Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 - B2M-00012 - Makes day-to-day tasks easier with a more natural wrist alignment!
USB

Microsoft made another crap!! Similar to the review on 4/13/2008, this keyboad causes computer to malfunction. It interfers with booting sequence, and possibly I/O sequence by keep sending data to a computer. (without me typing) If I plug in after booted, it worked fine for few hours, and then start sending a data again. (without me typing, of course) I never saw or hear defect keyboad other than this product at my work or private. You DO NOT want this product. Simple device like keyboad must not have high defect ratio.
 
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I agree with the reviews that noted the sticky, hard to push and noisy space bar. It's really to bad. Otherwise, it's a very nice keyboard. IT's well designed, easy to adjust to and comfortable to use. While it takes space, I'm glad that I took a little time to get used the the raised wrist pad. BUT the space bar takes extra effort to push and then clunks at the bottom.
 
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Over the last 14 years or so, I've had many ergonomic keyboards & 3 or 4 Natural Ergonomic keyboards. This model is the best by far. Working 8-10 hrs a day on a computer, comfort & avoiding a repetitive stress injury is very important. This keyboard has been a key component in this. The Natural Ergonomic keyboard can be positioned so hands & thus arms in a comfortable position. The built-in wrist rest is a huge plus to keep strain off of the wrist & hand. The angling down & out from the center allows your arms to remain at a natural, relaxed angle to your body. All this adds up to less arm, shoulder & back strain & fatigue for me. This keyboard is also durable, lasting about 3 years of hard use. It is well worth the cost.
 
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YES! It is about time! About fifteen years ago I owned one of the early ergonomic Microsoft keyboards. I think it was called the "Microsoft Natural Keyboard". It was laid out very much like the Ergonomic 4000 I am using to write this review. I loved it! Until the 4000 there has not been a keyboard to compare. I like the many different ways it can be set up. My hands fall in a very natural position on the keyboard which makes typing much easier. I plan on using it for a long time and if it should wear out, I hope it will still be available or there will be good equivalent to replace it. Congratulations Microsoft for the introduction of the "Ergonomic 4000 Keyboard!" Love it!
 
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This is the second one I have purchased, it replaced a Microsoft Natural (Elite I think) that died after some years of use. I really like the feel of the board and the command keys for my usual software. Easy to set up and use.
 
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From a comfort perspective, this is easily the best keyboard I've ever used. I've had MS ergo keyboards for years, but this design is clearly superior to past models. I had some problems with the software that came with it so I uninstalled it. I lose the function of some of the addt'l keys, but could care less. The key touch is firm, but I like it; and it doesn't make a lot of noise when I'm typing fast.
 
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I cannot deal with the standard keyboards. The natural is a natural! I've been using the "natural" for abour 10 years now & bought this one for my new HP laptop along with the MS wireless USB optical mouse & am totally satisfied. MS keeps making the natural keyboard better & better!!!!!
 
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I had the previous version of this keyboard and loved it. I couldn't connect the old one to my new PC so had to get the newer version. It's a great keyboard. It's even more comfortable than the previous version.
 
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Space Bar sticks, along with the H & G keys. Any benefit of an ergonomic design is eliminated when you realize how much force is required to type on this keyboard. I'm returning it today!
 
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The product was better than I expected it to be. I bought two of them. Buy.com undoubtably has the best deals on the net. They always provide excellent prices, and service for their products. You can count on them to follow through on any problems or questions you may have. Their shipping is the best that I have ever had with any company. I always receive what I ordered within 2 or 3 days if in stock without having to pay an additional extravagant price like most companies require. Great company, Buy.com.
 
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Very easy to use. The only thing that I don't like is that it is to big to fit into my keyboard tray at my desk.
 
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This keyboard is the best value in it's category. Once again Buy.com had the best best price on this comfortable and affordable keyboard.
 
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I bought a Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 for my wife's computer. She liked it. It worked for a couple of weeks and then her computer wouldn't boot -- no keyboard. I unplugged the USB connection, plugged it back in, and it worked for a few more days. Then her computer wouldn't boot, no matter what -- no keyboard. I went back to the PS2 keyboard she had been using, and ordered another MNEK 4000. When it came, I plugged it in and it worked for a few days. Then, it wouldn't work at all. I don't know whether the problem is in the keyboards or the computer. Whichever it is, it's been an unpleasant experience.
 
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This is a wonderful keyboard for people that has problems typing and pain in the wrist. A natural feel and easy to operate. You wont go wrong with this one.
 
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I had a MS Ergo keyboard years ago in another office. Loved it...and left it. When I plunked down $3,000 plus for my Dell XPS Gen 5 nearly three years ago I figured their keyboard would be good enough. Well now that i-phones have more power than my desktop I treated myself to this keyboard. A bit of a learning curve for the fingers but worth it. I am typing faster, more accurately and more comfortably. The keys are a *bit* hard to push...it's a firm board...but works great. Well designed and very comfy.
 
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This is a really good keyboard, ergonomically and my hands and wrists feel tons better using it. However, the space bar is a really hard keystroke; it is a very sticky key - it is the same on all three of the keyboards I have and was that way for all three right out of the box. If it wasn't for that, the keyboard would be perfect.
 
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The Microsoft 4000 keyboard has a convenient layout and a nice set of features. The keys have a nice, springy key feel, and the ergonomic design with its split-key pattern and sloping key position may help those of you with wrist issues. Not sure why they made the "N" key so large, and the enter key so small, though. Once you get used to that, this is a great keyboard, if you find it on sale.
 
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I brought this keyboard and I am so please with it. I order two more for my brother and my office. Beside the lack of USB port, and multimedia keys on the keyboard -- it is a very comfortable keyboard. The Reverse Slope add-on really does enhance the wrist resting on it. So give it a try and if you don't like it then alway feel free to return it right?
 
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This is certainly the best ergo keyboard Microsoft has produced. The keys press so softly and quietly, compared to the clacking of typical keyboards. The keys don't travel as far down, much like a laptop keyboard, which potentially enables faster keystrokes. It also looks very stylish and modern (or even futuristic), blending in perfectly with the silver and black of many of today's monitors and mice. I got my employer to buy me one and I love it. I then bought one for the home office and my wife's PC. Coworkers don't seem to have embraced the ergo keyboard concept but then again they don't seem to have taken a typing class, either. They peck awkwardly at my board when they need to enter something into my workstation (and grumble at its design). I, however, do know how to type. It doesn't take too much time to adapt to an ergo keyboard if you can type, and after a few days you'll wonder how you ever got along without one. This product has a lot of buttons that I don't use, however, such as Media Player controls and Internet Explorer shortcuts but that's just my preference. I can also say that this board won't work with a USB to PS/2 adapter through a PS/2 KVM (for those of you who know what that is). I had to upgrade my KVM to USB-only (so I deducted one point in my rating for that, but for all I know this issue could apply to all USB keyboards because I only used PS/2 models with my old switch). Overall, if you can type, I highly recommend this keyboard. That goes double if you already use an ergonomic model because the feel of this one is so smooth. If you cannot type, you should consider taking a class. How do you two-fingered typists cope in this world of computers? LOL
 
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This is a really nice ergonomic keyboard built with a lot of attention to the details. The most important aspect of any ergonomic keyboard is comfort for hands and wrists. I find that all major keys on this keyboard are easily reachable from a very neutral hand/wrist position - with wrists resting on the provided support. I did find that this keyboard helped me reduce my pain in my wrists.
 
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I love this keyboard soo much, I bought three of them! Worth every penny! Plus, you cant beat buy.com's price! www.FileYourReceipt.com - "Never lose a receipt again! "
 
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This is my 3rd MS Natural Keyboard 4000. It is so comfortable that I have to have it at home, work and got one for my brother! The reverse slope add-on piece does improve the comfort -- so do give it a chance and try it with the reverse-slope too. With this natural keyboard....I notice that I can be on the computer longer hours without feeling like my hands are tire. The hot keys is very nice but Microsoft could have improve it by adding a built-in USB hub like their previous model. So if you are looking for a Natural Keyboard...then THIS IS THE KEYBOARD TO GET! Retail is going for $60+ and let not forget to add tax. Buy it from Buy.com and save $20+, tax + FREE Shipping. I got it in two days shipping to Houston. Buy.com shipped it from Dallas, TX. Hope this quick review help your buying decision on this keyboard. =)
 
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Excellent, just excellent! This new keyboard design is a more comfortable hand position over the original Microsoft Natural keyboard, very customizable to your comfort using the included front support. The keys have a very nice 'soft' feel. The new function keys are very handy! If there is one thing that's missing would be a couple USB ports for added convenience. Finally, this is THE replacement for the original natural keyboard.
 
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I've been using this keyboard at work for several months now, and after about a week to really get used to it - I'm loving it! There are two things that keep me from giving it 5 stars for performance/ease of use: no USB ports (for a mouse or other low-power device) which I miss from the original Apple keyboard, and the zoom rocker switch REALLY needs to be remap-able as a scroll key. If they would just include that in the driver software, I would happily overlook the USB ports. But, I still just bought one for home, and recommended it to my wife for her work.
 
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Really good keyboard. Makes typing really simple. The feel of the keys is great. Let of programmable buttons. I only wish the zoom key in the center of the keyboard was programmable too. I mean, how often would someone use a zoom key? Otherwise its a really nice product.
 
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If you are not familiar with a black keyboards, beware. It is difficult to see the white lettering on the keys unless it is in a brightlly lit location. Black looks nice and stylish on display in the store or office but at home some computers are used in lower level light. Why do you think it is being sold as a discount?
 
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This is a great keyboard. I liked it from the start. It is very easy to type on.
 
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This keyboard is really nice. I had a previous model of the keyboard that I was very pleased with, but it started having problems after ~6 years of use. I use my keyboard daily and this one has a great feel.
 
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I have been using the Microsoft Natural keyboards since the first incarnation back in 1995. I remember clearly buying it because of the pain in my wrists (early stages of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome CTS). It took me about a week to get used the key layout and the issue with CTS eventually subsided. Since then I have used each and every version of their keyboards. The first version didn't fit in the keyboards drawers, so they developed a compromised smaller version the following year. All the keyboards up until this one however had a fixed angle and separation in the keys while this new one has a completely swerving set of keys and palm resting spot that really makes you stare and admire it's beauty aside from it's equivalently admiring comfort. The keys, while still separated and angled away from each other also curve back towards you -- almost as if following the length of your fingers. The resting spot is also curved in a hill like fashion. You really have to see it in person to admire it. It's so different I had to get used it when compared to the previous versions -- but now after using it for a week, I just love everything about it. The key feel also improved dramatically -- you have to press less than before and i feels almost cushioned-like.
 
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If you do massive amounts of typing with this keyboard, the letters and numbers on the keys wear off. Inconvenient when other people want to use the keyboard that do not already automatically know a keyboard. I think I liked the Microsoft Natural keyboard that was out years ago better. I feel it was constructed better than this keyboard.
 
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This keyboard is very comfortable to use. I've used the "natural" type keyboards since they have been available to the public, and I love them. On this model, there aren't as many hot keys as there are on the previous Microsoft natural keyboard (the grey with blue hot keys),and I used most of them a lot. Also, this keyboard is black with white lettering, which is not as easy on the eyes as the previous model.
 
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I am so happy with my new Microsoft keyboard. Still has features I am trying to figure out how to use, but the comfort with the wrists and shoulders in using this keyboard are great. Would not exchange it for any other kind.
 
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Be aware that this keyboard only works with USB. Even if you have a USB to PS/2 converter no cigar. This is one reason I give it a 4 on ease of use and overall satisfaction. The zoom switch in the middle would be more usefull if it were a scroll. I also wish they had a wireless version. With all that said this keyboard is very nice. I am a software engineer so I use the keyboard all day, everyday. I owned an older version Microsoft Ergonomic keyboard. It takes about 8 hours to get use to. This keyboard has a great feel and the keys have a better feel then the old keyboard. I also like the full size arrow buttons and Insert/Home/etc. buttons. The enter key and space bar are a little small, however it has not been an issue for me. The cushioned paslm rest is very nice. I had a PS/2 KVM swtich. I liked this keyboard so much that I ended up also buying a Belkin USB KVM. PS/2 KVM switch will not work with this keyboard. With all the latest drivers installed the keyboard KVM combo work great.
 
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I've held on to my original Microsoft Natural Keyboard for years waiting for a decent replacement. Finally Microsoft made another one that's a worthy successor. The raised front and the key placement are perfect. The new padded wrist rest and the additional functions are nice touches. The key feel isn't quite as good as the old one, but still pretty good.
 
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Forget ebay where you buy products and wait and offcourse wait. I bought this keyboard online (much cheaper) compared to best buy and other stores and I had the keyboard delivered to me in less than a week!
 
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This keyboard was an easy transition from the standard keyboard I used to have. The keys are not as skewed as the old ergonomic/natural keyboards which makes it easier to use in my opinion, while still allowing your wrists to keep their natural alignment. The function key placement is taking some getting used to, but other than that, it's a fantastic keyboard.
 
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This is the best microsoft ergonomic keyboard yet, and I've used them all at one time or another. At the price you can buy this keyboard here at Buy.com, you'd have to pay three to four times as much for the same or better functionality at one of the companies selling the "high-end" ergonomic keyboards. Its main feature is the angling of the two halves of the main keyboard, the sizing of the keys and the creation of a partially "humped" design, sloping the keyboard to each side from the center to allow for a natural hand positioning and shorter reach to the keys, especially the number keys. I can actually reach the number keys without needing to move my hands from their position on the hand rest or look at the keyboard to make sure I'm hitting the correct key. And, the reach to the function keys is now shorter as well, requiring only a small move from the resting typing position. Also, the "feel" of the key action is greatly improved over the prior Microsoft offerings with a built-in resistence that provides positive tactile feedback as the key is pressed fully. This new "touch" took a bit of getting used to, but once I adapted to it, my typing speed and accuracy went up. The additional support at the "front" of the keyboard, which raises the hand rest, positions the keyboard very well for me to assume a restful typing position at my workstation. Also, this device can be removed for those preferring a more "traditional" keyboard positioning. The positioning of the Zoom and Back/Forward controls is much better than before and much easier to use than reaching for the mouse. I like the "traditional" design of the navigation keys to the right of the primary keys rather than the outsized Delete key that has been used on some of the later models of the Microsoft ergonomic keyboards. I only hope the durability and "coffee resistance" of this keyboard matches it's design and functionality.
 
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The ergonomic keyboard has improved since there first generation of keyboards. I use this one at the office, it types well, keys are layed out great, and the arch of the keyboard is improved over previous models. One gripe I have is the overall size of the keyboard (and most ergonomic keyboards for that matter). This is just a tradeoff for comfort vs. size. Definitly not that big of a concern. I like it.
 
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i've used MS natural kbds for more than 10 years now. i still have the original design one in my closet - the one with elevation bar in the front. those were awesome! talk about "clicky" keys and sturdy like a bunker. used it for 9+ years until finally something went wrong. the new ones are totally whimpy. i bought this particular one 6 mo ago; now a whole bunch of keys don't respond (unless the kids spilled something as per other reviewer's note). i am coming back to buy another one though just because they are so comfortable, and really the best thing for your hands when typing. it's worth the extra $$ to avoid the long term damage to your arms. but beware of flimsy construction!
 
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I write software for a living and was experiencing pain in my wrists after typing all day. After purchasing this keyboard, the pain is gone! I love the feel of the keys and the look is great too. The "zoom" feature is nice and works similar to a mouse wheel in most documents. I don't use most of the extra keys but I'm sure many will like them. I've replaced our home keyboards as well so that my kids learn to type on a keyboard that is safe for long term use.
 
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This keyboard is a slightly lighter touch than I prefer (I like the keys to be a little more "clicky") but I am getting used to that. The big wins with it are the raised center (to help address pronation), and the full 6-pack and inverted T. If you prefer a lighter touch, or that is not your biggest concern, I enthusiastically recommend it.
 
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This is a great keyboard, for a long time I have put stuff under my keyboard to get the angle right. Now I don't have to! Yea! The wrist rest is nice feels great I recommend trying it out in a store first and then buying it from Buy.com because they were the cheapest. It works great on a Mac too, no bugs so far just wish I could map the favorite keys to key pushes not just locations. Oh well. The most comfortable keyboard I have ever used.
 
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I got this keyboard, because my wrists, and hands were starting to become unbearably painful. Within a week of using this keyboard, I'm noticing the pain slowly subside. And it's forcing me to type correctly, making me type even faster. Pretty cool keyboard - and highly recommend
 
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