Natural Microsoft Keyboard

The affliction Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is often viewed as being almost fictitious. Begging the question "Can you actually seriously injure yourself while sat in front of a computer?" Regrettably I can assure you it is entirely possible as I have actually suffered from it myself a couple of times in 23 years of being what can only be described as a geek. I was particularly unimpressed by the feeling of burning running down both of my arms.

Fortunately RSI is something that is very easily avoidable if you take the right measures. In previous articles I've talked about the importance of posture and taking regular breaks but this week I'm going to talk about a design of keyboard that I've been using for years to minimise the likelihood of these conditions resurfacing.

The Microsoft Natural range of keyboards have been around since 1994 and are specifically designed to prevent carpel tunnel syndrome along with other RSI injuries. Since I unfortunately don't have the luxury of including pictures in my articles I can probably best describe the keyboard as being split down the middle with both halves being placed at a slight angle from one another. The centre of the keyboard is elevated slightly and then gently slopes downwards towards the extremities.

A couple of years ago Microsoft introduced the Microsoft Natural Keyboard 4000 which is the keyboard that I have just upgraded to and will be reviewing today. In addition to the split that I spoke about above, this keyboard is actually elevated at the front and then slopes backwards resulting in the space bar being the highest key rather than the lowest, as it would be on a conventional keyboard. A non removable wrist rest is literally built in to the keyboard; made out of leatherette cushioning, this is one of the most comfortable wrist rests I've ever used.

The theory is that this untraditional typing position for is actually a natural position for your hands and admittedly it takes some time for to get used to, my ability to touch type was not slowed down as a result. When people first notice my alien looking and rather abstract keyboard you would be forgiven for thinking it would increase my chances of obtaining an RSI related injury. This assumption is however massively incorrect.

We assume that a device such as a keyboard which has been with us for decades would have, by now, been designed to be as kind to our hands, wrists and arms as possible but next time you sit at your computer, place your fingers on the home keys (a, s, d, f and j, k, l, ;) and take a look at the unnatural position your hands are in. Using a conventional keyboard your arms plunge downwards and inwards from your shoulders towards the keyboard and then unnaturally twist upwards and outwards so that you can achieve the correct position to reach the keys.

Whilst alternative natural keyboards are available this is definitely my current favourite; the unconventional design, the quality of the product and the way the keyboard feels are absolutely great. Typing is almost completely silent and even though they dip substantially and remain tactile; I'm far from a fan of boards with silent keys that don't respond when pressed. Whilst this won't affect single finger typists won't be too concerned, but if you're used to touch typing feedback from the keyboard is always appreciated. Also included are special keys for frequently used applications and commands that can be used with a single press and an intriguing zoom key hat I haven't needed to use yet.

Retailing at £30 it is far from the cheapest keyboard in the world, however I am hesitant to put a price on my health considering some RSI symptoms will stick with you your whole life. In my opinion this is a sound investment for anyone who spends a decent amount of time in front of a computer and I urge you to consider purchasing one.