Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard discontinuation (and Surface Ergonomic Keyboard)

Anonymous
2023-08-23T04:17:58+00:00

I just saw a thread about Microsoft discontinuing the Sculpt keyboard. Here's the thread: https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/forum/all/surface-sculpt-ergonomic/f7913699-9c0a-4c6f-8296-7ff746fa4e0b?rtAction=1692762183207

The Microsoft moderator (Marrion) said that there is a "Surface" keyboard (the Surface Ergonomic keyboard) that is similar to the Sculpt. But, that doesn't solve the problem because the Surface keyboard is different from teh Sculpt in one VERY IMPORTANT respect --

The Surface keyboard has the number pad built into the keyboard, which makes the keyboard very wide and forces the user to place their mouse very far to the right of the keyboard. That mouse placement then creates shoulder pain and other bad posture effects. I had the previous Microsoft "natural" keyboard for a long time (that keyboard was very wide with the built in number pad just like the Surface keyboard) - it was very good for wrist position, but caused me a lot of problems because my mouse had to be so far away from the keyboard where I had to keep my arm stretched out to reach it - thus the shoulder and back and other issues it caused.

But then I got the Sculpt keyboard which does not have a number pad built in (the number pad is a separate piece and you don't need to use it). The Sculp is more of a standard sized keyboard and you can put the mouse much closer. Bingo - my shoulder and back strain went away,

So, I hope that Microsoft will keep the Sculpt keyboard with the smaller footprint (no built-in number pad). I don't care what brand name you put on it, and I'd be ok with some price increase if necessary, but PLEASE do not discontinue the Sculpt design. (My current Sculpt board is working fine, but if I ever need to replace it -- no keyboard lasts forever -- I want another one just like it!)

Also, I would like to know if Microsoft will continue to support the Sculpt Keyboard with driver or software updates as needed (is something like that needed for a keyboard?)

Thanks,

Beth

Surface | Accessories | Surface mice and keyboards

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-01-30T16:35:20+00:00

    Been using this keyboard for YEARS, can't stand any other designs...currently on like my 5th set and going to need a replacement soon. Like others on here I just can't use a keyboard with a tenkey on it...makes you have to push the mouse out way too far away, and the tilt forward split is so comfortable. Please reconsider discontinuing this keyboard or maybe send me like 10 of them so I can make it through to retirement LOL.

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-01-25T07:35:46+00:00

    NO! I am gutted. I have been using the sculpt for years. Mine is starting to fail and I went looking for a replacement today. As others have stated, the separate num-pad is key, it allows you to keep the mouse close to the keyboard which reduces strain on the wrist and elbow.

    I am absolutely shattered by this decision. Please bring it back.

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  3. Anonymous
    2024-01-20T14:27:59+00:00

    I completely agree! I've been using the sculpt for maybe 10 or more years. Recently had to replace and there are no good options that I can find. Very dissatisfied with the replacement I chose. C'mon Microsoft, get with the program - there's a market out here.

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  4. Anonymous
    2024-01-19T02:20:50+00:00

    To everyone wanting the Sculpt Keyboard, you are in luck. Microsoft has sold off their hardware accessories line to Incase. They will be making all of the accessories that were designed by MS, including the Sculpt Desktop set (keyboard, numpad, mouse) but also the keyboard alone, later this year.

    You can see this on Incase Designed by Microsoft site, or search for “Incase designed by Microsoft”. You can enter your email address at the bottom to be notified when they are available

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