Is an Ortholinear Keyboard Right for You?

An ortholinear keyboard is a keyboard with keys arranged in a precise grid pattern, where each row and column aligns in straight lines. This design contrasts with the traditional staggered key layout. Ortholinear keyboards aim to enhance typing comfort and efficiency.

Typing on an ortholinear keyboard can reduce finger movement and lessen strain from prolonged use. Many users find it improves their typing speed and accuracy. The layout offers a unique approach that appeals to those looking for a more ergonomic option.

This article provides an in-depth look into the benefits, challenges, and uses of ortholinear keyboards. From compact designs to customizable options, ortholinear keyboards offer a range of advantages suited to different typing styles.

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What are Ortholinear Keyboards?

Ortholinear keyboards use a straight key alignment, setting them apart from the standard staggered layout found on most keyboards. In a staggered keyboard, each row of keys is offset horizontally, while in an ortholinear layout, the keys form a uniform grid. 

This design choice was made with ergonomics in mind, aiming to reduce unnatural hand movements and finger movement reduction that can cause strain over time.

By arranging the keys in a compact keyboard structure, ortholinear keyboards make typing more consistent and predictable. For people who spend long hours at the keyboard, this layout can offer a sense of symmetry and reduce stress on the fingers. 

The simplicity of the grid can make it easier to find the right key quickly, as your hands follow a more straightforward pattern on the keyboard layout. This unique structure has made ortholinear keyboards especially popular with coders, writers, and those who prioritize typing accuracy.

Features of Ortholinear Keyboards

1. More compact layout

One key benefit of ortholinear keyboards is their compact keyboard layout. Because they minimize the number of keys and arrange them efficiently, ortholinear keyboards are often smaller and more portable than standard keyboards. 

This travel-friendly keyboard setup is ideal for people who work on the go or those who simply prefer a more minimal setup on their desk. The compact design allows you to have everything you need in one small space without losing essential functionality.

2. Neat and uniform keys and layout

The key layout symmetry of ortholinear keyboards makes them visually unique. Each key is arranged in perfect rows and columns, giving it a clean and uniform look. 

This grid design can appeal to people who prefer a tidy and organized workspace, as it adds a touch of simplicity and uniformity. The straight key alignment is easy on the eyes and can offer a less cluttered look compared to traditional staggered keyboards.

Benefits of Ortholinear Keyboards

1. More aesthetics

For many users, the aesthetic appeal of an ortholinear keyboard is a major factor. The uniform grid design is modern, minimalistic, and visually pleasing. 

Customizable keyboards allow users to experiment with colors, keycaps, and lighting options to create a setup that’s truly their own. RGB lighting options, available on many models, further enhance the look by adding a dynamic element to the keyboard’s appearance.

2. Improve typing efficiency

The typing efficiency of an ortholinear keyboard can often be greater than that of a standard layout. The grid structure requires less hand movement, which can help improve typing accuracy on ortholinear keyboards and reduce strain over time. 

The even alignment of keys can lead to faster typing as fingers don’t have to adjust to staggered rows, thus improving muscle memory and enabling quicker adaptation.

3. Easy to carry

One standout feature of ortholinear keyboards is their keyboard portability. Their compact layout allows for a smaller form factor, making them ideal for travel. 

Since many models, like the OLKB Atomic, are lightweight and durable, they’re easy to transport without taking up much space. Travel-friendly keyboards also appeal to digital nomads and those who frequently switch between workspaces.

4. More ergonomic

The typing ergonomics of an ortholinear keyboard are another draw. The straight key alignment supports a more natural finger path, reducing sideways movement and potentially preventing strain. 

With options like the ZSA Moonlander and ErgoDox EZ, users can even select split configurations, allowing them to adjust the placement for ideal hand positioning, further boosting typing posture improvement.

Disadvantages of Ortholinear Keyboards

1. A steeper learning curve

One of the main drawbacks of an ortholinear keyboard is the learning curve it presents. Switching to a grid layout can be challenging, especially for those accustomed to staggered rows. 

Adapting to a mechanical ortholinear keyboard requires adjusting muscle memory as fingers must re-learn key positions. This transition period can vary, but with practice, most users eventually adjust.

2. Limited choices

While ortholinear keyboards have gained popularity, their availability is still limited. The range of models and brands is smaller compared to standard keyboards, meaning users may have fewer options for customization and design. 

The niche nature of compact keyboards like the Preonic and OLKB Atomic limits the choice of layouts, features, and compatibility with accessories like keycaps and switches.

3. Limited research

Another downside is the relatively limited research surrounding ortholinear keyboards. While they’re designed to reduce strain and improve efficiency, the long-term ergonomic benefits are not as well-documented as those for staggered keyboards. For those interested in typing ergonomics, this lack of data may be a consideration.

What is the Difference Between Ortholinear and Standard Keyboard?

1. Key alignment

The main difference lies in key alignment. Ortholinear keyboards arrange keys in straight columns and rows, while standard keyboards use a staggered row layout. This difference impacts both the look and feel of the keyboard, as well as typing technique and efficiency.

2. Ergonomics

Ortholinear keyboards aim to improve typing ergonomics by minimizing the sideways movement of fingers, which can reduce fatigue over long periods of typing. Standard keyboards don’t offer this alignment, which could lead to more finger strain over time.

3. Typing efficiency

With typing efficiency in mind, ortholinear keyboards can be more efficient as they reduce hand movement. However, this efficiency may come after a learning period as users adapt their muscle memory to the grid layout.

4. Learning curve

For new users, an ortholinear keyboard has a steeper learning curve than a standard layout. It takes time to adjust to the grid structure, especially for those used to the staggered key placement of traditional keyboards.

5. Form Factor

Ortholinear keyboards often come in compact layouts, such as 40% and 60%, making them smaller than many standard keyboards. The compact keyboard benefits of this design make it ideal for travel or small desks.

Who Should Use an Ortholinear Keyboard?

Ortholinear keyboards are ideal for people who spend significant time typing, such as writers, programmers, and gamers. For programmers, the compact layout and customizable features can increase efficiency. 

Gamers, on the other hand, might appreciate the typing accuracy that comes from reduced hand movement. Ortholinear keyboards are also beneficial for those looking to reduce strain and improve typing posture.

Popular ortholinear keyboards 2024

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular ortholinear keyboards available in 2024:

Keyboard	Layout	Key Count	Features	Customizability	Target Audience
Planck	40% ortholinear	48 keys	Compact, QMK programmable	High	Minimalists and travelers
Preonic	50% ortholinear	60 keys	Includes number row	Medium	Productivity-focused users
ErgoDox EZ	Split ortholinear	76 keys	Split design, adjustable tenting	Extensive	Coders and ergonomic seekers
OLKB Atomic	60% ortholinear	63 keys	DIY kits available	High	Advanced DIY enthusiasts
ZSA Moonlander	Split ortholinear	68 keys	Adjustable thumb clusters, RGB lighting	Extensive	Typing ergonomics and productivity

Conclusion

Ortholinear keyboards offer a unique approach to typing that’s focused on simplicity, compactness, and typing ergonomics. While they may not suit everyone, they present clear benefits for users looking to reduce finger fatigue and improve typing accuracy.

These customizable keyboards are also well-suited to people who enjoy customizing their setups and are willing to tackle the learning curve. For those in search of keyboard portability or an innovative design, an ortholinear keyboard may be worth the investment.

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FAQ

Is Ortholinear really more ergonomic?

The ortholinear layout supports more natural hand positioning by aligning keys in straight columns, which can reduce finger strain over time.

Are ortholinear keycaps different?

Ortholinear keyboards use uniformly sized keycaps in a grid arrangement, which may differ from the angled keycaps of standard keyboards.

How long does it take to get used to an ortholinear keyboard?

Most users adjust within a few weeks, but adaptation depends on practice and individual familiarity with muscle memory keyboard adaptation.