Shopping for a keyboard tray? This complete buyer’s guide explains the different types, sizes, adjustments, and features to look for—so you can choose the perfect ergonomic keyboard tray for your desk setup.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to Keyboard Trays: Sizes, Adjustability, and Features Explained
If you spend hours at your computer every day, your keyboard setup matters more than you might think. Poor keyboard placement can lead to wrist discomfort, shoulder tension, neck strain, and long-term repetitive stress injuries. The easiest fix? A properly designed keyboard tray that positions your keyboard and mouse at the right height, angle, and distance.
But with so many options—clamp-on trays, adjustable trays, floating trays, track-mounted systems—how do you choose the right one?
Welcome to the ultimate keyboard tray buyer’s guide. Whether you're upgrading your home office, outfitting a corporate workspace, or solving a posture problem, this guide will help you understand the sizes, adjustability options, and key features that define the best under-desk keyboard trays.
Why a Keyboard Tray Matters for Ergonomics
Before we dive into types and features, let’s address the big question: Why do you need a keyboard tray in the first place?
Nearly all standard desks in the United States measure 29–30 inches tall. That’s perfect for writing, but much too high for comfortable typing. To keep your wrists straight and your elbows at a 90-degree angle, your keyboard needs to sit 2–4 inches lower than desktop height.
A keyboard tray allows you to:
- Lower your typing height
- Adjust for better wrist positioning
- Keep your mouse and keyboard on the same level
- Reduce strain on your shoulders and neck
- Maintain a neutral posture throughout the day
If you’ve ever felt like your desk is “too high” or your shoulders are “creeping up” while typing, a keyboard tray is the fix.
Types of Keyboard Trays
When shopping for a keyboard tray, you’ll quickly notice several mounting styles. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types and who they're best for.
1. Clamp-On Keyboard Trays
These attach directly to the front edge of your desk using adjustable clamps.
Best for:
- People who don’t want to drill into their desks
- Small workspaces
- Temporary work-from-home setups
Pros:
- No installation tools required
- Easy to reposition or move
- Great for renters and shared workstations
2. Track-Mounted Keyboard Trays
These mount underneath your desk using a sliding rail or “track.”
Best for:
- Permanent ergonomic setups
- Corporate offices
- Users who need full-height adjustability
Pros:
- Hide completely under desk when not in use
- Very stable
- Support advanced tilt and height adjustments
This category includes many high-end systems—like the Uncaged Ergonomics KT3—that offer precise ergonomic customization.
3. Articulating or Fully Adjustable Keyboard Trays
These trays adjust in height, tilt, and swivel to create a truly personalized typing experience.
Best for:
- Long hours of daily computer use
- Users with wrist, forearm, or shoulder discomfort
- Sit-stand desk users
Pros:
- Maximum ergonomic adjustability
- Easily fine-tuned for any body type
- Supports neutral wrist position
Examples include the KT1, KT2, and KT4, all designed for flexible height and angle adjustments
4. Floating or “Mouse Platform” Trays
Smaller trays that mount to the desk surface or clamp on.
Best for:
- Laptops
- Compact keyboards
- Minimalist desks
Pros:
- Extremely space-efficient
- Quick to install
- Ideal for tighter setups
Keyboard Tray Sizes: What You Should Know
Size is one of the most important—and most overlooked—factors when choosing a keyboard tray.
Here’s what to consider:
1. Keyboard Width
Standard keyboards are 17–19 inches wide, while full-size boards with number pads range from 19–22 inches.
Choose a tray that:
- Fits your keyboard comfortably
- Leaves enough space for your mouse
- Doesn’t force your wrists into awkward positions
2. Equal Space for Mouse Movement
A good keyboard tray includes a full-size mouse pad area. Many people focus only on keyboard space, but your mouse needs room too.
The Uncaged Ergonomics KT1 and KT2, for example, include dedicated mouse platforms that adjust independently for left or right-hand use.
3. Depth (Front-to-Back Dimension)
A deeper tray offers:
- More wrist support
- Space for wrist rests
- A more natural distance from the monitor
Look for trays at least 11–12 inches deep for optimal support.
Adjustability: The Feature That Matters Most
When comparing keyboard trays, adjustability is the number one factor that affects your comfort.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Height Adjustability
Your keyboard should sit at a height that keeps:
- Elbows bent at 90 degrees
- Shoulders relaxed
- Wrists straight
Fully adjustable trays like the KT4 allow smooth vertical movement to match your body height and desk setup.
2. Tilt Adjustability
A slight negative tilt (keyboard sloping downward away from you) dramatically reduces wrist strain.
Look for trays that allow both:
- Positive tilt
- Neutral tilt
- Negative tilt (most important)
The KT1 and KT2 offer excellent tilt ranges that support neutral wrist posture.
3. Swivel Function
A tray that rotates left or right helps:
- Fine-tune body alignment
- Reduce shoulder rotation
- Improve overall typing comfort
4. Mouse Platform Adjustability
Your mouse should sit:
- At the same height as your keyboard
- Close enough that your arm stays relaxed
- On a surface that supports smooth movement
Features like the KT1’s intuitive mouse pad platform make a big difference for comfort.
Important Features to Consider When Buying
Beyond size and adjustability, here are additional features that separate a “good” tray from a “great” one:
✔ Smooth sliding track (for track-mounted trays)
Ensures quiet, wobble-free movement.
✔ Sturdy construction
Aluminum and steel frames provide long-lasting support.
✔ Independent mouse platform
Allows left/right adjustment and height matching.
✔ Wrist support compatibility
Some users prefer adding wrist rests for additional comfort.
✔ Easy installation
Clamp-on trays like the KT2 install in minutes.
✔ Compatibility with standing desks
The KT4 works beautifully with sit-stand desks thanks to its wide height adjustment range.
Which Keyboard Tray Is Right for You? (Quick Guide)
Here’s a quick breakdown to help match Uncaged Ergonomics trays to user needs:
▶ KT1 – Most Versatile Adjustable Keyboard Tray
Great for:
- Users who want full tilt and height control
- Ergonomic customization
- Multi-user workstations
▶ KT4 – Adjustable Standing Desk Keyboard Tray
Great for:
- Fast installation
- Renters or temporary setups
- No drilling into desk required
▶ KT3 – Premium Track-Mounted Tray
Great for:
- Professional offices
- Ultra-stable setups
- Users needing deep ergonomic adjustability
▶ KT2 – Best for Standing Desks
Great for:
- Sit-stand desk users
- Height variation throughout the day
- Taller or shorter-than-average users
Final Buying Tips
When choosing a keyboard tray, remember this simple rule:
Comfort = Height + Tilt + Space
If a tray gives you the right height, the right angle, and enough room for your mouse, it will transform your typing posture instantly.