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Please Help - anyone who uses the Kinesis Freestyle Solo split keyboard....

Posted By: Kiki on 2009-01-01
In Reply to:

 am considering buying one.  However, I noticed you have to buy a keypad separately.  I use the numbers at the top so I don't need a keypad.  Or so I thought, until I realized I use the plus and minus key on the keypad when we are in the ADT screen to move the date back.
 

So, my question is:  Do I have to also buy that separate keypad or is there a plus/minus key (that you don't have to use SHIFT to use) on the keyboard?

 

Thanks!



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Kinesis Freestyle Solo....love it....sm
With the Freestyle V3. Got it about three weeks ago and already about half of my right forearm pain is gone.

Also have the RollerMouse Pro, which I got for my mouse overuse....and they are absolutely wonderful together. Should have spent the money and got them both at the same time!

http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/freestyle.htm
http://www.contourdesign.com/rollermouse/

bought a Kinesis Freestyle Solo about 3 weeks ago
The price was a little over $100 and took two weeks to do the brain retrain but it so sooo worth it. I will never go back to a Microsoft. I love that I can place each half where I feel the most comfortable, and I love the soft little clicky sounds it makes! If I was you I would find a way to pay for another Kinesis.

http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/freestyle.htm
Anyone use the Kinesis Freestyle keyboard?
That one that separates with a cord?  There are accessories such as an incline platform that look interesting.  I was hoping someone has this or has used one in the past....

 

What I really need to know is if they keys are considered low-impact.  I think that is what is killing my hands/wrists....pounding away on my microsoft keyboard. 

 

Any replies would be greatly appreciated.    Thanks in Advance!

 

 

 

Keyboards - Goldtouch, Kinesis Maxium, Kinesis Freestyle (sm)
Has anyone bought and used these keyboards within the last year?  I want a new keyboard and was looking at the above 3 mentioned.  I was favoring the Goldtouch but when I goggled Goldtouch reviews there seemed to be so many negative reviews - keys sticking, keyboard collapsing in tented position, etc.  Has anyone bought these keyboards within a year or so and could you tell me how you like them?  Would appreciate your input so very much.
Split keyboard mounted on chair arms versus split keyboard on desk

For longtime comfort which is best - split keyboard mounted on chair arms or split keyboard to be used on the desk?


Also, why the preference over split keyboards that come totally apart versus split keyboards that are permanently connected at the top?


I want to revamp my office and there are so many different options.


I have a Kinesis Freestyle.
I like that it can be separated as much as you personally desire. I also purchased the lifters and they have proven to be well worth their price. This board is on the pricey side but like the commercial says, "I'm worth it!"
Kinesis Freestyle
I am using the Kinesis Freestyle. I had been having problems with the muscles in my fingers aching and I had read that the Kinesis keyboards have a really light touch. I had previously used the Microsoft Natural and the Logitech Wave. Both were great keyboards and I had no complaints. However, after using the Kinesis for about an hour and then switching back to the Microsoft Natural, I noticed that my fingers immediately started cramping again. I've since stayed with the Kinesis and I haven't had any problems since. I did, however, by the separate 10-key, as I do prefer to have that option available, as well. Also this year, I tried the Kinesis Advantage and the DataHand, and found both to have entirely too much of a learning curve. Good luck in your search for the perfect fit!
Kinesis Freestyle with v3
I've got this one, and it has the keypad built into it. It's cut down on my arm and wriste pain tremendously, and I'd recommend it to anyone.


I just got my Kinesis Freestyle...

with Vip Accessory, and I love it.   I just got it a couple of weeks ago and it's taken a while to get used to it, but I would never go back to a regular keyboard.  I like being able to adjust the separation between the two keyboards, and I like not being all scrunched over while typing.   It's on the pricey side but I think well worth it, plus I can deduct it at tax time!


 


I think you have the Kinesis Advantage not the Freestyle...
I know the Advantage is remappable. I have the Freestyle Solo, the one with the two separate halves. I love it so much that I'm going to send it back and have Kinesis remap the delete key for me. There's no "program" key (unfortunately) on this keyboard. But I absolutely LOVE this keyboard. The keys are very low force and using it has totally gotten rid of my achy wrists.
Kinesis Keyboard and keyboard tray

Okay, any lefties use this keyboard? How long did it take to get used to? I use my left thumb for the space bar and I notice on a diagram of the keys that I would always be hitting the backspace key.


I'm really interested in getting a better keyboard. I destroyed my left hand and wrist the other week when I fell because I'm becoming a real klutz.


I bought the Soft Flex gloves, but they only help a little bit. My production is down because of it and it's driving me crazy. I can only type an hour without stopping and then have to rest the hand for some time.


I did buy a Microsoft 2000 keyboard but have yet to recieve it. Is this a good one?


Do you use a keyboard tray with it or just set it on the desk? Do you think a kayboard tray would be the least expensive item right now that would help with a straight keyboard?


Any info you can provide to help me in making any decision would be greatfully appreciated.


'Scuse me for being old school, but I've only ever used a straight keyboard.


 


KINESIS KEYBOARD
Can those of you who use this keyboard please let me know how you like them?  How long of an adjustment period is there?  Are they worth the price????
Kinesis Keyboard

I have been using the Professional Kinesis for maybe eight or nine years and it is the best.  I would not even consider going back no matter what the cost.  When I look at my son's regular keyboard, I think how did I ever work on a keyboard like this.  I tried all the other keyboards Microsoft Natural, etc. but the Kinesis is worth every penny.  My hands and wrists used to kill me and since getting this keyboard I have had almost no problems. Of couse, now and then your hands will still hurt but I probably would have had to quit typing years ago if not for this keyboard.  It takes a little getting used to, may a couple days or week or so but not very long.  Good Luck


Kinesis keyboard - sm
I use the Kinesis Maxim, and have for years. I've tried different keyboards, like the Goldtouch, but the Goldtouch doesn't have the attached wrist rests that I need/use. Otherwise, they are very similar keyboards. I have a Goldtouch in the closet I used for one day, and that was it. I have another keyboard in the closet that is in three parts, you arrange them as you like, can't think of the name offhand (it was expensive - in the $300 range), but couldn't get the hang of that one and it didn't fit under my desk in the keyboard tray. AND, I've tried numerous other ones, but always go back to the Kinesis Maxim. Good luck with your search.
to those who use a Kinesis keyboard
i just got a classic -- used it for 3 days and now i get up and go to start working, and the keyboard does not work at all -- not one key (the first one sent to me had one key malfunctioning, so had to return that).  After retraining my brain to the new key locations, this is killing me to go back to a standard layout, not to mention the touch on my old MS now feels like i'm working on a manual keyboard... have you had trouble with yours? 
Kinesis Keyboard-how to get used to it

Just bought one. It came with an exercise booklet and I am trying to do those exercises. It states not to wrist your hands on the wrist rests. Then why have them?


Does anyone think the keys are too noisy and "claky"? I thought they would be a really soft touch and quiet.


I found that I cannot keep my left hand on the home keys. How can I train my left hand to do that? Am I sitting wrong or do I have the keyboard situated wrong? I have it sitting straight on the top of the desk. Should I angle it a bit? 


I truly thought it would take me forever to get used to using the space bar (or should I say key?) but had no trouble at all.


Is there a place I can get more info on using the function keys and other keys at the top of the keyboard? I didn't find much on the website. So far, I like my Microsoft Ergo 200 better.


Thanks for any information you can provide.


I worked with someone once who used the Kinesis keyboard.
She absolutely loved it. Didn't take long to get used to it and her carpal tunnel syndrome was much, much better. Now she can't type on a regular keyboard. Her productivity increased, too.
Kinesis Classic Keyboard

It took me several days I believe to get use to the Kinesis. I just started out slow and when I became frustrated trying to use it I went back to the regular keyboard but soon found I was having more trouble typing on a regular keyboard so stuck with the Kinesis only and I would say it may have taken me two weeks to get back to speed but it has been well worth it to me.


I had OT come out to my house and they suggested I put something under the edge of my keyboard, the edge closest to me, so it would be basically neutral. I found a long wrist rest under that edge puts the keyboard at a perfect height for a neutral position. It is just one of those cheap foam ones like you find at Walmart but it works great.


It is the softest touch keyboard I have ever used which really ended finger fatigue for me. It also helped with my fingers aching and some of my hand pain. I had to change to an Evoluent mouse (as I posted below) and my right hand  hand/arm pain stopped.


Now, if only I could just find a way to stop my chronic back pain. :D


Let us know what you decide on and how it works for you, ok?


KINESIS ERGO KEYBOARD

Kinesis Ergonomic Keyboard.  Newest technology, a MTs dream.  Feels like a cadillac when compared with other keyboards.  Purchased 10/2006, excellent condition.  Paid $350, will sell for $290--like new.  Adaptation exercise book.  Retired as MT.   Follow this link to review benefits:


http://www.kinesis-org.com/benefits.htm.


Kinesis Keyboard or Microsoft
I have been working on Kinesis Keyboards for 10 years and mine finally started to die.  Has anybody went from Kinesis to the Microsoft Ergonomatic keyboard? I am trying to save cash but I am not sure if it would be worth the trade. Does anybody have any experience with this?
Anyone use Kinesis contoured keyboard?

I'm on day 8 of slathering Ben-Gay all over my piddies and right shoulder for worsening pain that must be either tendonitis and/or bursitis.  It's totally frigging up my line counts and will to live. 


I've been wearing my SmartGloves and doing everything else "right" as far as stretching, taking breaks, and even getting up and doing "the hustle."  ;-)


The only 2 things I can think of needing replacing here are my chair and my keyboard.  I've been eyeballing that Kinesis contoured and it looks both sweet and scary at the same time.  I checked a YouTube video of it and it makes that little clicky noise I love, which means the keys snap back and are quick...love that.  I hate mushy keys. 


So, does anyone here use this particular keyboard and if so, would you recommend it?  I mean like HIGHLY recommend it?!  Sure is a steep price tag, and I am tight with a dollar, so be honest.  Thank you!


Oh--the link for the keyboard I'm fancyin' is:
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/    
It's the contoured one...fugly one farthest on the left.


 


Anyone use the Kinesis Advantage keyboard? see msg....
I would really appreciate any kind of feedback on this keyboard.  It's expensive but my hands/wrists/fingers are killing me.  Since I do VR mostly, I'm wondering where the arrow keys are.  Can't tell by the pics on the Kinesis site.  Also, are the keys really low-force and do you think that helps reduce pain and discomfort when typing?  Anything you could tell me, good or bad, before I spend this much money would be so appreciated.

 

Thanks!

split keyboard

Go to www.datavisionergonomics.com.  They have several different styles of keyboards.  I personally have one just like the Maxim keyboard, which is just like the keyboard has been chopped in half right down the center.  I've used mine for ten years and it's getting old and needs to be replaced.  When I bought mine ten years ago, it was over $400.00.  You can buy one now for under $$150.00.  Here's how it works:


I sit in my chair with my arms at my sides, and each half of the keyboard is directly in front of each arm.  I can put my schedules, an 8.5 x 11 in. paper, in-between the two halves of the keyboard!  That's how far apart the two halves are, and there is no strain on my wrists, shoulders, arms, or neck.  When I try to use my husband's keyboard now, a regular keyboard, I can't even type my name! 


It'll take you 1-2 days to get used to this style of keyboard, but take my word for it, you will love it and never want to go back to the traditional keyboards or even the so-called "split" ones that are still all in one unit, but have the right and left hands a little farther away from each other. 


Another thing, I (like you) use my left thumb space bar as the back space.  My right thumb, as usual, hits the forward space.  I never have to use my right pinky to go way up and hit the original back space key.  Hmm...maybe Maxim will give me a free keyboard if I refer enough MTs to them.    Let me know if you have any other questions.  Have a fun day!


Getting used to split keyboard
Go to the notions department and get Velcro dots.  Put them on the home row keys.   After about 2 or 3 days you will become accustomed to where the keys are and can take the dots off.  Be careful when removing them because they are on there very strong...you don't want to pull of the keycap. 
Best split keyboard?
Any recommendations?
Not sure what you mean by a split keyboard

I tried a split keyboard once . . .
When I worked in-house an orthopedic doc brought in a split keyboard for each of us to try. Within 45 minutes of use, my left arm went from tingling to numb to cold. No one else had that problem. Since then, I have tried one for a few minutes and started having problems again. Maybe I'm just deformed!
Split keyboard -- Help! ...

I recently began using an ergonomic split keyboard. I hated the first ergo boards that came out (where your hands were almost facing each other when you typed.  However, these new split keyboards are so comfortable to use and I completely adapted to it after two days...EXCEPT for the '6' key. They put the '6' on the left side of the keyboard instead of the right. This means I would have to retrain myself to type it with the left index finger rather than the right one.  This would be no easier than moving the 'r' key over to the right side of the keyboard and trying to retrain my brain to hit it with the right hand.  It also is difficult to  feel or see the error when it pertains to a number. 


If anyone has any advice or information as to where I could find a split keyboard with the 1-2-3-4-5 on the left and 6-7-8-9-0 on the right, I would owe you big time!  


split keyboard
I love mine--it wasn't hard to adjust to--and once you get used to it--you will see how much more natural and less "cramped" your arms and hands are in this position.  What can be a challenge is trying to type on the standard keyboard after getting used to the ergonomic...you won't want to go back
Have you ever tried the Kinesis contoured keyboard, with the little "wells"? sm

They tout it as the "most productive and comfortable ergonomic keyboard available."  There's no place to try one out, and at $299, I'm not sure I'm ready to part with the cash, even though they have a moneyback guarantee.  Even on eBay, when I have seen them, they are pretty pricey, and that would be even more risky, since you can't usually return things on eBay.  


 


Just wondering if you had any experience with it ........ thanks!   


Kinesis Contoured Ergonomic Keyboard

Has anyone used this keyboard?  (It is the weird shaped one).  How comfortable are the hard plastic wrist rests?


Is anyone brave enough to try the Kinesis Contoured keyboard? sm
www.kinesis.com My sister is looking at one - almost every review she has read - people love it! It sure is funny looking.
I have a split ergonomic keyboard
and LOVE it.  It took a few days to get used to it, but now I don't know how I typed all those years on a straight keyboard.  This is MUCH better.
I have a wireless split keyboard I take along. nm
//
Anyone out there use ergonomic split keyboard?
I bought a micrsoft ergo split keyboard. I am not sure if I am going to like this. Apparently one is supposed to use their left hand for the letter B....after all these years I have been using my right! Whoops. Anyone out there really see or feel the difference in the comfort or have any of you tried it for a long time and still just do not like ergos? Let me know your thoughts.................thanks friends!
The Kinesis Classic Keyboard is the softest touch I have used. (nm)
:)
Keyboard Opinions - Avant versus Kinesis

I am faced with a decision between these 2 keyboards, both with pros and cons.  I would like to take a survey to see what everyone's opinion would be.   I strongly prefer a programmable keyboard, as I would like to change some of the keys around to suit me,  but will I regret not having an ergo keyboard in the long run?  Will I like the IBM clicky type keys? 


KINESIS FREESTYLE KEYBOARD
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/freestyle-solo_690x375.jpg
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/solo-v3-10-blk_690x306.jpg
http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/images/solo_us_legend.jpg


It splits and tents.
Delete key is on left side (which I love)
All other function keys are in the wrong place for me.
Quiet low-force tactile membrane switch
10 function keys on left
Keypad separate purchase
2 year warranty
60-day money back guarantee
Price:  $124.15 with the options I chose


AVANT STELLAR KEYBOARD
http://www.lonestarkeyboards.com/Avant-Stellar-Programmable-Keyboard/productinfo/KB%2D00%2D1001/
(click on additional images for close up)
I actually went to the manufacturer website (http://www.cvtinc.com/products/keyboards/stellar.htm) but they didn’t have any large photos so I went to a reseller for larger images. 


Straight keyboard
Can program any key to another function. 
Mechanical click/tactile key switches like the old IBM keyboards
12 function keys on left that can be reprogrammed
Keypad built in
2 year warranty
30-day money back guarantee
Price:  $189.00
Macro programming features
PS/2 interface but can buy PS to USB cord (I find this a little odd)
Programming software not compatible with Vista but can be programmed through the keyboard


This is from the sales rep I spoke to this week:
Have you ever heard of Northgate OmniKey keyboards?  We purchased the rights to the keyboards when they went out of business.  It is like typing on an old IBM keyboard.  It is a loud click, you know when you hit a key.  A lot of customers say they make fewer errors and I personally agree.  I have had my Avant for a little over 10 years and I type all day long.  I also have one at home.  It might help for you to listen to this review on our website: http://www.cvtinc.com/products/keyboards/menu.htm
Click on HEAR OUR INTERVIEW ON Lets talk Computers. Avant is VERY reliable.  We sell to a lot of medical transcriptionists, writers, gamers, call center operators, etc.  People that type 8 hours a day 5+ days per week.  Our keyboards can really take a beating.  


What'cha think?


Microsoft 4000 split keyboard.

Does anyone use this keyboard?  I just got one thinking it would help my hands from hurting, but I am having a bit of a hard time adjusting to the keyboard.  Did anyone else have this problem?  If so, did you catch on, or did you have to return it?  I went from the plain keyboard to this, but It has  slowed me down tremendously.  I wonder if I should get an ergonomic keyboard without the split?  Any suggestions?


 


Thanks in advance for your suggestions!


(sigh) The M15 split is my dream keyboard.
xx
No. I haven't. I don't even like the split keyboard...call me
old fashioned, but I type the swiftest on a good ole basic keyboard.
My split Comfort keyboard has backspace on
x
Morency board and Kinesis keyboard along with comfortable chair
Hi, I have been doing transcription for 14 years and about 4 years ago purchased a Kinesis keyboard and Morency arm rest board and they have been a lifesaver.  The key to a comfortable chair is one you can adjust the height, back, seat, etc and once you get it comfortable make sure no one changes it ! Some chairs have arm rests if you don't get a Morency board and help out.
Looking for wireless ergonomic keyboard with split spacebar, if it exists. Anyone know where I can f
Been searching everywhere.  Please help if you have seen this before.
I have tried Kinesis Contoured, Kinesis Maxim and...sm
the the Comfort Programmable. Have spent megabucks trying to find "the keyboard" and am still looking. The Kinesis Maxim semed cheaply made to me and just did not feel right. The Comfort Programmable was very awkward for me to use...sat too high to be practical. I would have really liked the Kinesis Contoured had my thumbs not started hurting so much I had to quit using it and sell it only 3 months old for a steal. Currently I am using a Goldtouch that I have literally broken apart in the middle to space the 2 halves as far apart as possible so that it is fairly comfortable for me. I know it is a matter of personal taste and fit for each person, but so far I am....still looking!
Split? I bought old IBM off ebay but not split.
..
thanks - nice to know I'm not solo in this boat!
I will send a certified letter (but she will lose it anyway LOL). Thanks again!
I use the Freestyle and really like it.
It made a big difference in the hand, wrist and shoulder pain. I use it at the highest angle (it think that's 15 degrees). I would highly recommend it.
Freestyle

I hate to sound so incompetent, but can anyone tell me what "freestyle" means?


At first I thought it meant simply as dicated with no headers etc, just paragraphs as appropriate. This just did not look professional.


Then I began to wonder if it meant I should title appropriatlely such As HPI PHYSICAL EXAM etc, which certainly looked better but this is a verbatim account.


I am embarrassed to have to ask this,  but there are so many knowledgable, helpful people on this board, I am sure someone will be kindly advise me.


 


Many thanks!


 


you can be Sam-E solo and it is great with depression/mood swings. valerian root and/or melatonin b
;
If you like to type (fast), are fascinated by medical field, enjoy working solo, you will be fine.
You may have to go through three jobs (over several years) to get to the big money. Best to chose a specialty which you find intriguing and tends to pay well (surgery, radiology perhaps).
I use a MSFT Natural keyboard at home and the laptop keyboard on the road. nm