I use a heated desk pad under my keyboard.

Do you have a link to one you recommend?

i haven't done extensive research so there could be thinner gloves out there, but i bought a pair of "edz merino fingerless gloves" a few months ago and they are less restrictive than the pair i had before

still end up with cold-ish fingers though which feels similar enough to cold hands. im thinking what i need is something like mittens but instead of something that wraps around your fingers, it would just rest on top and keep the air off while your fingers are free to move underneath

You could try some fingerless “glove liners” (might find some at REI), but I’d suggest “arm socks”. They come in two basic styles; somewhat feminine knits, and synthetics made for sporting activities or hunting.