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The compact keyboard: a little different

21 November 2022
Anita Bons

Ergonomic keyboards come in many shapes and sizes. What are their advantages and disadvantages, and what is the most suitable solution for your customer? In this blog, we take a closer look at a variant you will probably come across more often: the compact keyboard.

Compact keyboards

Compact keyboards are very similar to standard keyboards. The big difference: they do not have the extra numeric part. Some variants do have the numeric part integrated, where you can activate the digits by using the Numlock key. 

Advantages and disadvantages

If you alternate a lot between keyboard and (right-handed) mouse during your work, this compact version has a big ergonomic advantage over normal keyboards. This is because the reaching distance from the centre of your keyboard (the letter H) to the mouse is shorter. After all, your keyboard is slightly less wide on the right side. You hold your hand closer to your body and thus relieve your right shoulder.

In addition, the compact variants are often flatter than normal keyboards, eliminating the need to lift your hands while typing. This natural position of the wrists reduces strain on the tendons. And finally: they have virtually the same layout and key size as a standard keyboard. So getting used to them is hardly necessary! 

However, the compact keyboard does have one drawback: the palms of the hands must be pointed downwards to operate the keys. So the forearms remain continuously rotated while typing, just like with a standard keyboard.

The perfect keyboard?

For many people, the compact keyboard is a great solution for preventing and/or reducing their RSI complaints. But there are more options. For example, you can also go for a split or a vertical keyboard. Want to know more about these variants? Download our white paper on ergonomic keyboards and judge for yourself what is the best option for your client.

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