Best Keyboard for Rheumatoid Arthritis – Ergonomic Keyboard 2023

What makes you seek the best keyboard for rheumatoid arthritis is pretty obvious. It is a clear fact that using a standard keyboard by people suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis causes pain and is likely to worsen the condition as well.

Any task related to heavy typing requires stable and right positioning of the hand. Otherwise, hand discomfort and wrist pain seem to happen in most cases. Whereas, if you are already suffering from ligament pain or arthritis, then your pain will get more severe in this case.

Although the experts recommend keeping the wrist in a parallel position with forearms and it should be in the straight position while typing, sometimes it is hard to maintain the appropriate angle. Fortunately, ergonomic keyboards come as a good solution which you can also use as a league of legends keyboard because they are the most accurate. Ergonomic keyboards are considered lifesaving solutions for a typist or long tiring typing sessions. In this article, we are going to look closer at the best keyboards for someone with arthritis.

If you are wondering about the curved and wavy design of ergonomic keyboards so yes these are quite strange keyboards. But the uncanny angled keyboards enable you to spend hours on heavy typing sessions with emphatic and utmost comfort.

Considering a switch to a soft-touch keyboard for arthritis is not an amenity but a need and it is for sure worth switching to an ergonomic keyboard for Osu.

With hundreds and thousands of options available, finding the best keyboard for arthritic hands is certainly an intimidating task. So we have done extensive research and short-listed some top-of-the-line Keyboards for arthritis and also presented you with a comprehensive & useful buying guide to direct you to a buying decision.

Bear with us till the end to learn more about a good keyboard for financial modeling and for arthritis.

One of our team members was facing arthritis problems and they know how to deal with it so to help you, they came up with the idea to guide other people who are facing the same problem. He also talked with ergonomic keyboard users and reviewed 450 keyboards before making this guide. Let’s first get started with 6 best keyboards for rheumatoid arthritis:

Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Rheumatoid Arthritis Hands

Image	Product	Unique Features	Price
	Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic	Split keyset design helps to position wrists Cushioned palm rest provides support Natural arc key layout mimics the curved shape	Check Price on Amazon
	Logitech MK550 Wireless	16 programmable keys Customizable keys function Include precision mouse	Check Price on Amazon
	Microsoft Natural Ergonomic	Split ergonomic design encourages natural hand, wrist, and forearm positions Cushioned palm rest provides support and promotes a neutral wrist position	Check Price on Amazon
	Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic	Super adjustable Pretty good battery life Low-force key switches	Check Price on Amazon
	Goldtouch GTU-0088 V2	Value Bundle Includes Jestik Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Goldtouch V2 Adjustable Comfort Keyboard Compatible with the following operating systems	Check Price on Amazon
	Apple Magic Keyboard	Magic Keyboard combines a sleek design Magic Keyboard provides a remarkably comfortable Precise typing experience.	Check Price on Amazon

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1. Apple Magic Keyboard

Let’s begin with the low profile and flat keyboard, the sleek and compact design of Apple Magic makes it the highest rated ergonomic keyboard.

The advanced-level keyboard comes with a scissor-switch mechanism under keys while a short key travel distance makes it super comfortable and accurate for long typing sessions.

Even though Apple Magic is not a well-featured keyboard, they designed it to be simple for optimal comfort. When it comes to functioning, it never leaves users disappointed as the ultra-thin keyboard is great to type on.

I needed this! But just a got new apple magic keyboard https://t.co/MeTFTdHdQR

— manojnayak (@manojnayak) August 3, 2022

Since it offers a low range of actuation that enables you smooth touch typing, as well as the low profile keyboard, it makes it easy for your fingers and wrists while maintaining a natural wrist angle. You also can consider this best keyboard for Dota 2 to play at any time.

Features

• 12 function keys
• Built-in rechargeable battery
• Almost noiseless typing
• Height: 0.16–0.43 inch
• Wireless

Final Words:

If you have high expectations of this Apple keyboard, we can’t say that it will exceed your expectations. However, technically speaking, it is easy to use because of its cross-compatible feature.

If you prefer a low-profile keyboard then this ergonomic keyboard makes it one of the best options for you.

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2. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic

Coming up with the top-notch ergonomic keyboard available in the market, Microsoft took the legacy forward and developed the best curved ergonomic keyboard which is considered a true gem for people suffering from arthritis.

Microsoft has taken everyone by surprise to create such an ergonomic design in which split keysets assist with the natural and relaxed positioning of wrists and forearms. With that said, maintaining the acute angle, they offer division between T & Y keys. As a result, it can take some time to adapt to typing with this split design keyboard.

The keyboard includes cushioned palm rests for improved support which also reduces wrist pain whereas the separate number pad is a great addition to flexibility, making it the perfect choice for just about anyone.

Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is designed for ergonomic comfort.#serviceproviders #business #Enterprise #Technology #Solutions #infrastructure #projectteam #iot #cybersecurity2020 #itsecurity #iotdevices #Microsoft #Sculpt #Ergonomic #keyboards #professionals pic.twitter.com/2dFMl7jCAR

— Enterprise Technology Solutions (@EnterprisesoSol) November 13, 2020

Features

• Natural arc key layout
• Doomed keyboard design
• Wireless keyboard
• Custom function keys

Final Words:

The arches and curves of the keyboard contour allows for the best comfortable wrists/hands position. Also, the unusual universal application and ergonomics make this keyboard one of the top-of-the-line ergonomic keyboards in 2023.

For those with carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, this Sculpt ergonomic keyboard is definitely a keyboard worth trying.

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3. Logitech MK550 Wireless

Here comes the budget-friendly, wavy wireless keyboard by Logitech, though, the weird curve layout seems a bit insane to me but the level of comfort for the wrists makes it stand out.

Ergonomic curve/wave eases the stress on hand/wrists while padded palm rest & laser mouse provide additional support and let you boost up the pace, efficiency, and productivity.

The extensive design accommodates various extra keys which are kept slightly offset to make it more prominent and is a great addition to people with weak precise movement. The gadget’s wireless connectivity and outstanding battery life have been the major selling point.

Wishlist for a new PC Peripheral.

Only one item.
Wired Version of the @Logitech MK550 Wave Keyboard with Cherry Blue Mechanical key-switches with RGB Keycaps, and an LED to show when Caps-lock is on

Maybe a version that comes with the G502 Mouse in the box as a bundle. pic.twitter.com/3IKvL0Husw

— Deathly Price – Rebuild of the Eva Chronicler (@Deathly_Price) October 1, 2021

Features

• 16 programmable keys
• Customizable keys function
• Include precision mouse
• Wi-Fi connectivity

Final Words

It is perhaps the prime choice for a great balance of normal functionality & ergonomics. It is also equipped with many features for making hours of typing super comfortable and stress-free even for those with severe arthritis.

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4. Microsoft Natural Ergonomic 4000

Another model from Microsoft which seems pretty much similar to Sculpt but these two keyboards are set apart with some major differences in aesthetics and features. The keyboard is furnished with a split ergonomic design with an angle difference between the T & Y keys only, simulating the natural angle of wrists and hands.

Unlike other ergonomic keyboards, Microsoft crafted the keyboard with different ergonomics such as the padded palm rest. It is kind of flat, making the wrist positioning even flatter.

What we like is the wavy layout of keys that makes reaching out to keys much easier while the palm lift plays an important role by maintaining the relaxed angle of wrists and making approaching the keys easier.

This ergonomic keyboard offer wire connectivity so if you are a big fan of the wireless keyboard so don’t consider it an option.

This keyboard, Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000, is one of my favourite ones, and I make sure to buy a second-hand one whenever I spot this at a reasonable price.
Some are for stock parts, and some are in use. pic.twitter.com/BEvBReLrPG

— Mark Watabe (@WatabeMark) August 3, 2022

Features

• Full-size keyboard
• Various extra keys
• Customizable keys function
• Zoom slider
• Great feedback keystrokes
• Color options available

Final Words

If you prefer an ergonomic keyboard to be customizable and easy to use then the Microsoft Natural keyboard can be the best pick. On the other side, if you struggle to adapt your typing style with a split keyboard due to some ailment, this is not worth considering.

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5. Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard

The master of computer ergonomics ‘Kinesis’ developed a split design ergonomic keyboard, Kinesis Freestyle2 is parted into two halves, both are independently useable parts of a keyboard.

The split design, nonetheless, enables you to adjust both halves according to the natural wrists and hand position for a comfortable working experience.

With Y and T key split, the keyboard also features a traditional windows layout through which you do not require any soft or driver for hotkeys that undoubtedly boost pace and productivity.

Portability, again, with wires seems to be compromised. But if we pay attention to it, it does not seem to be too big of a trouble to make some space in a laptop bag or any other bag.

The Kinesis FreeStyle2 ergonomic keyboard is extra thin and is a major breakthrough both in ergonomics and design. pic.twitter.com/NWLefmXwya

— R Go Tools (@RGoTools) February 24, 2016

Features

• Super adjustable
• Pretty good battery life
• Low-force key switches
• Tenting function

Final Words

Freestyle 2 is not just unique in ergonomics but comes along with surprising features that make it rather perfect for anyone with or without arthritis.

Although it is a great functional keyboard the battery life could have been improved for convenience, it’s just fine by now.

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6. Goldtouch GTU-0088 V2 Adjustable

The Goldtouch GTU-0088 V2 is a fully adjustable ergonomic keyboard with a very unique ergonomic design in which the keyboard can be adjusted up to 30 degrees from both vertical and horizontal ends for creating the best angle to work with natural wrist position.

Those who are looking for the best keyboard with extraordinary ergonomics, customizations and wonderful compatibility with almost all Apple devices and Mac then don’t bother looking for another but Goldtouch V2 Adjustable keyboard.

The compact size keyboard is furnished with soft keys with improved travel distance to provide a soft, smooth, and comfortable typing experience.

Features

• Best ergonomic split design
• Adjustable ergonomic for comfort
• Various function keys on the left side
• USB-wired
• Easy plug and use

Final Words

Although the keyboard does not offer a wrist pad, the split ergonomic design of the keyboard is adjustable so it allows setting your wrist at an accurate angle. The ergonomic keyboard is designed to offer better wrist support which is why considered a good option for carpal tunnel.

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Best Keyboard for Rheumatoid Arthritis Fingers – Buying Guide

Adaptive keyboards are specially designed to increase the comfort level of users with or without rheumatoid arthritis. Also, the soft-touch keys of adaptive keyboards are a great help as you just need slight force for it to register the keystroke.

However, there are other types of best cheap mechanical keyboards that are considered the best keyboard for arthritic hands which include:

• Low profile keyboard (e.g. Logitech keyboard & Corsair k60 pro)
• Flat & Contracted keyboards (e.g. MoKo ultra-thin foldable keyboard & Apple magic keyboard)
• Soft-touch keyboards (e.g. Microsoft sculpt keyboard & Kinesis Freestyle edge keyboard)

Low-profile keyboards offer close contact to the ground as this ergonomic feature helps the user’s hand to maintain a neutral position throughout typing. Accordingly, the ergonomics of low profile keyboard reduce stress from carpal tunnel.

Soft-touch keyboards, on the other hand, are best for people having sensitive and delicate fingers or arthritis. The best soft-touch keyboard is highly sensitive to the least touch as a gentle push is all you need to do and it indexes key presses. Moreover, these keyboards are ideal if you have a problem with the noise as these are quiet while typing.

As the name suggests, these are smaller keyboards intended particularly for fingers with declined motion range.  Keyboards that include keys close to each other likewise require the slightest force to press the key down.

Why do I Need an Ergonomic Keyboard?

At the time when you start feeling pain in your fingers, wrists, and hands, it is basically the alarm for you to switch your keyboard. If you are facing difficulty stretching from one end to another end of the keyboard, considering a compact or small keyboard is a must.

Repetitive keystrokes on standard keyboards become painful for the person with arthritis hence why ergonomic keyboards are the best alternative to standard keyboards as they spur on the natural position of the wrists/hands during heavy typing.

The purpose is to keep the distance between hands while maintaining the accurate angle accumulatively to help to reduce stress from the shoulder, neck & back as well as to stave off the repetitive strain to carpal tunnel.  Besides, comfortable typing is leading you to be extra efficient & productive.

What Makes a Good Keyboard for Someone with Arthritis?

Ergonomic keyboards have always been highly rated because of the reason that they are made to offer you simple solutions for almost all rational expectations of prime comfort. These adaptive keyboards are not only dedicated to comfort levels but the option of premier efficiency is another aspect which you be as typist, developer, and engineer searching for what does a keyboard look like?.

The most important thing which normally people ignore is to personally check the soft touch, feedback, and response of the ergonomic keyboard for your requirements. You should know that using backspace as well as touch-typing is the major aspect you need to pay full attention to, as these proved to be quite painful even for those who do not suffer from arthritis.

What are the other factors you need to consider before getting an ergonomic keyboard? Let’s check it out:

• Customizable: there are ergonomic keyboards available that features vertical tenting which is the feature that enable users to adjust the keyboard halves’ angle, however, some keyboards offer a tilt keyboard feature that allows you to adjust the keyboard up or down.
• Supportive: Some models offer great palm/wrist support for which they include padded rests for the palm in front of the keyboard.  Many keyboards offer better padding than others.
• Split Design: You must have seen some ergonomic keyboards split down from the middle and left the space between the space bar and TGB and YHN, to keep the wrist stress-free and comfortable – although some keyboard versions have factually two split parts.
• Key type: ergonomic keyboards contain different types of keys in which some models hold clicky and mechanical key types, some keyboards have keys that require the least effort to push down keys and offer quiet typing.
• Warranty: ergonomic keyboards mostly come with 1 year to 3 years warranty, it is the most crucial factor to consider if you like a high-end keyboard.
• Others: you need to think about whether you like a wireless ergonomic keyboard or a Bluetooth-supported keyboard. If your work is related to calculations then you should consider keyboards with separate number pads.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the joints and other parts of the body. The immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissue, specifically the synovium (the lining of the joints) leading to inflammation and eventual destruction of the cartilage and bone within the joint.

Symptoms of RA typically include pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the affected joints. The joints most commonly affected are the small joints of the hands and feet, but RA can also affect the wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, and cervical and lumbar spine. Over time, RA can also cause damage to other organs, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.

RA is diagnosed based on a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. There is no single test that can definitively diagnose RA, but several tests can help support the diagnosis. Treatment typically includes a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications such as physical therapy and exercise, to help reduce inflammation, pain, and disability.

The exact cause of RA is not known, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors is believed to play a role in the development of the disease. While RA can occur at any age, it typically develops between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than in men.

What are the most important things in a keyboard for someone with arthritis?

When it comes to keyboards for people with arthritis, there are a few key features that can help make typing more comfortable and easier on the joints:

1. Ergonomic design: An ergonomic keyboard can help reduce strain on the wrists and hands by keeping them in a neutral position. Some popular ergonomic keyboard designs include split keyboards and contoured keyboards.
2. Low-force keys: Keyboards with low-force keys require less pressure to actuate, which can make typing less tiring for people with arthritis.
3. Adjustable key sensitivity: Some keyboards allow you to adjust the amount of pressure required to register a keystroke, which can make typing more comfortable for people with arthritis who may have difficulty pressing down on keys.
4. Wrist support: Some keyboards have built-in wrist supports that can help reduce strain on the wrists and keep them in a neutral position while typing.
5. Large keys: Having large keys with good spacing can be beneficial for people with arthritis as it helps to minimize finger movement and make the keys more visible and easy to press.
6. Voice recognition: Another alternative to the regular keyboard is voice recognition software, which allows dictating the text instead of typing which can be a real relief for the fingers and wrist.

It’s also worth noting that people with arthritis may have different needs, so it’s important for them to try out different keyboard options and find one that works best for them. Consulting with a physician or a physical therapist can also be helpful in making a decision on which keyboard may be best suited for individual needs.

Do ergonomic keyboards help RSI?

Ergonomic keyboards can help with Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). RSI is a type of injury that occurs due to performing the same motions over and over again. Common symptoms associated with RSI include pain, stiffness, and numbness in the hands, wrists, and arms. An ergonomic keyboard is designed to reduce strain on the body.

It is shaped to fit the natural contours of the hands and wrists, and the keys are placed in order to minimize reaching and stretching. The height and angle of the keyboard can be adjusted to provide the best fit for the user. Additionally, ergonomic keyboards are often split, which allows the hands and arms to be positioned in a more natural, relaxed way.

Ergonomic keyboards can help to reduce the strain and fatigue associated with RSI. They also help to reduce the likelihood of developing the condition in the first place.

By using an ergonomic keyboard, users can enjoy greater comfort and support, which can help to reduce the risk of developing RSI. Overall, ergonomic keyboards can be a great way to reduce the strain and fatigue associated with RSI. They are designed to fit the natural contours of the hands and wrists, and the keys are placed in order to minimize reaching and stretching.

Additionally, the height and angle of the keyboard can be adjusted to provide the best fit for the user. By using an ergonomic keyboard, users can enjoy greater comfort and support, which can help to reduce the risk of developing RSI.

Does typing make rheumatoid arthritis worse?

No, typing does not make rheumatoid arthritis worse. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. It is a chronic condition, which means it can last for years or even a lifetime. Typing is an activity that does not directly contribute to the development or progression of RA.

Typing can strain the muscles and tendons of the hands, wrists, and arms, so it is important to take frequent breaks and practice good ergonomic habits to reduce the risk of injury or pain. RA is caused by an autoimmune response in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and joints, resulting in inflammation and pain.

This can lead to joint damage and disability. It is believed that genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors contribute to the development and progression of RA.

There is no cure for RA, but there are treatments available to help manage the disease. These include medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, as well as preventing and slowing joint damage. In conclusion, typing does not make rheumatoid arthritis worse. However, it is important to take breaks and practice good ergonomic habits to avoid injury or pain. RA is a chronic condition that is managed through medications, lifestyle changes, and physical and occupational therapy.

Are mechanical keyboards better for joints?

Mechanical keyboards are generally considered to be better for joint health than other types of keyboards. This is because mechanical keyboards offer more ergonomic support than traditional keyboards, allowing users to type more comfortably while reducing the risk of strain, fatigue, and other joint-related issues.

Mechanical keyboards are designed to be more tactile and responsive than traditional keyboards, providing a better typing experience overall. The keycaps on mechanical keyboards are also typically higher than those on traditional keyboards, allowing for more comfortable use for users with larger hands.

The clicky and tactile feedback from mechanical keyboards can also help to reduce fatigue and provide a more enjoyable typing experience. In addition to providing a better typing experience, mechanical keyboards are also better for joint health because they require less force to press keys down. Whereas traditional keyboards require a significant amount of force to depress keys, mechanical keyboards require only a light touch, which can reduce the risk of strain on the joints.

Furthermore, mechanical keyboards have adjustable switches, allowing users to adjust the level of force required to press each key, further reducing the risk of joint issues.

Overall, mechanical keyboards offer many advantages when it comes to joint health. They provide more comfort and ergonomic support, require less force to press keys down, and allow for adjustable switches to suit each user’s individual typing needs. As such, mechanical keyboards are generally considered to be a better option for joint health than traditional keyboards.

How do you avoid RSI on a keyboard?

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a common problem for those who use a keyboard for long periods of time. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can be employed to avoid or reduce the risk of developing this condition. To begin, it is important to set up an ergonomic workspace.

This means adjusting your chair, desk, and monitor to a comfortable position that allows for proper posture and minimal strain on the body. When typing, be sure to keep your wrists relaxed and in line with your hands. It is also important to take frequent breaks. A break of 10 minutes every hour is recommended.

This gives your muscles a chance to relax and prevents fatigue. Stretching is another key component of avoiding RSI. Be sure to take a few minutes to stretch your wrists, arms, and shoulders before and after your work session. Additionally, use mouse pads and keyboard wrist supports to reduce strain on the wrists.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the signs of RSI. If you experience any pain or discomfort in your wrists, arms, or shoulders, it is important to take a break and seek medical advice. With the proper precautions and a few simple lifestyle changes, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing RSI.

How do you type with rheumatoid arthritis?

Typing with rheumatoid arthritis can be a challenge, as it is a condition that affects joint movement. However, with the right assistance, it is possible to type with rheumatoid arthritis. The first step is to seek advice from your doctor or rheumatologist. They can advise on ways to reduce symptoms and pain, such as the use of splints and medication.

It is also important to ensure that your workstation is properly set up to reduce any strain on the joints. The next step is to find the right equipment and software. A keyboard with low-impact typing keys, such as those with a split design, is ideal for those with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, speech-to-text software can help minimize the need for typing.

Finally, those with rheumatoid arthritis should practice good ergonomics. This includes ensuring the wrists are in a neutral position, the elbows are at a 90-degree angle, and the back is supported with a chair that has lumbar support. Additionally, it is important to take frequent breaks to rest the hands and wrists.

By following these tips, those with rheumatoid arthritis can type with relative ease and comfort. Although it may take some time to get used to the new setup, it can be an invaluable way to manage symptoms and pain while still being able to work.

Also read: Top 9 Best Keyboards with Wrist Rest [List & Guide]

Conclusion

The ergonomic keyboards mentioned in this list are all carefully picked to give you a thorough idea related to a great degree of practical expectations and needs. Almost all the keyboards presented here, in fact, are a great fit for all the expectations you have had about the best keyboards for rheumatoid arthritis.

Still, there is a big range of ergonomic keyboards in the marketplace available to offer a very creative and different solution to the problem yet very few have taken health and comfort as a priority.

Hopefully, this post will help you learn much about ergonomic keyboards and practically I believe that soft-touch ergonomic keyboards are the best for people with arthritis.

References:

1. By nhs, Symptoms -Rheumatoid arthritis

2. By Goldtouch , What Is An Ergonomic Keyboard?