How do I find a position/angle for mousepad and keyboard that I'm comfortable with?
When playing FPS or other games that rely on fast reaction/aiming, I often feel uncomfortable with the position and/or angle of my hands. I will frequently adjust the position of the mousepad, the keypad, but no position seems to be perfect. I will often die and think I could've nailed that shot if my hand hadn't been slanted at that weird angle, stuff like that. I've tried different angles, putting mouse and keyboard farther away from me, closer to me, closer to each other, farther away from each other ... there doesn't seem to be a sweet spot.
I think it's at least partially psychological, but I would still like to know if any of you had this problem and what I could try to feel more comfortable while gaming. So, what are some common ways to position mouse/mousepad and keyboard? How do I find the right one for me?
Or, in case you think it's mostly a psychological issue, how do I get rid of it? Are there any exercises I can do, any other techniques I could try out?
Playing with a controller is not an option. Thanks!
Best Answer
While I can't find any resource to specifically mention ergonomic placement in the context of gaming, there are definitely keyboard and mouse positions that would increase muscle stress and fatigue over a long period of time (or frenetic activity like gaming). The U.S. OSHA has an article on keyboard placement. A quick search also found another one on MedicineNet that seems mostly similar.
Some companies such as Razor market ergonomic gaming keyboards, or have other alternatives such as a keypad that might make more sense. Unfortunately, if you're one of those who would prefer a split-type ergonomic gaming keyboard - apparently there isn't one. Of course, you can use any high end split keyboard but it may not support simultaneous presses of multiple keys etc. which can be very important depending on the games played.
Similarly, there are different mice that have a natural contour that makes it easy to rest your entire palm and access multiple buttons without too much movement from the rest position.
With both keyboards and mice, the final choice will depend on you. There is a far bigger choice of right handed gaming mice for example, if you're left handed then probably just settle for a neutral symmetrical design. Also sometimes it might be more about the relative height of your desk and chair, and unrelated to the input peripherals.
Pictures about "How do I find a position/angle for mousepad and keyboard that I'm comfortable with?"
How do I find my perfect keyboard position?
The most ideal position for the keyboard is about 2 to three inches above your knees. It should be centred also. Some users tilt their keyboard but this is often not recommended. While typing, your arms and wrist should remain hovered and level with the keyboard.Where should my mouse and keyboard be positioned?
Place the mouse and keyboard close to the front of the desk. Place the mouse and keyboard so that you don't need to stretch to use them. The keyboard should be around 5 cm from the front edge of the desk, and the mouse roughly in line with the keyboard. You need to leave enough room to support the wrists.How should you position your mousepad?
The top of the screen should be at eye level or below, and angled up towards you. The light should be behind you, but not directly on the screen- you want to avoid glare. Keyboard and Mouse: these should be at the same height, and within comfortable reach.What angle should your mouse be?
The Position of the Mouse Your elbow should stay at a 90-degree angle.How Your Table and Chair Impacts Your Aiming When Gaming
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