Are Mechanical Keyboards more Ergonomic?

Do your fingers and wrists feel the pain of a long day at work? Feeling tired all the time, your strained fingers and aching hands seem to drain all your positive energy completely. If so, you are not alone. Many office workers report suffering from RSIs caused by long typing sessions at work. But don’t despair. There is hope!

Mechanical keyboards can significantly improve your typing comfort and prevent such injuries from occurring in the first place. Features like customizable design, low force switch actuation, and adjustable slope place your well-being at the forefront and make typing a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Let’s explore how mechanical keyboards are more ergonomic than other traditional keyboards available in the market.

1. What Are Mechanical Keyboards & How Do They Improve Your Productivity?

Mechanical keyboards are keyboards that use individual mechanical switches for each key, as opposed to the rubber dome membrane switches found in most standard keyboards. These switches provide a more tactile and responsive typing experience, as well as a distinct click or tactile bump feedback when a key is pressed. Mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers, programmers, and typists who prefer the improved precision, durability, and overall feel that they offer.

Quick tips on how mechanical keyboards like Meetion MK500 keep you healthy and productive.

● Switch: Unlike conventional membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards have individual actuators under every key, making typing more responsive and speedy. Moreover, different brands are available depending on the pressing feel and actuation force required. So, you have various options to choose from as per your needs.

● Keycaps: Most mechanical keyboards come with the option of customizable keycaps. They offer different shapes, sizes, and textures, such as contoured or curved designs. Such designs help reduce strain by accommodating the natural curves of your fingers. It enhances your comfort while typing and makes it feel more natural.

● Backlighting: Mechanical keyboards like Meetion MK500 have backlight features that help type in low-lit environments without straining your eyes. It helps to maintain your posture as you can quickly locate keys. Moreover, customizable lighting levels help to adjust lighting and brightness according to your comfort, making the workspace visually aesthetic.  

● Sizes and Shapes: Regarding sizes and shapes, mechanical keyboards have a lot of variety in the market. Split keyboards help position your wrists at shoulder space to provide a more natural alignment, while contoured keyboards align perfectly with the natural curves of your wrists and fingers. Similarly, smaller-sized keyboards, like Tenkeyless, help minimize the space between keyboard and mouse and make working easier.

2. Keyboard Associated Injuries

Let’s take a look at potential keyboard-associated injuries as a result of long typing sessions at work:

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

Prolonged and improper keyboard causes repetitive wrist extension unnaturally. It constricts the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to the hand, especially when it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It causes tingling or numbness in fingers and extreme discomfort in some cases. Surgery might be the only solution if not treated promptly and adequately.

Shoulder and Neck Pain

Improper postures result in strained shoulders and neck when continued for a prolonged time. It ultimately leads to muscle tension and imbalance, giving you chronic pain and discomfort. Some workers have also reported severe complications in their spine and upper body.

Trigger Finger

Imagine the tendons of your fingers getting inflamed, and their protective covering narrows down to the extent that prevents them from gliding smoothly. It happens precisely due to repetitive finger movements such as typing. And what happens as a result is friction, irritation, and thickening of the tendon. The affected finger bends and causes extreme pain and discomfort.

These RSIs don’t just happen overnight. Instead, they develop with time. They ultimately affect your well-being and dent your productivity big time. Remember, if your mind and body are not feeling healthy and fresh, you can never give your best in any work.

3. Benefits of Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboards

Key Positions

The arrangement in mechanical keyboards offers a natural alignment for hand positioning. So there is not any need for awkward finger stretches. Frequently used keys are placed strategically for easy access. Moreover, multi-function keys are present in a cluster for easy reach and minimal finger movements.

Actuation Force

The actuation force required to press keys in ergonomic mechanical keyboards is often lower than in traditional membrane keyboards. It is significant during extended typing sessions as it can help considerably reduce muscle fatigue and strain.

Wrist Angle

A natural wrist position can avoid most typing injuries. Ergonomic mechanical keyboards offer relief in this regard too. Features in the ergonomic mechanical keyboard MK500 like palm and wrist rest and supports, reduce the risk of wrist aches. Moreover, split and adjustable designs allow you to align your hands and wrists.

Low-height Mechanical Switches

Some mechanical keyboards come with low-height mechanical switches, so the user must press for a shorter distance to register a stroke. A shorter length also means quicker actuation and release, which increases your typing speed and gives you the productivity boost you need for work.

4. How to Choose the Right Mechanical Keyboard

With so many benefits of mechanical keyboards, you must be itching to get your hands on one. But how can you get the best mechanical keyboards that suit all your preferences?

Observe Workplace

First, you must observe your workspace closely. If you work in a quiet environment, you should go for silent switches which do not make any unwanted noise. According to the space of your desk, you can also decide the size and shape of the keyboard that will give you maximum productivity.

Wired/Wireless

You may use wireless mechanical keyboards if your work demands moving around, like delivering essential presentations. Or if you need to switch devices while working, wireless frequently is a much better option. Otherwise, you should go with traditional wired mechanical keyboards in the market.

Try Switch Tester

Have you ever considered trying different samples before buying? Just like a car test drive? You can read hundreds of reviews and watch thousands of videos, but none will give you the real picture until you use the keyboard to get a feel. Then, you will be in a better position to decide.

5. Conclusion

Are ergonomic mechanical keyboards worth it? In today's competitive day and age, ergonomics is more important than ever. You can never compete with the world if you don’t care for your health and well-being. No one can prosper with aching bodies and tired minds. Not to mention, time and money lost on frequent doctor visits and medical bills can also be detrimental to your career growth. Therefore, to have a stress-free office life, you must upgrade to an ergonomic keyboard and improve your life.