Is anyone brave enough to try the Kinesis Contoured keyboard? sm
Posted By: kdy on 2006-02-17
In Reply to: I am going there now - thanks a bunch!! nm - kdy
www.kinesis.com My sister is looking at one - almost every review she has read - people love it! It sure is funny looking.
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Anyone use Kinesis contoured keyboard?
I'm on day 8 of slathering Ben-Gay all over my piddies and right shoulder for worsening pain that must be either tendonitis and/or bursitis. It's totally frigging up my line counts and will to live.
I've been wearing my SmartGloves and doing everything else "right" as far as stretching, taking breaks, and even getting up and doing "the hustle." ;-)
The only 2 things I can think of needing replacing here are my chair and my keyboard. I've been eyeballing that Kinesis contoured and it looks both sweet and scary at the same time. I checked a YouTube video of it and it makes that little clicky noise I love, which means the keys snap back and are quick...love that. I hate mushy keys.
So, does anyone here use this particular keyboard and if so, would you recommend it? I mean like HIGHLY recommend it?! Sure is a steep price tag, and I am tight with a dollar, so be honest. Thank you!
Oh--the link for the keyboard I'm fancyin' is:
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/
It's the contoured one...fugly one farthest on the left.
Have you ever tried the Kinesis contoured keyboard, with the little "wells"? sm
They tout it as the "most productive and comfortable ergonomic keyboard available." There's no place to try one out, and at $299, I'm not sure I'm ready to part with the cash, even though they have a moneyback guarantee. Even on eBay, when I have seen them, they are pretty pricey, and that would be even more risky, since you can't usually return things on eBay.
Just wondering if you had any experience with it ........ thanks! 
Kinesis Contoured Ergonomic Keyboard
Has anyone used this keyboard? (It is the weird shaped one). How comfortable are the hard plastic wrist rests?
I have tried Kinesis Contoured, Kinesis Maxim and...sm
the the Comfort Programmable. Have spent megabucks trying to find "the keyboard" and am still looking. The Kinesis Maxim semed cheaply made to me and just did not feel right. The Comfort Programmable was very awkward for me to use...sat too high to be practical. I would have really liked the Kinesis Contoured had my thumbs not started hurting so much I had to quit using it and sell it only 3 months old for a steal. Currently I am using a Goldtouch that I have literally broken apart in the middle to space the 2 halves as far apart as possible so that it is fairly comfortable for me. I know it is a matter of personal taste and fit for each person, but so far I am....still looking!
Kinesis Keyboard and keyboard tray
Okay, any lefties use this keyboard? How long did it take to get used to? I use my left thumb for the space bar and I notice on a diagram of the keys that I would always be hitting the backspace key.
I'm really interested in getting a better keyboard. I destroyed my left hand and wrist the other week when I fell because I'm becoming a real klutz.
I bought the Soft Flex gloves, but they only help a little bit. My production is down because of it and it's driving me crazy. I can only type an hour without stopping and then have to rest the hand for some time.
I did buy a Microsoft 2000 keyboard but have yet to recieve it. Is this a good one?
Do you use a keyboard tray with it or just set it on the desk? Do you think a kayboard tray would be the least expensive item right now that would help with a straight keyboard?
Any info you can provide to help me in making any decision would be greatfully appreciated.
'Scuse me for being old school, but I've only ever used a straight keyboard.
KINESIS KEYBOARD
Can those of you who use this keyboard please let me know how you like them? How long of an adjustment period is there? Are they worth the price????
Kinesis Keyboard
I have been using the Professional Kinesis for maybe eight or nine years and it is the best. I would not even consider going back no matter what the cost. When I look at my son's regular keyboard, I think how did I ever work on a keyboard like this. I tried all the other keyboards Microsoft Natural, etc. but the Kinesis is worth every penny. My hands and wrists used to kill me and since getting this keyboard I have had almost no problems. Of couse, now and then your hands will still hurt but I probably would have had to quit typing years ago if not for this keyboard. It takes a little getting used to, may a couple days or week or so but not very long. Good Luck
Kinesis keyboard - sm
I use the Kinesis Maxim, and have for years. I've tried different keyboards, like the Goldtouch, but the Goldtouch doesn't have the attached wrist rests that I need/use. Otherwise, they are very similar keyboards. I have a Goldtouch in the closet I used for one day, and that was it. I have another keyboard in the closet that is in three parts, you arrange them as you like, can't think of the name offhand (it was expensive - in the $300 range), but couldn't get the hang of that one and it didn't fit under my desk in the keyboard tray. AND, I've tried numerous other ones, but always go back to the Kinesis Maxim. Good luck with your search.
to those who use a Kinesis keyboard
i just got a classic -- used it for 3 days and now i get up and go to start working, and the keyboard does not work at all -- not one key (the first one sent to me had one key malfunctioning, so had to return that). After retraining my brain to the new key locations, this is killing me to go back to a standard layout, not to mention the touch on my old MS now feels like i'm working on a manual keyboard... have you had trouble with yours?
Kinesis Keyboard-how to get used to it
Just bought one. It came with an exercise booklet and I am trying to do those exercises. It states not to wrist your hands on the wrist rests. Then why have them?
Does anyone think the keys are too noisy and "claky"? I thought they would be a really soft touch and quiet.
I found that I cannot keep my left hand on the home keys. How can I train my left hand to do that? Am I sitting wrong or do I have the keyboard situated wrong? I have it sitting straight on the top of the desk. Should I angle it a bit?
I truly thought it would take me forever to get used to using the space bar (or should I say key?) but had no trouble at all.
Is there a place I can get more info on using the function keys and other keys at the top of the keyboard? I didn't find much on the website. So far, I like my Microsoft Ergo 200 better.
Thanks for any information you can provide.
I worked with someone once who used the Kinesis keyboard.
She absolutely loved it. Didn't take long to get used to it and her carpal tunnel syndrome was much, much better. Now she can't type on a regular keyboard. Her productivity increased, too.
Kinesis Classic Keyboard
It took me several days I believe to get use to the Kinesis. I just started out slow and when I became frustrated trying to use it I went back to the regular keyboard but soon found I was having more trouble typing on a regular keyboard so stuck with the Kinesis only and I would say it may have taken me two weeks to get back to speed but it has been well worth it to me.
I had OT come out to my house and they suggested I put something under the edge of my keyboard, the edge closest to me, so it would be basically neutral. I found a long wrist rest under that edge puts the keyboard at a perfect height for a neutral position. It is just one of those cheap foam ones like you find at Walmart but it works great.
It is the softest touch keyboard I have ever used which really ended finger fatigue for me. It also helped with my fingers aching and some of my hand pain. I had to change to an Evoluent mouse (as I posted below) and my right hand hand/arm pain stopped.
Now, if only I could just find a way to stop my chronic back pain. :D
Let us know what you decide on and how it works for you, ok?
KINESIS ERGO KEYBOARD
Kinesis Ergonomic Keyboard. Newest technology, a MTs dream. Feels like a cadillac when compared with other keyboards. Purchased 10/2006, excellent condition. Paid $350, will sell for $290--like new. Adaptation exercise book. Retired as MT. Follow this link to review benefits:
http://www.kinesis-org.com/benefits.htm.
Kinesis Keyboard or Microsoft
I have been working on Kinesis Keyboards for 10 years and mine finally started to die. Has anybody went from Kinesis to the Microsoft Ergonomatic keyboard? I am trying to save cash but I am not sure if it would be worth the trade. Does anybody have any experience with this?
Anyone use the Kinesis Advantage keyboard? see msg....
I would really appreciate any kind of feedback on this keyboard. It's expensive but my hands/wrists/fingers are killing me. Since I do VR mostly, I'm wondering where the arrow keys are. Can't tell by the pics on the Kinesis site. Also, are the keys really low-force and do you think that helps reduce pain and discomfort when typing? Anything you could tell me, good or bad, before I spend this much money would be so appreciated.
Thanks!
Anyone use the Kinesis Freestyle keyboard?
That one that separates with a cord? There are accessories such as an incline platform that look interesting. I was hoping someone has this or has used one in the past....
What I really need to know is if they keys are considered low-impact. I think that is what is killing my hands/wrists....pounding away on my microsoft keyboard.
Any replies would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in Advance!
The Kinesis Classic Keyboard is the softest touch I have used. (nm)
:)
Keyboard Opinions - Avant versus Kinesis
I am faced with a decision between these 2 keyboards, both with pros and cons. I would like to take a survey to see what everyone's opinion would be. I strongly prefer a programmable keyboard, as I would like to change some of the keys around to suit me, but will I regret not having an ergo keyboard in the long run? Will I like the IBM clicky type keys?
KINESIS FREESTYLE KEYBOARD
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/freestyle-solo_690x375.jpg
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/solo-v3-10-blk_690x306.jpg
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/solo_us_legend.jpg
It splits and tents.
Delete key is on left side (which I love)
All other function keys are in the wrong place for me.
Quiet low-force tactile membrane switch
10 function keys on left
Keypad separate purchase
2 year warranty
60-day money back guarantee
Price: $124.15 with the options I chose
AVANT STELLAR KEYBOARD
http://www.lonestarkeyboards.com/Avant-Stellar-Programmable-Keyboard/productinfo/KB%2D00%2D1001/
(click on additional images for close up)
I actually went to the manufacturer website (http://www.cvtinc.com/products/keyboards/stellar.htm) but they didn’t have any large photos so I went to a reseller for larger images.
Straight keyboard
Can program any key to another function.
Mechanical click/tactile key switches like the old IBM keyboards
12 function keys on left that can be reprogrammed
Keypad built in
2 year warranty
30-day money back guarantee
Price: $189.00
Macro programming features
PS/2 interface but can buy PS to USB cord (I find this a little odd)
Programming software not compatible with Vista but can be programmed through the keyboard
This is from the sales rep I spoke to this week:
Have you ever heard of Northgate OmniKey keyboards? We purchased the rights to the keyboards when they went out of business. It is like typing on an old IBM keyboard. It is a loud click, you know when you hit a key. A lot of customers say they make fewer errors and I personally agree. I have had my Avant for a little over 10 years and I type all day long. I also have one at home. It might help for you to listen to this review on our website: http://www.cvtinc.com/products/keyboards/menu.htm
Click on HEAR OUR INTERVIEW ON Lets talk Computers. Avant is VERY reliable. We sell to a lot of medical transcriptionists, writers, gamers, call center operators, etc. People that type 8 hours a day 5+ days per week. Our keyboards can really take a beating.
What'cha think?
Please Help - anyone who uses the Kinesis Freestyle Solo split keyboard....
am considering buying one. However, I noticed you have to buy a keypad separately. I use the numbers at the top so I don't need a keypad. Or so I thought, until I realized I use the plus and minus key on the keypad when we are in the ADT screen to move the date back.
So, my question is: Do I have to also buy that separate keypad or is there a plus/minus key (that you don't have to use SHIFT to use) on the keyboard?
Thanks! 
Morency board and Kinesis keyboard along with comfortable chair
Hi, I have been doing transcription for 14 years and about 4 years ago purchased a Kinesis keyboard and Morency arm rest board and they have been a lifesaver. The key to a comfortable chair is one you can adjust the height, back, seat, etc and once you get it comfortable make sure no one changes it ! Some chairs have arm rests if you don't get a Morency board and help out.
Keyboards - Goldtouch, Kinesis Maxium, Kinesis Freestyle (sm)
Has anyone bought and used these keyboards within the last year? I want a new keyboard and was looking at the above 3 mentioned. I was favoring the Goldtouch but when I goggled Goldtouch reviews there seemed to be so many negative reviews - keys sticking, keyboard collapsing in tented position, etc. Has anyone bought these keyboards within a year or so and could you tell me how you like them? Would appreciate your input so very much.
How brave
I wish I was as brave as you. For years my DH has been encouraging me to go back to school. After our first child he decided to go back to school. Took him three years to finish. I think it would take me considerably longer to do so even if I did know what I wanted to do. Now, with one child in high school and another in Jr. high, and our financial situation, I don't see how I could ever do it. I was in education for two years over 20 years ago and quit and got married but I could never be a teacher. No patience. Besides, my husband is and right now I make as much as he does. Anyway, I applaud you for being so brave.
what a brave son (and parents)
How old was he when he did that? He earned every penny it sounds like. You couldn't pay me enough to get that close to snakes (shudder). 
I don't use the contoured one, but
I do use the Freestyle Solo, which I love.
I want our brave men and women fighting in the Middle East to come home safe and sound. sm
Imagine the Christmas their families are having. I am so grateful to them all.
I was going to say unless you were the original 3 brave souls named on the original suit.
I still had heard lately that no one else, not one person, had been allowed to join in, so you must be in a separate class??
I use a MSFT Natural keyboard at home and the laptop keyboard on the road. nm
favorite keyboard over the holidays is called "no keyboard"
nm
If you use a standard keyboard you can buy an old IBM model M keyboard on ebay or clickykeyboards.co
That key printing never wear down because the letters are part of the key itself. They just don't make them that way anymore because it is too expensive to make. Some of the mechanical keyboards like Cherry have what they double shot key imprinting and the letters are part of the key itself and don't wear off. That IBM keyboard is very noisy from the type of keyswitch it has so you may not like that. Logitech and Belkin make some membrane switch keyboards that are supposed to have longer lasting key imprints. I have a logitech that has the longer lasting key imprints and it is pretty good. You have to look on the specs to find out if has the longer lasting key printing.
I have experimented so much with keyboards and have done a lot of research. Way too much info.
I use a laptop with a full-size keyboard (no separate keyboard)
I'm using a lap desk but previously was using a pillow with a book on it under the laptop. No additional keyboard though, I bought one with a full-sized board with regular size keys (an HP) which I LOVE and it took no time at all to get used to it. I also love that when the weather improves, I can take my computer outside and get some fresh air! What a great job... :)
Keyboard and mouse. Is there such a thing as a keyboard that has a mouse on the actual keyboard?
nm
I have a Kinesis
You can get your money back if you return a Kinesis to the company within, I think, 30 days. It might even be 60 days. I don't remember. I kept mine. It was a good 2 weeks before it felt "right" to type on it. There was much swearing the first week.
I decided to try using a Kinesis to improve my speed, not for RSI. I'm not sure I'm faster, but I'm certainly not slower. And I love having my spacebar, return, etc., moved to the thumbs.
I have a Kinesis
I would never be without it. In fact, a neighbor and I bought a "spare" so if something happened we can both share the spare. It is awesome.
re kinesis
thanks athomeMT for sharing your experience -- it's very reassuring to know you have not had any problems. Yes, i did everything i could think of, shutting down, unplugging, resetting modem etc -- but i didn't wait 5 whole minutes either...
I am just totally hooked on the light touch now and believe in the ergo difference of this board, and so again, very much appreciate hearing how you have not had problems.
I have also used Kinesis
for years and I also looked at the Microsoft Ergo on-line and it look nice but if you use the Kinesis keyboard with the backspace, enter keys, and function keys at the thumb position, I was thinking that I would miss that feature if I used the Microsoft Ergo but that is just me. That us know if you like the transition, as I also gave it some thought due to the lower price of Microsoft but I am still using the Kinesis. 
i use the kinesis
but not the freestyle type.
but love my classic/advantage (have both) types. They have a hump contour, divided keyboard. either are fully programmable, with macro capability, etc. i hear the keys but they are not what i would call clicky or noisey type. The advantage has the USB plug which i like for in and out of my laptop.
and yes, personally, i feel anyone working on a keyboard longterm should have ergo products to minimize future problems. i like the research behind the kinesis, the different key levels and locations geared towards stronger/weaker fingers. It did take a few days of re-training myself before i got up to speed again. but i am happy enough (several years now), i'll never use anything else. Kinesis is a little pricey (i did get one off ebay), but you do get what you pay for and it can be a tax deduction as well.
don't know if this is helpful, but i hope so!
Kinesis
Buy yourself a Kinesis. Yes, they do cost a pretty penny, but well worth every cent! Good luck!
I love the Kinesis!
It stopped almost all of my hand and forearm pain. I do have the front of it resting on one of those foam arm/wrist rests to place the keyboard in a more neutral position for me. I almost gave up on typing on it when I first got it but it seemed about the fourth day using it everything fell in place and I have never turned back. It has the softest key touch I have found as well which helps me significantly. I loved my first one so much I bought another one when I got my new computer, just so I would always have a back-up as I type like a beginner on a regular keyboard now and hate using them. :) I, too, have tried many different types, but this is my favorite by far.
Kinesis Maxim sm
I just got one and love it. No more finger fatigue, quiet, soft touch and fast.
Have you considered the Kinesis?
I have the Kinesis Classic and I have tried several types of keyboards and find this one has the lightest touch that I have personally tried and it also stopped all my finger, hand and wrist pain I had prior to that. They are pricey and take some time getting use to but, to me, it is well worth it. I can't even type on a regular keyboard now. I use one even with my laptop.
i've used the MS, but have Kinesis now
the downside to the kinesis is retraining yourself...some keys in different places. The design i think is superior and the classic can be reprogrammed with macros or to 'move' keys, ie if you have a problem thumb...if you just need a little ergo, the MS is good though. i've been doing this a long time and needed more help.
Kinesis, although it is expensive. nm
.
i use the kinesis classic
and you can re-map/program the keys if you want to. since the backspace and space bar are used so much, is it usually better for the stronger thumb to do it than the little finger. again, with the classic, you can reprogram. When i called kinesis with some questions they were very helpful. i'm not a leftie, so can't answer to that. mine fits on my under-desk tray, but not to put away underneath. warning -- it does take some serious effort to get used to. but it has helped same my arm nerves in a huge way. i've been at this 32 yr myself. i'd never go back to another kind. I didn't get near as much help from the microsoft ergo board.
I have a Kinesis Freestyle.
I like that it can be separated as much as you personally desire. I also purchased the lifters and they have proven to be well worth their price. This board is on the pricey side but like the commercial says, "I'm worth it!"
Kinesis Classic has no # pad, but
not sure if it is quiet enough. i'd have to look it up but i think you can turn on and off the clicky-clicks.
my kinesis classic
has it in the center-bunch, where you use your left thumb for it (unless you want to reprogram it somewhere else).
Kinesis Advantage
I just purchased a Kinesis Advantage a few months ago. I LOVE IT. It is sturdy and easy on the hands and wrists, plus my speed has increased! They are expensive, as I paid $300.00, but well worth every single penny.
Kinesis Freestyle
I am using the Kinesis Freestyle. I had been having problems with the muscles in my fingers aching and I had read that the Kinesis keyboards have a really light touch. I had previously used the Microsoft Natural and the Logitech Wave. Both were great keyboards and I had no complaints. However, after using the Kinesis for about an hour and then switching back to the Microsoft Natural, I noticed that my fingers immediately started cramping again. I've since stayed with the Kinesis and I haven't had any problems since. I did, however, by the separate 10-key, as I do prefer to have that option available, as well. Also this year, I tried the Kinesis Advantage and the DataHand, and found both to have entirely too much of a learning curve. Good luck in your search for the perfect fit!
I have one of the old Kinesis keyboards, sm
which I've never been able to use because I couldn't get any help with disabling its function keys so that I could use my expanders. Do you know how I might disable them?
I'd love to be able to use that keyboard. My CTS is really getting bad in both hands.
Thanks!
Kinesis Freestyle with v3
I've got this one, and it has the keypad built into it. It's cut down on my arm and wriste pain tremendously, and I'd recommend it to anyone.
I just got my Kinesis Freestyle...
with Vip Accessory, and I love it. I just got it a couple of weeks ago and it's taken a while to get used to it, but I would never go back to a regular keyboard. I like being able to adjust the separation between the two keyboards, and I like not being all scrunched over while typing. It's on the pricey side but I think well worth it, plus I can deduct it at tax time!
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