WOW I'm glad you guys enjoyed the video. Thanks for all the kind words and feedback. I have yet to try vim shortcuts like so many of you have suggested and am still using my archaic methods but I'll try them out and report back. Again thanks for the support :) Also, shameless plug for my mobile puzzle game Zupple zupple.co ;) Toodles😘 Ajackster
I've been using split and other odd keyboards since 1995, beginning with the Lexmark Select-Ease (IBM M15). I've extensively used many different types over the years. What I found is that colstag models are the worst for me, and what I like best is a traditional 65% to 75% rowstag board with QMK and hotswap, and a small touchpad under the space bar. Heavily customized layout with dvorak or colemak-dh. And vim, of course. The biggest ergonomic gain I've found is to push the keyboard back roughly 1 cubit on the desk, and split a wrist rest to use as elbow / upper forearm rests on the front edge of the desk. Also, switching from mouse to touchpad eliminated any pains from mouse use, though I instead use mouse keys (in inertia mode) most of the time.
In all seriousness, you should consider learning either Emacs or Vim-style hotkeys, which allowed for home-row oriented text navigation long before key remapping was a thing ex. In Emacs you can move next and previous line with "Ctrl+n" and "Ctrl+p" respectively This actually makes you significantly less dependent on single purpose keys like "End" that you can then remap to something more interesting (given the Ergodox can have per-key macros)
3:26 In that example, if the cursor starts on the first character of "function", I would do this in vim: jWWevhcld Then press escape to leave insert mode. I've been considering getting a split keyboard, but I don't even use keys like the arrow keys. And sure, I could use hjkl, which is vim's equivalent - and the example I gave does use j and h - but the vast majority of my navigating actually happens with W and B to go forward/backward a whole word. (uppercase to use only space as word separator, lowercase to also separate words on symbols) If you're interested, the breakdown of that sequence: j - down one line W - go to the next word, using only space as word separator W - again e - go to the end of the word, also considering symbols as word separators v - enter visual mode to select text h - go left one - "dl" is now selected c - delete the selected text and enter insert mode ("change") ld - insert "ld" (since we are in insert mode, any characters typed now get inserted at the cursor position) And finally escape to go back to normal mode. I will say, learning vim was one of the best things I could have done. Most other editors/IDEs just feel clunky now, though it does seem they are slowly getting better. It's not even that editing is faster or more efficient, but it's just more comfortable. I don't need to move my hands as much to reach for the arrow keys or, heaven forbid, the mouse. Using a smaller, possibly split, keyboard like that seems to solve a similar issue. Would using one still make my experience better with vim? Probably. I don't think it's really worth it, though. Using an editor that is designed to make editing efficient and comfortable seems to already solve the bulk of the problem - and I would argue better than just using better hardware alone.
Lol “heaven forbid, the mouse” I totally feel you. I spent a little time using VIM a couple years ago but never got near the depth you’ve gotten into. I will say though, on split keyboards, there are still certain keys that don’t have to do with navigation that you don’t have to move your hands at all e.g. backspace, arithmetic operators, etc. that you’d have to move your hand to on a traditional. Because all of these keys are now being utilized by your thumbs. But if you have a system that works for programming already, I think you’d probably get more benefit from other things e.g. you’d probably just be in a more natural resting position on the keyboard. Your arms are split and straight forward rather than coming in together.
As a vimmer myself, I would do it a bit differently: jfdxp j - down one line fd - jump to first "d" on line, which is inside "wordl" x - delete the character under the cursor p - paste the just deleted character. "xp" is a nice trick to swap two characters, one of the more frequent ones I need.
@@LordOfTheDing That's neat! I'll try to remember xp, that does seem really useful. Thanks for that :) Maybe I should consider using f more often, but I've stopped using it for longer jumps to letters. Too many times I end up having the letter appear multiple times before my destination and I end up having to use ; a bunch. So I mainly orient myself on word boundaries and reserve f for short in-word jumps or to jump to characters that are easily findable in a line like symbols. But I will admit, your solution is much shorter. :D My solution can also be made shorter by skipping visual mode and just using ch instead of vhc. I actually noticed this as I was writing the original comment, but if I were to actually do this edit, I would use visual mode there, so I posted that instead.
i love your editing and film design of such a simple topic. Usually people just review the product, but i enjoy how you actually involve yourself with the video.
Combine this keyboard with vim shortcuts(vim/vim emu/emacs-evil-mode) and you'll improve your workflow even more. Many of the issues you talk about with your regular keyboard are already solved with vim. Like replace word would be c-i-w (change in word)
only 200 views? wtf, from the quality of this vid alone i wouldve expected 30k+, keep it up man, good work edit: It feels good coming back to this video and see it get the attention it deserves, good job
I can ONLY agree with you. I've been using Dygma raise split keyboard for months now with reason of having experiencing wrist pain for over a year. It was so intense at some point that I had to take a break from my pc which meant taking few sick days at work. It did really hurt me as a programmer that I could not continue my work bc of a f'king keyboard. I saved my self, and my body by purchasing a split keyboard. I have NEVER experienced wrist pain since! And that means saying goodbye to normal keyboards. Great video!
Thank you so much for making this video! I am learning to be a game dev in unreal engine and when I saw this video I got intrigued and clicked on it. This video eventually lead me to getting the Ergodox-ez and it changed everything. Thanks for making this!
3:25 I really like the section about being fast when editing mistakes with the split keyboard. That is one of the reason I really enjoy using vim because I don't need to move my hands to the end Key or arrow keys for that matter. I don't own a split keyboard yet, but I am looking into buying one!
This isn't actually a benefit specific to split keyboards, but rather any programmable keyboard with multiple layers. I used a split keyboard (RGBKB Sol) for more than a year, then switched back to a 65% because I disliked needing two hands for hotkeys like ctrl-B and I missed having bracket keys in the standard position. I adapted the layers from my split keyboard back to the 65%. I do occasionally miss my left-hand rotary encoder, the ergonomics of the split, and the thumb clusters. I remain very happy with my decision to switch back.
A keyboard review has no business being this hilarious 😂Love it! I'd love a comparison video between the different split keyboards! I have an ergodox, but I've been wondering about how it compares to a few of the others you mentioned using
As a PC gamer, I'm often using wasd and don't go to much further right than 5tgb. I also like to have my left and right hands close together when I play but the usual solution I have for that is to have my keyboard in my lap with my mouse hand directly above my wasd hand. A split keyboard would simply give me more options there. Your other arguments, including the drink one, lol, are all compelling.
The biggest reason to use a split ergo keyboard as a programmer is for the thumb clusters. We use so many keys that aren't reachable by homerow when it comes to keybindings (that some call "shortcuts"), if you saw what it takes to hit CTRL sequences in terms of movements it's quite clearly suboptimal. Thumb cluster lets me use tmux/neovim, code in Rust, and my hands do not leave resting position to navigate anywhere. If you don't go split ergo, and have a regular keyboard -- or even if you do, please please please remap your CAPSLOCK key to CTRL if you're a programmer. That's where it should be for just about everyone.
Hi. I’m a translator and also use keyboard a lot. I’ve been through several split keyboards and now using a Planck for several years and am looking to return to split once more.
Mu dude, loved the video, I share your desire to move as little as possible my hands and finger, that's why I would very highly recommend installing the Vim (or Nvim) Extension for VSCode. I know it takes some time to get used to, but believe me, it's magical how much you limit your keystrokes and movement.
Good review. I've been using a split keyboard (Kinesis Freestyle 2) for about 7 years now. I did it to reduce carpal tunnel syndrome (cured now). Everything you said was true. I'd like to add a few things that you may not have thought of: 1. Home Row Computing. Useful for any type of keyboard if you want to move around the screen faster w/o moving your hands away from the home row. 2. Colemak. I switched to this from QWERTY and I love it. Yes, the transition was hard, but it was well worth it. My QWERTY speed went from 120 to 80 wpm, but my Colemak speed is about 90 wpm with noticeably less finger fatigue at the end of the day. 3. Glasses. I've been wearing glasses since I was in 1st grade. People only think there are 2 types of glasses: reading and driving. WRONG! There's mid-distance. If you are in the 40+ age bracket and use the computer extensively during the day, you should consider getting mid-distance (computer) glasses. Measure the distance from your eyes to your monitor and have your optometrist make special glasses for this mid-distance. This will reduce eyestrain and make you hate your computer less. 4. Misc Helpful Gadgets: silicon wrist rests, corded lightweight gaming mouse, USB volume knob. Background. I've been typing since about 1979 and used to do programming back in the day but now mostly general computer tech stuff.
hey bro, I'm a programmer too and am considering getting one of these split keyboards for the exact same reasons as you. I was worried about not being able to use the arrow keys, but they way you showed how to do it was so bad ass. thanks for making this video, it was super helpful for me.
I would suggest learning vim keybindings too, alongside getting an ergo keyboard. it allows for less layer switching to get to single use keys like the arrows, home, end by using the alpha keys (letters) for both inserting text and navigating it. It also allows for more expressive actions like selecting everything inside parenthesis, cutting a whole string instantly, jumping to a closing brace. inside real neovim i.e. not in an IDE extension, using plugins you can even add more semantic "text objects" so you can select/delete/replace a whole function, expression, parameter with just one key combination. I think all programmers should spend at least an afternoon going through the vim tutor (search for it, yt doesn't allow links) even if you are not willing to leave your IDE behind. You might like it and stick with it but if not, at least now you are aware that there are better ways of doing what you are already doing. And from knowledge come power.
I'm so glad I finally found a video about a split keyboard from somebody who actually has deep experience with them (not somebody who tried it out for 7/14/30 days). Thanks so much!
Great video! I've been thinking about a split keyboard for sometime now. You've helped me make up my mind. I'm going to take the plunge and give one a try. Thanks and keep up the good work!
Thanks! It's awesome you're starting the journey :) It may feel weird at first but you just have to persevere for a week or two and it'll start to click
take it from someone who was in your position as well, definitely do it. i built a lily58 pro as the gateway to the hobby of split keyboards and havent looked back since
@@Ajackster @mk8ez I've been using my ErgodoxEz for more than 2 years now, and I will never go back to a normal keyboard. The natural position of the hands and arms really helps to prevent injuries from bad positions. i use my keyboard for 8 to 16 hours per day for work and hobbies.
Would love to see your layout for your ergodox. I've been having a hard getting used to my moonlander for programming... Would love any tips.. great vid btw
i am looking forward to the model that sticks two touchpads under the spacebar/thumb cluster area so all i have to do is stretch my thumb to access one or two cursor. that would be nice. Whenever a thumb touches a pad the keyboard instantly switches to the 'mouse' layer to access the right and left mouse buttons and much much more.
This was really helpful. Untill now I've never thought much about split keyboards but this is definitely an eye opener. I hard agree on the top comment that you are talking about something you actually use.
Man, I came here after watching a ton of split keyboards video and I can't stop laughing from the editing and everything! This is amazing, thanks! Hahahaha! Very enjoyable! :)
ok the coffee placement sold it to me! XD Im also a PC power user, ive a custom keyboard build but now im interested into split and ergonomic keyboards. Ive already issues with my right hand and tuned down on gaming because i dont want pain in my hand from playing games.
bro i have never done this before; but this is an instant sub from 1 watch. i just got out of class(C#), only to go play runescape, then my left wrist starts hurting, so i decide i want a ergo mech. i find this. you make me laugh hysterically. just subbed, about to order an ergo mech when i finish this comment, then im gonna wait in anxiety for it to arrive. thank you 🙇♂🙇♂🙇♂
I built an iris rev 6 a month or two ago and at this point I never want to go back. At first it took some adjusting but typing it so much more comfortable now and even more efficient thanks to the thumb buttons and layers.
I'm a big split keyboard fan (just ordered a new Kinesis Freestyle Pro yesterday!) and this video immediately made me sub despite not knowing a thing about game dev or programming
I am a split keyboard user and agree with most of the points on this video, though I do have one argument against the navigation argument stated earlier here. Most of that is remedied by learning a tool like vim and using vim commands on most ide's. The learning curve of the ergodox ez is pretty high so investing that time into learning vim commands is probably equivalent in effort and won't cost you anywhere from $250-$350
Great video, thank you. I think it would be great if you did reviews and comparisons of individual ergonomic/split keyboards. Many other channels on TH-cam focus on the gaming aspect - when all I really care about is navigating my shell and code efficiently and ergonomically.
Just realised what an amazing IDE RStudio has to be, as all those navigation benefits are possible there due to intelligent shortcuts involving the ALT key.
You my good sir, have gained a subscriber. Was considering a split keyboard myself since I'm a Computer engineering student, and I spend A LOT of time using a keyboard. You have convinced me! Keep up the good work!
None of the editing benefits gained from using a split keyb are capable of surpassing Vim keys. As a programmer, one should seriously consider learning it if they're spending most of their time banging on a keyb. Good for the health.
3:21 is not exclusive to split keyboards. I use a standard, NA 105 (or 104? I forget) key keyboard in emacs (with vim bindings), and I get all of those benefits due to modal editing. If think that one of the benefits of split keyboards is the layered functionality, I strongly encourage you to look at a modal editor like Vim or Emacs, or one of their derivatives.
Do you mean sticky modal or do you have to hold down a key to be in the other layer? I just don't think I can get used to that as you tend to forget what mode you're in. I've spent years remembering VS shortcuts and would have to constantly switch layers to do stuff. Heck I can't even get into the BIOS on a 65% keyboard because there is no delete key and the last time I tried, the combination shortcuts for delete would not work and had to grab my full-size keyboard.
This is easily one of the best keyboard videos I've watched over the last few months, and honestly i can't wait to binge the rest of your videos lmao. One question though, as a gamer yourself, are there any advantages/disadvantages you've noticed while gaming with a split?
I love having my coffee between the keyboard, too. I'm a full-time writer, and a split keyboard (specifically the Moonlander, on Colemak DH) helped me get past my RSI issues and actually write instead of forcing me to turn to dictation software.
The bit about best programming moments being the smell of fresh coffee and typing on a split keyboard is so true! I've been using a split keyboard for nearly 4 years, and it just feels so Magnifique! to type on. Highly recommended to all full time programmers out there. (I use the Iris from keebio) I would add that my favorite programming moments include using vim. It just feels soooo good!
There’s EPKL out there from dreymar, it’s got an extend layer that does exactly that. I tried it and am convinced. I’ll build a skeletyl + Charybdis Nano soon, that’ll be the end game.
I just got rid of 2 Ergodox, now have a Corne. Way smaller and lighter, choc key caps, you can easily put in a bag and you never have to reach more than 1 key away for all the keys. Just better all round.
love the video! do you think you could post a link to your oryx layout? i just got a moonlander and could use some inspiration on making my layout better and more convenient!
Thanks for an interesting take on the split keyboards! What I was lacking a bit was some kind of "challenges/issues/things to look out for" part since I don't believe you 5-year experience was ALL sunshine and roses. I'd be curious to know some of the limitations and/or misses you had during this time - how log did it take you to switch for example? Or why you prefer this model over the other (it doesn't have to be a in-depth review or anything, but high-level considerations to take into account while choosing a split keyboard) etc. Would be great if you could consider making a "part II" or something :) Anyways - great, chill video with obvious food for thought. Thanks again! :)
I've been using a split keyboard for two years and I've run into a few challenges: 1: The learning curve. Not only is it going to take a while, about one month for me, what isn't said in that video is that you're basically going to have to setup your layout yourself for your specific work use. The default one really won't cut it. Think those people using Colemak or Workman are being a bit too loud in the back? You've made your own layout! Some people dig that but it's undeniably work. And you'll always end up with something only you can use. Speaking of... 2: Being the only person in the house able to use that thing. If someone wants to type a song during a party or your significant other wants to use the beefy computer, they'll struggle. If this is a common scenario for you, you'll need a secondary keyboard. 3: Price. They're expensive. No two ways around it. You can go prebuilt with an Ergodox or a falbatech premade, or custom with a splitkb, but it's not going to be cheap either way. And the build quality won't be excellent either. The Ergodox EZ is as plasticky as they come. 4: Support for keycaps and customization. If you're a keyboard nerd, you're going to have to work extra hard to have something nice looking, ESPECIALLY if you're going with something more obscure than an Ergodox. Keycaps will be restricted to either blanks or uniform profiles. Legends will be hard to come by. Key sizes are inconsistent with the traditional offering. It'll also be impossible to have something as nice sounding as a really premium custom mechanical keyboard. You'll have to make your peace there. 5: Support for non-english languages. Making an Ergodox work nicely with my native language was hard work and a lot of trial and error. Handling a lot of accents on a keyboard with less keys is a challenge and you'll need to do double the work of an English speaker to really make your split yours. I haven't heard from Thai split users but I imagine it's the worst case scenario. 6: Thumb support on the Ergodox specifically. The Ergodox has a six key thumb cluster. If your hands are not larger than average there is realistically only two of those keys that are truly accessible to you. The other keys cannot be "common" hits in your layout or you'll ruin the experience. Some other layouts addressed that problem better. I still recommend going for it, I think they're worth it and a wise investment. But it's not a 100% pure win kind of deal.
@@hugolavaill6579 Wow - thanks for the interesting, thorough and in-depth description! It certainly makes for a great counterweight to all the positives raised in the video. I must say that some of the issues you mentioned I'd never think of myself (like the one about the problems such keyboards cause when other people randomly need to use your machine). Your comment certainly adds another dimension to the question whether to try an ergo keyboard or not - I am glad I read it before foolishly jumping head-in - thank you again good sir! :)
I've always been skeptical of split keyboards because I have massive hands and I often reach my fingers across the keyboard when I am writing my books. Hand over hand typing, so to speak. Its how I learned to do it, but I'm excited to try the market and I'm in dire need of a new keyboard.
6:40. the day has come. the days where i believed i was the only one has changed. not only have i been baited, but i have been played. the timed used of the subtitles to tell what someone is saying before they say it was one of my favourite methods of reading along- but no more. this time, i have been duped- bamboozled. fair play to you sir for i have been defeated, for i am a nerd.
For traditional keyboards cntrl and arrow keys and shift and cntrl+shift with arrows do a lot of the same text navigation stuff. Home and end keys aren’t needed.
Great video, it was fun to watch. Which is your favourite split keyboard and why? I’m slowly looking into getting one (probably moonlander based on reviews).
split keyboards for programming are nice I can agree, but I never could find my self using a split keyboard as it just feels off I'm not used to it, I found I could get good performance if not better by making use of a smaller keyboard (The one I use today is the system76 launch lite with my own modified version of the key layout mainly just rearranged shortcuts), I also make use of the colemak layout instead of qwerty and also some macros.
This is really helpful! I have frequent wrist pain due to bad joints, so I've been looking into alternative keyboard options as an office worker & writer.
currently (3 years for now) im using mic's sculpt ergonomic keyboard (badass skeleton design!) .. ive bind some of the right-hand utility buttons to the mouse (10 extra programmable buttons but i still need two more buttons to fully cover my necessity) to solve same issue - minimizing hand shuttling but your method of navigation without moving right arm at all is priceless!... but my pain is cords.. i hate em all.. so im searching something splittable but wireless .. still no luck
2:40 this is so true. I put ( and { and [ on the rightmost keys if the left half, and ), } and ] to the leftmost keys if the right side. In a Layer of course. It’s really awesome. Next step would be put yasnippets on keys in a layer 5:17 and this is also so true :D I can easily switch back to a normal keyboard but I really miss the thumb cluster.
Using the navigation keys from the home-row is not something related to a split keyboard. I made a custom layout, based on the standard layout, in 2008 and ever since can do all navigation from the home-row. I use the CapsLock-Key as an additional modifier, which gives me close to 30 extra keys (with the right hand) to use 🙂I have assigned the arrows to the Vim / Linux-like hjkl keys and so on. I work on Windows only and use Autohotkey to realize the additions to a standard layout. When someone uses my computer they do not even notice that my keyboard has "double power", because everything works like normal. I just have additional options! That makes it also easier for me to switch to a keyboard which does not have my additions. But honestly. Whenevery I work more than a few minutes on another PC I will launch my keyboard script, because it is so frustrating to have to leave the home row for basic keyboard tasks, once you got accustomed that this is not needed! :-)
I'm happy to see split keyboards getting the justice they deserve! I only have a logi ergo keyboard right now, but I want to upgrade to fully split as soon as I can!
WOW I'm glad you guys enjoyed the video. Thanks for all the kind words and feedback. I have yet to try vim shortcuts like so many of you have suggested and am still using my archaic methods but I'll try them out and report back. Again thanks for the support :)
Also, shameless plug for my mobile puzzle game Zupple zupple.co ;)
Toodles😘
Ajackster
I've been using split and other odd keyboards since 1995, beginning with the Lexmark Select-Ease (IBM M15). I've extensively used many different types over the years. What I found is that colstag models are the worst for me, and what I like best is a traditional 65% to 75% rowstag board with QMK and hotswap, and a small touchpad under the space bar. Heavily customized layout with dvorak or colemak-dh. And vim, of course. The biggest ergonomic gain I've found is to push the keyboard back roughly 1 cubit on the desk, and split a wrist rest to use as elbow / upper forearm rests on the front edge of the desk. Also, switching from mouse to touchpad eliminated any pains from mouse use, though I instead use mouse keys (in inertia mode) most of the time.
I'm waiting on part 2. Tell me more bout the splits bro!
Hi Ajackster. Thanks for the high quality content, bro!
Can you share your Ergodox or Moonlander layouts? Maybe you have a link from Oryx.
it's been a whole year! I don't see a video on your channel about you learning vim motions 🤔
Vim motions
Dude your video quality is amazing.. I thought I was watching a youtuber with 500k+ subs
Thank you, it means a lot! I’m learning new things every video I make lol I still have a lot to improve on but content will keep getting better :)
Second this
Same
In all seriousness, you should consider learning either Emacs or Vim-style hotkeys, which allowed for home-row oriented text navigation long before key remapping was a thing ex. In Emacs you can move next and previous line with "Ctrl+n" and "Ctrl+p" respectively
This actually makes you significantly less dependent on single purpose keys like "End" that you can then remap to something more interesting (given the Ergodox can have per-key macros)
I came here just to say this. It definitely is worth it.
I respect my pinkie vi-motions are way to go.
Good advice. Time to use some Autohotkey.
Lmao a windows dev
@@noomade bruh
3:26 In that example, if the cursor starts on the first character of "function", I would do this in vim:
jWWevhcld
Then press escape to leave insert mode.
I've been considering getting a split keyboard, but I don't even use keys like the arrow keys. And sure, I could use hjkl, which is vim's equivalent - and the example I gave does use j and h - but the vast majority of my navigating actually happens with W and B to go forward/backward a whole word. (uppercase to use only space as word separator, lowercase to also separate words on symbols)
If you're interested, the breakdown of that sequence:
j - down one line
W - go to the next word, using only space as word separator
W - again
e - go to the end of the word, also considering symbols as word separators
v - enter visual mode to select text
h - go left one - "dl" is now selected
c - delete the selected text and enter insert mode ("change")
ld - insert "ld" (since we are in insert mode, any characters typed now get inserted at the cursor position)
And finally escape to go back to normal mode.
I will say, learning vim was one of the best things I could have done. Most other editors/IDEs just feel clunky now, though it does seem they are slowly getting better.
It's not even that editing is faster or more efficient, but it's just more comfortable. I don't need to move my hands as much to reach for the arrow keys or, heaven forbid, the mouse.
Using a smaller, possibly split, keyboard like that seems to solve a similar issue. Would using one still make my experience better with vim? Probably.
I don't think it's really worth it, though. Using an editor that is designed to make editing efficient and comfortable seems to already solve the bulk of the problem - and I would argue better than just using better hardware alone.
Lol “heaven forbid, the mouse” I totally feel you.
I spent a little time using VIM a couple years ago but never got near the depth you’ve gotten into. I will say though, on split keyboards, there are still certain keys that don’t have to do with navigation that you don’t have to move your hands at all e.g. backspace, arithmetic operators, etc. that you’d have to move your hand to on a traditional. Because all of these keys are now being utilized by your thumbs.
But if you have a system that works for programming already, I think you’d probably get more benefit from other things e.g. you’d probably just be in a more natural resting position on the keyboard. Your arms are split and straight forward rather than coming in together.
As a vimmer myself, I would do it a bit differently:
jfdxp
j - down one line
fd - jump to first "d" on line, which is inside "wordl"
x - delete the character under the cursor
p - paste the just deleted character.
"xp" is a nice trick to swap two characters, one of the more frequent ones I need.
@@LordOfTheDing That's neat! I'll try to remember xp, that does seem really useful. Thanks for that :)
Maybe I should consider using f more often, but I've stopped using it for longer jumps to letters. Too many times I end up having the letter appear multiple times before my destination and I end up having to use ; a bunch. So I mainly orient myself on word boundaries and reserve f for short in-word jumps or to jump to characters that are easily findable in a line like symbols.
But I will admit, your solution is much shorter. :D
My solution can also be made shorter by skipping visual mode and just using ch instead of vhc. I actually noticed this as I was writing the original comment, but if I were to actually do this edit, I would use visual mode there, so I posted that instead.
@@LordOfTheDing that "xp" is saver for people like me still using "xi[correction]". Thanks a lot.
Wow! Thanks for the info! I'm a vim noob and I had no idea I could do such things. Time to dig in!
This video was amazing! I have been using a split keyboard for over a year, and it has been a 100% game changer.
Thank you for the compliment! I’m glad you enjoyed :)
Which are you using?
I came here for the keyboards and stayed for the expert level eyebrow manipulation
i love your editing and film design of such a simple topic. Usually people just review the product, but i enjoy how you actually involve yourself with the video.
Thank you! It means a lot - I plan to keep that vibe and improve quality for future videos :)
Not nice - mialeading thumbnail...
04:00
BRO USE VIM BRO AND SAVE YOUR SOUL.
Combine this keyboard with vim shortcuts(vim/vim emu/emacs-evil-mode) and you'll improve your workflow even more. Many of the issues you talk about with your regular keyboard are already solved with vim.
Like replace word would be c-i-w (change in word)
@homerdummy5639 I love seeing the different ways people do the same thing in vim, I never would have thought of this combo
only 200 views? wtf, from the quality of this vid alone i wouldve expected 30k+, keep it up man, good work
edit: It feels good coming back to this video and see it get the attention it deserves, good job
Thanks man appreciate it 🙏
6k views now! lets go lets go
13k now. Let the algorithm bless us all, 🙏
May the algorithm be with you
22k+ views now. May the algorithm bless us all!
I can ONLY agree with you. I've been using Dygma raise split keyboard for months now with reason of having experiencing wrist pain for over a year. It was so intense at some point that I had to take a break from my pc which meant taking few sick days at work. It did really hurt me as a programmer that I could not continue my work bc of a f'king keyboard.
I saved my self, and my body by purchasing a split keyboard. I have NEVER experienced wrist pain since! And that means saying goodbye to normal keyboards.
Great video!
Amazing story :) I’m glad they’ve impacted you in such a positive way
May I know which split keyboard you purchased? Thank you.
@@sikavistasipal5968 He mentions Dygma Raise. A staggered split keyboard.
Thank you so much for making this video! I am learning to be a game dev in unreal engine and when I saw this video I got intrigued and clicked on it. This video eventually lead me to getting the Ergodox-ez and it changed everything. Thanks for making this!
3:25 I really like the section about being fast when editing mistakes with the split keyboard. That is one of the reason I really enjoy using vim because I don't need to move my hands to the end Key or arrow keys for that matter.
I don't own a split keyboard yet, but I am looking into buying one!
This isn't actually a benefit specific to split keyboards, but rather any programmable keyboard with multiple layers. I used a split keyboard (RGBKB Sol) for more than a year, then switched back to a 65% because I disliked needing two hands for hotkeys like ctrl-B and I missed having bracket keys in the standard position. I adapted the layers from my split keyboard back to the 65%. I do occasionally miss my left-hand rotary encoder, the ergonomics of the split, and the thumb clusters. I remain very happy with my decision to switch back.
A keyboard review has no business being this hilarious 😂Love it! I'd love a comparison video between the different split keyboards! I have an ergodox, but I've been wondering about how it compares to a few of the others you mentioned using
Your video delivery and presentation is hilarious. Definitely sold on the idea of the split keyboard.
Now use the vim key bindings and you’ll become a god 🤌
Yeah if he thinks he has a productivity boost from the split keyboard he is going to be shocked once he learns VIM motions.
Yeah don't even have to switch layers
Came here to say VIM too.
As a PC gamer, I'm often using wasd and don't go to much further right than 5tgb. I also like to have my left and right hands close together when I play but the usual solution I have for that is to have my keyboard in my lap with my mouse hand directly above my wasd hand. A split keyboard would simply give me more options there. Your other arguments, including the drink one, lol, are all compelling.
what do you mean in your lap. im scared to imagine the unergonomic horrors youre unfolding upon yourself
this is an amazing video! so glad it got recommended to me after ~2hrs of split keyboard binge-watching
Thank you! I’m glad I was a part of your binge lol
The biggest reason to use a split ergo keyboard as a programmer is for the thumb clusters. We use so many keys that aren't reachable by homerow when it comes to keybindings (that some call "shortcuts"), if you saw what it takes to hit CTRL sequences in terms of movements it's quite clearly suboptimal. Thumb cluster lets me use tmux/neovim, code in Rust, and my hands do not leave resting position to navigate anywhere.
If you don't go split ergo, and have a regular keyboard -- or even if you do, please please please remap your CAPSLOCK key to CTRL if you're a programmer. That's where it should be for just about everyone.
Hi. I’m a translator and also use keyboard a lot. I’ve been through several split keyboards and now using a Planck for several years and am looking to return to split once more.
Mu dude, loved the video, I share your desire to move as little as possible my hands and finger, that's why I would very highly recommend installing the Vim (or Nvim) Extension for VSCode. I know it takes some time to get used to, but believe me, it's magical how much you limit your keystrokes and movement.
Good review. I've been using a split keyboard (Kinesis Freestyle 2) for about 7 years now. I did it to reduce carpal tunnel syndrome (cured now). Everything you said was true. I'd like to add a few things that you may not have thought of:
1. Home Row Computing. Useful for any type of keyboard if you want to move around the screen faster w/o moving your hands away from the home row.
2. Colemak. I switched to this from QWERTY and I love it. Yes, the transition was hard, but it was well worth it. My QWERTY speed went from 120 to 80 wpm, but my Colemak speed is about 90 wpm with noticeably less finger fatigue at the end of the day.
3. Glasses. I've been wearing glasses since I was in 1st grade. People only think there are 2 types of glasses: reading and driving. WRONG! There's mid-distance. If you are in the 40+ age bracket and use the computer extensively during the day, you should consider getting mid-distance (computer) glasses. Measure the distance from your eyes to your monitor and have your optometrist make special glasses for this mid-distance. This will reduce eyestrain and make you hate your computer less.
4. Misc Helpful Gadgets: silicon wrist rests, corded lightweight gaming mouse, USB volume knob.
Background. I've been typing since about 1979 and used to do programming back in the day but now mostly general computer tech stuff.
hey bro, I'm a programmer too and am considering getting one of these split keyboards for the exact same reasons as you. I was worried about not being able to use the arrow keys, but they way you showed how to do it was so bad ass. thanks for making this video, it was super helpful for me.
I would suggest learning vim keybindings too, alongside getting an ergo keyboard. it allows for less layer switching to get to single use keys like the arrows, home, end by using the alpha keys (letters) for both inserting text and navigating it. It also allows for more expressive actions like selecting everything inside parenthesis, cutting a whole string instantly, jumping to a closing brace. inside real neovim i.e. not in an IDE extension, using plugins you can even add more semantic "text objects" so you can select/delete/replace a whole function, expression, parameter with just one key combination.
I think all programmers should spend at least an afternoon going through the vim tutor (search for it, yt doesn't allow links) even if you are not willing to leave your IDE behind. You might like it and stick with it but if not, at least now you are aware that there are better ways of doing what you are already doing. And from knowledge come power.
I'm so glad I finally found a video about a split keyboard from somebody who actually has deep experience with them (not somebody who tried it out for 7/14/30 days). Thanks so much!
Great video! I've been thinking about a split keyboard for sometime now. You've helped me make up my mind. I'm going to take the plunge and give one a try. Thanks and keep up the good work!
Thanks! It's awesome you're starting the journey :)
It may feel weird at first but you just have to persevere for a week or two and it'll start to click
take it from someone who was in your position as well, definitely do it. i built a lily58 pro as the gateway to the hobby of split keyboards and havent looked back since
@@Ajackster @mk8ez I've been using my ErgodoxEz for more than 2 years now, and I will never go back to a normal keyboard. The natural position of the hands and arms really helps to prevent injuries from bad positions. i use my keyboard for 8 to 16 hours per day for work and hobbies.
Would love to see your layout for your ergodox. I've been having a hard getting used to my moonlander for programming... Would love any tips.. great vid btw
Dudee, the quality of this video is amazing, you're underrated af, I'm subscribing
Thanks appreciate it homie
This is a really well made video. I’m surprised it doesn’t have more views
i am looking forward to the model that sticks two touchpads under the spacebar/thumb cluster area so all i have to do is stretch my thumb to access one or two cursor. that would be nice. Whenever a thumb touches a pad the keyboard instantly switches to the 'mouse' layer to access the right and left mouse buttons and much much more.
Your great sense of humor is a wonderful way to make keyboard nerdery more accessible.
Example with the typo is exactly why I use vim. The rest of the pros of the split keyboard are very legit . Thank u for the vid
This is a better AD for split keyboards than any AD i have ever seen, now i want one for programming!
using Vim with Split keyboards will make ur work flow way faster , I'm using vim with my alice layout keyboard and it so comfor for my hand
I’ll have to test out VIM - maybe make a vid of me learning it too :)
This was really helpful. Untill now I've never thought much about split keyboards but this is definitely an eye opener. I hard agree on the top comment that you are talking about something you actually use.
You have opened my eyes bro. Now i just need a spilt keyboard now. Thank you😌
Man, I came here after watching a ton of split keyboards video and I can't stop laughing from the editing and everything! This is amazing, thanks! Hahahaha! Very enjoyable! :)
ok the coffee placement sold it to me! XD
Im also a PC power user, ive a custom keyboard build but now im interested into split and ergonomic keyboards.
Ive already issues with my right hand and tuned down on gaming because i dont want pain in my hand from playing games.
Amazing video. Can’t believe it doesn’t have more views. Quality was amazing!!
Thank you! Hopefully the algorithm will start picking it up more :)
bro i have never done this before; but this is an instant sub from 1 watch. i just got out of class(C#), only to go play runescape, then my left wrist starts hurting, so i decide i want a ergo mech. i find this. you make me laugh hysterically. just subbed, about to order an ergo mech when i finish this comment, then im gonna wait in anxiety for it to arrive. thank you 🙇♂🙇♂🙇♂
Anywhere we can find the layout mapping your using?
I've been using the Mistel Barocco for years as well! Might be time to upgrade to another version of the split style
I built an iris rev 6 a month or two ago and at this point I never want to go back. At first it took some adjusting but typing it so much more comfortable now and even more efficient thanks to the thumb buttons and layers.
4 minutes in, I'm sold! - you just got a subscriber :)
I'm a big split keyboard fan (just ordered a new Kinesis Freestyle Pro yesterday!) and this video immediately made me sub despite not knowing a thing about game dev or programming
Haha thanks! 🙏 I hope you like your Freestyle :)
I am a split keyboard user and agree with most of the points on this video, though I do have one argument against the navigation argument stated earlier here. Most of that is remedied by learning a tool like vim and using vim commands on most ide's. The learning curve of the ergodox ez is pretty high so investing that time into learning vim commands is probably equivalent in effort and won't cost you anywhere from $250-$350
Dude, you're amazing. Such pleasant people are scarcity these days.
Brother thank you for the video 😎 so relatable and love your humor
The space between for coffee. love that. Really practical. Thank you.
Great video, thank you. I think it would be great if you did reviews and comparisons of individual ergonomic/split keyboards. Many other channels on TH-cam focus on the gaming aspect - when all I really care about is navigating my shell and code efficiently and ergonomically.
Man! You're not just talking about split keyboard, the way you deliver the content is so amazing. Great video tho.
Great video. Thank you for sharing your experience. Very detailed and I hope you get more views.
love how mug location minus 7cm is the third topic here. a man of taste clearly
watching this, i'm surprised this has 8.5k views and not several hundred thousands. Great video!
Most fun review and good to hear the benefits.
Just realised what an amazing IDE RStudio has to be, as all those navigation benefits are possible there due to intelligent shortcuts involving the ALT key.
You my good sir, have gained a subscriber. Was considering a split keyboard myself since I'm a Computer engineering student, and I spend A LOT of time using a keyboard. You have convinced me! Keep up the good work!
motorola check
None of the editing benefits gained from using a split keyb are capable of surpassing Vim keys. As a programmer, one should seriously consider learning it if they're spending most of their time banging on a keyb. Good for the health.
3:21 is not exclusive to split keyboards. I use a standard, NA 105 (or 104? I forget) key keyboard in emacs (with vim bindings), and I get all of those benefits due to modal editing. If think that one of the benefits of split keyboards is the layered functionality, I strongly encourage you to look at a modal editor like Vim or Emacs, or one of their derivatives.
Do you mean sticky modal or do you have to hold down a key to be in the other layer? I just don't think I can get used to that as you tend to forget what mode you're in. I've spent years remembering VS shortcuts and would have to constantly switch layers to do stuff. Heck I can't even get into the BIOS on a 65% keyboard because there is no delete key and the last time I tried, the combination shortcuts for delete would not work and had to grab my full-size keyboard.
This is easily one of the best keyboard videos I've watched over the last few months, and honestly i can't wait to binge the rest of your videos lmao. One question though, as a gamer yourself, are there any advantages/disadvantages you've noticed while gaming with a split?
I love having my coffee between the keyboard, too.
I'm a full-time writer, and a split keyboard (specifically the Moonlander, on Colemak DH) helped me get past my RSI issues and actually write instead of forcing me to turn to dictation software.
The bit about best programming moments being the smell of fresh coffee and typing on a split keyboard is so true! I've been using a split keyboard for nearly 4 years, and it just feels so Magnifique! to type on. Highly recommended to all full time programmers out there. (I use the Iris from keebio)
I would add that my favorite programming moments include using vim. It just feels soooo good!
Loved the camera shooting angle in many parts of the video. You would be a great movies director
Keyboard expert and comedian! LOVE THIS!
Seriously, the cup placement problem is underrepresented! It's actually a huge deal!
I know nothing at all about keyboards but watching this video was so informative and entertaining. Love your visuals and the script!
You're so funny and talentful, I came for the review but stayed for you :D
4:30 The use of layers for accessing the arrow keys and home/end etc via shortcuts and layers would be possible on many non-split keyboards as well.
There’s EPKL out there from dreymar, it’s got an extend layer that does exactly that. I tried it and am convinced. I’ll build a skeletyl + Charybdis Nano soon, that’ll be the end game.
I just got rid of 2 Ergodox, now have a Corne. Way smaller and lighter, choc key caps, you can easily put in a bag and you never have to reach more than 1 key away for all the keys. Just better all round.
love the video! do you think you could post a link to your oryx layout? i just got a moonlander and could use some inspiration on making my layout better and more convenient!
Just wait until bro learns about vim keybindings
I enjoyed this video. Informative and just about exactly as nerdy as I’d expect 😂
A lot of personality on a seemingly technical video, I enjoyed it
Thanks for an interesting take on the split keyboards! What I was lacking a bit was some kind of "challenges/issues/things to look out for" part since I don't believe you 5-year experience was ALL sunshine and roses. I'd be curious to know some of the limitations and/or misses you had during this time - how log did it take you to switch for example? Or why you prefer this model over the other (it doesn't have to be a in-depth review or anything, but high-level considerations to take into account while choosing a split keyboard) etc.
Would be great if you could consider making a "part II" or something :)
Anyways - great, chill video with obvious food for thought. Thanks again! :)
I've been using a split keyboard for two years and I've run into a few challenges:
1: The learning curve. Not only is it going to take a while, about one month for me, what isn't said in that video is that you're basically going to have to setup your layout yourself for your specific work use. The default one really won't cut it. Think those people using Colemak or Workman are being a bit too loud in the back? You've made your own layout! Some people dig that but it's undeniably work. And you'll always end up with something only you can use. Speaking of...
2: Being the only person in the house able to use that thing. If someone wants to type a song during a party or your significant other wants to use the beefy computer, they'll struggle. If this is a common scenario for you, you'll need a secondary keyboard.
3: Price. They're expensive. No two ways around it. You can go prebuilt with an Ergodox or a falbatech premade, or custom with a splitkb, but it's not going to be cheap either way. And the build quality won't be excellent either. The Ergodox EZ is as plasticky as they come.
4: Support for keycaps and customization. If you're a keyboard nerd, you're going to have to work extra hard to have something nice looking, ESPECIALLY if you're going with something more obscure than an Ergodox. Keycaps will be restricted to either blanks or uniform profiles. Legends will be hard to come by. Key sizes are inconsistent with the traditional offering. It'll also be impossible to have something as nice sounding as a really premium custom mechanical keyboard. You'll have to make your peace there.
5: Support for non-english languages. Making an Ergodox work nicely with my native language was hard work and a lot of trial and error. Handling a lot of accents on a keyboard with less keys is a challenge and you'll need to do double the work of an English speaker to really make your split yours. I haven't heard from Thai split users but I imagine it's the worst case scenario.
6: Thumb support on the Ergodox specifically. The Ergodox has a six key thumb cluster. If your hands are not larger than average there is realistically only two of those keys that are truly accessible to you. The other keys cannot be "common" hits in your layout or you'll ruin the experience. Some other layouts addressed that problem better.
I still recommend going for it, I think they're worth it and a wise investment. But it's not a 100% pure win kind of deal.
@@hugolavaill6579 Wow - thanks for the interesting, thorough and in-depth description!
It certainly makes for a great counterweight to all the positives raised in the video.
I must say that some of the issues you mentioned I'd never think of myself (like the one about the problems such keyboards cause when other people randomly need to use your machine).
Your comment certainly adds another dimension to the question whether to try an ergo keyboard or not - I am glad I read it before foolishly jumping head-in - thank you again good sir! :)
I've always been skeptical of split keyboards because I have massive hands and I often reach my fingers across the keyboard when I am writing my books. Hand over hand typing, so to speak. Its how I learned to do it, but I'm excited to try the market and I'm in dire need of a new keyboard.
Been loving my Kinesis Advantage for many years.
6:40. the day has come. the days where i believed i was the only one has changed. not only have i been baited, but i have been played. the timed used of the subtitles to tell what someone is saying before they say it was one of my favourite methods of reading along- but no more. this time, i have been duped- bamboozled. fair play to you sir for i have been defeated, for i am a nerd.
For traditional keyboards cntrl and arrow keys and shift and cntrl+shift with arrows do a lot of the same text navigation stuff.
Home and end keys aren’t needed.
Great video, it was fun to watch. Which is your favourite split keyboard and why? I’m slowly looking into getting one (probably moonlander based on reviews).
Using one of these will take a little while to get used to but I want a split keyboard now.
split keyboards for programming are nice I can agree, but I never could find my self using a split keyboard as it just feels off I'm not used to it, I found I could get good performance if not better by making use of a smaller keyboard (The one I use today is the system76 launch lite with my own modified version of the key layout mainly just rearranged shortcuts), I also make use of the colemak layout instead of qwerty and also some macros.
3:45 lmfao some people will literally do ANYTHING to not just use vim
😂😂😂
Thank you for this video, it helped me make my decision to sub and buy a split keyboard
No problem! Glad you enjoyed :)
You need to try out the new Dygma Defy split columnar keyboard!
Nice video. Now i want to code and use a split keyboard now!
Great video! Love the editing and personality
This is really helpful! I have frequent wrist pain due to bad joints, so I've been looking into alternative keyboard options as an office worker & writer.
currently (3 years for now) im using mic's sculpt ergonomic keyboard (badass skeleton design!) .. ive bind some of the right-hand utility buttons to the mouse (10 extra programmable buttons but i still need two more buttons to fully cover my necessity) to solve same issue - minimizing hand shuttling but your method of navigation without moving right arm at all is priceless!... but my pain is cords.. i hate em all.. so im searching something splittable but wireless .. still no luck
2:40 this is so true. I put ( and { and [ on the rightmost keys if the left half, and ), } and ] to the leftmost keys if the right side. In a Layer of course. It’s really awesome.
Next step would be put yasnippets on keys in a layer
5:17 and this is also so true :D
I can easily switch back to a normal keyboard but I really miss the thumb cluster.
Using the navigation keys from the home-row is not something related to a split keyboard. I made a custom layout, based on the standard layout, in 2008 and ever since can do all navigation from the home-row. I use the CapsLock-Key as an additional modifier, which gives me close to 30 extra keys (with the right hand) to use 🙂I have assigned the arrows to the Vim / Linux-like hjkl keys and so on. I work on Windows only and use Autohotkey to realize the additions to a standard layout. When someone uses my computer they do not even notice that my keyboard has "double power", because everything works like normal. I just have additional options! That makes it also easier for me to switch to a keyboard which does not have my additions. But honestly. Whenevery I work more than a few minutes on another PC I will launch my keyboard script, because it is so frustrating to have to leave the home row for basic keyboard tasks, once you got accustomed that this is not needed! :-)
Can you share your Autohotkey preset, please? I used Capslock for layout change only
bro actually is living in 2040. you deserve the best man, keep up the work
That IRL min-maxing resonates hard!
You had me at the thumb sneaker kicks. 😆
The coffee argument was enough for me, I’m getting one !
i really like the infomercial style of coffee cup advantage :D awesome review!
Haha thanks glad you liked it :)
I would be interested at looking at you're keymap setup.
Suscribed!
Plus ultra!
You made an amazing video :3
I enjoy your presentation style and personality. will sub.
you’ve inspired me to get an ergodox 😺👍
I'm happy to see split keyboards getting the justice they deserve! I only have a logi ergo keyboard right now, but I want to upgrade to fully split as soon as I can!
i like the part in the middle that is basically a summary of why vim rules