Table of Contents
Introduction
Transcriptionists spend hours every day meticulously turning audio material into written material. Their trusty, indispensable sidekick? The keyboard.
Not only can a keyboard add efficiency, it can also be a major factor in how much pain and fatigue is involved in their work.
In this article, we will look at four of the best ergonomic keyboards for transcriptionists.
A breakdown of their features and ergonomic qualities will help you make an informed decision when it comes time to find a high-quality keyboard.
Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Transcription
Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
For a classy, good-quality keyboard that won’t break the bank or strain your hands, the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard is a top option.
Keyboard Style
The keys have a distinctive, split design while the keyboard itself is one piece.
With 104 keys, this full-size keyboard also includes many shortcut keys for Office apps, emojis, and screenshots.
Ergonomics
The right and left hand keys are separated by an “A”-shaped space and a bulge in the middle that forces the user to separate their hands and keep their wrists in a healthier, more neutral position.
The included, non-detachable wrist rest boasts an incredibly plush wrist rest and the added middle bulge encourages users to keep their hands properly positioned.
If height is an issue, this keyboard is not low profile. With the removable front tilt leg, it is 2.39 inches high—a significant difference from its competitors.
Typing
The Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard has a surprisingly pleasant feel when typing. Built with rubber dome switches, the keys give a quiet, satisfying thud when pressed.
The key caps have a bit of wobble if you hit them off center, but nothing noticeable while typing continuously.
Backlight
There is no backlight on this keyboard, which could be an issue for those who need to work in the dark. However, since this particular keyboard is not designed for portability and travel, it is more likely to be used in a typical office setting where backlighting is not a necessity.
Build
The Ergonomic Keyboard has an impressive, sturdy build with a solid feel and no flexing issues.
The wired design allows for a dependable, fast connection.
Overall, when you consider form, function, and comfort, the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard is an ideal, affordable choice for transcriptionists.
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic
For people who suffer from repetitive strain injuries but don’t want to quit their day job, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard offers an alternative design that can make typing a pain-free experience.
Keyboard
Not for tiny spaces, the full-size Sculpt keyboard gets even bigger with a built-in wrist rest. The number pad is a separate unit from the keyboard, allowing more flexibility when positioning the keypad and mouse.
Ergonomic Benefits
The keyboard has a partial split that separates the right and left hand and encourages a more natural arm position.
There is a magnetic incline riser to raise the keyboard, which can make it more ergonomic. The dome design also helps with pronation of the forearm and lessens fatigue.
Typing
When using this keyboard, the scissor switches take a bit more force to press the keys down, but they have a nice tactile feel with no noise. You will need some time to adjust to the action and spacing of the keys, which is closer than other keyboards.
Wireless Design
The keyboard connects wirelessly with a USB receiver and uses two AAA batteries. The wireless feature is convenient, but since some reviewers mentioned that the USB receiver cannot be replaced, it’s important to take care of it.
Backlight
There is no backlight on the Sculpt keyboard, which can be a handy feature but isn’t necessary.
Build
Although the Sculpt is mostly made out of plastic, it has a sturdy feel with no flex. The incline riser, which is also plastic, seems weaker and at risk of breaking if the keyboard gets dropped.
The wrist rest is covered with a dense, foam-like material that is supportive, but, according to one reviewer, tends to absorb oils and can become stained over time. It’s also more firm than plush.
With a design focused on ergonomic benefits and a budget-friendly price tag, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic keyboard is a great choice for people who type for a living.
Logitech Ergo K860
A modern look and an ergonomic, curved design that is both functional and comfortable earn the wireless Logitech Ergo a spot on this list.
Keyboard
Like the Microsoft Ergonomic, this keyboard is one piece, but the keys have a split layout, which will require some practice time. Once accustomed to it, the Logitech gives an efficient, comfortable typing experience, complete with a fixed, well-padded wrist rest.
Typing
The scissor switches give a tactile feel with no noise. The only drawback is that they are harder to press.
Build
The Logitech features an all-plastic build that feels sturdy with very little flex. The accompanying wrist rest has a quality feel, as do the keycaps.
It is wireless and runs on two AAA batteries, which offers convenience and an uncluttered aesthetic.
Ergonomic Benefits
The Logitech has a curve and a negative angle that may help relieve stress and inflammation.
There are two incline angles and at only 1.5” tall, the low profile means your hands can rest down on it and stay relaxed.
Backlight
This Logitech model doesn’t have backlit keys.
With a quality build and a design made for serious typists, the Logitech Ergo is another good option to consider.
Kinesis Freestyle 2 Ergonomic Keyboard w/VIP3 Lifters
A first-rate choice for anyone suffering from repetitive strain injuries, this premium keyboard comes with a higher price tag, but has several standout features that make it a top pick as an ergonomic keyboard for transcriptionists.
Keyboard
The keyboard is split into two halves connected by a cable that allows up to 9” between the pieces. There are dedicated hot keys on the left side but no number pad. That can be bought separately.
The V lifters raise, or tent, the inside edges of each keyboard half, putting them on an angle. Typing at an angle can take some adjustment, but it is well worth the time because of the ease and comfort it affords your hands.
The wireless connection adds convenience and portability, while reducing desktop clutter.
Ergonomic Benefits
With a fully split design, you have great flexibility to position each half in the ideal position.
Some people with carpal tunnel find this to be very helpful for pain relief. Wrist rests are included for an extra level of comfort.
Too often, the hand is positioned in pronation (inward twisting of the hand) and ulnar flexion (when the hand is horizontally bent outward at the wrist).
By separating the keyboard halves, your wrists stay straight with the hands in a neutral position.
This keyboard also has a zero degree slope to reduce wrist extension.
The ability to tilt the keyboard with the lifters plays another key role in creating a healthy workstation. Some enthusiastic reviewers say that using this keyboard has relieved severe pain from chronic conditions.
For 7 months the Atlas IPS firm conducted an independent study investigating the impact of the Freestyle keyboard’s unique split design on posture, comfort, and performance with 80 employees at a large U.S. software company.
Findings [1]:
100% were back to full productivity after a brief adaption period
96% preferred the Freestyle over their conventional keyboard
79% experienced a decrease in neck discomfort
50% experienced a decrease in ulnar deviation
Typing
The responsive keys make this keyboard a favorite among users who prefer a light touch. The low-force, tactile membrane switches make typing smooth and quiet.
Build
The Freestyle has a sleek, slim design with a solid feel and minimal flex. With a classy, modern look, it fits in well with any office setting.
If you’re looking for a keyboard that makes serious strides in promoting healthy posture and effortless typing, you don’t have to look any further than the Kinesis Freestyle 2 Ergonomic Keyboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of keyboard for a transcriptionist?
Transcriptionists usually use either a mechanical or ergonomic keyboard that is efficient, precise, and comfortable.
Why use an ergonomic keyboard?
Ergonomic keyboards are specifically designed with features that promote a natural posture for maximum comfort.
Some find this helpful for preventing painful conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
What do transcriptionists need to consider when choosing a keyboard?
Speed and accuracy are the priority in transcription, so the quality of keys and switches is important. You want sensitive keys with a good tactile feel that only need light pressure.
In terms of productivity, the keyboard layout can greatly affect efficiency, so be sure that you can quickly use important functions.
You’ll also want to make sure that the keyboard is compatible with your devices.
Finally, a design that reduces pain and stress is crucial for good health. So you’ll want to watch out for some of those ergonomic design features we’ve discussed (split design, tenting, etc).
Conclusion
We have looked at four ergonomic keyboards that would make great tools for transcriptionists.
With varying features, you are sure to find one that makes your work more comfortable. Pick the one that best suits your needs and get lost in typing bliss!
References
[1] https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/Atlas-Ergonomics-Totally-Split-Keyboard-Design-March-2010-1.pdf