Ditch commonly used keys: In an effort to create more compact models, some keyboard makers eliminate navigation keys such as the arrow keys and the function-keys row at the top.

Feel cheap or plasticky: We looked for keyboards with solid build quality that made us confident the keyboard would last for years.

Require building or soldering: Although the build-it-yourself keyboard community is thriving, with many interesting options for self-assembled split keyboards, most people want to use their keyboard out of the box.

And if you’d like to remap keys for a different layout, you can do so in just a couple of clicks. Although getting used to typing on a fully split keyboard could take a bit of time-at least a few days, if not weeks-the Freestyle Edge RGB was the easiest for us to get comfortable with thanks to its standard, familiar key layout. With the recommended Lift Kit accessory, you can also tent each half (raise the inner edges of the keyboard halves) to keep your wrists at a neutral angle. You can position the halves of the keyboard as close together or as far apart as you’d like in order to reduce shoulder strain and neck tension. The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB is the best option due to its fully split design, its responsive Cherry MX mechanical keys, its zero-degree slope and low profile, its programmability, and the optional ability to tent the keyboard to 5, 10, or 15 degrees.

Ergonomic apple keyboard and mouse