Unpopular Keyboard Opinions

[trenzafeeds]

Not sure how unpopular this is, but I think DSA Dolch may be genuinely one of the worst keycap sets ever.

Not sure about the Dolch part but DSA in general is definitely not for me..

I agree, I find basically all DSA sets nasty, with the exception of probably valentine.

[E3E]

DSA seems appealing to an extent, but not appealing enough. There's almost an equal amount of attraction and repulsion I have when it comes to DSA.

As far as unpopular opinions? Alps SKCM/L switches are far better than any Cherry MX switch and things would've been a lot more amazing to see Alps as the paradigm over Cherry MX.

Don't get me wrong; I like Cherry MX, but after trying Alps complicated switches, it's hard to really care as much for them.

[hwood34]

As far as unpopular opinions? Alps SKCM/L switches are far better than any Cherry MX switch and things would've been a lot more amazing to see Alps as the paradigm over Cherry MX.

Not as an unpopular opinion as you'd think. In fact I wouldn't call it one at all, there are tons of people that swear by alps. The problem is most people haven't tried them so they can't make an informed decision one way or the other

[E3E]

As far as unpopular opinions? Alps SKCM/L switches are far better than any Cherry MX switch and things would've been a lot more amazing to see Alps as the paradigm over Cherry MX.

Not as an unpopular opinion as you'd think. In fact I wouldn't call it one at all, there are tons of people that swear by alps. The problem is most people haven't tried them so they can't make an informed decision one way or the other

That's a good point, my good sir. Though I'd say that it's at least not a popular opinion, but more so based out of obscurity than anything negative, pretty much like you said. The accessibility when it comes to having an Alps keyboard is very limited these days. Either vintages, Matias, or GB-limited keyboards like the Infinity and certain customs.

The world needs more Alps love.

[hwood34]

As far as unpopular opinions? Alps SKCM/L switches are far better than any Cherry MX switch and things would've been a lot more amazing to see Alps as the paradigm over Cherry MX.

Not as an unpopular opinion as you'd think. In fact I wouldn't call it one at all, there are tons of people that swear by alps. The problem is most people haven't tried them so they can't make an informed decision one way or the other

That's a good point, my good sir. Though I'd say that it's at least not a popular opinion, but more so based out of obscurity than anything negative, pretty much like you said. The accessibility when it comes to having an Alps keyboard is very limited these days. Either vintages, Matias, or GB-limited keyboards like the Infinity and certain customs.

The world needs more Alps love.

Although luckily for alps lovers it seems as thought there's been a conscious effort made to accommodate them, with boards that have alps support. Wouldn't be surprised to see even more in the future

[E3E]

As far as unpopular opinions? Alps SKCM/L switches are far better than any Cherry MX switch and things would've been a lot more amazing to see Alps as the paradigm over Cherry MX.

Not as an unpopular opinion as you'd think. In fact I wouldn't call it one at all, there are tons of people that swear by alps. The problem is most people haven't tried them so they can't make an informed decision one way or the other

That's a good point, my good sir. Though I'd say that it's at least not a popular opinion, but more so based out of obscurity than anything negative, pretty much like you said. The accessibility when it comes to having an Alps keyboard is very limited these days. Either vintages, Matias, or GB-limited keyboards like the Infinity and certain customs.

The world needs more Alps love.

Although luckily for alps lovers it seems as thought there's been a conscious effort made to accommodate them, with boards that have alps support. Wouldn't be surprised to see even more in the future

Yeah, I'm really happy to see that and glad that I decided to step into the Alps game at just the right time. Hearing all those typing videos with blue alps is what did it for me. Heavenly. 

[TopreFan333]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

[Sifo]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

Show Image

where'd u get a picture of my ride

[demik]

Wrapped alphas cause cancer

[absyrd]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

Show Image

I can understand backlighting for the keys for people who actually need to look down in the dark. I don't hate on people who cannot type.

I cannot understand underlighting or whatever you want to call it like that car has.

[Sifo]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

Show Image

I can understand backlighting for the keys for people who actually need to look down in the dark. I don't hate on people who cannot type.

I cannot understand underlighting or whatever you want to call it like that car has.

answer: rice

[jcoffin1981]

3 and 2 I mostly agree with... but the layout of HHKB is sort of personal preference. I personally don't like it.
60% boards + numpad is the way to go in regards to #1 IMO. then you get arrow keys + other keys for productivity, and numbers if you are into that.
and you can just put it away if you need the space more. but the main reason I guess is because I have my mouse + kb quite close to one another, and prefer space on the right side of the kb.
so it just feels nicer on the left side.

1. I cannot stand 60% boards either, I don't think they look attractive what so ever and although using a HHKB was an enjoyable experience, I couldn't ever use it as my daily driver.


2. I don't like TKL boards, I think they're too big, but I'm currently forcing myself to change because of bad past experiences with 75% boards.


3. I don't think the HHKB is over-rated per say, but I do think they're a bit overpriced.


4. I cannot stand blank keycaps, I think they are a waste of money and just do not look that appealing/attractive to me. (I'm currently using Leopold stealth keys, side printed keycaps essentially and I can only just tolerate using these).


5. I think a lot of these esc key replacements, the gas masks, the helmets and all that kind of stuff are just repulsive and why someone would want to put that on their keyboard in the first place is beyond me.

1.  I thought they were freaking stupid until I broke down and bought one.  My elbow, neck and shoulders thank me.   I thought I would really miss the number pad and arrows, but as long as there is a Fn button on the left side the arrows are just as easy to use.  Some boards like the v60 have an option to use the Shift, alt, ctrl cluster as arrow keys if that's a necessity.

2. I originally wanted something like a Race 2 or Keycool 84.  They are roughly 0.75" longer and wider than 60% boards.  However, they just have this cluttered look, less aesthetic.  If you are gonna make the sacrifice for the smaller board you may as well just get the 60% IMHO.

3.  I wonder if Topre switch use became more widespread if HH would lower the price to be more competitive.

4.  I love the look of blank keycaps or "Ninja" or "Stealth."  The ugliest thing is when the symbols are in stark contrast with the keycap color and large.  The Cooler Master Storm Quickfire comes to mind.  It's nice when the symbol color is close in color to the keys.  The only problem I would have with blank keycaps is don't know if I could drink a soda and type at the same time and find a key with one finger.

5.  I agree these are absolutely appalling.  I imagine they are not comfortable or ergonomic.  I think it's about personalizing your board.  Everybody and their mother may have V60 keyboard and these people want to be just a little bit different. 

[Data]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

Show Image

I can understand backlighting for the keys for people who actually need to look down in the dark. I don't hate on people who cannot type.

I cannot understand underlighting or whatever you want to call it like that car has.

answer: rice

The rice is real, bro.  Embrace it.

[TopreFan333]

In 99.9% of applications, backlighting is hideous and makes keyboards look like the desktop equivalent of

Show Image

I can understand backlighting for the keys for people who actually need to look down in the dark. I don't hate on people who cannot type.

I cannot understand underlighting or whatever you want to call it like that car has.

Sure, but nobody needs ugly ass RGB pulsing **** to see their keys, and most backlit mechanical keyboards seem about 10x brighter than they need to be, with light pouring out of every orifice. Apple laptop keyboards do it just right -- the bare minimum amount of illumination needed to see the letters.

[Dernubenfrieken]

Sure, but nobody needs ugly ass RGB pulsing **** to see their keys, and most backlit mechanical keyboards seem about 10x brighter than they need to be, with light pouring out of every orifice. Apple laptop keyboards do it just right -- the bare minimum amount of illumination needed to see the letters.

Agreed, a lot of boards have insane amounts of illumination, I think that just comes with the territory for computers and peripherals.

[Shaussman]

The worst thing about LEDs- especially on a keyboard- is that they're distracting and draw the eye away from the screen, especially when you're like me and you prefer to use your PC in the dark.

Even on the lowest brightness level my Poseidon Z's backlighting glares at the edge of my vision and really hurts my PC usage experience.

[Dernubenfrieken]

The worst thing about LEDs- especially on a keyboard- is that they're distracting and draw the eye away from the screen, especially when you're like me and you prefer to use your PC in the dark.

Even on the lowest brightness level my Poseidon Z's backlighting glares at the edge of my vision and really hurts my PC usage experience.

Yeah it's pretty much just a race to the most garish LEDs you can find. I'd much rather have something with a soft, even, white glow than incredibly bright rgb on each key

[Sifo]

I don't ever actually look at my keyboard so my gon for example is more of a show off/conversation piece when I go to lans or whatever. My LZ has no leds but the 3 indicators, which is my primary board anyway. Sometimes it's nice to have some flashy **** laying around just for the sake of having it, doesn't matter to me if I don't ever see it

[RELLIK]

MX style keys are inferior scissor switches save their durability and customization. The keys travel too much.
Blues are the most annoying/overrated switch ever.
All keyboards should have numpad on the left side and if not, All keyboards should have 2 DIP switches for CapsLock to be Enter or disabled.
Quickfire TK damn good!
Dolch is a disease to be cleansed with fire.

[sethk_]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

[demik]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ISO as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Heard it here folks. ISO beats ISO.

[sethk_]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ISO as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Heard it here folks. ISO beats ISO.

fixed

[trenzafeeds]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Could you elaborate on why you feel this way? I'm thinking of going ISO just so I can use my OG Cherry QWERTZ set in its entirety, but I just can't get over that ridiculous looking enter key.

[sethk_]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Could you elaborate on why you feel this way? I'm thinking of going ISO just so I can use my OG Cherry QWERTZ set in its entirety, but I just can't get over that ridiculous looking enter key.

a tad bit more keys. It took me a few minutes to get used to the short lshift and the ISO enter, but I enjoy them more. Makes me feel like I have more keys. I have a French AZERTY layout and soon a QWERTZ layout coming. FWIW you don't have to actually make your board the way the keys are lol. Windows auto-works out the ISO layout. It just makes the 2 extra keys \|

[trenzafeeds]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Could you elaborate on why you feel this way? I'm thinking of going ISO just so I can use my OG Cherry QWERTZ set in its entirety, but I just can't get over that ridiculous looking enter key.

FWIW you don't have to actually make your board the way the keys are lol. Windows auto-works out the ISO layout. It just makes the 2 extra keys \|

I know, but there's something pristine about using the whole set just the way it was meant to be used. I'm already planning on a tsangan bottom row just for that purpose.

[sethk_]

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Could you elaborate on why you feel this way? I'm thinking of going ISO just so I can use my OG Cherry QWERTZ set in its entirety, but I just can't get over that ridiculous looking enter key.

FWIW you don't have to actually make your board the way the keys are lol. Windows auto-works out the ISO layout. It just makes the 2 extra keys \|

I know, but there's something pristine about using the whole set just the way it was meant to be used. I'm already planning on a tsangan bottom row just for that purpose.

yeah, wkl bottom layout it the best. But are you going to actually use it as qwertz?

[nubbinator]

After seeing all the purist GMK GBs lately, this feels like an unpopular opinion: R5 profile is god awful and one of the few things you can do to immediately kill a GB in my eyes.

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

Could you elaborate on why you feel this way? I'm thinking of going ISO just so I can use my OG Cherry QWERTZ set in its entirety, but I just can't get over that ridiculous looking enter key.

FWIW you don't have to actually make your board the way the keys are lol. Windows auto-works out the ISO layout. It just makes the 2 extra keys \|

I know, but there's something pristine about using the whole set just the way it was meant to be used. I'm already planning on a tsangan bottom row just for that purpose.

yeah, wkl bottom layout it the best. But are you going to actually use it as qwertz?

WKL is horrible if you actually use your OS to its potential.

[azhdar]

It's not like I told you guys thousand times that ISO is better.

[trenzafeeds]

But are you going to actually use it as qwertz?

Sometimes, I'll be switching between QWERTZ and Dvorak depending on whether I'm typing English or German

WKL is horrible if you actually use your OS to its potential.

I totally agree with this actually, but I want the beauty of full Cherry doubleshots

[swimmingbird]

Why no love for wkl but remapped os key to right alt?

[azhdar]

Works for ansi, ISO people generally need the right alt that is AltGr for us.

[swimmingbird]

Works for ansi, ISO people generally need the right alt that is AltGr for us.

forgot about isoland 

[nubbinator]

Why no love for wkl but remapped os key to right alt?

I like to be able to do one handed key combos. 

[HoffmanMyster]

Why no love for wkl but remapped os key to right alt?

I like to be able to do one handed key combos.

Sounds like you need bigger hands.

[azhdar]

Why no love for wkl but remapped os key to right alt?

I like to be able to do one handed key combos.

Sounds like you need bigger hands.

or smaller keyboards.

[jonathanyu]

Works for ansi, ISO people generally need the right alt that is AltGr for us.

what does altgr do in iso?

[azhdar]

Works for ansi, ISO people generally need the right alt that is AltGr for us.

what does altgr do in iso?

It's a third layer that can be accessed with AltGr or Ctrl+Alt, on Azerty it gets me the bottom right keys:

(I think you know this board  )

AltGr+3 give me #

[trees]

Why no love for wkl but remapped os key to right alt?

I remapped mine to Scroll Lock. Useless key IMO. Works great.

I am not going to lie, ISO is a superior layout to ANSI as far as layout goes. The only downside IMO is the keycap compatibility.

I agree that i think ISO is an overall better seeming layout.

[swimmingbird]

Can anyone explain the superiority of ISO to me? I always thought ansi was better as the enter key is more reachable with the right pinky

[ideus]

Can anyone explain the superiority of ISO to me? I always thought ansi was better as the enter key is more reachable with the right pinky

I would not say that the ISO layout is superior to ANSI; instead, I would say that there are differences that change the way you use your keyboard. If you touch type, any change in the layout will demand you a learning curve; but, at the end, it may represent a slightly improved typing.

I am using now an ANSI layout with an ISO enter key, and I like it better than the original ANSI key; however, as you referred, the movement to reach the enter key is a little bit longer using ISO; but, for the same reason, it is more precise, at least in my case. With the ANSI enter key, sometimes, I key in the enter instead of the accent. For now on, I will try to use the same mixed ANSI with an ISO key layout.

There is an interesting short note on ANSI vs ISO layout here. It is an interesting reading. But, that not change the fact the simple rule: your keyboard, your preferred layout, period.

[jerue]

I would agree with ISO being a superior layout if more boards were NOT like this:



And were more like a hybrid of ANSI and ISO.

*i had an image, but it was more like ANSI. Basically, the left shift on ISO boards is too small for me to like it.





..

I just put my DSA set on my TKL. I don't find it quite as appealing as I do on a 60% board.

And just in case I haven't said this already, the right shift is too damn big. HHKB layouts solve this somewhat...but still.

[ideus]

This is what I am using, an ANSI w/ISO enter layout.

[ATXTider]

Hyperfuse didn't live up to the hype, the mod legends are too hard to read.

[jerue]

This is really more of a keycap complaint, but people, seriously chill out with the SA sets (both interest checks and GBs). These will become the new DSA in no time if we keep seeing all of these sets. Maybe if there were more manufacturers making SA sets this wouldn't be as big of a deal, but it's annoying at the very least. At the rate things are going, GBs for sets will happen and it will be longer than ever before (Danger Zone is already set for Feb. 2016 next year - this is nuts for Massdrop standards)

[Data]

LOL

[hwood34]

LOL

LMAO

[jamster]

The vast majority of aftermarket key sets are not suitable for most office environments. All artisan caps are unsuitable to work keyboards.


Flame away

[trees]

The vast majority of aftermarket key sets are not suitable for most office environments. All artisan caps are unsuitable to work keyboards.


Flame away

idk, i have some katz blanks that are pretty classy looking.

[swimmingbird]

The vast majority of aftermarket key sets are not suitable for most office environments. All artisan caps are unsuitable to work keyboards.


Flame away

Except bronads which are suitable for even the strictest of workplaces  )

[njbair]

The vast majority of aftermarket key sets are not suitable for most office environments. All artisan caps are unsuitable to work keyboards.


Flame away

I would agree about artisans, but I think a lot of the recent GMK sets are professional enough, even Hyperfuse. And many SA sets (Hackd, Retro) are fine, too.