key clusters to the board. This allows for extensive feature customization, for increased productivity and convenience. See More

Top Pro

No need to leave the home row

For maximum touch-typing productivity, one's hands should not leave the home row frequently. With conventional keyboards, this is not the case when navigation and function keys need to be used. On the HKB, via a thumb key press, several function layers can be activated, turning the home row keys into function keys. See More

24 3

score 95 · Answer 20

Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2

Top Pro

Compact & minimalistic

This keyboard uses a 60% layout that forgoes unneeded keys and merges the extra set of keys into the Fn layer. This mimics the behaviour found on most laptops due to size restrictions. Despite this, the more commonly used keys are left intact so that one does not feel too unfamiliar with the more compact layout. In addition to reducing the keyboard's size, it makes accessing virtually every key on the keyboard a breeze. See More

Top Con

Expensive

There are many potential reasons as to why this keyboard is as expensive as it is, like the use of certain materials or the remarkable build quality. However, at the end of the day, its price is still quite higher than what most people are willing to spend on a keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Fluid key feel with Topre switches

This keyboard’s keys use Topre switches, which have a smooth, interesting feel: each key’s resistance is quickly lost once it starts being pressed. This sensation is accompanied by a unique and pleasantly organic “thock” sound. These hybrid switches have both a rubber dome and a spring which create the initial tactile bump feel and subsequent continuous action. If you want, these switches can be silenced, either by the manufacturer before purchasing or by following some DIY steps (easy to do, but time-consuming). See More

Top Con

Manufacturer warranty is only valid under certain conditions

The warranty conditions specifically imply that the one year manufacturer’s warranty is only valid within Japan or if bought within the US from elitekeyboards.com. For all other countries, the warranty is considered void by default. See More

Top Pro

Very well built

The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is a very well built keyboard that uses materials that give it a tough body resistant to bending. See More

Top Con

No dedicated arrow keys

The HHKB Pro JP is the only version that has dedicated arrow keys. On the HHKP2 , these functions have to be used via the Fn key. See More

Top Pro

Easily programmable and highly modifiable

This keyboard comes with the standard DIP switches to modify key behavior, but you can also completly swap out the controller board or even fork the TMK firmware to make your own keybindings in the firmware. Also available is the TMK controller board custom made for HHKB users. See More

Top Con

The USB hub only has 100 mW power

The USB hub on the HHKB only has 100 mW of power, so it might struggle to power some devices. See More

Top Pro

Designed to keep you in home row

Eiiti Wada (a Japanese computer pioneer), the co-developer of this keyboard, is a UNIX user and wanted to make life easier for programmers, particularly vim and emacs. He aimed for a keyboard layout that allowed fingers to stay in the home row most of the time. For example, he placed the Control key where the Caps Lock traditionally is. Most *nix users and general power users know that Control is used more often than Caps Lock for various shortcuts. Therefore, this key repositioning makes sense, since it makes access easier, using the pinky fingers while keeping one's hand on the "home row" of keys. See More

Top Con

Lacks versatility outside of typing

The Pro 2’s design focus on typing and coding results in compromises that hinders other kinds of uses. It’s not an ideal keyboard for gaming: many games use the Function and arrow keys extensively and with the Pro 2, that requires double strokes or completely reconfiguring the key binds to fit the layout. Also, when it comes to crunching numbers and spreadsheet work, the absence of the arrow keys and a dedicated number pad makes this keyboard completely cumbersome and inefficient to use. See More

Top Pro

The keycaps are made from PBT and the inscriptions are dye-sublimated

PBT plastic is a very brittle material that is able to withstand high temperatures, doesn't yellow or wear out easily. The dye sublimation process ensures the inscriptions don't wear off easily (compared to pad printed ABS, for example). This process usually requires keycaps to withstand high amounts of heat for the ink to transfer from one material to the other, something that's not possible with other commonly used plastics, like ABS. Dye-sublimated inscriptions are also better than laser, etched, or engraved inscriptions in the sense that they don't get dirt or dust as easily. See More

Top Con

It's popular because it is ridiculously overpriced, even though it's underfeatured

This keyboard's price is much too high for the features it offers. See More

Top Pro

Contributes to a more ergonomic workspace

The positioning of the numpad on traditional keyboards forces users to keep the mouse far on the right-hand side. With this keyboard's compact layout, a more ergonomic workspace can be created by allowing the mouse to be placed closer. See More

Top Con

The traction feet are weak and the height feet are short

The traction feet do not actually provide much traction just as the height feet do not add that much height. See More

Top Pro

The arrow keys, the page up/down keys and the media keys, among others, are easily usable via the Fn key, comfortably within reach

Even though there aren't dedicated keys for these functions, they can be easily used by pressing an easy-to-reach Fn key, placed just below Enter. Functions accessible via the Fn key are printed on the front of the keycap. See More

Top Con

No metal backplate

The HHKB lacks a metal backplate. Most decent mechanical keyboards have a metal backplate that is usually mounted to the underside of the PCB. The inclusion of such a plate, aside from increased build quality, adds more stability by dampening vibration during use. See More

Top Con

Lack of keycap/switch customization options

Due to the nature of the Topre switch, customization is very limited. On other keyboards, like those with Cherry MX switches, it is easy to swap switches. With Topre switches, this is only possible if a keyboard with the right set of rubber domes/cups is bought. This leads to a higher customization cost. See More

Specs

Weight:530 g / 1.168 lbs

Warranty:1 year if bought within Japan or from elitekeyboards.com. No warranty in all other cases.