If typing feels more like a chore than a seamless task, the issue could be with your keyboard instead of your workload. Usually resulting in strain, discomfort, or long-term problems like carpal tunnel syndrome and RSI, standard flat keyboards force your wrists and hands into uncomfortable postures. This is where the Goldtouch Elite Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard comes in handy.
Without the need for additional accessories, the Goldtouch Elite promises to lower strain, improve comfort, and increase productivity—all of which help to encourage a more natural typing position. For someone who spends hours at the keyboard, PC, and Mac, interoperability and customizable layouts seem like a dream come true. Does it, then, live up to these expectations? The Goldtouch Elite was tested to find out how it would work practically.
About Goldtouch
Based in Austin, Texas, Goldtouch has spent over 20 years creating ergonomic solutions to treat repetitive stress injuries (RSI) and raise workplace output. Their areas of expertise are movable keyboards, mice, and ergonomic devices catering to consumers' needs. Leading edge in the field of ergonomic technology. Goldtouch is well-known for its creative ideas that combine careful design with usability.
First Impressions and Setup
Its elegant design impresses The Goldtouch Elite Keyboard right out of the box. Perfectly suitable for home offices and business workstations, it looks more polished and professional at 12.7mm slimmer than earlier models. Thanks to its premium ABS construction, which guarantees it can withstand long hours of typing, the keyboard feels sturdy despite its low profile.
Setting up the keyboard was easy. This is perfect for consumers who often hop between devices since you can flip between PC and Mac modes with a switch on the back. I thought the layout was clear-cut and valued the Mac-specific yellow multimedia keys—a considerate design element for Apple users. White-printed keys assure Windows of the same degree of familiarity.
Key Features and Design
1. Fully Adjustable for Ultimate Comfort
The hallmark feature of the Goldtouch Elite Keyboard is its adjustable design, which allows you to tent (0-60 degrees) and splay (0-30 degrees) the keyboard halves. This flexibility ensures your wrists and hands remain neutral and relaxed while typing, minimizing strain. Following the recommended ergonomic setup, I adjusted the keyboard by relaxing my elbows and setting the angle to match my natural wrist position.
The locking ball and lever joint mechanism make these adjustments smooth and effortless. A simple squeeze of the handle unlocks the two halves, allowing you to find the perfect angle. Once released, the keyboard locks into place, ensuring it stays stable throughout your typing session.
These features aren't just gimmicks; they provide noticeable relief, especially during extended typing sessions. After a week of use, I experienced less wrist fatigue than my previous flat keyboard.
2. PC and Mac Compatibility at the Flick of a Switch
One of the most practical features of the Elite Keyboard is its cross-platform compatibility. With a switch on the back, you can seamlessly toggle between PC and Mac modes. I tested the keyboard on both systems, and the transition was smooth, with no noticeable delay or issues.
Each mode comes with unique perks:
- Windows Mode: Access to F1-F12 shortcut keys without holding down the FN key when the FN key is engaged. These keys unlock quick functions like launching email (F1), calculator (F2), and the snip tool (F5).
- Mac Mode: Dedicated yellow multimedia keys provide easy control over media playback, volume, and brightness. The keyboard's Eject key even functions for network shares and connected servers—a thoughtful feature for Mac users.
Whether you're working on a Mac or PC, the Goldtouch Elite delivers a consistent and familiar experience, making it an excellent choice for hybrid users.
3. Default and Alternate Layouts: Tailor Your Typing Experience
The Elite Keyboard goes further in customization with its Default and Alternate layouts. You can change how keys like Print Screen, Pause Break, Home, and End are positioned by toggling a switch on the back.
- In Default Mode, essential keys like Print Screen and Pause Break are placed on the left, with Home and Page Up on the right.
- Switch to Alternate Mode and the layout flips—now adding Copy and Paste keys providing easy accessibility for those who prefer quick, single-key commands.
This feature is a game-changer for users with specific workflow preferences, especially those who frequently work with data entry, programming, or content creation. For example, writers who often need to copy and paste text can switch to Alternate Mode for quicker access to those functions, streamlining their workflow significantly. This customizable approach allows users to adapt the keyboard to their unique needs, enhancing efficiency and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the flexibility in layout options contributes to a more personalized experience, helping users maximize their productivity without compromising ergonomic benefits.
4. Comfortable Keys Designed for Long Sessions
The half-height keys of the Elite Keyboard struck a perfect balance between tactile feedback and reduced finger strain. With a travel distance of 3.6mm, the keys feel responsive without requiring excessive force—only 45-55g of activation force is needed. This design helps prevent finger fatigue, even during extended typing sessions.
The laser-etched printing ensures the keys remain legible over time, while tampo printing on Mac-specific yellow keys adds a crisp, clean finish. After several days of heavy use, the keys felt as comfortable as the first day, with no signs of fading or wear.
The key feel and build quality make it ideal for users who type for extended periods, whether for work or leisure.
Pros and Cons of the Goldtouch Elite Keyboard
Pros:
- Highly adjustable with tenting and splaying options to suit individual needs.
- PC and Mac compatibility offers seamless switching between systems.
- Slim, refined design that complements any workspace.
- Customizable layouts with Default and Alternate modes.
- Durable construction with high-quality ABS material and laser-etched keys.
- Wired-only for now, although a wireless version is coming in 2025.
- Keymapping adjustments are needed if the Mac/PC switch is set incorrectly.
Cons:
- Wired-only for now, although a wireless version is coming in 2025.
- Keymapping adjustments are needed if the Mac/PC switch is set incorrectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I adjust the Elite Keyboard for optimal comfort?
A: Press the handle to unlock the two halves. Adjust the splay and tent angles to match your natural hand position, then release the handle to lock it in place.
Q: Can I use this keyboard for both Mac and Windows?
A: Yes! Use the switch on the back to toggle between PC and Mac modes, with each mode offering system-specific key layouts.
Q: Why isn't the Print Screen button working on Mac?
A: On Mac, the Print Screen button triggers crosshairs, similar to Command + Shift + 4.
Conclusion: Is the Goldtouch Elite Adjustable Keyboard Worth It?
Anyone who prioritizes comfort and functionality in their typing routine will find the Goldtouch Elite Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard to be excellent. Its clever, changeable design lets users fit the keyboard to their preferences, lowering the danger of repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and increasing general output. Along with customizable layout possibilities and full PC and Mac compatibility, this keyboard is a flexible tool that fits people utilizing mixed configurations or particular input requirements.
Although some customers may be discouraged by the lack of a wireless alternative, the expected release of a wireless model in 2025 will likely solve this problem. The wired version offers excellent value, especially the generous 15% discount code (ELITE15). This makes it even more appealing to budget-conscious users trying to enhance their desk ergonomics.
Whether you're a heavy typer, a committed professional, or a gamer, the Goldtouch Elite Keyboard provides a customized typing experience that significantly increases comfort and productivity. Investing in this ergonomic solution will help you have a more pleasant and healthy typing experience daily.
