Ergonomic Keypads For Your Ergonomic Keyboard

When people think of ergonomic computer accessories, the ergonomic keyboard is often the first thing that comes to mind thanks to the distinctive shape of classic examples such as the Microsoft Natural Keyboard and Kinesis Advantage Contoured Keyboard. Modern ergonomic keyboards have changed significantly since then, with many designs opting for a more low-profile design that maximizes usable space for the mouse. To do this, most ergonomic keyboards will omit the numeric keypad. By doing so, the mouse can be brought in closer to your neutral zone where the less frequently used 10-key normally would be. However, this can be problematic for users who need access to a numeric keypad and still want to reap the benefits of having an ergonomic keyboard for normal typing.

Thankfully, Goldtouch and Kinesis understand this need and offer multiple options for the numeric keyboard warrior. The Goldtouch 10-Key Numeric Keypad and the Kinesis Low-Force Numeric Keypad both offer durable numeric keypads that connect via USB to your computer. Since they are separate from the keyboard itself, both keypads can be placed wherever you might find it convenient, such as to the left side of your keyboard or in between the split halves of a Kinesis Freestyle2 keyboard.

Both options include integral 2-port USB hubs for connecting low-draw devices such as mice and keyboards, and each key is supported by tactile mechanical key switches that provide superior durability and consistent keystroke resistance. The Goldtouch keypad also includes a number of additional functions that make it ideal for data entry and calculator applications. A unique key layout adds full calculator functionality when used with Windows Calculator, as well as easy access to currency symbols such as €, ¥, and £. Additionally, the Goldtouch keypad can be ordered in both black and putty white, letting it be color matched to most modern keyboards.

If you're only looking for standard keypad functionality, Kinesis also offers a full-featured keypad designed specifically to complement their popular Freestyle2 keyboard. The Kinesis Freestyle2 Keypad features the same slick styling and low-force keys as the keyboard it was modeled after, plus a pair of powered USB 2.0 ports built similar to those found on the mechanical keypad models. Additionally, the Freestyle2 keypad offers additional functionality in the form of Cut, Copy, and Paste hotkeys, all of which are easily activated by using the adjacent Fn key.

Switching to an ergonomic keyboard might take a bit of getting used to, but it should never require you to lose the functionality of your current keyboard. By adding a separate USB keypad to your new ergonomic setup, not only will you get to add a numeric keypad back to your keyboard, you'll be able to use it more comfortably and more efficiently.

Learn more about ergonomic keyboards and keypads at TheHumanSolution.com.

Related Reads

• Complete Your Ergonomic Desk Setup with a Goldtouch Keyboard
• Ergonomic Keyboard Video Review: Goldtouch V2 and Kinesis Freestyle2