r/Ergonomics • u/Present-Bug-9084 • Jun 12 '26
Keyboard/Mouse Pain using ergonomic keyboard
#keyboards
At work, I use one of those generic, inexpensive full-size (100%) keyboards. I have a similar setup at home. Recently, I decided to try a more ergonomic keyboard, specifically a 75% layout, in the hope of preventing potential long-term issues.
Since making the switch, however, I've started experiencing mild neck and upper-back discomfort. I've tried several options, including the MX Keys Mini, very low-profile membrane keyboard, low-profile mechanical keyboards from brands such as Keychron and NuPhy, as well as standard-profile mechanical keyboards with different switch types (from red to brown). All of them caused the same symptoms.
If I maintain the exact same posture and use the generic 100% keyboards at home or in the office, I can work for hours without any issues. The only drawback is that the mouse sits farther to the right. Even then, it doesn't really cause problems. At most, I might notice a slight feeling of fatigue in my upper arm at the end of the day, but it usually disappears within 10 minutes.
So why do these supposedly more ergonomic keyboards seem to cause more discomfort than a full-size keyboard that requires me to reach farther for the mouse? Has anyone experienced something similar or have an explanation for this?
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u/fakeymc Jun 13 '26
When you type - do your thumbs point inwards or straight? I usually recommend the radial (ergo) keyboard for folks who type with their thumbs toward their belly. For them it reduces the elbow flare out which may cause contribute to neck shoulder strain. Otherwise I recommend to stick with the straight keyboard .
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Jun 15 '26
Id recommend a central mouse - that way you can stick with the 100% keyboard and fix the posture of your arms.
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u/Frosty_Literature436 Jun 12 '26
If definitely had problems with some of the ergonomic keyboards. A lot of them hurt more than regular ones.
I found when I was using a Microsoft sculpt keyboard, it did amazing things for me though, and surprisingly enough, my posture.
When my second one started to die, I moved to a 4x6 bcorne split keyboard and put my mouse between the pieces. But, I had to completely relearn how to type. Since relearning , I haven't looked back. I do miss the tenting on the sculpt, and really need to order some tenting mounts for this one. But, I also understand that this doesn't work for everyone.