Unusual keyboards for programmers and not only

    Programmers are different, and they have different requests, someone does not use the mouse, someone does not use the function keys, avisim, someone does not use the numeric keypad, and someone does not even need cursor keys. A lot of those who spend a lot of time at the keyboard suffer from diseases caused by improper fit, improper hand position, the need to constantly move the brush from place to place, and simply inability to print with anything other than index fingers. In addition to the appearance of the keyboard, the layout can also differ, from the standard Qwerty and Colemak and Dvorak, which are even more or less by ear, to exotic looks, such as chord and shorthand keyboards. Paradoxically, even keyboardless keyboards exist. Keyboards differ in the type of keys, from ordinary mechanical ones, which are verymay differ in quality , keys with a reduced stroke, often used in laptops, as well as touch, projection and even flexible.

    Special keyboards are designed to increase the convenience of typing (although there is a mistrust of this , free up space on the table, and meet user requirements. But there are many, many, and many universal keyboards that will suit everyone.

    In this topic, I did not try to cover all models or even all existing types of keyboards, but only the most frequently used and the most original ones, as well as those that are not too expensive.If
    you use something unusual that I suddenly missed, be sure to write about it in the comment. Or just describe your impression of using one of the above devices.



    First, let's define what a “regular” keyboard is. The de facto standard for a long time was the extended keyboard of IBM PC Model M.

    Later, in connection with the popularization of the Windows shell, the Win and context menu buttons were added to it.

    Fasten your seat belts, we will smoothly go from the most similar to traditional to rarer species.

    Das keyboard



    Often discussed on the hub , and quite popular. You can call it extremely traditional, as it repeats the usual keyboard one to one. It is possible to order with keys without drawing characters, which allows you to use it with layouts other than Qwerty. In addition to additional key pads, there is also an unusual option - earplugs designed for colleagues and designed to protect them from the clicking sound of some models of this keyboard.
    $ 130

    A4Tech A-Shape Natural Multimedia Keyboard



    You may notice unusual buttons in the shape of a parallelepiped.

    The second picture shows that the position of the hands when typing on this keyboard is more correct.
    $ 30

    IBM / Lenovo ThinkPad USB Keyboard with TrackPoint



    It is worth noting the traditional button layout for Thinkpad laptop keyboards, especially Page Left and Page right. But the most important thing here is the presence of a trackpoint right in the middle of the keyboard, which, with a certain skill, becomes an excellent mouse replacement.
    $ 59

    Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000



    Another keyboard that stimulates the correct and convenient arrangement of brushes. Microsoft has been developing keyboards and mice for a long time, and such a keyboard is hardly even exotic.
    $ 50

    Microsoft Arc Keyboard



    A less popular device compared to Microsoft Arc Mouse, however, worthy of attention. The cursor key, yes, it is the key, causes quite mixed emotions.
    $ 60

    Truly ergonomic



    Really ergonomic keyboard, it's hard to argue.
    Here is the difference:

    Comparison with the Microsoft 4000 described above:


    $ 229

    Kinesis advantage



    The keys on the keyboard are recessed, and the brush is in a hovering position when typing.
    $ 359 for Pro version, $ 299 for regular

    Maltron Fully Ergonomic 3D



    Another voluminous keyboard with a different layout.
    $ 500

    Freestyle Convertible Keyboard 2



    A keyboard consisting of two halves, the position of which relative to each other can be changed.
    $ 150

    TypeMatrix USB EZ Reach Keyboard



    An interesting layout, the keys are located one under the other without a shift. There are models for other layouts or without any characters on the keys (empty keys).
    $ 110

    UPD:

    DataDesk Tech Smart-Board




    Not just another keyboard, but a keyboard that combines the best of Truly Ergonomic, TypeMatrix, which also has mechanical switches and a very modest price.
    $ 99

    Cherry Programmable Rows and Columns Keyboard



    There is even nothing to say. Do what you want with her.
    $ 200

    Plum keyboard



    Another keyboard with an arrangement of keys without shift. With customizable layout.
    $ 140

    Roll & Go Flexible Keyboard



    Of course, having nothing to do with convenience and programming, but nonetheless fun.
    $ 45

    Happy hacking keyboard



    Recently discussed here , with a minimal set of keys. Actively used by adherents of Emacs. There is a model with cursor keys.
    $ 300 per click, $ 490 per silent

    Guru board / miniguru



    A compact keyboard with a standard layout or a custom layout (empty keys). Unprofitable differs in that it is only a design project, and the author has not yet decided whether the first batch of sales will be able to recoup costs. It is easy to see that, like Happy Hacking, the keyboard lacks a functional cursor and keys, as well as a numeric keypad. However, not everyone needs them. Unlike Happy Hacking, button layout is more traditional.

    Safetype keyboard



    Very unusual configuration of the keyboard itself.
    $ 295

    The magic frogpad



    Representative of chord keyboards. ZX Spectrum fans are thrilled.
    $ 130

    Datahand



    Fingers no longer need to sort. Only stir slightly.
    $ 995

    Keybowl orbiTouch Keyboard



    Calling it a keyboard doesn't even turn your tongue. The principle of operation is rotary. It also works as a mouse.
    $ 400

    Materials and links


    programmers.stackexchange.com/questions/2254/what-are-good-keyboards-for-programming/97441
    en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ergonomic_keyboard
    stackoverflow.com/questions/96944/what-is-the-best-keyboard- mouse-for-ergonomics-or-to-prevent-wrist-pain
    elitekeyboards.com/products.php
    ergocanada.com/ec_home/products/keyboards.html

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