Keychron and Gizmodo Japan develop Orca echo split keyboard

Keychron and Gizmodo Japan have collaborated to develop the Orca echo, a split ergonomic keyboard designed to improve typing posture and efficiency.

Unlike traditional horizontal keyboards that require users to rotate their wrists inward and hunch their shoulders, the split design allows for a more natural arm position at shoulder width. This configuration helps reduce physical strain caused by constant wrist rotation and inward elbow movement. Some models also include stands to provide inclination, further assisting with ergonomic alignment.

Adapting to a split keyboard layout, which often features a column-staggered design and a specific key count, may require a learning period. Users can choose to master formal touch typing to improve efficiency or tune their existing typing styles to fit the new layout. While initial typing speeds may decrease during the adjustment phase, the ergonomic benefits aim to make long-term daily work more comfortable.