I've looked through the forum, and I'm now a bit stuck. I've seen some of the differing opinions on the Maltron 3D vs Kinesis Advantage debate on here (e.g. http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=33539.0 ), and I'm also looking at the ErgoDox project.
This leaves me wondering how the ErgoDox will compare to Maltron and Kinesis. Are there any opinions on this yet? Does it make sense to wait for the PCB boards to become available for the ErgoDox and assemble everything on one's own (Is this practical for a hardware beginner? The lack of tools leaves me also wondering how much the tools would cost)?
I've gathered that kinesis has a bit of a crowded feel with its keys compared to the maltron. Is this something someone with fairly small hands would still notice, or is it really just an issue for folks with big hands? I also was thinking it shouldn't be too hard to just swap out the cherry blacks for reds on the maltron (is this a good idea, or is brown really that much of a better choice on the maltron keyboard? I have sample switches, and I like the reds quite a bit better).
I'm concerned about ergonomics 100% and everything else is just irrelevant. I've got RSI in my wrists and fingers (also my right forearm), and I'm wanting the absolute best ergonomic option to alleviate the strain from typing. I'm a programmer, so special keys are used a lot. I'm willing to learn a new keyboard layout, and I'm considering Colemak. However, if I decide to pick up a Maltron (that price burns... ugh), would it make sense to use the Maltron layout as a programmer? I can't remember where, but someone said it was more geared towards secretaries...
On a side note, I've also ordered a RollerMouse Pro (the original one, not the Pro2). The concept sounds really nice, and I'm finding my mx518 logitech is wearing on my right hand.
Am I right in assuming that DataHand is dead and not coming back? Such an interesting keyboard; what a waste.
Ok now I can offer a decent comparison for you.
Both of the keyboards have their strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths of Kinesis-Programmability. Can do any layout that you want. Make the keyboard all A's if you want.
-Lower price
-Option of tactile switches
-Option of foot switches
-Two USB ports in the back
Weaknesses of Kinesis-Slightly more crowded keys, but I have gotten used to this and it has reduced my typographical errors. Also, I ordered some blank spherical keycaps from Signature Plastics, so we'll if that changes anything.
-No integrated mouse option (But I do have a trackpad taped to the blank space in the middle)
-those rubber F keys
-The smaller amount of keys than a Maltron make me feel like I have to make sacrifices.
Strengths of Maltron-Depressed area for thumbs keys feels a lot better and has 8 keys in that thumb area
-I like the number pad in the middle for navigating around the page because I use arrow keys, Page Up/down a lot, and the Kinesis has the embedded number pad, which is not as convenient
-Integrated trackball
-Seems to have a slightly spacier layout
-More keys and a better overall layout in my opinion.
-Durability. People still use their Maltrons from the 1980s.
-Also, the Maltron minimizes the use of the pinky finger. I hate using my pinky finger.
Weaknesses of Maltron-Not programmable (but they have custom built a couple programmable units, and might make a wider release)
-$$$ (but you can get them cheaper when they pop up on Ebay. One just sold for about $250 ebay.uk)
-They don't offer tactile switches (but you probably could request them if you wanted.
Both are good keyboards that could use a few improvements, but in my opinion, the Maltron has a better ergonomic design with the depressed thumb areas. I enjoy typing on the Maltron more than the Kinesis. I have a Maltron with a trackball, so I don't need a mouse and the position of the trackball certainly reduces strain on my hands. I love the layout of the Maltron as is, so the lack of programmability is not a problem for me. It would be nice if my Maltron worked on a Mac, however.
Both of these companies claim to be releasing new and improved models this years, so we'll see what that brings.
I am in the process of putting tactile switches into my Maltron, so we'll see how that goes once the switches arrive. Taking the switches apart without damaging the keyboard is time consuming, but it wasn't that difficult once I got rolling. I have chronicle that process here:
http://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/anybody-ever-change-the-switches-on-their-maltron-t4675.htmlThe Ergodox gets me rather excited as well. The Ergodox would be great for flexibility and travel. I love the addition of keys on the middle part of the keyboard. I did own the Kinesis Freestyle at the same time as the Advantage and Maltron, so I had a short time to compare the flat, split keyboard with the concave shape of the Advantage/Maltron. I have grown to favor keyboards with the depressed bowls of the Kinesis/Maltron. The difference in the feel was glaring, enough for me to offload the Kinesis Freestyle as fast as possible. I love how the concave shape allows my fingers to hang in their natural position. Also, the thumb keys made a typical keyboard seem like an ancient idea.
If you want, you could fly to Indianapolis and try out both of my keyboards. Considering the cost of both these keyboards, it could be cheaper than buying both. And Indianapolis is gorgeous in the wintertime. Nothing like constant cloud cover, persistent wetness, and cold temperatures. I may or may not be serious about this offer.