Optimizing keyboard accessibility: effects of raised character size on touch-typing performance

This study investigates the impact of raised character sizes on typing performance, providing insights into optimizing keyboard accessibility. Using customized keyboards with varying raised character sizes, we measured the touch-typing speed and accuracy and evaluated the user experience of 32 non-professional typists under strictly controlled conditions. The participants used four different keyboards: a standard mechanical keyboard (X group), a keyboard with raised characters smaller than standard Braille (A group), a keyboard with raised characters equal to standard Braille (B group), and a keyboard with raised characters larger than standard Braille (C group). Typing speed (WPM), typing accuracy (%), and usage experience scores (five-point Likert scale) obtained from the experimental measurements were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. The results indicate that more prominent raised characters significantly enhance typing accuracy and overall user satisfaction. Specifically, Product Group B (6.5mm) achieves higher accuracy compared to other groups, while Product Group C (8.5mm) provides the best user experience among all groups, with typing speeds comparable to the standard keyboard. This demonstrates the role of enhanced tactile feedback in improving typing performance to varying degrees. These findings suggest that incorporating more prominent raised characters into keyboard design can improve tactile feedback, thereby enhancing both typing performance and user experience.