If symbols are your pain point, why not just put those on an external macro pad? From what I remember, switching to Dvorak et al isn't best for increased effic

If symbols are your pain point, why not just put those on an external macro pad? From what I remember, switching to Dvorak et al isn't best for increased efficiency, and you lock yourself from standard devices. Qwerty is better than good: it's good enough. Ergonomic keyboards are a good consideration, not for efficiency, but to avoid wrist pain.