The 10 Best Wrist Pads For Keyboards
This wiki has been updated 10 times since it was first published in December of 2018. That fatigue you feel in your extremities after a long session at the computer could be doing permanent harm in the form of a repetitive strain injury. Fortunately, relief is available in the form of these keyboard wrist rests. Using gel-filled or cushioned pads, they support your hand in a more ergonomic position that can stop pain in its tracks. Some of our selections include a mouse pad, too. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. HyperX Gel
2. Glorious Gaming Rest
3. Bailey by Castle
Editor's Notes
August 07, 2020:
A keyboard wrist pad can make those many hours you spend typing more comfortable, but, as with many tools, these need to be used properly for you to reap the benefits. For instance, a firm rest on which you place a lot of pressure may actually decrease blood flow and increase tendon irritation. In fact, choosing one that supports your palms is often a better idea, so there's no strain on your wrist. And perhaps most importantly, if you ever feel pain or discomfort, stop using the wrist rest immediately.
With that said, we have kept the Glorious Gaming Rest and the Bailey by Castle as top options, and added the popular HyperX Gel. We appreciate that the Glorious model is currently offered in a "stealth" option, answering the criticism that the logo on the regular version is too large and eye-catching. As for the HyperX model, its simple but robust construction makes it worthy of inclusion, as does its gel that keeps the skin from feeling too hot. We removed the Gimars Superfine Set, however, which tends to go flat over time.
Finally, we have decided to keep the Kensington Duo Gel and the Belkin WaveRest, although both are not without their drawbacks. The Kensington model comes with a mouse pad, but it doesn't work perfectly with all optical mice, while the Belkin is noisy in use. These aren't necessarily dealbreakers for everyone, but they are points that require consideration.
December 20, 2018:
All keyboard rests support your wrists to help prevent injury, but there are important differences in height, width, and other factors that mean they are not all created equal. Our selections zeroed in on those differences. For example, most keyboard wrist pads are made of gel or memory foam, but we found one made of neoprene that would be a good option for people who don't like the other materials.
Special Honors
The Full Desk by Loftmat If you don't necessarily need to elevate your wrists, but you do want to cushion every part of your arm and hand that touches the desk, try The Full Desk by Loftmat. Measuring 15 by 34 inches, it covers a large area, and doesn't require a separate mouse pad. You'll need to provide a hard surface for writing on, however, such as a firm notebook. loftmat.com
Marble K Black Marble The Marble K Black Marble will complement a variety of mechanical keyboards, whether you choose the flat or angled option. Because this model is crafted from natural, rather than man-made, materials, no two look exactly alike, although they are all mainly black with some white inclusions. marblek.com
4. Boona Ergonomic
5. Cheliz 2-Pack
6. Kensington Duo Gel
7. 3M Soothing Beach
8. Grifiti Fat 14
9. Belkin WaveRest
10. Comfy Mee Premium
Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.