For those of us who prioritize comfort and well-being at our workstations, the news of Microsoft discontinuing their Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard created some chaos! This uniquely designed keyboard, had a loyal following. It allowed for natural wrist and forearm alignment, detached 10-key for reducing reach and more. But fear not, fellow ergonomics enthusiasts – they’re back!
In an exciting development, Incase, has stepped in to keep this ergonomic keyboard alive. The Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is once again available for purchase, offering the same fantastic features that made it so popular in the first place.
Why the Hype?
The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard wasn’t just another keyboard; it was thoughtfully designed with your body in mind. Its key ergonomic features include:
- Split Key Design
- This designed encouraged a more natural, relaxed hand and forearm posture, reducing ulnar deviation – the bending of your wrist outwards that can contribute to discomfort and pain.
- Domed Shape
- The gentle arch in the center of the keyboard promotes a neutral forearm/wrist position, minimizing pronation (the inward turning of the forearm or palm towards the floor).
- Separate Number Pad
- By detaching the number pad, you can position your mouse closer to your body, reducing unnecessary reach.
- Cushioned Palm Rest
- The built in wrist/palm rest provides support and helps to keep your wrists in a neutral position while typing.
These design elements work together to create a more comfortable and less fatiguing typing experience, especially during long work sessions. For those who perform significant work with the keyboard, like many of us in the ergonomics field, this kind of design can make a real difference in overall comfort and productivity. Its consistent popularity spoke volumes about its effectiveness.
Tried and True – Now Readily Available Again!
While there are various ergonomic keyboard alternatives on the market, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard has always held a special place for many due to its layout and design. The news of Incase taking over production means that you can once again easily acquire this reliable and well-regarded ergonomic tool. Rest assured, it is exactly the same keyboard, aside from the InCase logo replacing the Microsoft logo and will provide the comfort and ergonomic benefits you’ve come to expect.
Want to Try Before You Buy? Check Out the CSU Ergo Lab!
The CSU Ergo Lab features a variety of ergonomic equipment, and you will find the Microsoft/InCase Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard available to try out. This provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the keyboard firsthand and see if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Even better, the CSU Ergo Lab sometimes offers loan periods for certain equipment, allowing you to try it in your own work environment to truly assess its impact. Contact the CSU Ergo Lab for information on their current inventory and loan policies.
Considering a Comprehensive Ergonomic Setup?
Trying out different equipment like the Sculpt keyboard is a great first step. However, for a truly optimized and comfortable workspace, consider an ergonomic evaluation. As someone working in ergonomics, I understand the value of a personalized assessment to identify potential risk factors and recommend tailored solutions. An ergo evaluation can look at everything from your chair and desk height to your monitor placement and mousing habits, ensuring all elements work together to support your well-being and prevent discomfort.
The Return of a Favorite
The resurgence of the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard under Incase is welcome news for anyone seeking a comfortable and thoughtfully designed typing experience. Its proven ergonomic features make it a strong contender for your next keyboard. Don’t hesitate to explore this option and remember the resources available at the CSU Ergo Lab for a hands-on trial! Welcome back, Sculpt – you were missed!
