Computer Keyboard Tray Basics

There are a few basic principles to keep in mind when shopping for a new adjustable keyboard tray system that will save you time and money. Most computer keyboard trays have the same list of core components which makes it easy to give tips and advice on what to look for. Usually there is a main keyboard platform with an attached mouse tray (most of the time there are various styles of mouse trays to choose from and they are pre-attached at the factory), the adjustment mechanism (sometimes called an "arm") which attaches your keyboard tray to your desk, and the steel mounting track that gets screwed into the underside of your work surface. Once the track is mounted to the bottom of your desk the mechanism is then attached to the track, and then the keyboard and mouse platforms are bolted to the arm. Each manufacturer of keyboard tray systems will have their own variations of these main products and you can normally mix and match different pieces to create a custom system perfect for your environment. However, the more customized you get the more expensive the system generally becomes.

Humanscale Keyboard Trays

Humanscale manufactures very high-quality keyboard tray systems that run around $300 for common configurations. You can tell that much time and effort went into the designs of these trays and they did a good job of choosing durable materials for their parts. Generally all keyboard and mouse platforms that Humanscale offers are black and dark gray in color. The mechanisms or arms are also black with minor silver accessories on some higher models. They have ten different keyboard platforms you can choose from, to fit various styles of ergonomic keyboards and desks, and a handful of mouse tray options that can be attached to either the left or right side (or both) at the factory before shipment. Currently the most popular keyboard tray is the 900 model or standard tray and the most popular mouse tray is the clip mouse. These two pieces paired up with their famous 5G mechanism give you the ultimate in ergonomic versatility at your computer. It brings your keyboard and mouse off of your desk and into your neutral reach zone. Your input devices become easily adjustable requiring minimal effort to change their position on the fly. Plus when the system is not in use it can slide all the way under your desk to free up space (fully retracts on a 22" mounting track only). To view more details of a humanscale keyboard tray visit ErgoDirectUSA where a free gift and free ground shipping are included with each complete system you order.

Best Adjustable Keyboard Trays

Adjustable keyboard trays are a welcome upgrade for those who feel discomfort while computing. An adjustable keyboard tray attaches to your desk or work surface and allows you to position your keyboard and mouse wherever you see fit. However, not all keyboard trays are created equal. You need to do your research on the manufacturer of the keyboard tray system you buy to really determine how well it is made and how long it will last. There are also various features and options available that you need to be aware of to correctly choose the right keyboard tray for you.

Expect to spend at a minimum $80.00 for a new adjustable keyboard tray system. This is for a base model system with only the bare essential features required for increased comfort. The materials used in the manufacturing process of a keyboard system at this price point are not going to be the best or most durable. However, it is not a bad start at all. You can find keyboard trays online ranging in price from $80.00 to $500.00. Most will fall somewhere in between those numbers and there are some really good systems available at this price.

Keyboard Tray System Requirements

To install an adjustable keyboard tray you generally need a worksurface that is at least 1"-1.5" thick and can accept screws. This means most desks that made of wood or faux wood materials are acceptable but desks made of things like glass will not work. Usually glass computer desks will come with some kind of built-in keyboard tray but if you happen to have one that doesn't you are unfortunately out of luck. If you have a normal desk and you don't mind drilling a few holes on the underside of it than you meet the initial criteria. Keyboard trays mount to the underside of worksurfaces via a steel track. Generally tracks are 5"-6" wide and 17"-22" long. You need an unobstructed flat area at least this size on the underside of your desk to be able to install most keyboard trays. If you don't have the required space there are specialized systems for this application but the options will be minimal.

Once you are sure your workstation meets the requirements for installing a keyboard tray system you can then start to compare features of different brands. The general rule with keyboard systems is that the more you spend the better the product will be, and the longer it will last. It will also feel much better and be more comfortable during use.