Keyboards have been looking and doing the same thing for over 100 years, dating back to the days of the typewriter. So when you think of keyboards, innovation isn’t usually the first word that comes to mind. But NUIO, founded by former Apple Product Design Executive Tom Wilson – one of the original makers of the MacBook Air – and his brother Greg Wilson are trying to change that. The NUIO Flow keyboard is a new take on what the traditional keyboard should be able to do.
The Flow Keyboard is a far cry from the traditional flat, rigid keyboard you’re used to. It features a radial key layout that arranges the keys in a way that feels more natural for your hand placement, along with a split, wireless design that lets you place each half where it feels best. This setup aims to reduce strain and improve posture, and it shows. The 3D waveform isn’t just a design choice, it’s created to support the natural curve of your wrists, so your fingers can reach every key without stretching or getting into an awkward position.
Key features of the NUIO Flow keyboard:
- Radial key layout: The keys are placed closer to where your fingers naturally rest.
- 3D wave and split design: Customize your setup with two halves that can be adjusted independently.
- Backlit keys and legends: Perfect for typing late at night or in low-light workspaces.
These elements combine to create a keyboard that encourages a relaxed, productive typing experience. And as I discovered, it really works. I found myself using this keyboard (with the magnetic mat) in all kinds of environments, from my couch to my desk to my bed. Something about the design makes it feel easy and simple.
My practical experience
I’ve been using the Flow Keyboard for about two weeks now and I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how quickly I’ve been able to adapt to it. At first, the radial key layout took some time, but within a few days my fingers were comfortably navigating the board. Instead of sort of molding my body over a regular keyboard and bending over, I tended to lean back and place my hands where they would naturally be on my desk, and just place the keyboard half-right underneath my hands. It became my keyboard of choice over the traditional setup I was using.
The split, wave-shaped design made a noticeable difference, reducing strain and keeping my posture more natural, especially during longer sessions. One thing I really appreciated was the flexibility to position each half separately. This allowed me to create a setup that felt unique, something that isn’t possible with a standard keyboard. Typing on the Flow Keyboard felt less like a chore and more like an engaging experience, allowing me to stay in my work zone longer and with less fatigue.
The NUIO ecosystem
NUIO’s ergonomic focus doesn’t stop at the keyboard. They’ve created a whole suite of workspace tools that connect to the Flow Keyboard, making for a seamless, flexible setup that supports the way you work:
- Flow Trackpad: Featuring a smooth edge-to-edge glass surface, this trackpad offers precise, mechanical clicks and multi-touch gestures, ideal for efficient browsing and documenting.
- Magnetic Desk Pads: Available in multiple sizes, these desk pads hold the NUIO components securely in place but can be easily adjusted if necessary.
- Adjustable stands: Allow you to tilt and tilt the keyboard to an angle that best suits your wrists.
- Wrist Pads: Soft, comfortable wrist pads fit perfectly with the Flow Keyboard, providing gentle support during marathon work sessions.
Crafted with the same ergonomic attention to detail as the keyboard, each accessory provides a personal and comfortable workspace that you can tailor to your needs, whether you’re at home or on the road. The wrist pads were surprisingly my favorite accessory. They are the most comfortable pads I have ever rested my wrists on. You have to feel it yourself!
Prices and availability
The NUIO Flow Keyboard is available for pre-order on HelloNUIO.com, with prices starting at $399, and shipping will begin on December 1. The keyboard has seven different color options, so you can choose a style that suits your workspace.
NUIO also offers bundles of additional accessories such as the Flow Trackpad, magnetic desk pads, adjustable stands and wrist pads for those interested in a complete ergonomic setup. These bundles provide a cohesive experience, allowing you to create a fully personalized, customizable workspace. Visit their website for full pricing, bundle details and options to create your own ideal NUIO setup.
Final thoughts
The NUIO Flow Keyboard and the entire NUIO ecosystem offer a refreshing take on workplace essentials. At $399, the Flow Keyboard is in the premium class, but for professionals who spend hours each day typing, the increase in comfort and productivity may be worth it. NUIO has managed to transform the keyboard from an everyday tool into a thoughtfully designed experience that truly helps you ‘find your flow’. The unique layout, flexible positioning and ergonomic focus create a more engaging and comfortable experience that makes typing feel less of a task and more of an extension of your ideas.
Let me know what you think? Is this a product you want to try? Have you ever tried a split keyboard? Is the price too high? Let’s discuss all this below!
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