The 9 Best Keyboards For The Visually Impaired
Editor's Notes
October 30, 2020:
There isn't a lot of innovation in the Large Print keyboard category, so for this update we did remove some options that were so similar that they seemed redundant, and also the Chester Creek BigBlu was removed because it has too many reported connectivity problems with newer versions of Windows.
We added the Keys-U-See Wireless as a complete 104-key option for anyone who wants to reduce the number of cords on their desk. For some alternative ways to convert an existing keyboard for the visually impaired, we included the Logic Keyboard Skin, although our recommendation is specific to the popular Apple Magic, the company does make skins specific to PC keyboards as well.
The Data Cal Overlays are a creative solution for sighted and non-sighted family members that share a computer. The transparent stickers allow those who don't read Braille to fully see the keys underneath. While the price seems high for a page of stickers, they're made of very thin but durable Lexan polycarbonate, with a high quality 3M adhesive.
March 13, 2019:
It's hard to use a keyboard if you can't see it! There are plenty of people, both young and old, with impaired vision, and there are a handful of viable keyboards available to accommodate them. The AbleNet BigKeys and the Chester Creek Vision and KinderBoards are notable for a few reasons. They sport extra-large keys, which are great for small children, or anyone with impaired motor skills. Also, they're extremely durable, and there are waterproof covers readily available for each of them. Alternately, the Azio Vision is great for those who are just on the edge of being able to easily read their typing surface. With 5 different colors on a black background, it does a good job at remaining legible, without hurting anyone's eyeballs. While the Keys-U-See yellow variety, LogicKeyboard Mini, and EZSee Low Vision are quite high-contrast, they're not suited to very long-term use, because they simply hurt to look at after a certain period of time. On the other side of that coin, the EZSee's black version should reduce overall eye strain, after a period of time. For something more traditional-looking, and a little less intrusive, but just about as effective, the AbleNet Ivory is a good choice, as the main difference between it and an everyday keyboard is the size of the letters on the keys. Meanwhile, the LogicKeyboard 4879 is a very sturdy device, and has a great feel to it, although it is awfully expensive.