Ask HN: Split keyboard/trackball for use while standing and hands at sides?

1 points by syedkarim 5y ago ↗ HN

My right-fingers feel a little funny after using a keyboard that is in front of my body--sitting and standing at various keyboard-heights produces the same results. I would like to try something that can be described as a side-holstered split keyboard. Has anyone seen anything like that? I'd like to have my hands hang down naturally, but still type and control a cursor.

4 comments

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thecrumb 5y ago ↗

Lots of split options out there. I think the trick would be in fabricating something to hold them in the position you want.

SubGenius 5y ago ↗

I did see a recent build on the mechanical keyboard subreddit where someone built exactly what you describe, with an Ergodox.

I have nerve damage in my hands from an accident and recently switched to a Kinesis Advantage 2. It's been amazing for me. Not exactly what you're looking for, but I got it after extensive research and it seems to be the best keyboard to get if you have RSI/injuries.

Kinesis has several split models too that are cheaper, maybe you could build a side-holstered version if you got one of those.

CharlesMote 5y ago ↗

You probably want to check out the ultimate hacker keyboard (UHK) https://ultimatehackingkeyboard.com/, particularly the Blog section https://ultimatehackingkeyboard.com/blog and search for "UHK ninja belt" in the post from 2020-03-18.

syedkarim 5y ago ↗

Thanks. This is the one I'm keeping my eye on. Of the split keyboard designs, it seems to be the only one with an integrated trackball at the thumb.