Poor vision can be something you're born with or something that happens as a result of aging. Almost half the population experiences some degree of vision loss over time, and many people develop vision problems serious enough that they need to adapt how they work. Living with low vision can be difficult, but the right tools make computer work far more manageable.
The short answer: the best keyboard for visually impaired users depends on how much vision you have. Large-print, high-contrast keyboards suit most people with low vision; braille keyboards suit blind users and braille readers; and combined braille and large-print keyboards work for people whose vision is changing or for shared workstations. Pair the keyboard with glare control, good task lighting, and screen magnification for a complete low vision computer setup.
Key takeaways
- Large-print keyboards use oversized, high-contrast legends so keys can be read at a glance.
- Braille keyboards add tactile 6-dot labels for blind users and braille readers.
- Combined braille and large-print keyboards suit progressive vision loss and shared desks.
- Glare control, adjustable task lighting, and on-screen magnification matter as much as the keyboard.
- Bringing the monitor closer with an arm is often better than leaning in to read.
Vision is only one of the reasons a workstation may need to adapt; our guide to adapting a workstation to your needs covers other groups, from petite users to pregnant employees.
What Causes Vision Loss That Affects Computer Work?
Most vision loss is age-related, though some conditions are hereditary or linked to other health issues. This is not always the case, but most people notice that their vision declines as they age, partly because the eye's lens becomes less flexible over time, which makes it harder to shift focus between near and far. The following conditions are among the most common causes of low vision:
- Cataracts: develop slowly over time and can cause blurred vision and increased sensitivity to screen glare. They can often be removed with surgery.
- Glaucoma: damage to the optic nerve that can cause loss of peripheral vision, often described as "tunnel vision."
- Retinal detachment: small tears or holes in the retina can lead to partial or complete vision loss; it can be treated if caught early.
- Diabetic retinopathy: a common complication of diabetes that causes blurred and patchy vision.
- Age-related macular degeneration: common among older adults; it distorts sight and causes loss of central vision.
- Retinitis pigmentosa: a hereditary condition that can affect people of any age and causes slow, progressive vision loss.
Because so much vision change comes with age, many of these solutions overlap with workplace adjustments for older workers.
What Is the Best Keyboard for Visually Impaired Users?
For most people with low vision, a large-print, high-contrast keyboard is the best starting point; blind users usually need a braille keyboard. Here's how the main options compare.
Large-print keyboards
A keyboard with large type makes the keys much easier to see. Many models come in several color combinations — black on white, white on black, yellow on black, or black on yellow — which helps people who are sensitive to the contrast between text and background. The LogicKeyboard Large Print Bluetooth Keyboard works with PC, Mac, and iPad, so one keyboard can follow you between devices.
Braille keyboards
A braille keyboard labels each key with 6-dot braille cells, so braille readers can confirm every key by touch. Wired and Bluetooth versions are available for PC, Mac, iPad, and iPhone.
Braille plus large-print keyboards
Combined keyboards print large, high-contrast legends alongside tactile braille. They're a practical choice when vision is declining gradually, or when the same workstation is shared by sighted and visually impaired users.
If you've narrowed it down to a large-print model, our large-print keyboard comparison walks through the Bluetooth and backlit options side by side.
| Keyboard type | Best for | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Large print | Low vision, cataracts, age-related vision change | Oversized legends and a color combination you can read easily |
| High-contrast color options | Sensitivity to glare or contrast | Yellow on black or black on yellow for maximum contrast |
| Braille | Blind users and braille readers | 6-dot braille on every key; wired or Bluetooth |
| Braille + large print | Progressive vision loss or shared workstations | Both tactile braille and large printed legends |
How Do You Set Up a Low Vision Computer Workstation?
A good low vision computer setup reduces glare, adds focused light, enlarges what's on screen, and brings the display to you instead of you to the display. Those with impaired vision can also protect the sight they have by avoiding unnecessary eye strain throughout the workday.
Reduce screen glare
Anti-glare screen filters reduce reflections, eye strain, and fatigue. It's also a good idea to adjust the color, brightness, and contrast of the monitor using its control panel. If you're sensitive to glare, brightness, or sharp contrasts, you'll definitely want to take this step.
Use screen and document magnification
Both Windows and macOS include built-in screen magnification and high-contrast modes, and screen readers can read text aloud. For paper documents, video magnifiers project print at a larger size on a screen to eliminate the difficulty of reading small print.
Add adjustable task lighting
Focused, glare-free light on the keyboard and documents makes a big difference for people with low vision. An adjustable LED task lamp lets you direct light exactly where you need it without washing out the screen.
Bring the monitor closer
Leaning toward the screen to read strains the neck and back. A monitor arm lets you pull the screen closer and lower it to a comfortable height, then push it back when someone else uses the desk.
Consider ergonomic eyewear
Another option is computer eyewear with built-in glare protection. Browse our computer eyewear and talk to your eye doctor about lenses suited to your screen distance.
Needs shift over a lifetime, so it helps to understand how ergonomic needs change with age and revisit your setup when your vision changes.
Recommended Products for Visually Impaired Users
Find more options in our accessibility products.
Get a Low Vision Workstation Assessment
Whether you've recently experienced vision loss or have worn glasses your whole life and want more support, our specialists can recommend keyboards, lighting, and monitor positions that fit your vision and your work, in our Palo Alto showroom or virtually.
👉 Request an Ergonomic Evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best keyboard for someone with low vision?
A large-print keyboard with high-contrast legends is the best choice for most people with low vision. Choose the color combination you can read most easily; yellow on black and black on yellow offer the strongest contrast.
Is a braille keyboard different from a regular keyboard?
The layout is the same standard QWERTY, but each key carries 6-dot braille labels so it can be identified by touch. That lets braille readers confirm keys without relying on sight.
Do large-print keyboards work with Mac and iPad?
Many do. There are Mac-specific large-print keyboards, and Bluetooth models that pair with PC, Mac, and iPad. Check the compatibility listed on each product before buying.
How can I make my computer screen easier to see?
Turn on your operating system's magnification and high-contrast settings, increase text size, reduce glare with a filter or by repositioning the screen, add a task lamp, and bring the monitor closer with an adjustable arm.
This article shares general ergonomic guidance and is not medical advice. If you notice changes in your vision, see an eye care professional.
About the Author
Anne Kramer writes for Ask Ergo Works, where our ergonomic specialists have been fitting chairs and workstations from our Palo Alto showroom for more than 30 years.
