Customer Reviews

iGrip Ergonomic Keyboard by AlphaGrip

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Introduction
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I spend almost all of my awake time on a computer. It's my primary duty at my current job, as well as what I enjoy doing at home. I have a side business that involves a lot of time on the computer. (I design/hand code websites; Photography and Video creation too.)

Spending all this time on the computer has really started to cause pain with my wrists and especially in my right hand (little & ring fingers). I needed something that could change up my posture so that I can work for longer without pain.

I had tried everything I could find...different keyboards, different mice (trackballs too), nothing was working. After 30mins or so, my right hand would start to go numb and my wrists would hurt.

I bought the iGrip on a whim, not expecting much, as a last resort. I have had it for two days now, and here are my first thoughts...

Pros
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Incredible build quality
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It's built like a tank. Proud to call it mine and sure it will hold up for a long time (track ball feels a bit cheap, but it works so well...not sure how long it will last).
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Easy to install
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There are no drivers needed for windows 98 and up. Plug and play!
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Typing Comfort I've never felt before
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There is nothing like sitting back in a recliner and having this type of control. Virtually EVERY keystroke you could do with a regular computer is doable with this set up. (I'm still learning how to touch type, so I'm not sure how easy hand coding websites will be <--I'll update you when I'm at that point)

I have used it while editing video in Sony Vegas Pro...WOW! I mean, it was so much faster. Having everything (mouse, keyboard) in one place. It will only get better the more I get used to it.
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Mouse & Keyboard in one
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This is fantastic, I keep finding myself taking my right hand off of the controller to search for the mouse. It's all right there in one spot. Very nice!

I really love the way one hand controls the mouse, the other hand controls the clicks. (It's so natural, and works very well! Better than one handed operation for sure!)

Even if you don't use this device to 'type' much, the way the mouse works is GREAT for general internet surfing (sitting back on the couch or laying in bed, etc.).
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Long USB cable Provided
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Most companies would forget something this important, and give you some 4ft cable and expect you to buy something longer if you want that kind of reach. (This comes with 9ft, which is just right. Any longer and it would get in the way)
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Great Game Controller
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I don't play computer games, but I have heard that the iGrip is SO much better when playing 1st person shooter games. I'm tempted to get it for my father, he's nuts about all of them!
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Great Key Layout
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At first I was concerned about the designers choice of button positioning. Typing on this keyboard doesn't feel natural at first. I felt 'lost' - I've never tried to type on anything but a standard (flat) keyboard. After using it for a while, the keys start to become familiar and they feel like they are right where they should be.

All the muscle movements need to be learned. It reminds me when I first learned to play the guitar or piano. It feels weird at first, your brain doesn't know where to put the fingers - then time goes by and you adapt and it feels natural.

Overall...Fun!
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I'm seriously excited about this keyboard and mouse. It's small, convenient and fun too. I really enjoy learning how to use it, and with each step I take toward memorizing the all the keys, I see myself using this in place of my standard keyboard in most cases.

Although I haven't used it for long, I have been using it as much as possible, and I don't feel the pain I feel with a standard keyboard and mouse. In 2days, I've used it for a total of 12hrs (6+ hrs a day on my days off).

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Cons
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Wish it were Wireless
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I don't have much of a problem with the cable coming from this device. It's not much of an issue if you don't plan on moving much.

It can be a bit annoying since this device has so much potential without a cable. I hope I can find something that can turn it wireless (if you come across something, please let me know!!)
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Not easily Adjustible
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I've heard complaints about this device's universality (usability with different sized hands).

I think that I have the perfect hands for this device (fairly long, slender fingers seem to work best), just like with the piano.

Does it mean that it WON'T work for you if you don't have this type of hand? No, it could be more frustrating and not as comfortable..but I think you'll get used to it!

Should this device be adjustable? Maybe, but I think it would cost too much $$. They do have ways you can adjust it on their website by manually super gluing foam to certain places.

Outrageously LONG learning CURVE
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I just want to reiterate, the iGrip isn't for someone who doesn't have a lot of patience when learning new things (I've gotten a bit frustrated with it a few times because my brain just doesn't know what buttons to push).

You MUST be prepared to RE-Learn to type. Nothing is the same. The keystrokes you're used to don't exist on the iGrip. The placement of the keys are different. NOTHING is familiar (except the mouse if you've used a trackball before)

Do you usually finish what you start? Do you have pain when using a standard keyboard that would force you to keep trying when you want to give up (so that you can type comfortably)?

If so, you'll probably be fine.

If not, you may find that it sits on your desk collecting dust because you didn't give it the time to truly perform for you.

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Conclusion (and a few tips for new users)
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This is an incredible piece of electronics. I wish I had known about it before. It would have saved me a TON of pain. Do you spend a LOT of time on a computer? Even if you don't experience pain yet, I suggest you get one of these so that you can split up your time using each keyboard. That way you hopefully will never have pain.

Should you buy this product? YES, any one who has the willpower to over come the learning curve should. It is life changing. It's fun, it's functional, it's freeing to NOT be strapped to a desk. I expect to be MORE productive with it than with a standard keyboard because I don't have to go from keyboard to mouse to keyboard...any more.
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TIPS
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1. I accidentally push buttons when I don't want to...

The key to holding this device is to NOT depend on your fingers to carry the weight. You should put pressure against the device using the palms of your hands. - I.E. - You should be able to hold the iGrip using ONLY pressure from your palms (fingers straight out). Then you curl your fingers & thumbs into position.

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2. How can I memorize the keys faster?

Use a typing tutor to get you started (there are plenty of FREE ones online. Search for 'typing tutor' in Google). It's helped me so much. I can type around 10wpm, which isn't too bad in 2 days.)

Be patient, take it slow. Your brain will learn MUCH faster if you only press the key when you're sure it's correct. So, take a second and picture where the key is in your head before you press it (at least until it's memorized).

FYI - Did I use the iGrip to type this review?

NO WAY, it would have taken me 2 days at the speed I currently type. I'm just not that patient! 80wpm vs 10wpm....??

This innovative keyboard has all you need for comfortable typing on a sofa or anywhere else where balancing a keyboard on your lap isn't the best option. Moreover it's as fast as a full keyboard once you get used to it. But probably one of the best aspect of this product is customer support and the active community which is devoted to it.
Maybe it's not for people void of patience because it requires a bit of commitment at the beginning in order to learn using it, but the reward of resting comfortable on the chair/sofa/bed while having keyboard and mouse on your hands like a joypad, easily outbalances those first couple of weeks.
If you have huge hands like me you'll find out that patching some foam on the sides will make it even more comfortable.

Ergonomic USB Computer Keyboard & Trackball Alternative
I've had my first alphagrip for well over a year and have a second one for home now. I love it and use it literally everyday. Most of the day at work I'm stuck behind a computer and this keyboard has improved my productivity tremendously. Typing speed is faster and mouse to keyboard transitions don't exist anymore.
My favorite part is the extra desk space I have now, and the ability to sit back and relax while working and typing. Also, if you have an xbox360, then it will work as a USB keyboard for it as well.
It took me about a week of use to get the buttons memorized and another week to improve my speed with it. This is a great product and a reasonable price for a combination keyboard and mouse.

The keyboard is good. It takes time to get used to it, but at least, was faster than learning the regular keyboard. I feel the iGrip confortable.

But what I don't like about it is:

1- It's a little heavy, so if you planning to work for long hours, you need some support.
2- The trackball. It has the same problems as regular trackballs. It must be kept clean and free of any particule. But it has great response.
3- I'm software developer, and I found some combinations that I do often, while programming, for example SHIFT+UP/DOWN ARROW. In iGrip keyboard it means you need to press the RED SHIFT (iGrip only) to be able to press the arrows. Both, RED and GREEN SHIFT requires your thumbs. But the regular SHIFT (white), as well the arrows requires your thumbs, so it's impossible to perform RED_SHIFT+SHIFT+UP/DOWN ARROW. I think for later versions, they should add a RED/GREE SHIFT in the back of the keyboard.

I've had my Alphagrip (previous model of the iGrip) for several years now. It is a fascinating device with great potential. Initially the learning curve was steep, but looking back it was far easier than learning a standard keyboard. If you are just getting started with one of these, I would strongly suggest checking out the Alphagrip website for links to free typing tutor programs and other helpful hints from other users on the forums there.

The price is nothing to sneeze at (around a hundred), but for a very useful keyboard and mouse combination I felt it was reasonable. There are a handful of things you should expect to encounter after purchasing:

1. (+)Durable. Plastic housing is very sturdy, and mine has survived several falls onto concrete from 2 to 3 feet.
2. (-)Possible component problems / manufacturing flaws. My first device had a problem with registering the wrong key press.
3. (+)Very helpful and pleasant customer support. Aforementioned first device was replace promptly with no hassle.
4. (+)Trackball is easy to clean, just pop off the outer ring and remove ball and ring.
5. (-)USB cable wears out at flex point in back of the Alphagrip. New version has a stronger cable.
6. (-)"Shift" and "Ctrl" keys do not register as a keystrokes, so Shift + Click is not possible, along with any other related combos.
7. (+)Works with any computer, Plug 'n Play. Use it at work even if your IT policy is restrictive, with no programs to install!
8. (+)Ergonomics. While not scientifically studied, I'm confident there are some real ergonomic benefits with the Alphagrip.

None of the negative points above prevented me from enjoying the product, and I am really looking forward to owning the iGrip version! This is the kind of innovation that I love to support, because the company is genuinely interested in creating a great product. They listen to feedback, support their customers, and have created a great product design that deserves consideration for anyone who plays MMO's, surfs the web a lot, or has RSI related to mouse and keyboard use.

On the ergonomic question, the only discomfort I have while using the Alphagrip is strain in the large outer muscle of my thumb after extended use. Because the trackball is towards the middle of the front, I have to extend my thumb out of natural position to operate the trackball. This can be alleviated by releasing the right side of the device and resting my right hand along the top edge while using the trackball. Obviously YMMV, because everyone's hands are different sizes. Typing is quite natural, and I have never felt even the slightest stiffness or soreness after typing a lot with it. Finger movement is almost non-existent because the keys are all under your fingertips, and there is no strain to keep your hands in position above the keys. Shoulders, elbows, and wrists can be kept in a neutral non-strained position, and moved around as frequently as you like because the keyboard is not stuck to the desk. This is great for eliminating shoulder and neck strain commonly associated with computer use at a desk.

looking for the accuracy of a mouse with the comfort of a gamepad? look no further. The best gaming solution I've come across, especially for the first-person shooter genre. No more getting your fingers tied in knots with poorly made keypads and no more getting owned hopelessly trying to accurately place your sights with an analog stick. With 10 mouse acceleration settings, an ergonomic grip, and more buttons than you would care to map the igrip offers the most complete gaming solution. Great, great, great, customer support (said they would give me a new one for free if a new version is produced just for giving them customer feedback). Gave it a 4/5 because a few tweaks could make this device even better, but first they need your support. Don't hesitate, buy.

I have large hands and RTS, and thought I'd give this a whirl. Aftera couple weeks I sent it back. The mouse was too hard to use, and I couldn't see spending the time for it to feel "natural" when it only made my hands hurt more. Not to mention having to hold up the controller all the time.

I ended up pawning this. I couldn't get the hang of it even with "typing tutor" programs. It works well on Linux.

I bought this device as part of my search for the perfect input device.
I give it a try for a month and try to use it as much as possible and get proficient with it.

My conclusion is that this device is a good idea, but end result is clumsy and of low quality (of course but that time the return period lapse, so I had to take the hit and donate it to GoodWill).
It has too many buttons on the front which are difficult to operate because the character keys are actually on the other side, so you can't get a good grip without hitting the character keys.
And regarding the character keys on the back, the feel is flimsy and erratic.

I found a much better device for my Apple Mac Mini media center; that is the Logitech diNovo Mini.
Not as alternative looking, but well constructed, reliable, and bluetooth capable!
Logitech diNovo Mini

This "keyboard" is very innovative, but you need to hope you have the right size hands to use it. It's not adjustable and I found my wrists to be in an awkward position.

It's an innovative idea, but needs some refinement. In my opinion, it's and idea who's time just hasn't arrived yet.