ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
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Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#2I love split keyboards but had to return this one because after using it for a week my brain was still unable to adapt to the different key placements.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#3I love split keyboards but had to return this one because after using it for a week my brain was still unable to adapt to the different key placements.
A week isn't quite long enough. I think it was about a month before I got proficient, and you have to unlearn some bad typing form, like typing Cs with your index finger.
If you (meaning you speak to onlookers more than you here OP) want a more radical split, buy a dactyl manuform. They're tough to get, but worth it.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#4I've been using Ergodox EZ for 2 years now and I love it. It has a certain learning curve due to columnar layout, but I used this opportunity to change my keyboard layout to Colemak. It took a while to get used to it, but not only I find typing more comfortable now, it's also healthier for my wrists - I used to feel pain quite regularly, and changing from Apple Magic Keyboard to Ergodox helped a lot
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#5This is a great entry point to split ortholinear keyboards. Build quality is great, its well supported, and its very easy to set up and get using it. The moonlander they sell is also pretty good. I like the ergodox style thumb cluster better, but the moonlander is super portable, so that helps if you are moving around a lot.
When I converted to split ortholinear it took me about a month to get back to the same proficiency that I had with a standard keyboard, so if your looking to make the plunge make sure you set aside time to practice the new layout. I would set up two keyboards so I could switch back after a few hours and still be productive for the day while I was getting used to the new layout.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#6If you’re interested in ergo, I recommend visiting the ergo keyboard comparison tool [1] to get a sense of how deep this rabbit hole goes. And you can now use YAML to prototype custom layouts via Ergogen [2].
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#7Looks awesome. But it's pricey and afaik not wireless.
Still want it and the moonlander https://www.zsa.io/moonlander). I look forward to full wireless options for these so I can just give them my money.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#8I've had an Ergodox EZ for 4 years and it's awesome. Once you learn to type on it and take advantage of the multitude of macros, it's almost telepathic.
But I end up using an inexpensive bluetooth keyboard most of the time because I work between a macbook (that doesn't like USB-A without a dock or dongle) and a windows desktop.
I've thought about getting a USB switcher hub or a bluetooth dongle for the ergodox, but at that point I'm adding way too much bulk to my desk or bag if I decide to travel with it. I'm already pushing my luck when I try fitting it in my carry-on suitcase.
I wish there was a bluetooth Ergodox with MX low profile keyswitches+caps.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#9Very happy owner of a moonlander. Can't recommend it enough.
Let's say you want to get into split keyboards but are worried about the learning curve.
The best thing you can do to prepare is ensure you can touch type correctly. "Crossing", or typing a key with the wrong hand, just simply won't be possible anymore.
Once you can get that down, your keyboard will have shipped and you can start practicing the thumb cluster once it arrives.
Don't bother with the fancy stuff, like layers or custom layouts, until you've mastered the two fundamentals above.
Re: ErgodoxE EZ – an ergonomic keyboard with open source firmware
#10I recently purchased their newer keyboard, the Moonlander MK I. I've been very happy with it so far! This is my first ortholinear layout, so it's taken some getting used to, but I've been very happy with the customizability and the programming process.
ZSA provides a webpage that lets you remap your key layout and flash it to your keyboard right from browser, without downloading any other software, which has been super convenient.