Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 b2m for Retail

The Verdict

Some keyboards promise ergonomic relief but deliver a gimmick. The Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 b2m isn’t one of them. This is a 20-year-old design that’s still selling because it solves a real problem: the unnatural, shoulder-cramping position most flat keyboards force you into.

The split-key layout is the headline feature. The keyboard is physically divided into two angled halves, which rotates your forearms outward and lets your shoulders relax. It’s a noticeable difference within minutes of typing — your hands naturally fall into a handshake position rather than being twisted inward. The 7-degree reverse tilt (adjustable via fold-out legs) further straightens your wrists, reducing the sharp angle that contributes to repetitive strain.

What you actually get: The keyboard itself, a massive cushioned palm rest that clicks into the front edge, and a PS/2-to-USB adapter for legacy systems. No software disc — the drivers are baked into Windows. The palm rest is the standout accessory here. It’s covered in a soft fabric-like material with generous foam padding that runs the full width of the board. Your wrists sink into it rather than resting on hard plastic, which makes a real difference during marathon writing sessions.

Build quality and real-world use: The keys use a standard rubber dome mechanism with a pronounced, soft landing. They’re quiet — good for open offices — but the actuation feels mushy compared to mechanical switches. If you’re a fast typist, the high travel distance (about 4mm) can slow you down slightly. I measured the footprint at roughly 18.5 inches wide by 9.5 inches deep with the palm rest attached. That’s substantial. You’ll need a desk tray or pull-out drawer with real depth.

The extra features punch above their weight. A vertical zoom slider sits between the arrow keys — handy for documents and maps. Six customizable hotkeys (launch calculator, email, etc.) plus F-key shortcuts are programmable through Microsoft’s Mouse and Keyboard Center software. One quirk: the spacebar is split into two halves. Your right thumb hits the main portion, but the left half is dead weight unless you remap it. Some users love it; others accidentally hit the dead zone.

What buyers consistently praise: Comfort dominates the feedback. One Amazon reviewer wrote, “My wrist pain disappeared within a week of switching.” Another noted, “The split design took two days to get used to, but now flat keyboards feel wrong.” Durability gets frequent mentions too — several users report 5+ years of daily use without key failure.

Where it falls short: The key feel is the biggest compromise. If you’re used to crisp mechanical switches or modern low-profile laptops, this will feel sluggish initially. The bulk is real — it won’t fit on shallow keyboard trays. And at this price point, you’re paying for the ergonomic layout, not premium materials; the plastic shell shows fingerprints and the letters on keycaps can wear off after heavy use (a common complaint in the reviews).

Who should buy this:

• Office workers typing 6+ hours daily with wrist or shoulder discomfort
• Anyone with broad shoulders who feels cramped on standard keyboards
• IT departments standardizing ergonomic setups on a budget

Skip it if: You’re a gamer needing fast, tactile switches, or you have limited desk depth. Consider a compact mechanical split keyboard like the Kinesis Freestyle instead.

FAQ:

Q: Does it work with Mac?
A: Yes, plug-and-play via USB. The Windows key functions as Command. Microsoft’s configuration software is Windows-only, but basic typing works fine on macOS.

Q: Is the split design hard to adapt to?
A: Expect 2-5 days of adjustment. Your muscle memory fights the new hand position initially, but most users report full speed within a week.

Q: Can I replace the palm rest?
A: Yes, replacement rests are available separately. The fabric does wear down after 2-3 years of daily use.

The Verdict:
Buy it if you’re experiencing wrist or shoulder strain from typing and want a proven, affordable fix. The comfort payoff justifies the learning curve.
Skip it if you prioritize fast, tactile keystrokes or have limited desk space.

Rating: 4.2/5 — A functional, well-built ergonomic tool held back by dated key feel and its substantial footprint. For the price, it’s the most cost-effective way to test if split-key typing helps you.

Final note: This is a retail-boxed version (b2m) with the same internals as the standard model. Check current pricing before ordering — it fluctuates, but the value holds under $60.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.