Ergonomic Test of the Kinesis Keyboard

Abstract

A comparative study was conducted to determine the differences in user muscle load, posture, performance and preferences of users for a new technology keyboard (the Kinesis) compared to a standard (traditional) keyboard. The study consisted of requiring 25 test subjects to key text and random letters for two hours on each keyboard. Results demonstrated that hand postures (deviation and extension) and muscle load were better on the Kinesis keyboard. Text entry throughput was greater on the traditional keyboard, although there was no significant difference in errors between the two keyboards. Subjects preferred the Kinesis keyboard for comfort and usability.