5 Best Keyboards for Arthritis: Work Comfortably without any Pain

The keyboards for arthritis need no introduction since they are nothing less than a boon for arthritis patients! Specially designed for people with certain medical conditions, these keyboards are comfortable to work on.

Now you won’t feel pain in the fingers, or it will get easier to work comfortably for hours. I know someone with arthritis in the limbs, so I asked them to recommend some amazing keyboards that I can review and recommend.

Below is a list of amazing keyboards for arthritis patients. I’ve reviewed and compared the keyboards, so you can quickly get your hands on one for an improved typing experience. 

Make sure to check out the buying guide as well to confirm if the ergonomic keyboard you are going for is perfect for your needs. 

Do You Really Need a Keyboard for Arthritis?

Well, you might wonder why I need a keyboard for arthritis when I can work on a regular one! Typing in a condition like arthritis can be very painful at times, and it can also worsen carpal tunnel syndrome.

So, it is essential to get a keyboard specially designed for people with arthritis. Not just the keyboard offers comfort, but you can do the tasks much more quickly that saves a lot of time. 

Best Keyboard for Arthritis: Reviewed and Compared 

I spent hours searching for the best keyboards for carpal tunnel syndrome and compared them to prepare a list of 5. Moreover, I asked several medical experts and arthritis patients about the keyboards they prefer using and recommend. 

#1. Kinesis Advantage2 Quiet LF Ergonomic Keyboard: Overall Best 

Kinesis Advantage2 is a popular choice among people with arthritis. The ergonomic design makes typing highly comfortable, and you can easily press the keys without any pain. 

The soft-touch switch shortens the press, and a gentle tap is enough to register your command. The most used keys are available in the center, and you can quickly access them to complete the job you want.

Furthermore, the ergonomic keyboard has a bigger wrist rest, and several users said it offers decent comfort. One thing that I didn’t like is that there is no padding. However, the wrist rest feels comfortable.

The contrasting keys enhance the visibility, and you can quickly tap the keys you want. Being a wired keyboard, Kinesis Advantage2 eliminates the hassles of charging.

Just plug it into your Windows, Mac, or Linux device, and you can start typing whenever you want. The built-in RGB backlit makes it convenient to type during dark hours. Also, you can turn the backlit off just with a click. 

In a nutshell, this ergonomic keyboard for arthritis has concave key walls and thumb keys for easy access. The vertical and fixed split keyboard eliminates the need to move your palm. Moreover, the bigger wrist rest lets you keep your hands comfortably for hours.

Key Specifications 

  • Connectivity: Wired 
  • RGB: YES 
  • Number of Keys: 102
  • Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac

What are the Pros?

  • It offers a comfortable typing position 
  • Concave walls for keys provide easy access 
  • It comes with a 3-year warranty 
  • You can program shortcuts for more convenience  

What are the Cons?

  • Not that great for gaming 
  • The wrist rest doesn’t have padding.

#2. Cloud Nine C989M Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboard: Best for Gaming 

Next on the list is Cloud Nine C989M which is an ergonomic keyboard with mechanical keys. Whether you are a gamer, a writer, or need an ergonomic keyboard for data entry, you’ll find this keyboard for arthritis a perfect choice.

The ergonomic keyboard splits into two pieces, so you can place them at a distance for typing comfortably. In addition, the keys are big and well-spaced, so you can easily tap the keys you want. 

Cloud Nine has used genuine Cherry mechanical switches for tactile feedback. Also, the switches last longer, and you can use this keyboard for a variety of tasks. 

It’s a 104-key setup with gaming-grade circuitry. In addition, the keyboard has 100% anti-ghosting and quickly registers the press of every key. You can even use it as a gaming pad by disconnecting the other half.

I love the built-in multimedia control knob, and you can quickly turn the volume up and down. The built-in RGB backlit makes the keys visible during the dim light and sets the right ambiance required for gamers. 

You can change the RGB modes with a click, and that’s another reason why gamers prefer this ergonomic keyboard. Talking about the wrist rest, it has a big area to rest your palms but lacks cushioning. 

Moreover, connecting and disconnecting the two halves get daunting sometimes. Overall, if you are a gamer, and need a keyboard with a comfortable typing position, Cloud Nine C989M Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboard is your way to go.

Key Specifications 

  • Connectivity: Wired 
  • RGB: YES 
  • Number of Keys: 104
  • Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac

What are the Pros?

  • The ergonomic design prevents sore wrists 
  • It offers you a natural typing position 
  • The ergonomic keyboard has ten programmable keys 
  • Bigger volume dial to adjust multimedia settings 

What are the Cons?

  • Not that good for traveling 
  • You may have to move your hands to access the Numpad 

#3. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Wireless Desktop Keyboard: Best Keyboard and Mouse Combo 

Microsoft is here with a combo of ergonomic keyboards and mice to make your life easy! If you spend a lot of time on a computer, you need this keyboard under your palms. The very ergonomic design offers a comfortable posture, and you don’t have to move your hands a lot to access the keys.

Furthermore, the soft-touch keys help in registering the commands easily, and a gentle tap is enough to process the command. What I absolutely love about this keyboard is the big space bar.

Also, the Function keys are highly accessible, and you won’t have any issues in operating this device. It is a wireless keyboard, so forget the hassles of tangled wires. You can pair this Bluetooth keyboard with Windows, Mac, and Linux.

As per several users, this keyboard has a bigger and highly comfortable wrist rest. Moreover, the material feels soft and has ample cushioning.  You can rest assured about security, as the keyboard uses Advanced Encryption Standard Technology.

There is no Numpad on the ergonomic keyboard, but you get it separately, so doing calculations becomes easier and more comfortable. Also, Microsoft offers an ergonomic mouse that’s very comfortable to hold and has soft clicks.

The only thing that disappoints is the unavailability of backlit, so working in dim light can be a little challenging. 

In a nutshell, Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Wireless Desktop Keyboard is a great choice if you need something that’s light and comfortable. The sleek ergonomic keyboard is easy to travel with and comes with an ergonomic mouse and Numpad.

Key Specifications 

  • Connectivity: Wireless 
  • RGB: NO 
  • Number of Keys: 88
  • Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac

What are the Pros?

  • It has a cushioned wrist rest 
  • Natural Arc key layout makes typing easier 
  • Split key design for a relaxed position 
  • The keyboard is lightweight and sleek 

What are the Cons?

  • It does not have backlit 
  • It does not have anti-ghosting keys 

#4. KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard: Best Versatile Keyboard 

If you are someone who keeps on adjusting the keyboard’s position, you need KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard. With its split design, the keyboard offers a comfortable typing position. 

You can place the two pieces at a distance, and the snap legs provide you with the best angle required for typing. The legs flip in and out, so you can quickly set the keyboard as per your convenience.

Furthermore, several users said that this keyboard has low-force keys, and you don’t need to apply a lot of pressure to register the clicks. The rubber dome switch quietens the keys, and the keyboard does not make a lot of noise even if you tap the keys vigorously.

You can split the two parts and use one if required. Moreover, typing and traveling is very convenient. 

I asked several users about their typing experience, and they said it was up to the mark. However, some users complained about the unavailability of backlit.

The shortcut keys available on the extreme left let you perform several actions quickly. Talking about the ergonomics, the keyboard may appear like a regular one but is perfect for people with arthritis. 

The USB-C cable is long, and you can quickly connect this plug-and-play keyboard with any of your devices. To sum up, this wired keyboard is a good pick for users with carpal tunnel syndrome. It has every key you need and features a big padded wrist rest for more comfort. 

Key Specifications 

  • Connectivity: Wired 
  • RGB: NO 
  • Number of Keys: 94
  • Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac

What are the Pros?

  • You can operate the two halves separately. 
  • The ergonomic keyboard features a kickstand for a comfortable typing position
  • The removable wrist rest make it very portable 
  • The low-profile design improves comfort 

What are the Cons?

  • No backlit 
  • It does not have a Numpad 

#5. Perixx Periduo-605 Wireless Ergonomic Split Keyboard: Best Value for Money Keyboard 

Perixx Periduo-605 is popular for its ergonomic design and the features it offers! You will surely notice the scroll wheel available in the center, and it helps you adjust the multimedia settings on the go.

Also, this is a full-size keyboard and comes with every key that you need, including a Numpad. The keyboard offers multiple adjustments, and you can adjust it to your needs. 

The built-in kickstand helps you get a good typing posture, and you can quickly tilt it when required. The keys feel like floating in the air, and you can easily press the ones you want. 

The soft-touch switch reduces the pressure that you need to apply to register the commands. As per several users, the bigger wrist rest offers good space to rest your hands, and the material feels soft as well.

Along with this keyboard, you get an ergonomic mouse that’s good for people with arthritis and other similar problems.  

Perixx Periduo-605 saves you from the hassles of connecting wires, and you can easily pair it with your Windows, Mac, and Linux device. 

Overall, this one-piece keyboard is perfect if you need a comfortable typing position and ultimate convenience. Lastly, it comes with an ergonomic mouse, so you get a complete set required to work comfortably. 

Key Specifications 

  • Connectivity: Wireless 
  • RGB: NO 
  • Number of Keys: 102
  • Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac

What are the Pros?

  • It is a plug-and-play keyboard, no software is required 
  • The grippy scroll wheel makes things convenient
  • It has bigger and soft-touch keys 
  • It has a big and comfortable write rest 

What are the Cons?

  • Some users had issues with the after-sales services 
  • No programmable keys

Buying Guide: What to Look for When Buying a Keyboard for Arthritis

As per Mayoclinic, arthritis is a medical condition that includes tenderness and swelling of one or more joints. When looking for a keyboard, you need to ensure it offers you a comfortable typing position and is perfect for your needs. 

Here are a few things that should be on your list when comparing these ergonomic keyboards.

Connectivity 

Start with checking the connectivity. These keyboards are available in wireless as well as wired options. If you don’t mind plugging a keyboard in the USB slot, you can choose a wired one.

Also, with a wired ergonomic keyboard, you don’t experience the hassles of a low battery. On the other hand, wireless keyboards offer convenience, and you can place the keyboard wherever you want. 

In this article, I’ve covered both wired as well as wireless ergonomic keyboards, so you can choose what you like. 

Design or Ergonomics  

Next comes the design. Make sure the design of the keyboard is according to your requirements. Some of them have a curved body, whereas some are available in two different pieces. Choose the design that offers you convenience and lets you type comfortably. 

Number of Keys 

Choose a keyboard depending on the number of keys. If you are a writer, you need one with every key a standard keyboard has. Furthermore, if you are a gamer, you can choose any keyboard for arthritis that has bigger arrow keys and other keys that a gamer needs.

In a nutshell, the choice of the keyboard should depend on the end purpose. If you need one for every type of task, you should select a keyboard with 104 keys.

Wrist Rest 

Arthritis Wrist Rest 

The wrist rest is an essential component of these keyboards and significantly impacts comfort. You should select a keyboard depending on the size of its wrist rest. Also, check if the wrist rest has ample padding, so you get superb comfort while tapping the keys. 

Backlit 

Backlit support is essential for every keyboard, as it helps you type in the dim light. If you are not a gamer, white backlit will do the job. Else, you should choose monitors with RGB backlit support. 

Budget 

Lastly, you should have a budget in mind when looking for the best keyboard for arthritis. These keyboards are available at a range of options, so having a figure in mind is important. 

Related article: Best Keyboards For Carpal Tunnel

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does typing make arthritis worse?

Typing on a regular keyboard can make arthritis worse, so you should go for a keyboard for arthritis. Choose any amazing keyboard from this list, and get a comfortable typing position. 

Do ergonomic keyboards help arthritis?

Yes, such ergonomic keyboards are very helpful for people with arthritis. The ergonomic design offers easiness, and you don’t have to struggle with tapping the keys. Also, the design of these keyboards makes the reach of keys convenient.

Are keyboards for arthritis worth it?

Yes, these keyboards are worth every penny. You can type comfortably and for a longer duration. Moreover, using these ergonomic keyboards helps prevent the arthritis condition from worsening.  Are keyboards for arthritis worth it

Should a keyboard for arthritis have a wrist rest?

Yes, a wrist rest is an important part of the best ergonomic keyboard, as it enhances comfort. Make sure to choose a keyboard for arthritis with a built-in wrist rest. You can also purchase a wrist rest and use it separately. 

Final Words 

So, these are some of the best keyboards for arthritis that will help you type comfortably. No more wrist pain or pain in the fingers and hands, as these keyboards are ergonomic and offer you a convenient typing position.

Now you can easily make a choice after reading the reviews and choose a keyboard that’s perfect for your requirements.

In case you need any recommendations, choose Kinesis Advantage2 Quiet LF Ergonomic Keyboard. It has an ergonomic design and easily-accessible keys. Folks on a budget can consider Perixx Periduo-605 Wireless Ergonomic Split Keyboard