Microsoft stopped making its own keyboards and mice in 2023. The Sculpt Ergonomic design has since returned under licence from another manufacturer, but many people who relied on a Sculpt or a Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 are still looking for a replacement that fits their desk, their hands and their keyboard layout. This guide explains what made those two keyboards comfortable and how to find the same qualities in a keyboard you can buy today.
What you are actually trying to replace
The Sculpt and the Natural 4000 are both split keyboards, but they are quite different to type on. Start by working out which of these features you depend on.
| Feature | Sculpt Ergonomic | Natural Ergonomic 4000 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact, with a separate number pad | Full size, number pad built in |
| Connection | Wireless, USB receiver | Wired USB |
| Keys | Flat, short-travel keys like a laptop | Taller keys with longer travel |
| Palm rest | Cushioned | Cushioned |
| Shape | Split and domed | Split and domed |
If you used a Sculpt
Sculpt users usually want three things: a compact keyboard that keeps the mouse close, flat quiet keys, and a number pad they can move out of the way.
- Closest match to the Sculpt desktop set: the PERIDUO-606IIA is a compact split keyboard with a separate numeric keypad and a vertical mouse. All three share one USB receiver. It has a cushioned wrist rest, low-profile scissor keys and tilt feet at both the front and the rear.
- Keyboard and mouse without the keypad: the PERIDUO-606II is the same keyboard and mouse as a two-piece set.
- Keyboard only, for several devices: the PERIBOARD-818 connects to up to four devices (two by Bluetooth, one by 2.4 GHz receiver, one by USB-C cable). It has the same cushioned wrist rest, scissor keys and front and rear tilt feet, and it recharges over USB-C. It comes in US and German layouts.
All three work with Mac as well as Windows. The two PERIDUO-606 sets are currently made in the US layout only.
If you used a Natural Ergonomic 4000
Natural 4000 users usually want a full-size keyboard with the number pad attached, a large palm rest and keys with real travel.
- Wired, like the 4000: the PERIBOARD-512 is a full-size split keyboard with an integrated palm rest, long-travel tactile keys and a USB cable. It is made in a wide range of European layouts.
- The same shape without the cable: the PERIBOARD-612 works over a 2.4 GHz receiver or Bluetooth and supports both Windows and Mac, with spare keycaps for each.
- With a vertical mouse: the PERIDUO-512 (wired) and PERIDUO-614 (wireless, rechargeable, cushioned wrist rest) pair a full-size split keyboard with a vertical mouse.
If you want to move up to mechanical keys
Neither Microsoft keyboard was mechanical. If you type all day and want more precise feedback, a low-profile mechanical split keyboard keeps the familiar shape:
- PERIBOARD-535 II: wired, full size, with a choice of clicky, tactile or linear low-profile switches.
- PERIBOARD-735: the wireless version, with Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz receiver and USB-C.
- PERIBOARD-835 II: adds RGB backlighting and macros.
![PERIBOARD-835 II Wireless Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboard [Firmware Updated]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0532/6186/1024/files/periboard-835-ii-wireless-ergonomic-mechanical-keyboard-firmware-updated-1930390.jpg?v=1790000859&width=480)
Check the layout before you order
The layout is where most replacements go wrong in Europe. A keyboard sold as "QWERTY" may be US, UK or another national layout, and the Enter key, the left Shift key and several symbols differ between them. Each product page lists the layouts in stock, and you choose yours before adding to the basket. If you want an English layout while living outside the UK, read our guide to US and UK keyboard layouts in Europe.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Microsoft Sculpt keyboard discontinued?
Microsoft ended production of its own-brand keyboards and mice in 2023. The Sculpt design was later licensed to another company, which sells it under its own brand. Availability depends on country and layout.
How long does it take to get used to a different split keyboard?
If you already type on a split keyboard, the adjustment is mostly about key feel and the position of a few keys. Most people settle in within one to two weeks.
Can I get a split ergonomic keyboard with a German, French, Italian or Spanish layout?
Yes. The PERIBOARD-512 and PERIBOARD-612 are made in German, French, Italian, Spanish, UK and US layouts. Stock varies by layout, so check the product page.
Do these keyboards work with a Mac?
The PERIDUO-606II, PERIDUO-606IIA and PERIBOARD-818 are compatible with Mac. The PERIBOARD-612 supports Mac and Windows shortcuts and includes replacement keycaps for both. The PERIBOARD-735 works with Windows, macOS and Linux.
