The Kinesis Contoured Classic Keyboard is an ergonomic programmable keyboard with re-mapable keys. Its concave layout allows one's hands to be in a correct and comfortable typing position and transfers certain functions from overused little fingers to stronger thumbs.
The keyboard is divided into two sections that properly position your hands for typing. Because the design causes your arms to be extended straight in front of the body, neck and shoulder strain is relieved. The keyboard was laboratory proven to minimize bending of the wrists, a major cause of repetitive stress injury. Everything about the keyboard was designed to be ergonomically correct and to eliminate stress and strain caused by normal keyboarding. A programmable foot switch can be purchased; this switch relocates specific work from the hands to the feet, also relieving stress.
Most ergonomic or natural-style keyboards are quite wide. I really appreciated the fact that the Kinesis Classic has a slim footprint. Its narrow shape allows you to keep the mouse close by, which makes mouse use much more convenient. Many keys are programmable providing easier access to popular keys and key combinations. The traditional embedded numeric keypad is useful for many tasks. The Querty keyboard comes as the standard layout. If you would like to try the more unusual Dvorak key layout, you can switch on the fly.
Kinesis' odd-looking keyboard is so different that it takes some getting used to. My first few days of using this product were very frustrating. My normal accurate typing was filled with errors, and I felt like I would never adjust to this strange-looking piece of equipment. Then, suddenly, after a few days, I slowly began to adapt. Every day, I felt a little more comfortable with the keyboard. After about ten days, my speed and accuracy returned to normal. After using the Kinesis for just three weeks, I was sold. My hands and wrists were more relaxed; I was typing a little faster than before; and I was convinced that the Kinesis was, without a doubt, the most comfortable keyboard that I ever used.
The Kinesis keyboard is both PC and Mac compatible. The 60-day money back guarantee gives you enough time to be sure you like it. The warranty is a lifetime-limited warranty. At $275, the Kinesis Classic is expensive. If, however, you are concerned about keeping your wrists, shoulders, and neck in tip-top shape, it is worth the price.
