A left-handed keyboard generally allows left handed users to follow their natural strengths by placing the numeric keypad and directional arrow keys to the left of the alphabetic keypad.

Even those who aren’t left handed may benefit from a left-handed keyboard. The left-handed keyboard can also be used by one-handed typists, and many two-handed typists find that the left handed keyboard prevents or relieves discomfort in the hand, wrist, or arm.

Those who are right-handed may discover that by using a left-handed keyboard, the mouse location is moved more to the center of the work area. By bringing the keyboard closer to the mouse, pain or discomfort caused by reaching for the mouse can be reduced. The left handed keyboard also distributes the workload more evenly between both hands.