Microsoft's Surface Ergonomic Keyboard makes typing a pleasure

Strangely enough, this new entry actually looks like a step backward from Microsoft’s last model, the Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard. Whereas that version had a futuristic look, with a large gap between its two sets of keys, the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is fairly plain. Its light gray styling makes it fit in right alongside the Surface laptops and the Surface Studio desktop (hence the name). But while it looks a tad more traditional, it’s also the most refined Microsoft keyboard I’ve used when it actually comes to typing.

All of its keys are easy to reach, and there’s a nice amount of depth and resistive feedback with every button press. It’s also worth pointing out that the keys feel inviting as you lay your fingers on them, almost as if they’re asking you to start mashing on them. The Surface Ergonomic is also a surprisingly quiet keyboard, even for heavy typists like me, so it won’t annoy your office mates. And even though it’s made entirely out of plastic, it feels sturdier than its predecessor. (I attribute that to the fact that it doesn’t have a big, gaping hole right down the middle.)

Whenever I showed off the keyboard to my fellow Engadget editors, they couldn’t help but start fondling its palm rest. It’s made out of a soft material that feels smooth and comforting. There’s also plenty of cushioning on the palm rest, which should soothe your tired wrists.

The keyboard gets its ergonomic badge from its split key design, which cuts the traditional QWERTY layout down the middle. By having your hands rest at a more natural angle (hence the name of Microsoft’s early keyboards), the idea is that they’ll be less fatigued than if you have to contort them to fit a rectangular set of keys. The Surface Ergonomic also has a slight slope to it, which raises the keys slightly. I’ve used the keyboard to write several reviews and news posts, and I found that my wrists felt less stressed after lengthy typing sessions. For work, I mostly rely on my MacBook Air’s keyboard, which is among the better ones on a laptop, but I still noticed an appreciable difference.

I’ve been using these sorts of keyboards for years, so I had no problem getting started with the Surface Ergonomic. But if you’ve only ever used standard keyboards, it might take some getting used to. Your hands will have to retrain themselves, especially if you’re a dedicated touch typist. If you’re testing out an ergonomic keyboard for the first time, just give it some time instead of throwing up your hands in frustration. It’s worth the work, trust me.

My biggest issue with the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is its high $130 price. I’m used to spending a bit of a premium for a high-end keyboard, but that’s still tough to swallow. You could snag Microsoft’s Sculpt Ergonomic, which also comes with a mouse, for around $80 today. And for most people, that will feel almost as good as this new model (plus its black design might blend more easily into your hardware).

If you’re a typing nerd like me who hasn’t yet fallen for the siren call of mechanical keyboards, and you don’t mind the high price, the Surface Ergonomic is worth a look. And if you do get one, just be sure to keep it safe from jealous desk neighbors.