Ergodox EZ [2024-Nov-05]

The Ergodoz EZ is split ergonomic keyboard with a columnar layout and programmable keys. I would strongly recommend it to anyone who wants to try a new keyboard format, as it is simple, sturdy, and extremely easy to set up.

When I got my first job in software I found myself in need of a new keyboard. Inspired by my colleague's unconventional one, I decided to do some research on what options existed outside of the traditional layout you find on almost every laptop and desktop. After all, that format has existed largely unchanged for over a century; surely there were other options designed more specifically for modern computer inputs.
I have several major gripes with the standard English keyboard format:

• QWERTY is an outdated layout that is not optimised for either typing speed or comfort
• Staggered rows do not match the natural shape of human hands
• The most dextrous digit in the human hand (the thumbs) only have 0.5 keys within reach, 2 thumbs per 1 spacebar
• Caps lock is largely useless
• Your hands sit unnaturally close to each other, straining your wrists and shoulders

I landed on the Ergodox because it addresses every one of these issues. The split layout is very comfortable, the staggered columns feel very intuitive to type on, and I can freely reprogram the keys and layers to fit my every need. Unlike some other ergonomic keyboards, this also doesn't skip out on any buttons, which was important to me as I wasn't sure if I'd want to bother with layers too much. I specifically went with the white model with no LEDs, I dislike the look of RGB on most devices; I find it has this tacky "gamer" look to it. The Ergodox EZ is expensive as far as keyboards go, but I'm a big believer in spending large sums of money on the things that are really worth it, and for a device I will be using almost every day of my life for the next few years at least, £250 felt very reasonable.
For the layout, I went with Colemak because it is very popular, and seems more well thought out than Dvorak. After a few months of use, I'd totally gotten used to the different shape, and could type in Colemak at about the same rate I'd been doing with QWERTY. Touch typing became so much easier, as the columnar format made it extremely easy to locate keys above and below the home row. Eventually I realised the labelled keys were slowing me down, so I replaced the original keycaps with blank clear plastic ones, which are sculpted for ergonomics.
Overall I am very happy with this keyboard; it is exceedingly comfortable, sturdy, and versatile, fitting neatly into any desk setup I have (I've been enjoying placing a mouse or other pointing device between the halves), and it looks simple and elegant with the clear plastic on white. My next keyboard will likely be something smaller: more compact with fewer keys. I could use something portable, and I want to rely on layers more.