The digital age has done a lot for our society. We can order our groceries from the comfort of our homes, make bank payments online, shop, work; the list goes on. But while it has added a new layer of convenience to everyday life, it has also meant we're spending a whole lot more time sitting down at our computers.
I'm not here to get into the nitty-gritty of the perfect ergonomic setup. Most people will at least have a basic understanding of where their chair should be in relation to their desk, and the importance of microbreaks.
What I am going to do is show you what works for me as a digital content writer. I can easily spend upwards of 50 hours every week sitting at my computer writing blog posts, website content, buying guides, travel guides, and more.
While I endeavour to take as many breaks as possible throughout the day, I've also seen the value in buying specialised ergonomic equipment to make sure I'm doing the best by my moneymakers - my hands - as well as my body.
Microsoft 4000 Natural Ergonomic Wired USB Keyboard
Okay, so it's not a keyboard of the future. It's wired, doesn't have any fancy connectivity, and it's large and bulky. But it's good. The split keyboard design promotes natural wrist alignment, while the reverse slope palm lift offers far more support than a standard flat keyboard. An added benefit is that it reduces wrist pronation and key reach.
I'm not going to lie, it took me a couple of weeks to get used to this style of keyboard, but it was an adjustment period that was well worth it. Whether you want to prevent wrist strain or alleviate any pain or discomfort you're already experiencing, the Microsoft 4000 Ergonomic Keyboard is worth your inspection. Pick it up here for $79.35 from PBTech.
Logitech MX Ergo Advanced Bluetooth And Wireless Trackball
If someone were to tell a past version of me that I would spend nearly $150 on a mouse, I would say they were insane. Who on earth spends that much on a mouse when they come free with a new computer? Well, there's a reason why I now have three regular computer mouse in a drawer and this bad boy on my desk. It's just that good.
The Logitech mouse is a cut above the rest in every conceivable way. You'll be quick to notice that it doesn't look like a regular computer mouse. Instead of a sensor underneath to move it around your desk, this mouse remains stationary. Instead, you run the trackball with your thumb to move the cursor on your screen.
By using a trackball mouse, users experience 20 percent less muscular strain. Thanks to an adjustable hinge, you can also set the angle at 0 or 20 degrees to best suit your preferred ergonomic setup.
The advancements and convenience don't end there. At the touch of a button, you can change your cursor's accuracy and speed, and the precision scroll wheel has a middle click and horizontal scrolling function.
Finally, the Logitech MX Ergo Mouse battery lasts forever. A single charge can offer around four months of use, and even just a one-minute charge will set you up for a full day. While it's plugged in, take a moment to play with the Logitech settings to choose the best settings and options for you. You can purchase this mouse for $148.99 from PBTech here.
Workspace Valencia Highback Chair
Completing the package is the Workspace Valencia Highback Chair, available for $249.00 from Warehouse Stationery. As far as chairs go, this isn't the best that money can buy, but it is worth its price tag.
It has soft-touch PU leather-look upholstery, a comfort rating for five hours, and a 120kg weight limit. It also comes with a one-year warranty to sweeten the deal.
According to the manufacturer's booklet, the assembly process should take around 10 minutes, but I would recommend allowing at least 20 minutes and factor in divorce proceedings if you're putting it together with your significant other.
However, for all its good points, it has one glaring fault. Its armrests are not adjustable, which means that if your desk is at a set height, you may not be able to push the chair under it. You may also find that the armrests impact your ability to achieve the best monitor to chair height. Fortunately, if that's a problem, you can undo the armrests and use the chair without them.
So, there you have it! To do the best by my wrists, fingers, and back, I've invested in some of the best ergonomic products on the market.
Comments