Read our, Learn more about PCWorld's Digital Editions, Unique layout can be challenging for touch typists to master quickly. It also tracked smoothly on a variety of surfaces—I even used it on the arm of a leather recliner with no issues. Behind the scenes, Microsoft dubbed the keyboard “Manta Ray” for obvious reasons. The Kinesis Freestyle, Keyovation Goldtouch, or … It does take some time to get used to the keyboard's layout, so you may notice a greater number of typos at first. But ultimately only time helped me get the hang of it. Microsoft removed the desktop keyboard’s number pad to save space but wisely included it as a separate module to be used as needed. The mouse and number pad run on AA batteries and a single lithium ion battery, respectively, but these are preinstalled and you only have to remove their battery tabs. It isn't unique, as there are quite a few of them on the market, and even Microsoft has released a newer version called the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard. The keyboard’s “manta ray” design presents some challenges for touch typists, but the relief it should provide from injury pain is worth working through them. They're very similar to the Logitech Ergo K860, but with slightly more travel. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is sub-par for programming. The Microsoft Sculpt is great for office use. The keyboard doesn't have backlighting for dark room gaming, and it doesn't have any dedicated macro keys for MMO games. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is decent for most uses. The keyboard uses two AAA batteries and they're included in the box. This keyboard was originally designed for use with Windows 8, and we had some trouble getting it to work on one computer, while another worked fine, even though both computers have Windows 10 installed. © 2020 9298-5266 Quebec Inc. All Rights Reserved. If you want a better typing experience, take a look at the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard. The keyboard also has a 'dome' design, which helps to reduce pronation of the forearm. The Matias has a better typing experience with tactile switches, and with a split keyboard design, you can place the two halves however you like. If you don't mind having a wired keyboard, check out the Adesso Tru-Form 150. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard Split Keyset Design Helps To Position Wrists And Forearms In A Natural, Relaxed Position Cushioned Palm Rest Provides Support And Promotes A Neutral Wrist … The keys feel a bit mushy, and the key spacing feels slightly more cramped than the Logitech Ergo K860. The Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center lets you set macros on the function keys, and profiles are saved per application. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is designed to help prevent repetitive strain injuries. Other than price, there's no reason to get the K350 over the Sculpt. Be the first to start a discussion about Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard. However, the split keyboard design takes some time to get used to, and some may find the keys a bit mushy. Michael Ansaldo is a veteran consumer and small-business technology journalist. The Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard is much better than the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard. PCWorld helps you navigate the PC ecosystem to find the products you want and the advice you need to get the job done. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard review: Smart design, steep learning curve This keyboard's unique shape takes some getting used to, but RSI sufferers will find it worth the effort. The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is a better ergonomic keyboard than the Logitech K350. The Microsoft Surface Keyboard and the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard are very different keyboards. Freelance contributor, The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard can't be used with mobile devices running on Android, iOS, or iPadOS. Right off the bat I had trouble consistently hitting the “B” key, overshooting it more than half the time. The numeric pad is detached from the keyboard, unlike the Adesso, which has all the keys attached to the keyboard. This tool will clearly show you the differences, Use our data and table to find the best keyboard for your needs, Want to see us review a specific keyboard? But typing immediately presented some challenges for this touch typist. Microsoft lopped off the number pad to save space, as a lot of keyboard replacements do. The wrist rest's foam-like material feels a bit hard and isn't as comfortable as the one found on the Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard. PCWorld |. A small USB dongle is also included and cleverly stored in the mouse’s battery compartment for safekeeping when not in use. Even though it takes a bit more force to get over the tactile bump, the overall feeling is still light and shouldn't cause any fatigue over time. Unfortunately, there's only one incline setting. The keys rise toward the cutaway to more naturally meet your fingers and reduce the distance they have to stretch when you’re typing. Microsoft support told me that what happened with my keyboard is expected wear and tear. He contributes regularly to TechHive and writes the Max Productivity column for PCWorld. Additionally, the key legends are pad-printed, which can fade quickly if you always use the same keys. I also had problems reaching the right Shift key with my pinky without lifting my fingers from the home row, and that never did get any easier. It's mainly made out of plastic; however, the overall build feels good and the keyboard doesn't flex. No cherry-picked units sent by brands. The NumPad is a separate piece that comes with the keyboard, so you can place it where it's most comfortable for you. Unfortunately, it does take a bit of time to get used to typing on this keyboard, and the use of disposable batteries feels rather outdated. Nevertheless, if you tend to spend all day in front of a computer, this keyboard may be able to help prevent any future injuries. The Mouse and Keyboard Center software is only available on Windows.