One of the ways to ergonomically use a keyboard is to invest in an ergonomic keyboard tray that provides an angle to the keyboard, which helps offer the most comfortable typing position for keyboard users.
However, only a few individuals know how to choose suitable ergonomic keyboard trays for their workstations.
If you are looking forward to investing in a keyboard tray, this post is for you as we share five tips to help you choose the best ergonomic keyboard tray for your desk.
But before we get into the considerations for getting the right ergonomic keyboard tray, lets' take an insight into what is an ergonomic keyboard tray and what ergonomic benefits it offers to the users.
What is an Ergonomic Keyboard Tray?
An ergonomic keyboard tray is an ergonomic workplace accessory that holds your keyboard such that your hands can maintain an optimal position.
Typically, the placement of keyboards is such that the user has to stretch their arms far out in front of the body with the wrists positioned too high, but that's not the case with an ergonomic keyboard tray.
An ergonomic keyboard tray, it is positioned slightly lower than your workstation and has a negative tilt that allows ergonomic positioning of the arms and wrists. Moreover, it helps keep your mouse and keyboard within the neutral reach zone, so you don't have to stretch your arms or body or bend your elbows inappropriately. Furthermore, ergonomic keyboard trays offer height and tilt adjustability, the two features that enhance the benefits of an ergonomic keyboard tray.
Different Types of Keyboard Trays
Before you decide on which ergonomic keyboard tray is best for you, it's critical that you know the different types of keyboard trays you can find on the market.
The most commonly available keyboard tray includes the following.
Under-Desk Mounted Keyboard Trays
The most common type of ergonomic keyboard tray is mounted under the desk. The adjustment of the keyboard tray is such that it offers a negative tilt under the desk. Moreover, you can also find desk-mounted trays that are clamped on the front of your desk. However, they also offer similar tilt adjustments for more ergonomic placement of your keyboard.
From an ergonomic point of view, under-desk-mounted keyboard trays allow their users to maintain the most convenient ergonomic position while working.
Chair-Mounted Keyboard Trays
Chair-mounted ergonomic keyboard trays are attached to your office chair instead of your desk. The design of the keyboard tray is such that the arm of your chair serves as the main pole for attachment.
Typically, chair-mounted keyboard trays do not provide the desired ergonomic benefits to their users.
Wall-Mounted Keyboard Trays
Some individuals with a desk job prefer the flexibility of a wall-mounted ergonomic keyboard tray. The wall-mounted keyboard trays feature an articulated arm that allows you to maneuver the keyboard as per your need.
Wall-mounted keyboard trays serve as a good solution if you have an unconventional workstation such as a desk bike or a treadmill.
Benefits of Using an Ergonomic Keyboard Tray
Using an ergonomic keyboard tray offers several benefits. The ergonomic accessory is designed to prevent repetitive strain on the wrist while typing and enhance comfort. Moreover, the use of an ergonomic keyboard tray helps lower the risk of the following health conditions.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the median nerve that travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The resulting nerve compression due to repetitive strain can lead to pain and discomfort that can worsen and rest in numbness and tingling sensation.
Since carpal tunnel syndrome is a likely outcome of inappropriate positioning of the wrist while typing, the use of an ergonomic keyboard tray is one of the ways to reduce the risk of this health condition.
Neck, Back and Shoulder Pain
Upper spine and shoulder pain are one of the most common health concerns associated with a desk job that requires working on a screen. The use of an ergonomic keyboard tray allows you to position your keyboard and mouse at the appropriate height and angle so you can maintain an adequate posture and avoid strain, pain, and discomfort.
By maintaining an appropriate posture, you can preserve the appropriate alignment of your spine, better blood circulation, improved breathing, and enhanced overall health and well-being.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is a condition arising from the inflammation of a tendon resulting from persistent poor posture or repetitive movements. Over time, inflammation results in pain and discomfort, eventually leading to the inability to perform tasks.
An ergonomic keyboard tray is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of tendinitis and associated discomfort.
5 Tips for Picking the Best Ergonomic Keyboard Tray
Now that you know what an ergonomic keyboard tray is and its benefits let's delve into the key considerations that will help you pick up the best ergonomic keyboard tray for you.
Here are a few tips for picking the best ergonomic keyboard tray.
Watch Out for the Tray's Attachment
Given that there are different ergonomic keyboard trays, before choosing one for your workstation, check the tray type.
It's best to opt for keyboard trays attached to the desk instead of a wall or chair, as desk-mounted keyboard trays offer the most ergonomic benefits.
Look for Ease of Installation
One critical consideration before you purchase an ergonomic keyboard tray is the ease of installation. Prior to purchasing a keyboard tray, thoroughly understand the installation process and opt for ergonomic keyboard trays that are easy to install.
You can find clamp-on ergonomic keyboard trays that are simple to install and do not require the use of any tools for installation.
Check the Size of the Keyboard Tray
Before purchasing an ergonomic keyboard tray, it's critical that you measure the size of your keyboard and the depth, and width of your keyboard. And while doing so, don't forget to account for the placement of your mouse as it is often placed together with the keyboard on the keyboard tray.
By considering the size of your keyboard and your mouse, you can opt for an ergonomic keyboard tray that provides enough room for the placement of your computer essentials.
Consider Height and Tilt Adjustability
One of the primary reasons for investing in an adjustable keyboard tray is that it enhances your posture by positioning your keyboard appropriately. Hence, you should consider the height-adjustment options that the keyboard tray offers.
Moreover, you should also consider the tilt it offers, as negative tilt makes a desirable feature that reduces the risk of common problems associated with typing. Using an adjustable tilt keyboard tray, especially the one featuring a negative tilt, is one of the best ways to optimize your wrist health.
Don't Forget the Slides
Slides are one of the most basic features offered by a keyboard tray as it helps customize the distance between your body, keyboard tray, and monitor while ensuring healthy posture and reducing eye strain.
The Best Ergonomic Keyboard Tray for You
Very few ergonomic keyboard trays combine all the above-mentioned features, and the ones that do are only sometimes affordable.
If you are looking for an ergonomic keyboard tray for your workstation, we recommend the Clamp-on Adjustable Keyboard Tray by FlexiSpot, which makes a perfect combination of all the features highlighted above.
The versatile, spacious, easy-to-install, and pocket-friendly clamp-on keyboard tray is what you need to enhance the functionality of your workstation.
Featuring an ergonomic design and tilt adjustability, the keyboard tray provides the best positioning of your arms and wrists and enhances comfort while typing, along with reducing the risk of several health concerns.
The metallic c-clamp allows convenient attachment of the keyboard tray without the need for using accessories like screws and bolts. Moreover, the tray is easy to slide in and out of and features a non-slip surface that ensures convenient placement of your keyboard and mouse.
With all these features and a lot more, the clamp-on adjustable keyboard tray makes a perfect ergonomic accessory for your workstation.
So what are you waiting for?
Check out Clamp-on Adjustable Keyboard Tray and several other ergonomic accessories available at FlexiSpot at amazing prices and take a step towards setting up an ergonomic workstation.
Conclusion
An ergonomic keyboard tray serves as an affordable choice for enhancing the functionality of your workspace. It allows you to position your wrists and arms appropriately, which aids in reducing the risk of several repetitive strain injuries and more.
But before you invest in an ergonomic keyboard tray, you should know a few considerations that will help you make the right choice for your workstation and health. Remember, the best ergonomic keyboard trays are adjustable enough to optimize your desk functionality without compromising your posture and health.
Find out more about ergonomic keyboard trays and other ergonomic accessories here.
