Do I have any other option than a Kinesis Freestyle Pro?

[cosimo]

I'm currently using a Filco Ninja 2 Majestouch TKL, and I'm pretty happy with it.
However, split ergonomic keyboards have always been in my mind.
I would like to care for my wrists and tendons in the best way possible.

Also had and used a Kinesis Advantage 2, which is excellent but does not make for a good programming keyboard IMO.
I'm eyeing the Kinesis Freestyle Pro, but to cut a long story short, it'd be great if you could help me figure out what I want :-)
Here's my list of desirable features:

* Mechanical (obviously)
* At least TKL/80% keys. Can't do without PageUp/Down, cursor keys and Fxx keys. HHKB or similar are just not something I can stomach for 9-to-5 programming
* Split design, bonus points if the distance and tenting is adjustable (the Freestyle is a winner here, IMO)
* Not too loud (currently have MX brown with ring dampers, MX red is an option. Blues are out of the question)
* Usable together with a Roller Mouse (I use this https://www.contourdesign.com/product/rollermouse-red/ and I'm very happy with it), so it has to have a flat profile or wrist pads have to be detachable to make room for the roller mouse.
* Blank keycaps, either factory provided or after market.
* Backlit would be a plus, but ultimately an unnecessary luxury

I appreciate this is narrowing down the search space quite a lot, and it seems to me that the only keyboard that cover all bases is the Freestyle Pro/Edge.
If you have specific directions on how to get a custom keycaps set, I'm all ears.

What do you think? Thanks!

[clicks]

Hey fellow Contour Rollermouse Red user I've been searching for better ergonomic setups for my wrists too.

I see you went with the Freestyle Pro. Looks like a great choice with similar layout to normal keyboards. Curious if you miss the orthonormal layout from the Advantage 2.

What was the problem with using the Advantage 2 for programming? Have you tried different keyboard layouts or shortcuts?