Best Split Keyboards

Consider splitting up! The right keyboard can make all the difference in your productivity and even your health at the end of a long day spent at the computer. Be sure you’re using the right one.

If you're reasonably proficient at touch-typing, then a split keyboard might be right up your alley. They're extremely comfortable to type on plus they'll protect your wrists from the dreaded repetitive stress injuries that are becoming more and more prevalent as more people spend more time on computers. Remember that friend you had in high school who had carpal tunnel syndrome? Yeah, that could be you if you spend a lot of time on a traditional, straight keyboard.

The drawback of this style of keyboard, however, is that you really do need to know how to type fairly well. If you're not used to hitting the right keys with the right fingers, you may find split keyboards wildly annoying. Then again, this might be a great time to finesse your typing skills and save your wrists at the same time. If you're a "hunt and peck"er then you may find that a split keyboard brings so much frustration that you should probably stay away.

You do have a couple of options with trade-offs when it comes to split keyboards. You can find truly split models that are tethered together with nothing but a cord (Kinesys Freestyle) or you can find more traditional looking ones that are split, but still one-piece, such as the excellent Microsoft Sculpt keyboard. We like both, though they each have their virtues. Truly split means that you can adjust the space between the two halves to your liking. (We find these excellent for sitting at a corner desk.) The one-piece means that you won't have to worry about cord issues, etc, between the two halves. Because they are split, they do tend to take up more desk space than their truly split counterparts, though.

Split keyboards can encourage a more natural posture and reduce strain on your wrists and arms.
There is a learning curve, aka "relearning where the keys are" phase when adopting a split keyboard for the first time.
Add a separate 10-key pad if you want an ergonomic keyboard but also that function.

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Our Good, Better Best reviews include our three top picks from the same category at three price points.

GOOD
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This is a keyboard we've bought multiple times. I've had a few of the Microsoft Elite and similar keyboards over the years and have seen the Sculpt recommended by many ergonomics consultants. You can get it with or without the ten-key pad. While I have used this with relatively few issues on a Mac computer, be sure to check your own hardware and software for compatibility.

BETTER

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This is a fantastic keyboard that is versatile due to the cable that connects each of the key modules, allowing you to position each half exactly where you need it. It's available with a 9-inch separation cord or a 20-inch separation option. For mobility and customizing your workspace, the 20-inch allows incredible flexibility and versatility. This one is plug-and-play for Windows, Linux, and Chrome. Looking for a keyboard that does both the menial and fun things? Consider the Kinesis RGB gaming keyboard.

BEST

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Definitely on the higher end of the price range, but we swear by the MX keyboards and mice. This set has the multiple-device capability of the MX line with the ergonomic benefit of a split keyboard. Solid build, with smooth key action. Battery life is outstanding for a backlit keyboard, and both mouse and keyboard charge easily with USB-C. You can use the device while it's charging. Connects via dongle or Bluetooth.