I used to use and swear by that keyboard, and I can attest that there is a very large quality difference between the Microsoft keyboard and all the other option

I used to use and swear by that keyboard, and I can attest that there is a very large quality difference between the Microsoft keyboard and all the other options discussed in this thread. (The Microsoft keyboard is far inferior). Removing the number pad makes a big difference to ergonomics since your mouse is in the right place rather than way off to the side. Also the switches on the Microsoft keyboard were dome-switches last time I bought one, which means the keys require a very high force, and feel pretty gummy to actuate. This might not be a problem for everybody, but if you have (or are concerned about developing) RSI/carpal tunnel then reducing the force per keystroke is critical. The OP, plus all the other ergo keyboards mentioned (ErgoDox, Kinesis, etc.) all have mechanical switches which are much nicer/healthier to type on.