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Ergonomics of the ADM42

When designing the ADM42, we aimed to create a keyboard where all keys can be reached as easily as possible without the need to move hands. The use of thumbs and the symmetry of the modifiers promote hand alternation, distributing the load more effectively.

Hands position on the ADM42 keyboard

Below is a list of what we consider as ergonomic features:

  • One-key distance - The keys are positioned within a maximum distance of one key from the home position, minimizing finger and hand movement
  • Angled split layout - A confortable base position with hands aligned with forearms
  • Symetric modifiers & thumbs usage - Favor hand alternation and reduce the load on weaker fingers
  • Thumbs cluster - Keys are perfectly aligned with the natural rotation of thumbs
  • Vertical staggering - Optimal finger placement for balanced access to both upper and lower rows
  • Columnar arrangement - Reduces lateral finger movements
  • Optimized layouts - Colemak-DH, ColeMAX, Colemak and Dvorak are included
  • Flatness - Comfortable without requiring a palmrest
  • Hot-swap switches - Allow the use of your favorite switches

Besides alleviating fatigue and reducing stress on fingers, especially the pinkies, we anticipate that these features will significantly enhance typing speed and accuracy.

Thumbs Cluster

Thumb cluster position

Interestingly, Dygma, while designing their Defy keyboard, has arrived at the exact same conclusion as ADM42, determining the position of thumbs keys that are the most comfortable to use for all hand sizes.

Ortholinearity

Old typewriter

Back to the era of old mechanical typewriters, each key was linked to a bar that physically struck the paper. To accommodate multiple rows of keys, a staggered arrangement was employed. Operating such keyboards necessitates constant micro-movements, leading to the perpetual adjustment of our wrists.

In the present day, this design is utterly obsolete, given that physical bars have been supplanted by electrical signals. However, the conventional layout persists, perpetuating inherent inconveniences.

With an ortholinear keyboard your wrist remains consistently positioned.