5 Years of Split Keyboards Behind Me - My Review

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 พ.ค. 2024
  • Play my mobile puzzle game: zupple.co
    I've been using Split Keyboards for 5 years and I can tell you they are a big part of my every day workflow. If you're interested in figuring out if you should get a split keyboard, then this video is for you. As a game dev and a software engineer - I like to invest in equipment that will help me improve my quality of life. Because I've spent the last 5 years using split keyboards, I think it would be helpful to share my experience and opinions on the matter. Especially for folks who are interested in buying and investing into split keyboards themselves.
    Don't forget to Like and Subscribe!
    Kinesis Advantage 2 - amzn.to/3HNsIx4 (affiliate)
    Kinesis Freestyle - amzn.to/3HLKjp7 (affiliate)
    Mistel Barocco MD770 - amzn.to/34iz35P (affiliate)
    Ergodox EZ - ergodox-ez.com/
    0:00 Why invest in split keyboards?
    0:44 My first split keyboard and proof that it's been 5 years
    1:15 One of the most useful things about split keyboards
    2:03 How fast can I type with split keyboard vs. traditional keyboard?
    2:43 Unlocking the true power of split keyboards
    3:21 How split keyboards are amazing for programming
    4:46 Why split keyboards are better than traditional keyboards
    5:15 How your thumbs are used
    6:02 Kinesis Advantage example
    6:20 My final thoughts
    #ajackster #mechanicalkeyboards
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ความคิดเห็น • 599

  • @Ajackster
    @Ajackster  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +32

    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

    • @ToyKeeper
      @ToyKeeper 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      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.

    • @ekougar1534
      @ekougar1534 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I'm waiting on part 2. Tell me more bout the splits bro!

    • @juliofreitas1652
      @juliofreitas1652 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hi Ajackster. Thanks for the high quality content, bro!
      Can you share your Ergodox or Moonlander layouts? Maybe you have a link from Oryx.

  • @untitled8124
    @untitled8124 2 ปีที่แล้ว +118

    Dude your video quality is amazing.. I thought I was watching a youtuber with 500k+ subs

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      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 :)

    • @TheFloatingBartender
      @TheFloatingBartender 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Second this

  • @ShuningLiuAtPlay
    @ShuningLiuAtPlay ปีที่แล้ว +328

    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)

    • @lucastperez
      @lucastperez ปีที่แล้ว +34

      I came here just to say this. It definitely is worth it.

    • @darukutsu
      @darukutsu ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I respect my pinkie vi-motions are way to go.

    • @kevinchang0527
      @kevinchang0527 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good advice. Time to use some Autohotkey.

    • @noomade
      @noomade ปีที่แล้ว +12

      what sort of masochist uses emacs movements instead of vim style :)

    • @xXTheXboxBrothersXx
      @xXTheXboxBrothersXx ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Lmao a windows dev

  • @radboi4194
    @radboi4194 2 ปีที่แล้ว +178

    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

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Thanks man appreciate it 🙏

    • @luccahuguet
      @luccahuguet 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      6k views now! lets go lets go

    • @minime453
      @minime453 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      13k now. Let the algorithm bless us all, 🙏

    • @luccahuguet
      @luccahuguet 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      May the algorithm be with you

    • @SimGunther
      @SimGunther 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      22k+ views now. May the algorithm bless us all!

  • @SkyKosiner
    @SkyKosiner 2 ปีที่แล้ว +73

    This video was amazing! I have been using a split keyboard for over a year, and it has been a 100% game changer.

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thank you for the compliment! I’m glad you enjoyed :)

    • @BadenHealth
      @BadenHealth ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Which are you using?

  • @deezphillpeans5070
    @deezphillpeans5070 2 ปีที่แล้ว +207

    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.

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Thank you! It means a lot - I plan to keep that vibe and improve quality for future videos :)

    • @amirprog
      @amirprog ปีที่แล้ว

      Not nice - mialeading thumbnail...

  • @Yotanido
    @Yotanido 2 ปีที่แล้ว +54

    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.

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      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.

    • @LordOfTheDing
      @LordOfTheDing 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      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.

    • @Yotanido
      @Yotanido 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@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.

    • @xinchen6941
      @xinchen6941 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@LordOfTheDing that "xp" is saver for people like me still using "xi[correction]". Thanks a lot.

    • @devonstarke1568
      @devonstarke1568 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow! Thanks for the info! I'm a vim noob and I had no idea I could do such things. Time to dig in!

  • @aidan7228
    @aidan7228 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    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!

  • @lo-phi-music
    @lo-phi-music 2 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    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

  • @IIoWoII
    @IIoWoII ปีที่แล้ว +47

    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)

    • @musicalweasel1
      @musicalweasel1 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@homerdummy5639 I love seeing the different ways people do the same thing in vim, I never would have thought of this combo

  • @Time4Technology
    @Time4Technology 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    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.

  • @mk8ez364
    @mk8ez364 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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!

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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

    • @lukesalvidge118
      @lukesalvidge118 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      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

    • @devonstarke1568
      @devonstarke1568 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@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.

  • @Baji.Valorant
    @Baji.Valorant 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    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!

    • @OHOE1
      @OHOE1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      motorola check

  • @yohaanmaster2522
    @yohaanmaster2522 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    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?

  • @ibrahimdelice9422
    @ibrahimdelice9422 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    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!

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Amazing story :) I’m glad they’ve impacted you in such a positive way

    • @sikavistasipal5968
      @sikavistasipal5968 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      May I know which split keyboard you purchased? Thank you.

    • @atomydavid
      @atomydavid 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sikavistasipal5968 He mentions Dygma Raise. A staggered split keyboard.

  • @zaibod7244
    @zaibod7244 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    this is an amazing video! so glad it got recommended to me after ~2hrs of split keyboard binge-watching

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you! I’m glad I was a part of your binge lol

  • @gabriellebantay6358
    @gabriellebantay6358 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know nothing at all about keyboards but watching this video was so informative and entertaining. Love your visuals and the script!

  • @michalisfotiadis4966
    @michalisfotiadis4966 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    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.

  • @kein3001
    @kein3001 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    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!

    • @jwapptastic
      @jwapptastic ปีที่แล้ว +3

      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.

  • @layhosik
    @layhosik ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video. Thank you for sharing your experience. Very detailed and I hope you get more views.

  • @TheOwlQueen
    @TheOwlQueen ปีที่แล้ว

    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.

  • @CodeOnBlocks
    @CodeOnBlocks 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    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.

    • @rauldragu9447
      @rauldragu9447 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      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.

  • @zFrizzi
    @zFrizzi 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Dudee, the quality of this video is amazing, you're underrated af, I'm subscribing

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks appreciate it homie

  • @lonelysorrowknight
    @lonelysorrowknight 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    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

  • @felinefurkin4275
    @felinefurkin4275 ปีที่แล้ว

    Most fun review and good to hear the benefits.

  • @kimstreich1808
    @kimstreich1808 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is a fantastic video. Thank you!

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you enjoyed!

  • @MAW__
    @MAW__ ปีที่แล้ว

    You get me 🥺💖 thank you for this, homie!

  • @jwoolson
    @jwoolson ปีที่แล้ว

    Your great sense of humor is a wonderful way to make keyboard nerdery more accessible.

  • @jammies701
    @jammies701 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Love the editing and personality

  • @Mortagus
    @Mortagus 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks for the review, I'm also a developer and I've been thinking about changing my "keyboard" situation for a while now.
    I've also check many videos about the different size of keybord (40%, 65% 75%,...).
    Therefor a question pop into my mind : from the perspective of the efficiency to type code, is there more advantage in a split keyboard or in a better key layout ?
    The question may not be clear enough but I'm not sure how to explain it more.
    This topic is sooo interesting (and yes I'm a nerd as well ;-) )

  • @lexxmurk
    @lexxmurk 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video man! Thank you for showing Ergodox EZ, im just thinking to moving from my k65 rgb corsair to something split almost a year, and after watching video 2-3 times(u did it well really, and your personal feelings with working on split ez amazing and involving, thanks) i've decide to try split keyboards atlast(tryed to come to split several times and something alltime not goes :D ). So my Ergodox EZ already shipping to me :)
    Once more, thanks!

  • @michaelfigueroa8679
    @michaelfigueroa8679 ปีที่แล้ว

    You have opened my eyes bro. Now i just need a spilt keyboard now. Thank you😌

  • @Jazzmusiek
    @Jazzmusiek 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is a really well made video. I’m surprised it doesn’t have more views

  • @snoogcity
    @snoogcity 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Amazing video. Can’t believe it doesn’t have more views. Quality was amazing!!

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you! Hopefully the algorithm will start picking it up more :)

  • @athanasiospetsas9367
    @athanasiospetsas9367 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    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! :)

  • @AyushGupta-wn6zd
    @AyushGupta-wn6zd ปีที่แล้ว

    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.

  • @ajaykrishna21
    @ajaykrishna21 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    4 minutes in, I'm sold! - you just got a subscriber :)

  • @mosjeff
    @mosjeff 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    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!

  • @vatinp
    @vatinp 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    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.

  • @etforde
    @etforde 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I enjoyed this video. Informative and just about exactly as nerdy as I’d expect 😂

  • @450aday
    @450aday ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @tonijz
    @tonijz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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).

  • @Aaron-uw2cu
    @Aaron-uw2cu 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Man! You're not just talking about split keyboard, the way you deliver the content is so amazing. Great video tho.

  • @harrab.2004
    @harrab.2004 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    i really like the infomercial style of coffee cup advantage :D awesome review!

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Haha thanks glad you liked it :)

  • @beansnrice321
    @beansnrice321 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    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.

    • @hyperkun
      @hyperkun 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      what do you mean in your lap. im scared to imagine the unergonomic horrors youre unfolding upon yourself

  • @SteezyAsPie99
    @SteezyAsPie99 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for this video, it helped me make my decision to sub and buy a split keyboard

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No problem! Glad you enjoyed :)

  • @l3xitscomplicated191
    @l3xitscomplicated191 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    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.

  • @streamstriss
    @streamstriss 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Been loving my Kinesis Advantage for many years.

  • @AntoniGawlikowski
    @AntoniGawlikowski 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    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! :)

    • @hugolavaill6579
      @hugolavaill6579 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      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.

    • @AntoniGawlikowski
      @AntoniGawlikowski 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@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! :)

  • @OanDeWaal
    @OanDeWaal 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome video! Love the vibe. If you were to lose all you keyboards, and had to rebuy some, which would be your top two and why?

  • @riftlee
    @riftlee 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    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

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Haha thanks! 🙏 I hope you like your Freestyle :)

  • @hectorrivera960
    @hectorrivera960 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dude, your vibe is just amazing. Keep on going.

  • @jammies701
    @jammies701 ปีที่แล้ว

    Such a good video I had to come back to it just because it’s so good

  • @GUIHTD
    @GUIHTD ปีที่แล้ว

    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!

  • @sidgillespie5879
    @sidgillespie5879 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Dude, you're amazing. Such pleasant people are scarcity these days.

  • @thiag-o
    @thiag-o 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Keep up the good work. This video was eye opening! I might consider an Ergodox in the future. How do you feel about the Moonlander?

  • @carleeto302
    @carleeto302 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The space between for coffee. love that. Really practical. Thank you.

  • @Gerz970
    @Gerz970 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    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.

  • @suburbanyute340
    @suburbanyute340 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just bought the Moon lander from ZSA. my first split keyboard. Can't wait to use it

  • @GeneralXikto
    @GeneralXikto ปีที่แล้ว

    This is a better AD for split keyboards than any AD i have ever seen, now i want one for programming!

  • @Novacasa88
    @Novacasa88 ปีที่แล้ว

    I enjoy your presentation style and personality. will sub.

  • @TainaMalave
    @TainaMalave 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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!

  • @256k_
    @256k_ ปีที่แล้ว +1

    would love to hear about your experience with the ez vs the advantage. especially considering the concavity of the advantage. do you find it's better? i'm kinda torn between say something like the ez vs something like the newer kinesis 360 very similar but 360 has the concave shape (and a massice price tag :D)

  • @anthonycodes
    @anthonycodes ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I came here for the keyboards and stayed for the expert level eyebrow manipulation

  • @motherjugs5163
    @motherjugs5163 ปีที่แล้ว

    Keyboard expert and comedian! LOVE THIS!

  • @versus023
    @versus023 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video. Now i want to code and use a split keyboard now!

  • @__improwise__
    @__improwise__ ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for a nice video. Would have liked a bit more on pros and cons of each keyboard though. Assuming that the Ergodox is probably the favorite? What about the Kinesis Advantage 2 which seems to be receiving high praise?

    • @sabbath9503
      @sabbath9503 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's all just preferance when comparing many of the similar columnar staggered boards. Some offer a more aggressive pinky stagger, some use a different switch profile making it more low profile, some get rid of all the keys they deem unnecessary to further reduce finger travel. The Kinesis Advantage 2 has a static position, so you can't move each half further apart or closer together, which may be a flaw for many people.

  • @_Aikko_
    @_Aikko_ ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing video. Btw does reducing the amount of hand movements also reduce the amount of injuries or totally different things?

  • @oordnave
    @oordnave 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing video dude. Just subscribed.

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks man I’m glad you liked it

  • @pancaxd1450
    @pancaxd1450 ปีที่แล้ว

    You're so funny and talentful, I came for the review but stayed for you :D

  • @pgameplay9639
    @pgameplay9639 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dude you are amazing!

  •  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I'm about moving to one of this popular split keyboard and listen your 5+ years exp helped me a lot. My only question is which one should I pick to start with no previous experience? I was considering the Kinesis freestyle 2 but still checking reviews.

  • @JimM9999
    @JimM9999 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fun review to watch!

  • @ok-ct4ml
    @ok-ct4ml 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    watching this, i'm surprised this has 8.5k views and not several hundred thousands. Great video!

  • @brittanystorey9460
    @brittanystorey9460 ปีที่แล้ว

    You had me at the thumb sneaker kicks. 😆

  • @toddherzman126
    @toddherzman126 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    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.

  • @rainyonrecord
    @rainyonrecord ปีที่แล้ว +1

    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.

  • @RamirezGold
    @RamirezGold ปีที่แล้ว

    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.

  • @hilaryland4187
    @hilaryland4187 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've been using the Mistel Barocco for years as well! Might be time to upgrade to another version of the split style

  • @scorpio2t
    @scorpio2t 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video! Love the programming aspect! Absolute nerd 🦾

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      🤓😤😤

  • @douglashughes2331
    @douglashughes2331 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    OK, I've been using the advantage 2 for a while and love it. Have you tried the advantage 360 pro? If so, what do you think?

  • @AndysTV
    @AndysTV 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video! Do you think Kinesis Advantage 2 is more comfortable than the flat split keyboard?

  • @isaaceliape
    @isaaceliape 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video man, keep up with the good content!! =D

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed :)

  • @AllTheOthers
    @AllTheOthers 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    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.

  • @danielho5635
    @danielho5635 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    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.

  • @EbonySeraphim
    @EbonySeraphim 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    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.

  • @dadmom3775
    @dadmom3775 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This was a great video, however, I thought you would go over many types of split keyboardsss and how they each feel. Is it possible to do so? Or, do you have tried other than these are your two favorite

  • @llKeey
    @llKeey 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    A lot of personality on a seemingly technical video, I enjoyed it

  • @cat_boop
    @cat_boop 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    you’ve inspired me to get an ergodox 😺👍

  • @meeshoot3850
    @meeshoot3850 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks for tips !

  • @beckyb9215
    @beckyb9215 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello, thank you for your awesome video! How does one begin to learn the usage of split keyboards.

  • @maxime.blanquart
    @maxime.blanquart 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Im totally agree with you thant you very much for this video

  • @redfrost88
    @redfrost88 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you for the comprehensive coverage of the benefits of a split keyboard. for the kinesis 2, would you recommend the 9 or 20inch separation?

  • @fa7234
    @fa7234 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Loved the camera shooting angle in many parts of the video. You would be a great movies director

  • @iNemoden
    @iNemoden 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    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

  • @kalcaps
    @kalcaps 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    bro actually is living in 2040. you deserve the best man, keep up the work

  • @animacuso100
    @animacuso100 ปีที่แล้ว

    Plus ultra!
    You made an amazing video :3

  • @johnquant9924
    @johnquant9924 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Which ergo is your favorite? Do you have a video specifically on the ErgoDox? [Langauge and manga nerd moment: BTW, "plus ultra" is not English for "+more" but a Latin motto meaning "more beyond," originally on the pillars of Hercules as "non plus ultra" 'nothing more beyond'].

  • @keenanwells8067
    @keenanwells8067 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well done sir 👏

  • @chimairanl9043
    @chimairanl9043 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the video. If all your keyboard were gone tomorrow...which one would you buy as your daily driver? I have a Kinesis freestyle 2 myself that I use for work (not programming). Prefer mecanic switches but that can get pricy. Love the split design but it is still just a bit too chunky if you use the mouse a lot. I almost never use the special keys on the left or the FN layer. Been thinking about getting a trackball....

    • @Ajackster
      @Ajackster  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I really enjoy my Ergodox EZ but I got it a few years ago so I’m sure there are more amazing ones on the market. I have Cherry MX Clears which I absolutely love to type on (I normally get tired of typing on Browns, Blues, etc. but Clears never)