Two New Ergonomic Keyboards Worth Considering

With Microsoft’s Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard now discontinued, many people have been searching for a compact, fixed-split ergonomic keyboard with a similar feel – —particularly those managing wrist, forearm, or finger discomfort during prolonged computer use.

Two strong contenders recently entered the market (2025): the Kinesis mWave Mechanical Keyboard and the Matias Sculpted Ergonomic Keyboard.

Both manufacturers clearly recognized the demand for a Sculpt-style design—but each product brings its own ergonomic strengths, trade-offs, and typing experience. This overview highlights key design differences, ergonomic considerations, and practical features to help you decide which keyboard best suits your needs.

Design & Ergonomic Features

Shared Features

Both keyboards offer:

• • A compact layout with a fixed split angle and wave design.  This design allows the mouse to be brought closer to the body, thus reduces a lateral reach.  Some users, generally with a narrower shoulder girdle, find the compact keyboard much more comfortable for their shoulders and neck.  The split angle allows the wrists to remain in a more neutral position when typing, reducing ulnar deviation and helps to relax the muscles in the forearms.
  • A tenkeyless footprint (access the embedded numeric keypad using a function key) – for those people who really prefer having a number pad.
  • Optional negative tilt using magnetic feet or a tilt bar, helping to reduce wrist extension.

Where They Differ

Kinesis mWave

• • Padded palm rest with a leather-like, washable surface
  • White LED backlighting (available in wired mode)
  • Slightly higher profile than the Matias
  • Connectivity options: wired or Bluetooth, with memory for two paired devices
  • A little noisier than the Matias, however, a quieter version has just been released.

Matias Sculpted Ergonomic

• • Very similar in shape and concept to the Microsoft Sculpt
  • Palm rest made of natural rubber, magnetically attached for easy cleaning or replacement
  • Wired and wireless versions available
  • Lower-profile design overall

Typing Feel & Switch Differences

A major distinction between these keyboards comes down to their switch mechanisms.

Kinesis mWave

• Features low-profile Gateron Brown mechanical switches
  • 55 g actuation force
  • 3.0 mm total travel
• Dimensions:
  • • Width: 15.25″ (38.7 cm)
    • Depth: 9.5″ (24.1 cm)
    • Height: 1.75″ (4.4 cm)
• Provides more tactile and audible feedback than membrane or scissor keys.
• Highly programmable.

Matias Sculpted Ergonomic

• Uses Matias scissor switches, known for crisp, quiet, and reliable performance.
• Shorter travel (~2 mm) and a softer feel, ideal for quiet or shared office environments.
• Dimensions:
  • • Width: 15.29″ (38.8 cm)
    • Depth: 9.08″ (23.1 cm)
    • Height: 1.42″ (3.6 cm)
• Highly programmable.

Ergonomic Considerations & Trade-Offs

Kinesis mWave

• Best suited for heavy typists or users who prefer mechanical feedback.
• Low-profile mechanical switches combined with the fixed split angle may help reduce finger strain.
• Backlighting is an advantage for low-light setups.
• Slightly taller profile may matter for users who prefer a lower hand position.

Matias Sculpted Ergonomic

• Most familiar for users transitioning from the Microsoft Sculpt
• Scissor switches provide a quieter, softer typing experience.
• The palm rest offers a stable, comfortable surface and can be replaced.
• Lower profile may feel more natural for extended typing sessions.
• However, the wired model does not offer backlighting.

For a quick, side-by-side overview, the table below summarizes the key differences between the two keyboards.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re still unsure which keyboard would best support your ergonomic needs or workflow style, feel free to reach out. Anderson Ergonomics Consulting regularly helps clients select input devices and fine-tune workstation setups to reduce discomfort and improve long-term comfort and productivity.