Reduced Wrist Pain and Increased Productivity – What Real Customers Review About the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE Keyboard

According to reviewers, this isn’t just theory – it delivers real relief. After trying the CLEAVE, one user remarked they “noticed the straightening of my wrists” within minutes, confirming that “the angle is right and comfortable.” With wrists no longer twisted outward (a motion called ulnar deviation that causes pain), users can type without the familiar ache creeping in. LinusTechTips’ evaluation similarly noted the CLEAVE’s “comfortable split design” keeps wrists in a healthy, neutral position, “reducing overall ‘ulnar deviation’ (twisting of your wrists) and shoulder pain” while typing.

Crucially, the CLEAVE achieves this ergonomic posture without sacrificing keys or usability. Many ergonomic keyboards force you to give up useful keys (like arrow keys or function keys) for the sake of design. But the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE manages a full 91-key layout in a compact form. It includes a standard function row, arrow cluster, and even dedicated hotkeys for Cut, Copy, Paste, and Undo right in the center – all keys that heavy computer users rely on. This means you don’t have to contort your hands or frequently switch hand position, further reducing strain. “It’s got a split design and compact layout to reduce wrist twisting without losing so many keys that your productivity suffers,” as one reviewer put it. In short, the CLEAVE’s layout is carefully engineered for comfort: it positions commonly-used keys where your stronger thumbs can hit them (for example, Enter, Backspace, and Delete sit under your thumbs instead of requiring a pinky stretch), and it narrows the keyboard’s overall width so your mouse is closer at hand (minimizing shoulder reach).

No wonder users like the Amazon reviewer Bradley D. gush that the CLEAVE is “an absolute gem” that solved all [his] issues with other keyboards. He had tried a Microsoft Sculpt and even the famously ergonomic Kinesis Advantage, but still struggled with strain – until the CLEAVE. Now he reports zero wrist pain and greatly reduced finger reach during long programming sessions, saying “ergonomic, mechanical, backlit, programmable…all in one board. What is not to like!”.

Importantly, the CLEAVE is a fully fixed split (one-piece keyboard with two angled halves). While it doesn’t offer adjustable tenting or separation distance, its angle and columnar key arrangement are tuned to an average comfortable posture. Some hardcore ergonomists prefer completely separate halves or tenting (raising the middle for a tent-like shape), but many CLEAVE users find that the provided angle is sufficient to keep their arms relaxed. And unlike fully split keyboards, the CLEAVE’s halves are close enough that you don’t need to drastically move your arms apart – a balance that one reviewer noted still “allows for a comfortable typing position” without excessive spacing.

Integrated Palm Rest = Immediate Comfort

Another big comfort win: the integrated cushioned palm rest. The front of the CLEAVE features a built-in palm support (often mistakenly called a wrist rest) covered in a firm-yet-soft polyurethane. Reviewers love this addition. Linus Tech Tips highlighted the palm rest as “firm, yet comfortable, and doesn’t act like a fuzz magnet. Really nice actually.” Having a place to rest the base of your palms means your wrists stay in a neutral, unbent angle when you’re not striking keys – and Truly Ergonomic deliberately designed it as a palm rest (not a wrist rest) to discourage harmful wrist pressure. A long-time user on his personal blog also praised the CLEAVE’s palm rests: “The keyboard feels very sturdy, and the palm rests are really comfortable. I experience no discomfort at all when typing” [asmand.wordpress.com].

All told, the CLEAVE’s ergonomic engineering directly tackles the root causes of typing pain – and real customers confirm that it works. They report dramatic reductions in wrist, hand, and even shoulder discomfort after making the switch. As a summary: “Bye bye wrist pain… hello comfortable typing.”

Premium Build Quality for All-Day Use

A keyboard that promises to improve your health isn’t much good if it’s flimsy or unreliable. Here again, reviewers of the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE have been pleasantly surprised. The build quality is consistently described as excellent, from the materials to the fit-and-finish.

The CLEAVE’s case is built from a unibody aerospace-grade aluminum alloy in a sleek space-gray finish. Pick it up, and you immediately feel the heft of that metal construction (the keyboard weighs about 2 lbs/950 g). There’s zero flex in the frame – a TechPowerUp review notes the chassis feels “extremely sturdy” – and no creaking or cheapness. In fact, TechPowerUp explicitly lists “good build quality” as a pro, highlighting the foam-dampened aluminum frame and overall solid construction. A Reddit user who received his CLEAVE agreed: “Build quality and materials are nice,” he wrote, giving a nod of approval to the sturdy feel [reddit.com]. Another reviewer said the keyboard “feels very sturdy…the overall feel is of a really high quality” [asmand.wordpress.com], which matches the premium materials used.

This robust build isn’t just for show – it contributes to durability and comfort. The aluminum top case keeps the keyboard from bouncing or sliding as you type. (The underside has five large rubber pads that grip your desk, preventing unwanted movement.) Inside, the aluminum frame and an internal foam sheet help dampen keystroke vibrations, so you don’t get any hollow ping or reverberation when typing. Typing on the CLEAVE feels solid and stable, which users find satisfying, especially if they are coming from cheaper dreadful keyboards.

Keys & Switches: The CLEAVE uses optical mechanical switches for its keys – a modern switch technology that uses infrared light for actuation instead of metal contacts. These switches offer the same tactile feel as mechanical switches (and they are Cherry MX Type keycap compatible, so you can customize keycaps easily) but with potentially greater durability. They’re rated for 100 million keystrokes (far beyond typical switch lifespans) and don’t suffer from contact debounce or chatter issues. Users have three switch options when buying: linear (smooth and quiet), tactile (bump feedback), or clicky (tactile bump + audible click). So whether you prefer a silent typing experience or the classic clicky feel, there’s a CLEAVE switch for you.

Reviewers who are mechanical keyboard enthusiasts have appreciated this flexibility. One TechPowerUp writer noted it’s rare for an ergonomic keyboard to cater to enthusiasts with hot-swappable switches and customization, but the CLEAVE does – you can even swap in other optical switches if you desire a different feel. In practice, one Amazon user loved the default feel but chose to replace the stock light tactile switches with slightly heavier ones to perfectly suit his preference; he was thrilled that “few off-the-shelf keyboards allow this level of customization,” calling it evidence of the CLEAVE’s “enthusiast-friendly construction.”

For the average professional, the key takeaway is that the CLEAVE’s keys are reliable, responsive, and built to last. They register every press with precision (no double-letters or missed keys, thanks to the optical activation) and maintain consistency even after years of heavy use. Plus, the keys have per-key white LED backlighting with multiple brightness levels – useful if you work in low-light environments or just enjoy a bit of keyboard illumination. Several reviewers mention the backlight is a nice touch, and you can customize which keys are lit or choose from preset lighting profiles.

It’s also worth noting that the CLEAVE is a wired keyboard, connecting via USB. While some might initially wish for wireless, many users actually count the wired connection as a positive. One customer who came from a wireless Microsoft Sculpt was relieved that with the CLEAVE he “no longer frequently loses connectivity” – the stable wired USB link means no interference or battery headaches. And because it’s wired, you can keep the backlight on all day without worrying about battery life. As one marketing blurb says: “Forget about battery life. Keep the backlight on as long as you need without worrying about a blackout.” For professionals, a reliable always-on keyboard is often preferable to dealing with wireless receivers or recharging.

Build Quality Summary: The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE feels like a premium piece of kit – heavy, well-engineered, and built for long-term daily use. Users consistently praise its solid aluminum body, quality key mechanisms, and comfortable finish (like the soft-touch palm rest) [asmand.wordpress.com]. This matters not just for longevity, but also for comfort and confidence: you can comfortably rest your hands on the keyboard and type firmly without the device sliding or flexing. For anyone typing all day at work, that stability and quality can even reduce fatigue, since you’re not subconsciously compensating for a wobbly or small keyboard. In short, the CLEAVE’s hardware won’t let you down – it’s as serious about durability and build quality as it is about ergonomics.

Typing Experience: What’s the Learning Curve?

By now you might be thinking: this all sounds great, but will it be hard to adjust to such a different keyboard? It’s a fair question. The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE does rearrange the familiar QWERTY layout in notable ways. Keys like Backspace, Enter, and others move to new locations (generally toward the center). The letter keys are in straight columns. There’s an extra Control key where Caps Lock usually lives, etc. Switching from a conventional keyboard to this can feel strange at first – like learning a new skill.

The good news: users report that the learning curve is very manageable, and well worth the effort. In fact, the manufacturer advises allowing about “10–15 days to adapt and unlock the full ergonomic benefits”. Many owners found that within two weeks of daily use, they were typing at full speed and without conscious effort on the new layout. One Amazon reviewer noted it took him “a solid three weeks to feel completely comfortable with the new key locations,” but also emphasized that it was “well worth the effort” because the payoff was pain-free typing for the first time in ages. After those initial weeks, he describes the CLEAVE’s layout as “my new normal” and says each time he briefly goes back to a regular keyboard, it only reinforces how superior the CLEAVE feels.

A tech blogger who reviewed the CLEAVE compared it to relearning some typing habits, but noted an interesting perspective: “We mustn’t fear the new and unknown just because we’ve been trained to do something else.” In his experience, after spending a short time adapting, the benefits (like straighter wrists) became evident. He even remarked that if you’re willing to relearn typing “for the purpose of correcting your ergonomics, then the CLEAVE is for you… it might save you from having to wear a wrist brace for the rest of your life. That’s the selling point.” In other words, yes, you invest some time in adaptation, but the reward could literally be the difference between chronic pain and comfortable productivity for years to come.

Several strategies can help in the adjustment period, according to users:

• Start Slow: In the first few days, type at a relaxed pace to build muscle memory. Accuracy first, then speed. Many users do typing tests or practice drills to get used to the new key positions. By week two, most report significant improvement in speed.
• Embrace the Built-in Layout: The CLEAVE’s default key mappings are designed for efficiency, even if they seem odd initially. For example, having a Control key by your left pinky (in Caps Lock’s spot) actually makes common shortcuts easier. One programmer noted that once he adapted, he loved having Ctrl there for shortcuts and mapped the extra left spacebar to Alt for even faster Access to Alt-key combos [reddit.com]. Try using the CLEAVE with minimal custom re-mapping at first, to learn its logic.
• Use Both Thumbs: If you’re used to only hitting Space with one thumb, the CLEAVE will encourage you to use both thumbs for different keys like space, shift, and enter. It may feel foreign, but as one owner put it, having multiple thumb keys is “a big deal” and soon becomes intuitive. Your thumbs are strong and can handle a lot – training yourself to utilize them more will speed up the adjustment.
• Give It Time (But Not Too Much): Aim to use the CLEAVE exclusively for at least two weeks. If you switch back-and-forth with a normal keyboard too often during this phase, it might slow your progress. Many users found 10–15 days was enough to reach their old typing speed, and around 3 weeks to feel fully natural.

Real-world reports back this up. One user posted an update after using the CLEAVE for a month at work, saying it took him “the better part of two work weeks” to get back to his natural typing rhythm, but after that he was completely comfortable. Another longtime ergonomic keyboard user (already familiar with ortholinear layouts) said his “learning curve was nearly non-existent” for basic typing, though he did need to adjust for a few weeks to the CLEAVE’s unique placement of keys like Shift [asmand.wordpress.com]. Also important, even those who struggled initially almost always conclude that the effort is worthwhile. As one blogger put it, “the layout can take a while to get used to, but is really worth the effort” for the comfort gains. Users frequently mention they have no desire to go back to a regular keyboard after acclimating to the CLEAVE’s feel.

In summary, expect a learning curve of about 1–3 weeks depending on your familiarity with ergonomic layouts. During this time you might make more typos or feel slow. But stick with it – virtually all the positive reviewers we gathered say that once you adapt, your typing becomes fluid and instinctive on the CLEAVE, and all those initial quirks fade away. The reward is typing in comfort, without pain, and without even thinking about the keyboard – which is the ultimate goal of any good ergonomic device.

(Tip: The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE comes with a handy printed quick-start guide that shows the default key mappings and how to remap keys or record macros on-board. Keep this reference sheet nearby during your first week – it’s a lifesaver whenever you forget where a less common key is or want to customize a function.)

Productivity Boost: Type Comfortably and Get More Done

Ergonomics isn’t just about health – it’s also about maintaining productivity. One fear people have when moving to a new keyboard is, “Will this slow me down, or will I still be as productive?” With the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE, the answer from real users is a resounding more productive: it not only maintains productivity, it can actually improve it for several reasons.

First, as discussed, the CLEAVE’s layout retains all essential keys. You’re not constantly reaching for a mouse or performing awkward key combinations for basic functions. For instance, the CLEAVE is one of the few ergonomic keyboards that includes a full Function (F1–F12) row and dedicated arrow keys within easy reach. A software developer on Amazon highlighted this, praising that it’s tenkeyless (no number pad) but still has the function keys and arrows, meaning he has everything he needs for coding shortcuts and navigation. He called out that many ergonomic or compact boards sacrifice these keys, but “what is not to like” about having them all in one place on the CLEAVE.

Moreover, common shortcut keys are made easier. The CLEAVE’s central thumb cluster includes keys like Cut, Copy, Paste, Undo, Shift, Enter, Backspace, and Delete. Instead of chorded combinations (Ctrl+X, Ctrl+V, etc.), you can hit a single key with your index. As one reviewer pointed out, “There’s also a cut key and a copy key, eliminating the need to press Ctrl-X or Ctrl-C”, which on a normal keyboard can be a bit of a stretch. With the CLEAVE, these become one-finger actions, potentially saving a fraction of a second each time – and those moments add up for professional writers or coders doing hundreds of copy-pastes or undos a day. A Reddit user mentioned he might not need the dedicated copy/paste keys but appreciated the ability to bind them (or use them for macros) if it fits his workflow [reddit.com]. The “key” is that the CLEAVE gives you options to streamline repetitive tasks. Many users do end up leveraging the on-board macro recording to create custom shortcuts, especially given that the keyboard supports many programmable macros and diverse profiles with no software needed.

Another way the CLEAVE can boost productivity is by enabling longer typing sessions without fatigue. It doesn’t matter how fast you type if you have to stop every 30 minutes to rest your aching wrists. By eliminating pain and discomfort, the CLEAVE lets you work for longer stretches in flow. The software engineer we cited earlier noted that before, his wrists would tingle or get numb as an RSI flare-up, interrupting his coding. After switching, he can now “type all day without the tingling or numbness” – meaning he can focus on his work, not on taking breaks or doing wrist exercises. He confidently stated that “a comfortable programmer is a more productive programmer,” and since the CLEAVE made him comfortable, it effectively “transformed [his] daily typing experience” and workflow for the better.

Linus Tech Tips also touched on productivity, noting that the CLEAVE’s design avoids the trade-offs many ergos force: “without losing so many keys that your productivity suffers”. In fact, you maintain full multitasking capability – e.g., alt-tabbing, F-key shortcuts, media controls, etc. are all accessible. The keyboard even has N-key rollover (NKRO) and 100% anti-ghosting, which were tested to work flawlessly, so it can handle fast typing or gaming without missing a beat. If you do any fast number input, you might note there’s no dedicated numpad (it’s a compact layout), but you can always attach a separate numpad or use the number row. For most professionals, this is a non-issue, and the trade-off is a narrower board that keeps your mouse closer – actually a productivity gain because you move your hand much less.

Several users also pointed out a mental productivity boost: when you’re not constantly reminded of discomfort, you can concentrate better. One happy reviewer commented that the CLEAVE “allows [him] to focus on coding instead of discomfort”, turning what used to be painful hours into a smooth, uninterrupted workflow. Over a full workday, that focus can significantly improve the quality and quantity of output.

To sum up, the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE is not just about comfort – it’s about comfortable productivity. It’s designed so you don’t have to choose between feeling good and getting work done. By reducing the physical strain and even streamlining common tasks (thanks to its clever key placements and macros), it lets you maintain or increase your efficiency at the keyboard. As one marketing tagline aptly put it: “Reduce strain, and increase comfort, so you can stay focused and productive longer.” That line is born out in the real-world feedback: people are indeed working longer and with more focus because they’re no longer fighting their keyboard or their own physiology.

Who Should Use the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE?

Is the CLEAVE right for you? The short answer: anyone who spends long hours at a keyboard and wants to prevent or relieve pain should consider it. Let’s break down a few ideal user personas based on the reviews and feedback:

• 💻 Software Developers & Programmers: Perhaps the clearest beneficiaries. As we saw, coders who type all day (8+ hours) reported dramatic improvements in comfort. The CLEAVE is a favorite among programmers dealing with RSI – one even called it “objectively better than everything else” after it resolved his strain issues. The layout also favors coding by keeping commonly used keys easily reachable. If you’re a developer starting to feel wrist pain or forearm fatigue, the CLEAVE is designed to reduce wrist extension and awkward reaches, which can help you code longer with ease.
• ✍️ Writers, Editors & Content Creators: Anyone who writes or types documents for a living will truly appreciate the comfort and fast navigation. Writers often suffer from aching wrists or tingling fingers after pounding out chapters or articles on a conventional keyboard. The CLEAVE’s comfortable palm rest and natural hand position mean you can write those long reports or novels without the same fatigue. Plus, the Cut/Copy/Paste/Undo keys are a boon for editing text. As one writer noted, it may feel weird at first, but could “save you from wearing a wrist brace for the rest of your life.” For a writer, that’s priceless – better to adopt an ergonomic tool now than be forced into one after injury.
• 🏢 Office Professionals & Data Analysts: Even if you’re not writing code or prose, if your job involves emails, spreadsheets, or any form of heavy typing, an ergonomic keyboard can make a world of difference. Many office workers use Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards, but as these are no longer manufactured, the CLEAVE is a strong alternative for a comfortable mechanical keyboard for work. Data entry folks will like the tactile feedback of mechanical switches combined with an ergonomic layout – you get precision and comfort together. The learning curve might be a consideration if you need to maintain absolute speed, but within a couple of weeks you could be typing just as fast without pain, which is a net win.
• ⌨️ Mechanical Keyboard Enthusiasts (who value ergonomics): If you love mechanical keyboards but are seeking something to reduce wrist pain from typing, the CLEAVE hits a sweet spot. It offers the customizability and premium feel enthusiasts enjoy (hot-swappable switches, standard keycap compatibility, high build quality) and it’s ergonomic. Enthusiast reviewers have praised that they can enjoy the mechanical aspects (like satisfying key feel and sound) while adopting a healthier typing posture. The CLEAVE shows you don’t have to sacrifice your hobby or preference for a straight keyboard – you can have a unique, fun mechanical that’s also a “typing pain relief keyboard” by design.
• 🎮 Gamers with Long Sessions: While the CLEAVE is marketed for productivity, some gamers might also benefit – especially those playing MMO or typing-heavy games or those who simply game for many hours. The keyboard has NKRO, meaning it can register any number of simultaneous key presses, which is necessary for certain gaming scenarios. And if gaming or streaming involves a lot of chat typing, having an ergonomic board could prevent soreness during marathon sessions. That said, most gamers use WASD which are in the normal place (just column-aligned), so gaming on the CLEAVE is entirely feasible. There’s even an option to set custom lighting profiles (e.g., highlight just WASD keys) for gaming mode. Gamers who also work on the same PC might find the CLEAVE a great 2-in-1 solution for both work and play comfort.

In essence, the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE is aimed at professionals and power users who cannot compromise on comfort or functionality. If you find yourself massaging your wrists during breaks, or dreading long typing tasks because of the strain, this keyboard is directly addressing those problems. It’s also for the forward-thinking individual who doesn’t have pain yet but wants to keep it that way – as one reviewer wisely noted, “Even if you’re not at the point of pain, an ergonomic keyboard is a proactive investment in your health. It’s much easier to prevent RSI than to fix it after it occurs.” Everyone from developers to executives fits that description if they’re spending hundreds of hours at a keyboard.

Finally, consider this: Microsoft’s classic ergonomic keyboards have been discontinued, leaving many looking for a modern replacement. The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE has emerged as a top contender for the best ergonomic mechanical keyboard in 2025. It combines the wisdom of ergonomic design with the performance of mechanical switches and contemporary features. If you identify with any of the groups above and you’re seeking a long-term solution for comfortable typing, the CLEAVE is definitely worth a look.

Ready for Pain-Free Productivity?

Imagine sitting down at your computer and typing for hours without any wrist ache, numbness, or tingling. Imagine actually feeling good at the end of a long day of coding or writing. That’s what the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard is offering according to those who know it best – real users who have made the switch. If you’re tired of discomfort or just want to optimize your workstation for health, the CLEAVE could be the upgrade that changes your daily life.

➤ Experience it for yourself: The CLEAVE is available through their website [TrulyErgonomic.com] and [Amazon.com]. A worthwhile investment in your comfort and productivity. Don’t settle for pain or “good enough” tools. As one product tagline urges, “Invest in your comfort & productivity – don’t settle for pain or slow typing.”

Join the growing community of professionals who have said goodbye to sore wrists and hello to a truly comfortable typing experience. The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE is more than a keyboard – for many, it’s become an essential part of a healthy workspace. Take the step toward pain-free typing today, and see how much more you can get done when your keyboard is on your side (and your wrists will thank you).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How exactly does an ergonomic keyboard like the CLEAVE reduce wrist pain?
A: It’s all about keeping your wrists in a neutral position. The Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE’s split, angled layout avoids the outward bending of wrists (ulnar deviation) that traditional keyboards cause. By aligning the keys with the natural angle of your arms and positioning keys like Enter and Backspace centrally for your thumbs, the CLEAVE minimizes the awkward reaches and twists that lead to strain. Over time, this neutral posture prevents the micro-stresses that accumulate into pain. Many users report that their wrist pain diminished or vanished after switching to the CLEAVE because their hands are finally resting at a natural angle while typing. It’s comparable to adjusting a chair to proper height – a small position change that makes a big ergonomic difference.

Q2: How long does it take to adjust to the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE layout?
A: Most users adjust within 2 weeks, with full familiarity by around 3 weeks of normal use. The learning curve is real – expect the first few days to be the slowest as you train your muscle memory. However, the keyboard is designed logically, and many people find they make rapid progress each day. By day 10 to 15, you’ll likely be typing close to your normal speed, just with far more comfort. Stick with it through that initial period; as one user said, the effort is “well worth it” for the end result. To help, Truly Ergonomic provides a quick-start guide and the keyboard allows on-the-fly remapping of certain keys, so you can tweak anything that really impedes you. Also, you don’t lose any major keys, so everything you need is still there – just in new places. Think of it like touch-typing learning: challenging at first, then suddenly it “clicks”.

Q3: Is the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE compatible with my computer and work setup?
A: Yes – the CLEAVE works with Windows, Mac, Linux, and ChromeOS out of the box. There’s no special driver required (all key programming is done on the hardware itself). You just plug it into a USB port and it’s recognized as a keyboard. The legends on the keycaps include Windows markings for modifier keys. Some Mac users note that you might want to swap Option/Command which can be done through macOS settings or via the keyboard’s remap function. Also, since it’s a wired USB keyboard, it’s compatible with virtually any device that accepts USB keyboards. Many users in corporate environments use it without issues – even if you can’t install software on your work computer, the CLEAVE doesn’t need any (though AutoHotkey on Windows or Karabiner on Mac can be used for advanced customizations if you wish). In summary, compatibility is not a concern – you can confidently use CLEAVE with your laptop or desktop regardless of operating system.

Q4: What if I need a number pad or other special keys?
A: The CLEAVE is a tenkeyless layout (no dedicated number pad) with 91 keys. It includes all alpha keys, modifiers, F1–F12, arrows, and navigation keys (Home, End, PgUp, PgDn, etc.) in a clever way, but there is no Numpad to make it even narrower. If your work heavily involves numeric data entry, you have a couple of options: you can use the top number row or attach a separate USB numeric keypad when needed [like our TrulyErgonomic Numeric Keypad]. Some users do this – they prefer having the main keyboard compact for ergonomics and mouse proximity, then use an auxiliary numpad on the side for big spreadsheet sessions. For most people (who aren’t accountants), the number row suffices, especially given you can program macros if certain number combinations repeat often. Aside from the numpad, the CLEAVE actually has more keys than a typical tenkeyless – even Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause are present (as secondary FN-layer functions), which many 87-key boards drop. So you likely won’t miss anything except the numpad. If a numpad is a must at all times. But keep in mind, eliminating the numpad is part of how the CLEAVE stays narrow and ergonomic (reducing shoulder strain), and many users find it a worthy trade-off.

Q5: Can I customize the keys and switches on the CLEAVE?
A: Yes. On the CLEAVE, you can remap certain keys, record macros, and even swap out the key switches – all without voiding the warranty. The keyboard supports on-the-fly key remapping for a set of keys – for example, if you prefer Caps Lock in its traditional spot instead of an extra Ctrl, you can reprogram that easily [trulyergonomic.com]. There’s also a Custom Layout Mode that assigns unique scan-codes to the special keys, which advanced users can pair with software like AutoHotkey for further customization. Macros can be recorded directly on the keyboard (e.g. you could make a single key press input a word or a key combo). As for switches, the CLEAVE’s optical switches are hot-swappable, meaning you can pull them out and replace them (the keyboard even comes with a puller tool and a few spare switches). So if you bought it with, say, tactile switches and later want linear, you could physically swap the switches rather than buy a new keyboard. The keycaps use the standard Cherry MX cross mount, so you can put custom keycap sets on for aesthetics or different textures. In summary, the CLEAVE is quite flexible and moddable for an ergonomic board – you can tailor the feel and some of the layout to your liking.

By now, it should be clear why the Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard has garnered so many positive real-world reviews. It addresses a serious need for professionals – typing comfort and health – without asking you to sacrifice performance. Whether you’re coding, writing, or just hammering out emails, the CLEAVE lets you do it in comfort and style, day after day. As one reviewer succinctly put it: “The CLEAVE keyboard is a game-changer for users seeking comfort, productivity, and convenience in their typing experience”. If that sounds like you, the time might be right to give your wrists a break and join the ranks of CLEAVE enthusiasts enjoying pain-free productivity.

Sources:

• Real user review by software engineer, Amazon – cited in Truly Ergonomic blog.
• Bradley D., Amazon 5-star review (October 25, 2022) – personal experience reducing strain.
• Curtis Silver, KnowTechie review – ergonomic benefits and comfort observations.
• Andreas Finne (Asmand’s Blog) – long-term user review of CLEAVE’s comfort and quality.
• Linus Tech Tips (LTT) deepfake video review – noted in Truly Ergonomic News post.
• TechPowerUp Review by VSG (Oct 24, 2022) – build quality and design analysis.
• Reddit user “paraffin” – first impressions of CLEAVE (layout comfort, build quality).
• Truly Ergonomic product listing – key feature highlights.