The best keyboard I’m not switching to - Kinesis Advantage360

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  • čas přidán 23. 05. 2024
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    James is an ergonomic man. He has an ergonomic chair, an ergonomic desk, an ergonomic house, and now he's on the search for the perfect ergonomic keyboard. After using the Truly Economic Cleave keyboard for a few months now, he's realized that he wants to switch things up with a split keyboard that allows for the ideal Ulnar Deviation position (does that make sense?) Will the Kinesis Advantage360 be the perfect deskmate, or is James still searching for his true ergonomic love?
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    CHAPTERS
    ---------------------------------------------------
    0:00 James and ergo keyboards have a history
    0:29 Unboxing
    1:21 Design impressions and ergonomics walkthrough
    5:17 Sponsor - UGREEN
    5:57 Buttons/Ports, connectivity, key switch options
    7:45 Keyboard layout
    10:33 Rebinding hotkeys and backlighting
    12:15 Pricing and overall thoughts
    13:46 Outro
  • Věda a technologie

Komentáře • 475

  • @HadeedSarfaraz
    @HadeedSarfaraz Před 2 měsíci +334

    With multi-layer keyboards I think RGB is so useful as a layer indicator, so you can quickly tell what layer your on, an easy check.

    • @homermorisson9135
      @homermorisson9135 Před 2 měsíci +20

      Yep, my thoughts exactly... it's so obvious that it's hard to understand why they didn't include it... especially with per-key-RGB, you could simply have those actually double-bound keys change colour depending on the mode.
      Would make it so much more usable, intuitive... ridiculous that a 450+ USD keyboard doesn't have such a basic UX feature.

    • @rinhayashi8949
      @rinhayashi8949 Před 2 měsíci +2

      The keys themselves don't even have translucent characters, so the backlight looks barely noticeable anyway. One would need to replace the keys with non-standard keys maybe even made just for that keyboard, or at LEAST they could have a single RGB LED indicator light somewhere that tells you what layer you're on...I type in a dark room often though, so see-through keys are a must for me, and RGB keys are very helpful. I've been looking at the Moonlander MKI keyboard, but its surfaces are flat, where the concave surfaces of the Kinesis Advantage360 would be ideal as they match the bend of your fingers as they curl and stretch...If it had see-through RGB keys.
      I'm even a power-user and would be fine either learning the layout or use their git repo to reprogram it. Stuck looking for that ideal keyboard forever lol

    • @taronzgaming7739
      @taronzgaming7739 Před 2 měsíci +4

      Yeah I have a Moonlander Mk1, and the RGB was really helpful early especially to colour code regions/buttons for what they did, also it helps if anyone else uses my keyboard, they ask which is spacebar, I can just say green on left thumb, and backspace is red on left thumb. Otherwise you're left trying to explain what is what.
      As for layers, yeah I have my numpad on layer 2 highlighted to make it as similar in area and layout to old numpad layouts for quick/easy access while working.

    • @WARnTEA
      @WARnTEA Před 2 měsíci +1

      I bought one of Wooting’s non-rgb OSU keypads for the game and for undo/copy/paste macros, and I didn’t anticipate how useful it is to have RGB to indicate what layer it is on.

    • @Violant3
      @Violant3 Před 2 měsíci

      I was thinking the same thing, why didn't they think about this?

  • @noob4head
    @noob4head Před 2 měsíci +266

    I love these types of keyboards, and I'd love to try one myself, but that price is an absolute killer.

    • @Twentizz
      @Twentizz Před 2 měsíci +1

      Bro think this is a niche market only few of us are going to buy. I don't think the company can sustain

    • @Sting_ray
      @Sting_ray Před 2 měsíci +27

      @@Twentizzcounter argument: if they were cheaper, maybe more people would buy them and so total profits could theoretically be higher.

    • @Twentizz
      @Twentizz Před 2 měsíci

      @@Sting_ray this is a valid point ngl but when majority use normal gamer keyboard, rgb and tactical clicks who would buy this. Btw i love the ergo keyboards but dont find useful on a long run.

    • @bumptronic
      @bumptronic Před 2 měsíci +4

      @@TwentizzTheir Advantage series keyboards have been around since the early ‘00s.

    • @noob4head
      @noob4head Před 2 měsíci +3

      @Sting_ray, Totally agree with you on this. If they were priced around €100-150, I'd definitely be inclined to give one a try. As a programmer, typing is essentially my entire day, so ergo keyboards are intriguing. While there are other ergonomic keyboards available at lower prices, they often come with significant drawbacks.

  • @sovereigncalifornia
    @sovereigncalifornia Před 2 měsíci +142

    I like that he does these type of videos because he actually has a lot of user experience with ergo keyboards. His videos helped me with the decision to buy a ZSA moonlander which I absolutely love. Thanks James

    • @lburger404
      @lburger404 Před 2 měsíci +5

      I love my Moonlander, I've been using it for about two years now and I think it's worth every penny. I was apprehensive about making the jump to ergo but I don't think I'll ever go back to non-split.

    • @yensteel
      @yensteel Před 2 měsíci +1

      Compared to the Ergodox, how does it fare in terms of comfort and usability?

    • @sohailmd123
      @sohailmd123 Před 2 měsíci +1

      moonlander is arguably the best one out there is until they come up with something more insane.

    • @sohailmd123
      @sohailmd123 Před 2 měsíci +1

      ​@@yensteelmoonlanders thumb cluster is adjustable....i tend to change the thumbclusters orientation 2 times per day. so imo thumb cluster is game changer compared to ergodox...btw if you can 3d print the tilt set for moonlander..you can basically turn it into a ergodox

  • @darylferreras6241
    @darylferreras6241 Před 2 měsíci +47

    As a software engineer dealing with RSI issues, all the pain I was experiencing pretty much went away after the first day of using the KA360. Totally worth every penny imo.

    • @educate9946
      @educate9946 Před 2 měsíci +2

      RSI as a software engineer (or other PC based job) is super scary. I was hit myself and it's really only thanks to ergonomic keyboards that I can keep going.
      Personally I am fine with plastic Microsoft ergo keyboards though. Super low gamer cred but it's worth it -- and not $400.

  • @jjacobs321
    @jjacobs321 Před 2 měsíci +38

    I hope James reviews the Glove80!

  • @BraxtonMeyer
    @BraxtonMeyer Před 2 měsíci +33

    hey james, i'd recommend the glove80. it's got a janky tenting system like you like and you can order it to build with any low profile switches. also is very carefully sculpted for keywells like the kinesis.

  • @zacharyschneider
    @zacharyschneider Před 2 měsíci +27

    I love the way you guys shared the update since you filmed the video! Great way to make corrections!

    • @jasondicioccio880
      @jasondicioccio880 Před 2 měsíci

      Though they've actually had that option for custom switches for a long time. Maybe they made it more visible? I ordered mine with box whites on 2022-10-24 and received it on 2023-01-09

  • @PieceAppartment
    @PieceAppartment Před 2 měsíci +103

    That ESC key is for VIM users for sureeee!!! 😂😂

    • @user-hk3ej4hk7m
      @user-hk3ej4hk7m Před 2 měsíci +6

      That's what I was thinking, I hate using ctrl+c to exit to visual mode, but reaching for esc just kills my flow.

    • @gfasterOS
      @gfasterOS Před 2 měsíci +8

      I've had caps lock rebound to escape for years for this exact reason

    • @armLocalhost
      @armLocalhost Před 2 měsíci +3

      It is! But the arrow cluster is not :) I bet they have a navigation layer with jkl; arrows

    • @jacobschweiger5897
      @jacobschweiger5897 Před 2 měsíci +3

      binding capslock to escape is very convenient.

    • @petersansgaming8783
      @petersansgaming8783 Před 2 měsíci +4

      Probably why prime is using it lol

  • @jasondicioccio880
    @jasondicioccio880 Před 2 měsíci +9

    I have the 360 "signature" (which just means I got to choose my switches), and before that, I had the Kinesis Contoured (from ~2000). I do remember it took me a few days to adjust when I first started using them. However, at least for me, when I switch to a laptop or other non-ergo kb, my muscle memory switches too. Arrow keys, modifiers, backspace, etc are all not an issue. I even game with it, believe it or not. I was pretty amazed when they came out with the 360 because their old kbs used to be so .. old, and non-premium feeling. The 360 was a *significant* step up for them. It feels very thoughtfully designed and very premium. The whole having to compile and flash your own firmware to remap keys is more than a bit much though, I agree.
    To add an anecdote: back around 2011 when my contoured keyboard was 11 years old, it started having issues. I think some keys started sporadically not working. I emailed them and they sent out, free of charge on an 11-year old keyboard, a replacement logic board which fixed the issue. Their support has always been great.

  • @brycesmith68
    @brycesmith68 Před měsícem

    You’re the best James this is such an informative, detailed perfectly paced video. I appreciate y’all so much and I love your voice.

  • @thegochie
    @thegochie Před 2 měsíci +9

    James is so much better at Short Circuits than some others... He actually does some research and testing before filming.

  • @WARnTEA
    @WARnTEA Před 2 měsíci +4

    What James said about moving backspace off his pinky is why I think every 60% keyboard should move the enter and backspace keys in 1 or 2 columns to make them closer to the home row, and just put the keys lost in a different layer.
    Either that or you can simply add a split spacebar to a 60% and make the left spacebar for backspace and right spacebar for space. It is remarkably easy to get used to this setup.
    On my 40% keyboard that moved the backspace in closer I made the split space into a shift and space which was actually amazing to type on. Shift and Space are both used at a consistent pace so it feels so good to get your thumbs moving in harmony with the rest of your fingers.

  • @TheMotole
    @TheMotole Před 2 měsíci +4

    I would say the glove80 has a less premium feel, but is way better than the advantage360.
    It fix a lot of the shortcoming said in the video and is cheaper!

  • @ItsZim0
    @ItsZim0 Před 2 měsíci +10

    I like how everytime there's a ergo keyboard video on shortcircuit, James had to explain what ergo keyboards do all over again. 😂

  • @Zhinarkos
    @Zhinarkos Před 2 měsíci +270

    James spotted.

    • @ProjectileGrommet
      @ProjectileGrommet Před 2 měsíci +23

      No that’s a keyboard.
      Common mistake

    • @conm9891
      @conm9891 Před 2 měsíci +14

      Senior egonomics engineer at LTT.

    • @carltonnnn
      @carltonnnn Před 2 měsíci +5

      James wellness check ✅

  • @unrealed
    @unrealed Před 2 měsíci +29

    Btw, LOVE to see a review of an ergo keyboard. Always super happy to see them. Can't ever have too many opinions of them

    • @yensteel
      @yensteel Před 2 měsíci

      Agreed, the Logitech Wave keyboard was interesting because it's pretty cost effective and has sculpted keys. The Atreus 62 has always been my personal fave, and a lot of people like the Iris keyboard as well.
      They've covered the most famous ones already, such as the Kinesis advantage, Ergodox EZ, Planck, the moonlander, and the Truly ergonomic Cleave. Do you have any suggestions that they didn't cover?

  • @sandorbence2067
    @sandorbence2067 Před 2 měsíci +3

    I'm happy that a 60% ortho board solved all my ergonomic issues. Tried these spilt ones but couldn't get used to them.

  • @unvergebeneid
    @unvergebeneid Před 2 měsíci +8

    Would love you to review the Glove80. It's also not everything I want but since that isn't out there, I think a comparison would be illuminating.

  • @wraith1977
    @wraith1977 Před 2 měsíci +32

    They've been around a long time. I used them back in 2003 as my daily at work. It took some getting used to, but once you do they're really great. (It sounds like James wants the Kinesis Advantage II)

    • @locutusuk68
      @locutusuk68 Před 2 měsíci +2

      I can go back much further than that, I used an NEC one in the 1980's lol and if you want to go back further, in the 1930's they made ergonomic typewriters 🤣

    • @waffle911
      @waffle911 Před 2 měsíci +2

      They used one in the first Men In Black movie.

    • @wraith1977
      @wraith1977 Před 2 měsíci +3

      @@locutusuk68 I'm talking about specifically the Kinesis keyboards.

    • @derickd6150
      @derickd6150 Před 2 měsíci

      The first ergo keyboard he ever tried was the Kinesis Advantage 2. He liked I think, but he didn't like that it was too close together for his shoulders. I also have that keyboard and have the same issue. This keyboard we just watched looks like it will fix all my issues

    • @yensteel
      @yensteel Před 2 měsíci

      My first ergonomic keyboard was the Kinesis Freestyle. It was much more comfortable than the razer black widow I had before that. It was fine for gaming and much more comfortable. The advantage was way too pricy at the time but it's always been something I wanted to buy. I settled on the ergodox EZ, and it's said to be not as comfortable, but it's hotswappable.

  • @gardenofava
    @gardenofava Před 2 měsíci +2

    I'm using a glove80. It solves most of the problems you mentioned. An F key row, easy GUI remapping software, and rgb

  • @Bliss467
    @Bliss467 Před 2 měsíci

    Layer switching is great on my 32 key keyboard. I use home row modifiers and my backspace and space keys on my thumbs also layer switch to stuff like arrows or numpad. I love it.

  • @Alexandra-Rex
    @Alexandra-Rex Před 2 měsíci +12

    I think I'd go for the Dygma Defy instead. Even more looking at the price.

  • @GhaithHachem
    @GhaithHachem Před 2 měsíci +4

    I think James needs to check out the glove 80. Has Function keys and is very similar

  • @SkyKosiner
    @SkyKosiner Před 2 měsíci +2

    I just got an adavntge 360 after three years of the adavntage 2. If you type a lot it's the best keyboard money can buy imo.

  • @LTAlter8
    @LTAlter8 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Definitely need to try the Glove80, I absolutely love mine.

  • @unrealed
    @unrealed Před 2 měsíci +29

    It seems super cool! But yeah that's an expensive pricetag.....
    And no GUI for pro is a bit dumb but also understandable. Let me explain. It uses ZMK so it's an open-source firmware that (afaik) has no GUI. The Ergodox keyboard use QMX which ALSO don't have a GUI but they developped their own GUI for it. I'm guessing they weren't willing to develop a GUI for the crazy possibilities of ZMK, which I can understand.
    The real problem is the "professional" moniker for the ZMK model AND that it's the only one that is wireless. Having a model that's "for big keyboard geeks" with ZMK makes sense, and would have market. But they named it wrong and they tied mass market features to it that they shouldn't have.

    • @derkaiser9881
      @derkaiser9881 Před 2 měsíci

      Nitpicky, but QMK not QMX. Normally I don't want to be annoying about things like this but it's important to get that right as Googling QMX won't give you QMK results.

    • @WenirR
      @WenirR Před 2 měsíci

      There is gui for zmk but it connects to the github account

    • @ivanheffner2587
      @ivanheffner2587 Před 2 měsíci +1

      There are OpenSource GUI configurators available for the 360 Pro. They even allow you to add features like home row mods and tap dance.

  • @j_orpz
    @j_orpz Před 2 měsíci

    I actually have this keyboard, as well as both prior versions. I’ve been using them for years and I find they help tremendously with my wrist pain. I don’t use them for gaming (I have a standard keyboard for that), but these are fantastic for work, general typing and (with some learning curve) excel work.

  • @Ryan.Matlock
    @Ryan.Matlock Před 2 měsíci +1

    I love my Kinesis Advantage2 enough that I have two. After remapping some keys, they've been great. I may have to treat myself to the 360.

  • @eligrey
    @eligrey Před 2 měsíci

    That was a very helpful review!

  • @RandomFace
    @RandomFace Před 2 měsíci +9

    You should look into the MoErgo Glove 80

  • @Octamed
    @Octamed Před 2 měsíci

    I rely on keyboards with a trackpoint in the middle, like IBM and Lenovo keyboards. They solved my RSI and allow me to sit back in my chair and move about without ever having to reach for a mouse. Give it 2 days and you'll get used to moving the mouse with it, it's very precise and feels great never needing to move you fingers from the home row.

  • @discord37
    @discord37 Před 2 měsíci

    This keyboard peaked my interest but I'm glad for your review. I need all the keys generally where they are, it's hard to change after 30 years of typing and gaming (and the pain that those caused). I am still using the MS ergo keyboard. I am going to check out the cleave and see if that will work for me.

  • @GentleBones1
    @GentleBones1 Před 2 měsíci

    I completely agree with your complaints and wish it had a thumbstick and mouse buttons built in so I wouldn't have to worry about moving my hands off the keyboard.

  • @minues
    @minues Před 2 měsíci +3

    I would recommend trying the Dygma Defy! It's ortholinear and multi connectivity (BT, RF and wired) but not so bulky.

  • @Ash-qp2yw
    @Ash-qp2yw Před 2 měsíci

    James is the reason I switched to using a 45degree mouse and yesterday I finally got the Moonlander Ive had my eye on for a few yearx now

  • @hautdoge141
    @hautdoge141 Před 2 měsíci +2

    Thank you! Please continue with these ergo keyboards. Your review of the Keymouse inspired me to spring for a Keymouse Track which basically saved my career. I was having a lot of ulnar nerve pain and it was the only thing that worked. Sadly, the company is dead so I can’t buy another.

    • @getoffamylan6844
      @getoffamylan6844 Před měsícem +1

      I was anxiously awaiting one of their keyboards as well.

  • @idkwhatnameilikewhy2236
    @idkwhatnameilikewhy2236 Před 2 měsíci +4

    Glove 80 review/unboxing any time soon?

  • @_inetuser
    @_inetuser Před 2 měsíci

    im into the topic as well, happy w moonlander mk2. really good vid he knows what hes talking about, always considered the kinesis one but stuff like bluetooth, non switchable keys and non ez programmability is a no go for me. thx again!

  • @FaustBusserl
    @FaustBusserl Před 2 měsíci

    Cleave user here, loved the old model, love the Cleave, using red switches. Would like to have a Kinesis too but in any case, the central thumb keys are great (and that the TE keyboards shift CTRL and SHIFT up by one row).

  • @tsbulmer
    @tsbulmer Před 2 měsíci

    Using an ergo keyboard for gaming has been a total, well, game-changer for me. Though, by "ergo" I mean a cheap Redragon half-keyboard, which, while nothing like an ErgoDox, is a huge improvement for me - I have six buttons for my thumb and I'm able to keep my hands close together and at a comfortable angle. Sure, I've modded it a bit and want to do some more, but it was $30 *very* well spent.

  • @ivanheffner2587
    @ivanheffner2587 Před 2 měsíci

    I’ve been using this keyboard since it shipped to early buyers. I upgraded to it from the Advatage Pro (not the Advantage 2; it’s slightly older brother, the Advantage Pro). I’ve been pretty happy with it for the most part. There are some transient wireless connectivity issues with it. I’ve read others’ accounts that lead me to believe that pairing with multiple devices can exacerbate the wireless issues. The QMK firmware is pretty good if you don’t mind spending the time to tweak the layouts and get things “just right.” I do wish I had the option of different switches at the time (or even better: hot swap; but that’s a pipe dream) but when I bought, it was Browns only.

  • @JosephHarry
    @JosephHarry Před 2 měsíci +15

    Kinesis Gaming user for years. Enjoying my F keys

    • @Gatorade69
      @Gatorade69 Před 2 měsíci

      Yeah seems like it might be good for gaming, though probably takes some getting used to. What model are you using ?

    • @JosephHarry
      @JosephHarry Před 2 měsíci

      @@Gatorade69 freestyle edge. The non RGB one. Really wish they supported qmk, but the text files are time for backing up the configuration.

    • @jasondicioccio880
      @jasondicioccio880 Před 2 měsíci

      ​@JosephHarry that's a great keyboard. I really liked it. Love the text file thing, I wish they added that as an option on the 360 pro

  • @human0id
    @human0id Před 2 měsíci +4

    You should review the MoErgo Glove80!

  • @SwiftManeuvers
    @SwiftManeuvers Před 2 měsíci +1

    Review the Dygma Defy!! You'll love it!!

  • @dominicaccardo8050
    @dominicaccardo8050 Před 2 měsíci

    fuck yeah! i’ve been waiting for james’ ergo keyboard reviews to return

  • @douglashughes2331
    @douglashughes2331 Před měsícem

    If you get the wired version of the advantage 360 you get the cheap and easy version. I specifically did not go wireless pro for this very reason. I have an advantage 2 and the advantage 360. I use the 2 at home and the 360 at work all day every day. I LOVE them both. so worth the money.

  • @modernkennnern
    @modernkennnern Před 2 měsíci +7

    Glove80 ftw

    • @HtotheG
      @HtotheG Před 2 měsíci +2

      As a recent Glove 80 purchaser, 100% agree 🙌

  • @TheBabababa
    @TheBabababa Před 2 měsíci +5

    The escape key being there is for Vim users, I mapped my caps lock to escape on my Kinesis II for that reason and nobody uses caps anyways.

    • @derkaiser9881
      @derkaiser9881 Před 2 měsíci

      Caps is genuinely useless in my opinion. I use mostly 40% and smaller keyboards, but even on the few TKL and 65% boards I have, capslock is changed out for tab. So much more convenient.

    • @ivanheffner2587
      @ivanheffner2587 Před 2 měsíci

      I put Esc on the thumb next to Delete. I have too many years of CapsLock being mapped to Ctrl (ANSI standard position).

  • @JamesTM
    @JamesTM Před 2 měsíci

    These look pretty cool, but honestly I *adore* my Moonlander. I've got the stands for it, so I don't have their weird tenting system. I'll never go back to another keyboard for productivity.
    The price tag was *steep* but, in retrospect, worth it.

  • @omaratieh3533
    @omaratieh3533 Před 2 měsíci +8

    Can you guys review a full spec dygma defy keyboard?
    I think sacrifices some aspects from this keyboard in favour of having more productivity/power user features (such as hot swappable keys, more keys, etc). It also has a low latency dongle and RGB for gamers.
    i personally think it's the best ergo keyboard so far.

    • @eeinowski2462
      @eeinowski2462 Před 2 měsíci +1

      I just got my Dygma Defy. It really checked all the boxes. Highly recommend.

    • @Excalibaard
      @Excalibaard Před 2 měsíci +1

      Also on the Defy hypetrain, it arrived during the winter holidays, got used to it in like 2 weeks and been daily driving it ever since.
      The tenting system is really nice, the wireless dongle works well (though plugging it around multiple devices is annoying, and it doesn't work well with KVMs), and the underglow is really bright. It's perfect to display the layer you're on by just changing a few zones on the inside, if you prefer a clean aesthetic.

    • @omaratieh3533
      @omaratieh3533 Před 2 měsíci

      @@Excalibaard The tenting system on it is great, and for the price, you are certainly getting great build quality, not a cheap feeling plastic keyboard.

  • @gagiotter4114
    @gagiotter4114 Před 2 měsíci +1

    one thing though, The kinesis advantage has a better "key well", i'm daily driving the 360 but every time i switch to my old one, it just feels better. This one has a few benefits (wireless and extra mod keys) and split layout. but if I could just directly split advantage pro, i'd probably stay with that one.

  • @nickgoogle4525
    @nickgoogle4525 Před 35 minutami +1

    Get a UHK, when you want to be more compatible with your laptop, but still get many benefits. But you need to use layers.

  • @88guernica
    @88guernica Před 2 měsíci +7

    I've got the MoErgo Glove80 which is a similar split design. I like it a lot but my one complaint is the "tenting" system for it is very finicky

    • @human0id
      @human0id Před 2 měsíci +2

      I've got one too! I would recommend using the nuts to secure the legs as suggested in the guide. I didn't at first but now that I have, it stays rock solid at the angle that I want.

  • @mtk3668
    @mtk3668 Před 2 měsíci

    hyped for the dygma raise 2. been happily using the raise v1 for 3 years

  • @SanyaIVLitvyak
    @SanyaIVLitvyak Před 2 měsíci

    Would love to see a video on the Cyboard Imprint!

  • @damonguzman
    @damonguzman Před 2 měsíci

    After searching for about 3 weeks. I ended up going with the Cyboard Imprint. Crazzyyyy ergo keyboard that's custom built for every customers hands. Cost ~$800 USD with all the upgrades and features I wanted (integrated trackball, aluminum backplate, etc) 😅

  • @EbonySeraphim
    @EbonySeraphim Před 2 měsíci

    The Glove80 is the keyboard this guy wants, and most people who are truly looking at split-ergo designs should go for. It has all features one would hope for in such a design, RGB, curved keywell, tenting, and a very optimal thumb cluster design + number of keys. It isn't the best in a few areas, but it is more than capable in just about all of them. Usually it's critqued for the tenting solution not being super convenient, but it's very much not an issue if you set it and forget it. Some users also prefer very minimal numbers of keys where the Glove80 clearly offers a full suite.
    Kinesis' thumb cluster is actually one of it's downfalls, which is a critical part of how one uses these kinds of keyboards.

  • @joshhardin666
    @joshhardin666 Před 2 měsíci +1

    I'm not a fan of weird keyboard layouts, but kinesis does make a really nice split keyboard called the freestyle edge which adheres to the normal layout standards while providing excellent ergonomics.

    • @derkaiser9881
      @derkaiser9881 Před 2 měsíci +1

      Something like the Keychron Q10 is more friendly to people who aren't super into weird boards. It gives you the advantage of a split board, but with less of a learning curve because it's a unibody split 75% board. You get everything but a numpad in a relatively compact package if that's something you care for. Personally I'm all-in on weird keyboard layouts and use a QAZ keyboard on the daily, but I get most people aren't into that kind of thing.

  • @SangoProductions213
    @SangoProductions213 Před 2 měsíci

    I use an Ergo Dox Pro. I bought it like 6-7 years ago. It went through a tornado (with me). I managed to lose the main cable that runs from the right keyboard to the computer... and they just sent one to me for free. It still works like the day I bought it.
    Once a year or so, I do have to take off the keycaps, and clean out the hair and nonsense that gets stuck under them. But... that's literally the only complaint. It's great, durable, and the company is pretty cool.

  • @xXDragonWarrior3872Xx
    @xXDragonWarrior3872Xx Před 2 měsíci

    Good review, always interested to see ergo stuff. If this keyboard did everything James wanted, I would drop $500 on it, well $525 with the wrist pads.

  • @pvalpha
    @pvalpha Před 2 měsíci +3

    I'm sure there's some other recommendations but Glove 80. I've been looking at that one but haven't made up my mind yet.

  • @berrski
    @berrski Před 2 měsíci

    Here's an extra tip for ergonomics if you're using a split keyboard: put a trackpad in the middle. It's very reachable by BOTH hands and feels really good. I also use a mouse. =)

  • @shelbybaylis
    @shelbybaylis Před 2 měsíci +1

    I have the advantage 360 (usb not Bluetooth) and it is hands down the best keyboard I’ve ever used. After your brain gets used to the moving of certain keys like arrow keys, it is smooth sailing. If ergonomics is a concern for you, this is the solution.

    • @Patrickdaawsome
      @Patrickdaawsome Před 2 měsíci

      Which switches do you have and are you happy with that choice?

  • @ZoeBios121
    @ZoeBios121 Před 2 měsíci

    Kinesis Freestyle2 is your keyboard then: standard layout, still has the tenting and separation features, cheaper too. Be sure to get the VIP kit for the wrist rest and the pronation lifters

  • @cindella204
    @cindella204 Před 2 měsíci

    Super late to this one, but James on the ergo-keyboard beat is my favorite content niche across LMG. This is cool looking, and I'm interested in the idea of the contoured key wells, which I've never tried before, but I am attached to ZSA's GUI as I have a unique layout for the alpha keys to *truly* accommodate my own nerve issues. It's Colemak-DH with a few changes, and I'm constantly playing around with it.

  • @bluefaolan
    @bluefaolan Před 2 měsíci

    ZMK now has support for some keyboards to use a new GUI to build your keymap, which makes it nicer to use on bluetooth keyboards.

  • @cebrailaktas6427
    @cebrailaktas6427 Před 2 měsíci +1

    I genuinely don't understand why ZSA's Moonlander doesn't get more recognition for the excellent product it is
    The more I look at the Kinesis products, the more I see disadvantages when compared to the Moonlander :/

  • @frykauf
    @frykauf Před 2 měsíci +1

    More brands should make a numpad with seperate arrow key cluster for all these ergo keyboards (there are some already)

  • @plyr2
    @plyr2 Před 2 měsíci

    As a dev trying to prevent rsi, I am with you on the lack of key issue. I don't mind sacrifices in exchange for easy macro keys and function row.

  • @JoshuaB86
    @JoshuaB86 Před 2 měsíci

    Sounds odd, but this keyboard was a lifesaver for me. I'm a software developer and as my workload ramped up I started dealing with lots of pain. I took the gamble and spent the big bucks on this keyboard almost 2 years ago. Pain free since. Definitely worth it if you're in a similar boat.

  • @iambored901
    @iambored901 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Would like to see you review the model 100 from keyboardio next for an ergo keyboard

  • @KevinRiggle
    @KevinRiggle Před 2 měsíci

    If you want a *really nice* ergo keyboard with hot-swappable switches you have really got to check out the Keyboardio Model 100, I cannot recommend it highly enough. Split, with a thumb arc, function keys on the palms, a range of tenting systems, as well as 1/4-20 mounts if it comes to that. It comes in two different kinds of real wood enclosure (maple and walnut), although they're working on a lower-priced plastic version, you have your choice of like six different switches (including linears, which make it my gaming keyboard) or you can hot-swap your own, and of course full programmability and full RGB.
    (Oh and it costs $100 less than these Kinesis keyboards. Did I mention that the enclosure is *real wood*??)

  • @janezverbic2093
    @janezverbic2093 Před 2 měsíci

    I actually like or understand the arrow keys position. When i play racing games on a keyboard i use my left hand for left and right and the right one for up and down or gas and break. It would be great to have the arms more apart, but for the money id just buy a whole racing setup.:)

  • @angelofmercy6139
    @angelofmercy6139 Před 2 měsíci +1

    It’s very interesting, definitely unique

  • @FryGuy1013
    @FryGuy1013 Před 2 měsíci +3

    You should try out the glove80. I just got one and it's like a more modern version of this keyboard

  • @rugged04270
    @rugged04270 Před měsícem

    My coworker just this week ordered a replacement for her Kinesis 100 from 1992!

  • @robinator18ps3
    @robinator18ps3 Před 2 měsíci

    Been using this for a few month at work as a software developer. I don't really need to remap anything, I solve that by just using Linux.
    That being said, the escape key placement is amazing, used to remap caps to escape. Its probably my most used key by far. It has like a week long learning curve though but well worth it.
    When it comes to the function keys, you get used to just holding an fn button to access them within minutes, just like you probably already do on your laptop.
    I use Vim (btw) so hjkl are my "arrows" already.
    Overall for a developer i'd say they hit the mark spot on with most things with this keyboard. I'd most likely not use it for gaming, but for navigating your computer and writing code it's Amazing!

    • @ivanheffner2587
      @ivanheffner2587 Před 2 měsíci

      Let me ask, as a fellow vimmer: what if you moved Esc away from your little finger completely and put it on a thumb key. I made that mod to my key map on my Advantage Pro (predecessor to the Advantage 2) prior to the 360 Pro ever shipping. I think it’s pretty awesome. I’ve had CapsLock mapped to Ctrl for more than a decade, though, so didn’t want to have that as my Esc key.

  • @wety789
    @wety789 Před 2 měsíci

    I know y'all have reviewed the Dygma Raise, but I'd love to see what you think about their Defy model!

  • @rgracon
    @rgracon Před 2 měsíci +1

    Dygma Raise fan and user here -- but don't get me started on the tenting kit.

  • @mikul2646
    @mikul2646 Před 2 měsíci

    You guys should review The Dygma Defy. It's probably one of the best split/ergonomic/thumb-cluster keyboards out there right now

  • @Mcdude22
    @Mcdude22 Před 2 měsíci

    I think I still believe that 36 keys is the holy grail of split ergo keyboards, absolutely zero stretching for any keys, just a larger learning curve as you need more layers to make it work.
    That said, there’s no decent 36 key options on the market, only open source projects you’re building from scratch, so if you don’t want to build it yourself, this seems like the best one out there IMO, it’s what I’d buy if I had to give up 36 key options

  • @PetrSzturc
    @PetrSzturc Před 2 měsíci

    You should try and review custom made keyboard - corne, lily58 and many many more. You can even attach touchpad to your keyboard. Whatever your fantasy if you can also design your pcb or solder. And usually cheaper than kinesis.

  • @LuckyStone888
    @LuckyStone888 Před 2 měsíci

    Great information

  • @TheGangster-uc4rk
    @TheGangster-uc4rk Před 2 měsíci +2

    Why would they include ABS keycaps instead of PBT for the professional version? I may be mistaken but I'm pretty positive PBT keycaps are better quality and respond better to wear from daily use as opposed to ABS.

  • @1bird_d
    @1bird_d Před 2 měsíci +1

    I use a custom dactyl manuform at work, very comfy when it's in the right spot. Way too high effort to build though

  • @MyrddinE
    @MyrddinE Před 2 měsíci

    I want a keyboard that's customizable (on firmware, not software) like the System76 Launch, but laid out ergonomically like this. That way I have all the keys in an ergonomic layout that *I* can then manage the layers and modes for to fit my needs. I'm totally willing to relearn my typing style (I switched to Dvorak in my late 30s) if there's an advantage to it.

  • @ShaqarudenGames
    @ShaqarudenGames Před 2 měsíci

    I’m not sure if this was out there when this video was posted but there is a community driven gui editor for the pro that Kenisi links to on their website

  • @darkwaveatheist
    @darkwaveatheist Před 2 měsíci +1

    Ctrl should be where CapsLock is on normal keyboards. Sun got it right back in the day. On topic, those bowl type keyboard layouts never really did it for me. I'd happily have a space bar reduced to two separate keys with others in the middle.

  • @snithfferx
    @snithfferx Před 2 měsíci

    I think in this case that such of thing have to be more, more cheaper and accesible. also, will be good if not just lit around the keys, but inside I mean, if you are going to use it in the darkness, is not has to be backlit in order to see the letters?

  • @RicardoJunqueira
    @RicardoJunqueira Před 2 měsíci

    This keyboard looks amazing. I only wish they kept the regular key layout in place.

  • @TheRockybulwinkle
    @TheRockybulwinkle Před 2 měsíci

    I use an advantage 2 cherry Mx low force, was considering upgrading. Didn’t realize they didn’t have F keys. That is a difficult exclusion for my workflows.

  • @versev0
    @versev0 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Been long time but James definitely got more manager looks, then his old ltt writer look

  • @MrYlijumala
    @MrYlijumala Před 2 měsíci

    You should test RK Royal Kludge Split70 as Ergokeyboard. Price in really smart but missing some key features. I would like your opinion is the price worth the sacrifice

  • @brunoccs
    @brunoccs Před 13 dny

    Can't wait for these to be available in Brazil.

  • @KoRNeRd
    @KoRNeRd Před 2 měsíci

    Escape in place of capslock is due to vi/vim/neovim users. It is a common rebind. In vi one uses esc constantly.

    • @ivanheffner2587
      @ivanheffner2587 Před 2 měsíci

      “Uses Esc constantly” is why I personally put it on a thumb key.

  • @brockdaniel8845
    @brockdaniel8845 Před 2 měsíci

    Best keyboard. Thank you ThePrimeagen !

  • @krisplanker9640
    @krisplanker9640 Před 2 měsíci +1

    arrow keys should be on a thumb cluster. They should make a gaming edition that has at least 104 keys, RGB, red switches and maybe an optical upgrade option?

  • @jonastokmaji8424
    @jonastokmaji8424 Před 2 měsíci

    There are some DIY ergo keyboards with the same or in some case more features.
    Since you have a few keyboard nerds maybe it's worth exploring this in a Video.

  • @martinlarsson6621
    @martinlarsson6621 Před 2 měsíci +6

    If youre looking for a ergo keyboard, I recommend looking into: Ferris, Glove80, Unicorne from Boardsource, Dactyl, Skeletyl, or an Iris which is a great entry to the space.

  • @DrethNET
    @DrethNET Před 2 měsíci +1

    I am the last person to care about fancy keyboards, I think today's PC enthusiast's obsession with how every damn key feels and looks is asinine but that being said this video did help me understand why I am having neck/shoulder pains and I'll be saving up for a split keyboard even if it's not the one from the video.