The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard has been a favorite among office professionals and productivity-focused users since its release in 2013. Designed to reduce wrist strain, its simple split-key layout makes it a solid choice for ergonomic typing. Initially launched at an MSRP of $129.95 USD, it was sold in a package that included the keyboard, a uniquely designed mouse, and a separate numpad. Later versions shipped with only the keyboard and numpad.
Despite being officially discontinued in 2023, new units are still available in Canada through Incase Canada, which continues to manufacture the keyboard with "Designed by Microsoft" branding. As far as we can tell, the keyboard remains unchanged apart from the logo.
For those outside Canada, alternatives like the Logitech Ergo K860 offer similar split-keyboard ergonomics. While adjusting to a split keyboard layout takes time, the long-term ergonomic benefits are well worth it.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
THE GOOD
- Ergonomics
One of the more popular split ergonomic keyboards for office professionals and productivity work.
THE BAD
- Discontinued
The official Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard has been discontinued. However, in Canada, new units are still available through Incase Canada, which manufactures the keyboard under the "Designed by Microsoft" branding.
- Learning Curve
Users new to split keyboards may require an adjustment period due to the non-traditional layout. There is a learning curve for those accustomed to staggered keyboard designs.
THE REST
- Overall
A well-regarded split keyboard designed for office and casual typing rather than high-speed gaming.
In the Box the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard comes with the keyboard itself, a numpad, an elevated stand with magnetic attachment, wireless receiver, 2x AAA batteries, and user documentation. While the keyboard’s plastic construction may feel somewhat cheap, it remains sturdy, exhibiting minimal flex and providing a quiet typing experience. However, the glossy top plate and rubberized wrist rest are prone to collecting fingerprints, and the ABS keycaps will develop shine over time with prolonged use. The keyboard came in a non-descript cardboard box.
The included elevated stand is made of hard plastic and feels less premium but features a clever magnetic attachment, allowing for a fixed incline that lifts the wrists. The keyboard connects exclusively via the included wireless USB receiver and is powered by two AAA batteries.
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Side of the box.
The keyboard is placed on a 900 x 400 mm desk pad next to a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse.
The right side of the keyboard containing the navigation keys.
The left side of the keyboard.
The keyboard is connected by a USB Type-A wireless receiver.
The Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard does not include backlighting. It features basic software that allows users to configure macros on the function keys and assign different profiles per application. The keyboard is fully compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
The Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard utilizes a membrane keyboard design with scissor-switch mechanisms, providing a linear and soft typing experience. While its latency is relatively high, it is designed for office and productivity use rather than high-speed applications. Due to its curved ergonomic design, key actuation data could not be measured with our testing robot.
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard features an attached wrist rest and an elevated stand that lifts the keyboard at a fixed angle. The wave-shaped layout is intended to promote a more natural wrist and hand position, reducing strain during extended typing sessions.
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The ergonomics of the keyboard without the stand.