OptiKey
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Last verified June 20, 2026 · classified April 26, 2026
What it is
Summary
AI-generated from vendor-published content · April 26, 2026
OptiKey is a free, open-source on-screen keyboard for Windows that lets users type and control their computer using eye-tracking hardware, a webcam, or a standard mouse. It's primarily designed for people with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) or other conditions that severely limit hand and finger movement, allowing them to compose emails, control Windows applications, and generate speech output — all without touching a keyboard. This is a complete software solution you download and install on your own Windows PC, but you'll need compatible eye-tracking hardware (such as a Tobii device) to get the most out of it; webcam-based tracking works but is less precise. Because it's open source and community-supported, there's no paid tech support — troubleshooting relies on GitHub issue tracking and community forums, which can be a barrier for less technical users or family members setting things up.
Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
- AT Act lending
- Out of pocket
- Vocational rehab
What Setup Looks Like
- Out of the box
Download and run the Windows installer from the OptiKey GitHub releases page — the keyboard appears on screen immediately after installation. - With a guide
- Review the OptiKey Wiki for system requirements and configuration options before setup.
- Connect and configure your eye-tracking device (e.g., Tobii Eye Tracker) using its own software, then point OptiKey to that input source in settings.
- Watch the official introduction video and work through the user guide to calibrate dwell timing and key sizing for your needs — expect 30–60 minutes for initial configuration. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.
- With professional help
- An assistive technology professional (ATP) or occupational therapist (OT) can assess which input method (eye-tracking vs. webcam vs. mouse) best fits the user's current abilities.
- An ATP can optimize dwell time, keyboard layout, and speech output settings to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy — typically 1–2 sessions.
Getting it
Try Before You Buy
Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.
Where to Get It
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How to Fund This
Equipment like this is often pursued through official state programs. These are common starting points — each program decides its own eligibility and what it covers, so the first step is always a phone call.
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Sources & fine print
Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from OptiKey (Open Source) — view on vendor site; last verified June 20, 2026.
Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on April 26, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.