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

1 point·syedkarim··4 comments

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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

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