15 May Is a Mini Keyboard Right For You?

If you are looking for ways to be more comfortable when you type, you may want to look into getting yourself set up with with a mini keyboard.  In short, (ha ha, get it?) mini keyboards are fully functional keyboards that have full size keys, but are smaller in width than traditional keyboards.  They typically have all of the letters, numbers and function keys that a traditional keyboard has, but does not have a 10 key numeric pad as part of the keyboard.

Full Size Keyboard with Numeric 10 Key Pad

Mini Keyboard w/out Numeric 10 Key Pad

They can be  a wonderful alternative to the standard keyboard because it allows you to position the mouse closer to your body which can spare you shoulder, neck and hand discomfort.

Pros and Cons of a Mini Keyboard

Mini Keyboard Pros

• Mini keyboards allow you to place your mouse closer to your body which eliminates the need for reaching.
• Easy to transport
• Great external keyboard for laptops

Mini Keyboard Cons

• Initially the layout may be unfamiliar
• May be too small for you if you have a wide shoulders
• Numeric 10-Key Pad has to be purchased separately if you want to continue to use one

Which Mini Keyboard is Right For Me?

Within the world of mini keyboards, there are several styles.

Standard Mini Keyboards have full size keys but don’t have an external numeric 10 key.  Some keyboards have a “Hidden” 10 key pad which is activated by function keys.  So, there is a way to have your cake and eat it too, if you want to avoid a separate 10 key component.

Mini Split Keyboards provide the double benefit of a split keyboard without the 10 key numeric pad which allows you to place the mouse within close reach and avoid twisting at your wrists.

Mini Keyboard with Track Pad Built In (modeled after laptop keyboards and track pads) feel and look very similar to laptop keyboards.  There are also models that have the trackpad to the right of the keys vs. in front of the keys.  Either way, the added bonus is that the mouse is built in, so less to carry around with you!

Keyboard with Numeric 10 Key on the Left Side is an alternate to standard keyboards which, while not “mini”, is worth mentioning since allows for your mouse to be placed within easy reach and have a 10 key numeric pad on the left side of the keys.

Which every one you decide on, make sure to do two things.  Give it at least 2 weeks to get used to before deciding if this is the right keyboard for you.  And make sure to keep the original packing in case you need to exchange the mini keyboard for a different style.

Until the next time!

Vivienne