[Okkef]

This is so true!

There are so many quick wins to improve posture before the high-effort micro optimization of changing layouts:

- split the keyboard for better shoulder posture (eg ultimate hacking keyboard but don't stop here)

- Get a column staggered board with more thumb keys instead of row staggered for better finger movement (ergodox or iris keyboard)

- Get rid of the num row and limit movement for fingers to one key in any direction using layers to simulate the missing keys (corne or kyria)

- A sculpted and tented keyboard allows the arm to untwist. These keyboards are dish shaped which moves keys closer to your fingers. Examples are the kinesis, dactyl, or Tightyl (my own creation).

I think the sweet spot for most people is the column staggered split layout.

[frankmcsherry]

The Tightyl is gorgeous, btw, and made me start to think about what a 3d printer could do for me. For others, check it out at:

https://github.com/okke-formsma/dactyl-manuform-tight/

[alpaca128]

100% this.

I'm using an ergonomic keyboard with the two halves of the keys at a slight angle and column-staggered design, and I can't imagine ever going back to a normal keyboard. Being able to enter every symbol without even moving the wrists is just too comfortable.

It's more expensive than any standard keyboard and I had to solder it myself, but it's basically customised for my fingers. I'm not typing faster, but I have much more fun doing it and fewer issues with my shoulders. I would say it's a much more important upgrade than changing away from QWERTY(which actually isn't that bad, there are a few false myths floating around about it).

[alecmg]

> Get rid of the num row and limit movement for fingers to one key in any direction using layers to simulate the missing keys (corne or kyria)

Wow this is first time I hear this recommended in relation to keyboard ergonomics. As a user of compact 49 key keyboard without a num row, can at least confirm it is not bad for productivity. Numbers and symbols are on layers and thus spread over keyboard. As a programmer I use a lot of symbols and I like the compact layout more. Precisely because there is less weird finger movement away from working zone.

Another thing I can recommend on regular keyboards is angled home row finger position: sdfv and njkl instead of usual asdf jkl;. With corresponding change to zone of every finger. Elbows on arm rests, wrists are straight.