How do you manage your multiple keyboards?

[treefinger]

I try to find time to rotate keyboards, but it can be difficult. I try to be consistent with switch type and computer activity, e.g. Cherry Blacks for FPS games, Reds for RTS, Blues for typing at home, Topre at work (programmer by trade). This may mean swapping out a lot, but it gives me a good excuse to change boards

[Dongulator]

I try to find time to rotate keyboards, but it can be difficult. I try to be consistent with switch type and computer activity, e.g. Cherry Blacks for FPS games, Reds for RTS, Blues for typing at home, Topre at work (programmer by trade). This may mean swapping out a lot, but it gives me a good excuse to change boards

Which topre?

[treefinger]

Which topre?

 A Realforce 104UB black on black - she's my baby, I love her so.

[phosphoric]

both of my full-size keyboards now have legends because my girlfriend uses my computer quite often (almost as much as i do) and she's too lazy to swap out the keyboards. the ducky shine 5 has the tai hao miamis and the wasd v2 has side-printed mints. generally i'll end up unplugging whatever keyboard is plugged in and use my pok3r (which is generally in my backpack)

[Mattr567]

At first I had two on my desk, then after I got to 4 they now go in the closet.

Right now on my G80.

[captaineleven]

I rotate pretty randomly. I have a few mech keyboards and I have older membrane keyboards that still feel nice to type on. I have a little cabinet to put them in and that's where I store them. But there's still maybe a couple that are strewn about on my desk that I switch out with the main one. A lot of it has to do with the kind of keyboard sound I want to hear. And since there's a fair bit of variety of switches, I can finish typing like a paragraph and switch to something else. It's weird doing it on sound, but that's why I do it haha

[ander]

I have no routines or patterns... I just get them all out now and then, rub my hands together, cackle, and say "My Precious!"

[dummytim]

I have no routines or patterns... I just get them all out now and then, rub my hands together, cackle, and say "My Precious!"

I do this pretty often too!

[1swt2gs]

I have no routines or patterns... I just get them all out now and then, rub my hands together, cackle, and say "My Precious!"

[ander]

...And I try not to drool on the ones that don't have protective covers.

[Numpy]

Mine just sit lonely in their boxes.

This is sad 

[Fiery]

I currently only have a single keyboard, but will soon get a new one. The pok3r in white with clears, and when I get that ill retire this one to my Rpi I guess as I am trying to set up a space for my Rpi where I can use linux whenever im not using my main machine. however im not using multiple keyboards atm but I have been using 2 mice and a tablet for a while, I have the G400s and MX master from logitech and I mostly only use my G400s for gaming and for everything else I use the Master. the tablet is used for Osu! (rythm game) and school work, doodling notes and such.

[pr0ximity]

I built up my collection to have what I consider the best for each usage type, and switch accordingly.

356 Mini or Realforce 55g for in the office working. (exclusively the Mini for the past couple months)

Model F for at-home working.

Filco or Realforce for games (pretty rare lately). Filco has been in my drawer at work so the Realforce has been there for the rare times I'm not using my XBox controller.

[SamirD]

I currently only have a single keyboard, but will soon get a new one. The pok3r in white with clears, and when I get that ill retire this one to my Rpi I guess as I am trying to set up a space for my Rpi where I can use linux whenever im not using my main machine. however im not using multiple keyboards atm but I have been using 2 mice and a tablet for a while, I have the G400s and MX master from logitech and I mostly only use my G400s for gaming and for everything else I use the Master. the tablet is used for Osu! (rythm game) and school work, doodling notes and such.

Welcome to GH!

[mobbo]

I have an old record player cabinet. The top lid holds two tenkeyless boards perfectly (Realforce and Filco currently) as well as provide easy access for switching boards, and there are three cupboards below that store my 60%'s and keycap sets, etc.

[Steezus]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

[dummytim]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

[Steezus]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

I've been planning to sell them,  I even added LEDs in my two Pok3rs so they would probably sell even faster. I'm honestly just too lazy and don't know where the post office is up at my college.

[SamirD]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

I've been planning to sell them,  I even added LEDs in my two Pok3rs so they would probably sell even faster. I'm honestly just too lazy and don't know where the post office is up at my college.

Forget going to the post office, you can prepare a shipment for shipment online for USPS, UPS, and Fedex.  The only time I ever go there is to drop one of them off.

[dummytim]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

I've been planning to sell them,  I even added LEDs in my two Pok3rs so they would probably sell even faster. I'm honestly just too lazy and don't know where the post office is up at my college.

Forget going to the post office, you can prepare a shipment for shipment online for USPS, UPS, and Fedex.  The only time I ever go there is to drop one of them off.

Don't they have like a pick up service, where if you've already printed your label and everything they'll just grab the package?

[rowdy]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

Better still, put something over them to keep the dust off!  Even a tea towel will do.

[SamirD]

For now I type on my RS96 and leave my two Pok3rs to collect dust. I have three boards coming that I have to build, curious to see how much use they're all going to get.

If you have a bunch of boards collecting dust, why don't you just sell them?

I've been planning to sell them,  I even added LEDs in my two Pok3rs so they would probably sell even faster. I'm honestly just too lazy and don't know where the post office is up at my college.

Forget going to the post office, you can prepare a shipment for shipment online for USPS, UPS, and Fedex.  The only time I ever go there is to drop one of them off.

Don't they have like a pick up service, where if you've already printed your label and everything they'll just grab the package?

Any of them will pick up for free if they're doing a delivery too.  UPS and Fedex charge for a pickup.

[Niomosy]

Right now I have one main board for my desktop - a Ducky G2 Pro.  I just use the laptop's keyboard for the laptop.  My Model M and SGI Granite are stored in the closet with a couple MS Ergo models and a Sun Type 5 board. 

I've used the Granite and Model M a bit prior to having the Ducky but most definitely missed having media controls and the Windows key.  I've realized that both are a must for me.  Neither lasted long for use and I went back to the MS Ergo 4000 until the Ducky was ordered.

[SamirD]

Right now I have one main board for my desktop - a Ducky G2 Pro.  I just use the laptop's keyboard for the laptop.  My Model M and SGI Granite are stored in the closet with a couple MS Ergo models and a Sun Type 5 board. 

I've used the Granite and Model M a bit prior to having the Ducky but most definitely missed having media controls and the Windows key.  I've realized that both are a must for me.  Neither lasted long for use and I went back to the MS Ergo 4000 until the Ducky was ordered.

I love Model Ms, so keep me in mind if you're thinking of getting rid of it.

[Niomosy]

Right now I have one main board for my desktop - a Ducky G2 Pro.  I just use the laptop's keyboard for the laptop.  My Model M and SGI Granite are stored in the closet with a couple MS Ergo models and a Sun Type 5 board. 

I've used the Granite and Model M a bit prior to having the Ducky but most definitely missed having media controls and the Windows key.  I've realized that both are a must for me.  Neither lasted long for use and I went back to the MS Ergo 4000 until the Ducky was ordered.

I love Model Ms, so keep me in mind if you're thinking of getting rid of it.

Heh, I have two more rescues from the bin at work.  Definitely something to consider.

[ctm]

I always want to buy more keyboards (Topre, ergo clear 60% with metal case, buckling spring etc) even though I have no idea why I need more keyboards. I can't really find a use case for them. I don't have multiple computers or work places.

[captaineleven]

I always want to buy more keyboards (Topre, ergo clear 60% with metal case, buckling spring etc) even though I have no idea why I need more keyboards. I can't really find a use case for them. I don't have multiple computers or work places.

LOL I don't have a real reason for having more than a couple to be honest, but the appeal of getting new keyboards and experiencing different switches/brands/sizes is just so enticing.

[swimmingbird]

I always want to buy more keyboards (Topre, ergo clear 60% with metal case, buckling spring etc) even though I have no idea why I need more keyboards. I can't really find a use case for them. I don't have multiple computers or work places.

LOL I don't have a real reason for having more than a couple to be honest, but the appeal of getting new keyboards and experiencing different switches/brands/sizes is just so enticing.

If anything I probably have less reason for owning multiple keyboards than non-enthusiasts given that by being a mostly 60% user I can take my keyboard to work without any real issue

[captaineleven]

If anything I probably have less reason for owning multiple keyboards than non-enthusiasts given that by being a mostly 60% user I can take my keyboard to work without any real issue

Hahaha alternatively, even as a mostly 60% user, it would help to have backups in case your super portable daily driver somehow has a problem. Just throwing it out there.

[swimmingbird]

If anything I probably have less reason for owning multiple keyboards than non-enthusiasts given that by being a mostly 60% user I can take my keyboard to work without any real issue

Hahaha alternatively, even as a mostly 60% user, it would help to have backups in case your super portable daily driver somehow has a problem. Just throwing it out there.

I already have 4 60% backups with 2 more on the way lol

[SamirD]

Right now I have one main board for my desktop - a Ducky G2 Pro.  I just use the laptop's keyboard for the laptop.  My Model M and SGI Granite are stored in the closet with a couple MS Ergo models and a Sun Type 5 board. 

I've used the Granite and Model M a bit prior to having the Ducky but most definitely missed having media controls and the Windows key.  I've realized that both are a must for me.  Neither lasted long for use and I went back to the MS Ergo 4000 until the Ducky was ordered.

I love Model Ms, so keep me in mind if you're thinking of getting rid of it.

Heh, I have two more rescues from the bin at work.  Definitely something to consider.

I can give them a good home where they'll be connected to a system and used regularly. 

I always want to buy more keyboards (Topre, ergo clear 60% with metal case, buckling spring etc) even though I have no idea why I need more keyboards. I can't really find a use case for them. I don't have multiple computers or work places.

LOL I don't have a real reason for having more than a couple to be honest, but the appeal of getting new keyboards and experiencing different switches/brands/sizes is just so enticing.

I'm lucky enough to have a bunch of systems for different purposes, some old, some really old, but all working and doing a job.  So since they're working and need a keyboard, the Ms I have are almost all connected.

I do want to try other switches though, and since the resale value of a used keyboard is essentially what you paid for it, the small price of shipping is a good way to 'feel' your way around. 

If anything I probably have less reason for owning multiple keyboards than non-enthusiasts given that by being a mostly 60% user I can take my keyboard to work without any real issue

Hahaha alternatively, even as a mostly 60% user, it would help to have backups in case your super portable daily driver somehow has a problem. Just throwing it out there.

I already have 4 60% backups with 2 more on the way lol

lol!  Can never have too many backups.

[Niomosy]

Honestly, if I had multiple systems like that I'd probably just get a KVM switch and use that with them.

[Wolfseye]

I currently have 3, all Ducky. One is 60%, the others are full. And I have an old Qpad somewhere, that's it. But I only keep that in case of emergency.

[popkorn62]

I only have 2 and I can't even rotate it well mostly just stick with Pok3r and my Ducky is only sitting in a box.

[mashby]

Since my passion is 60%, I've found that the Container Store Shoe Box works perfectly for most of my boards. With a layer of foam in between them, I find that I can fit two boards in one box.



For the day-to-day, I have one of intelli78's hard cases that I use in my office to store an alternative keyboard. Towards the end-of-the-day, I swap out my daily driver with something different. Today it'll be my Duck Viper. 

[dan002]

Interesting that you posted a picture of a shoe box because this thread was reminding me of shoe collectors.

New thread, how do you rotate your shoe collection 

[Homenubbie]

I only have 2 and I can't even rotate it well mostly just stick with Pok3r and my Ducky is only sitting in a box.

I just stick to my Pok3r too.

[E3E]

Well, ever since I got my cases for the Lightpad and Octagon that are my typical daily drivers, I have been able to rotate freely.

I love the cases btw:

Wish I had cases for all my boards!

Anyway. I feel like nothing really beats the feel of typing on my Octagon, even though I prefer Alps. There's just something about the Octagon that kind of enchants me. Might be the pretty lights, the Jukebox key set, vintage blacks, or the heavy aluminum case, but it's still my overall favorite. We'll see if this changes at all when my Hammer case finally comes in for my 60% Alps Eagle project.

In any case, there are times I have a serious nostalgia trip and really want to use my old Dell AT101 which is only slightly younger than me or my Fame which is certainly older than me. Something about using boards that I've not only lovingly restored, but that have been workhorses and utilitarian for people a generation before me really makes me enjoy them quite a bit.

Also, it's kind of nice typing on a bygone switch family like Alps.

Just my rambling two cents.

[1391401]

I keep their boxes in a larger box and cycle them as I get bored

[Niomosy]

Interesting that you posted a picture of a shoe box because this thread was reminding me of shoe collectors.

New thread, how do you rotate your shoe collection 

Great, now I've got an urge to go hit up Styleforums and look at those collections of $1000-and-up shoes.  Dammit!

[Fiery]

I currently only have a single keyboard, but will soon get a new one. The pok3r in white with clears, and when I get that ill retire this one to my Rpi I guess as I am trying to set up a space for my Rpi where I can use linux whenever im not using my main machine. however im not using multiple keyboards atm but I have been using 2 mice and a tablet for a while, I have the G400s and MX master from logitech and I mostly only use my G400s for gaming and for everything else I use the Master. the tablet is used for Osu! (rythm game) and school work, doodling notes and such.

Welcome to GH!

Wow I feel really bad for not having seen this reply until now.. Thank you for welcoming me, I have been mostly lurking here, but I have one or two posts. I like this community alot, its not too big and people here are really friendly from what I have seen.

[SamirD]

I currently only have a single keyboard, but will soon get a new one. The pok3r in white with clears, and when I get that ill retire this one to my Rpi I guess as I am trying to set up a space for my Rpi where I can use linux whenever im not using my main machine. however im not using multiple keyboards atm but I have been using 2 mice and a tablet for a while, I have the G400s and MX master from logitech and I mostly only use my G400s for gaming and for everything else I use the Master. the tablet is used for Osu! (rythm game) and school work, doodling notes and such.

Welcome to GH!

Wow I feel really bad for not having seen this reply until now.. Thank you for welcoming me, I have been mostly lurking here, but I have one or two posts. I like this community alot, its not too big and people here are really friendly from what I have seen.

All good.  

I agree that it's a great community--some of the friendliest people I've ever seen on any forum.

[hwood34]

Having just one usable board right now I don't even have to feel like I'm wasting money just letting boards sit on the shelf

[E3E]

I'm glad that my Hammer Eagle fits in the HHKB case I bought a long time ago in prep for a certain group buy, because I can't stand leaving any boards with heavy aluminum cases out if I'm not using them. They NEED a case. Eventually I'll order another hard case from Intelli again, but the HHKB case fits it nice and snug, thankfully.

I would also like some cases for my full size restored vintages, but Intelli doesn't offer cases for big foot style Alps boards, haha. I was thinking of getting a small musical keyboard case that could fit those boards. I dunno though. I just feel weird when boards are left out and exposed to the... not so harsh elements of my room.

[Karura]

I'm glad that my Hammer Eagle fits in the HHKB case I bought a long time ago in prep for a certain group buy, because I can't stand leaving any boards with heavy aluminum cases out if I'm not using them. They NEED a case. Eventually I'll order another hard case from Intelli again, but the HHKB case fits it nice and snug, thankfully.

I would also like some cases for my full size restored vintages, but Intelli doesn't offer cases for big foot style Alps boards, haha. I was thinking of getting a small musical keyboard case that could fit those boards. I dunno though. I just feel weird when boards are left out and exposed to the... not so harsh elements of my room.

What is a Hammer Eagle, and what is a HHKB case? Sounds interesting but I have no idea what you're referring to without pics.

I assume you put a Duck Eagle PCB inside a Hammer case, and then removed two keys, to place it in a HHKB case (the stock one?)

Please elaborate!

[E3E]

I'm glad that my Hammer Eagle fits in the HHKB case I bought a long time ago in prep for a certain group buy, because I can't stand leaving any boards with heavy aluminum cases out if I'm not using them. They NEED a case. Eventually I'll order another hard case from Intelli again, but the HHKB case fits it nice and snug, thankfully.

I would also like some cases for my full size restored vintages, but Intelli doesn't offer cases for big foot style Alps boards, haha. I was thinking of getting a small musical keyboard case that could fit those boards. I dunno though. I just feel weird when boards are left out and exposed to the... not so harsh elements of my room.

What is a Hammer Eagle, and what is a HHKB case? Sounds interesting but I have no idea what you're referring to without pics.

I assume you put a Duck Eagle PCB inside a Hammer case, and then removed two keys, to place it in a HHKB case (the stock one?)

Please elaborate!

Haha, sorry I know all these terms can get confusing, especially since case is used as the term for a housing in this community, but by case I meant "carrying case," haha.

The HHKB carrying case I was referring to is this one! http://www.amazon.com/Carrying-Hacking-Keyboard-PD-KB01SD-Import/dp/B000FHSNFW Fantastic case, but I want something more personal for my build eventually.

This is what intelli and his fantastic artisan made for me for my Octagon and Lightpad (though the scheme and patch and fact they can be carried together was my idea, hehe ):

 

The Hammer Eagle is my Duck Eagle build. I'm really not sure what to call it, since it's a Duck Eagle PCB in a Hammer case (you had the right idea!) xD https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=77497.msg1952047#msg1952047

I think this should clear it all up, haha.

[dan002]

I keep their boxes in a larger box and cycle them as I get bored

Plus boxes protect them from dust. I currently keep my unused keyboards in their original box.

[Goranth]

Boards that I don't think I'll use for awhile I lend to relatives to use if they like them.  The ones I do still keep in my possession are on top of books on bookshelves.  Might get an HHKB soon then I gotta decide what to do with my Pok3r.

[mashby]

Boards that I don't think I'll use for awhile I lend to relatives to use if they like them.  The ones I do still keep in my possession are on top of books on bookshelves.  Might get an HHKB soon then I gotta decide what to do with my Pok3r.

If you run out of relatives... 

[nickheller]

Just stuff them somewhere in the closet. Good thing about 60% is that they don't take up much space so they are a bit easier to store