Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC vs Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard
Both made our Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Programmers shortlist, at #1 and #3. Here's how they differ and who each one suits.
- BuyOnceRight Research Desk
- Updated
- 4 min read
Quick verdict
Choose the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) if you want shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle. Choose the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard if you'd rather have under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost. Overall we rank the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Programmers list.
Winner overall: Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation)
Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) vs Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Our ranking | #1 of 10 in Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Programmers | #3 of 10 in Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Programmers |
| Pick label | Best Fully Split | |
| Brand | Kinesis | Perixx |
| Key features | Fully split halves connected by pivot tether, 0 to 9 inches of separation; Standard QWERTY stagger, no columnar relearning; Optional VIP3 kit adds 5/10/15-degree tenting and palm rests | Wired USB split layout under 40 dollars; Integrated palm rest; Fixed splay angle |
| Biggest strength | Shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle | Under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost |
| Main trade-off | No integrated palm rest or tenting out of the box; VIP3 accessories are a separate purchase that pushes total cost to 120-150 dollars | Key feel is mushy compared to the K860 or Sculpt |
| Best for | programmers | Most buyers |
Which should you buy?
#1 pick · Best Fully Split
Choose the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) if…
- Shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle
- Standard QWERTY layout means the adjustment period is about hand positioning, not relearning key locations
- Tether-connected halves survive daily repositioning without connector wear
Best for: programmers
Prefer the alternative? See the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard section.
#3 pick
Choose the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard if…
- Under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost
- Wired connection with no battery or pairing to manage
- Solid entry point for testing whether a split layout works before spending more
Prefer the alternative? See the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) section.
Pros and cons of each
Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation)
Pros
- Shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle
- Standard QWERTY layout means the adjustment period is about hand positioning, not relearning key locations
- Tether-connected halves survive daily repositioning without connector wear
- Works identically on Mac and PC via a physical DIP switch, no drivers needed
Cons
- No integrated palm rest or tenting out of the box; VIP3 accessories are a separate purchase that pushes total cost to 120-150 dollars
- 1 to 2 week adaptation period, longer than fixed-split boards like the K860
- Membrane switches feel mushy next to the mechanical Kinesis Advantage2
- 9-inch max separation is tethered, not fully wireless between halves
Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard
Pros
- Under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost
- Wired connection with no battery or pairing to manage
- Solid entry point for testing whether a split layout works before spending more
- Widely available and simple to set up with no software
Cons
- Key feel is mushy compared to the K860 or Sculpt
- Build quality is basic and plastic panels flex under pressure
- No tenting or wireless option
- Palm rest padding is thin compared to premium options
Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) vs Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard: common questions
Which is better, the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) or the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard?
Choose the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) if you want shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle. Choose the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard if you'd rather have under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost. Overall we rank the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Ergonomic Keyboards for Programmers list.
What is the difference between the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) and the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard?
The Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) stands out because shoulder-width positioning is the only design on this list that addresses upper back and shoulder strain, not just wrist angle, while the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard stands out because under 40 dollars delivers the essential split layout and integrated palm rest, genuine ergonomic benefit at minimal cost. The trade-offs differ too: the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation)'s main caveat is that no integrated palm rest or tenting out of the box; VIP3 accessories are a separate purchase that pushes total cost to 120-150 dollars, and the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard's is that key feel is mushy compared to the K860 or Sculpt.
Is the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) worth it over the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard instead if no integrated palm rest or tenting out of the box; VIP3 accessories are a separate purchase that pushes total cost to 120-150 dollars is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard instead of the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation)?
The Perixx Periboard-512B Ergonomic Split Keyboard suits buyers whose priorities match its strengths, while the Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue for PC (9 Inch Separation) is best for programmers.