UltraBoard 950 Compact Keyboard
The New Ultimate Compact Keyboard?
UltraBoard 950 is the latest compact keyboard from BakkerElkhuizen. The light keystroke, 2 USB ports and clear layout make this a complete keyboard.
The biggest difference to a standard keyboard is that it has no numerical section, which makes the keyboard narrower.
A compact keyboard reduces the distance to the mouse and reduces strain on your lower arms. An added benefit is that a compact variant is easier to transport in a laptop bag. You therefore need not rely on your laptop keyboard.
Compact: the keyboard is thinner, narrower and shallower than the S-Board 840.
Ergonomic: its compact shape enables you to adopt a better working posture, with fewer lower arm complaints as a result.
Modern: the UltraBoard 950 has a modern and stylish design.
A compact keyboard lacks the numerical section. The mouse can thus be placed closer to the keyboard.
Research shows 90% of users rarely or never use the numerical section. A compact keyboard is more comfortable because it reduces the distance to the mouse (Cook C, et al., 1998).
It thus reduces strain on the lower arms and shoulders.
Dark letters on a bright background improve legibility (ISO 9241) and contribute to higher productivity (Snyder, 1990).
Overall the typing feeling, speed and comfort is great, the compact nature of the keyboard allows a concise but fully featured experience.
The location of certain keys needs some getting used to, as I found myself fumbling in the first few hours, but once you get that down, it’s all rather natural.
The quick edit section around the arrow keys is rather swift and helpful when editing videos also.
Overall, a very solid keyboard from BakkerElkhuizen and with a Bluetooth compatible version coming soon, you should definitely keep an eye out!
At around the £80 mark, there isn’t much to grumble about for long term keyboard users, fast, efficient and helpful for those who struggle.