geekhack

geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: jerue on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:03:07

Title: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jerue on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:03:07
Leopold has announced (http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=bbs/gnuboard.php&bo_table=notice&sselect=&stext=&ssort=&sorder=&wr_id=295&page=) a new series of MX and Topre keyboards, the FC980M and FC980C, respectively. Both seem to be based on the 1800 style layout (compact with number pad).


(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980_image_1_710.jpg)


(http://up.fd.zol-img.com.cn/t_s640x426_w3/g5/M00/02/01/ChMkJlfPjy-IEHmBAARuupitZYgAAVFgwNhrhQABG7S876.jpg)




FC980M

ORDER HERE

leopold.co.kr (http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/list.php&ca_id=101004) (English and English/Hangul versions available)
mechanicalkeyboards.com (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=365)
Various Sellers on eBay (http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.Xleopold+FC980m.TRS0&_nkw=leopold+FC980m&_sacat=0)

(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980m__710.jpg)


FC980C

ORDER HERE

leopold.co.kr (http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/list.php&ca_id=1040) (English and English/Hangul versions available)
mechanicalkeyboards.com (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366)
Various Sellers on eBay (http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1312.R1.TR10.TRC1.A0.H0.Xleopold+.TRS1&_nkw=leopold+FC980C&_sacat=0)


(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980c__710.jpg)


Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: juahenza on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:06:18
(http://i.imgur.com/n6jla9i.gif)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nickheller on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:26:47
WTB
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:36:39
Leopold has announced (http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=bbs/gnuboard.php&bo_table=notice&sselect=&stext=&ssort=&sorder=&wr_id=295&page=) a new series of MX and Topre keyboards, the FC980M and FC980C, respectively. Both seem to be based on the 1800 style layout (compact with number pad).


Show Image
(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980_image_1_710.jpg)


The press release is in Korean, for a rough google translation, click More:


THE FRONT of my JEANS EXPLODED into ecstasy, imagine that the powers that be finally woke up to making an all thorpie 1800 series.

This alone makes this day very special and I appreciate you letting us thorpie fanatics know about this momentous occasion.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: eyesmiles on Mon, 05 September 2016, 23:53:39
(http://66.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lvo3n3bxn11qgl4vp.gif)

1800 cup rubber goodness. Dreams can come true!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: gadzkun on Tue, 06 September 2016, 01:30:39
ok wishlist for my next non-custom keyboard xD
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: audax989 on Tue, 06 September 2016, 01:36:11
Did they say release date was May?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ntw on Tue, 06 September 2016, 02:38:07
I think there's something wrong with Google Translate. It should be October for Cherry MX variant and November for Topre variant

https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/51d7rf/news_leopold_announces_1800_layout_keyboard/
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Tue, 06 September 2016, 02:43:22
Might actually sell my cpsq because of this. Uniform weighted fullsize Topre finally...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: JaccoW on Tue, 06 September 2016, 02:50:58
Always wanted a new 1800 board and I've been curious about Topre.
Which insane genius decided to combine these?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: OfTheWild on Tue, 06 September 2016, 03:55:57
Oh man that is some work keyboard hotness. I wish we could petition for a 55g option
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: AMongoose on Tue, 06 September 2016, 04:26:27
Definitely interested in this. Can anyone comment on the programability of leopolds to date?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 06 September 2016, 05:20:01
Oh man that is some work keyboard hotness. I wish we could petition for a 55g option

Don't get greedy here, BE glad that at least a full 1800 form has come to light and is ready to be distributed around the globe (hopefully).

Couldn't care less if it's 35, 45 or 55g as long as we get a justified 1800 series thorpie  8) .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Tue, 06 September 2016, 07:19:02
Oof, I might have to sell the Novatouch. Damn I miss the numpad but I don't want to go back to full sized.

If only I could get Topre SA keycaps.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 06 September 2016, 07:53:31
Feels so good to see this layout being remade by a big company. I'm even interested in the Topre version for once.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xondat on Tue, 06 September 2016, 07:54:58
Absolutely getting a FC980C. I need more topre fun.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jerue on Tue, 06 September 2016, 07:59:43
I think there's something wrong with Google Translate. It should be October for Cherry MX variant and November for Topre variant

https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/51d7rf/news_leopold_announces_1800_layout_keyboard/

thanks ntw! edited OP for better info  ^-^
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: WarCommand on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:02:05
Not even a fan of 1800 but this looks so good.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jaffers on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:05:20
When does the FC980Ti come out?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jerue on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:07:50
Not even a fan of 1800 but this looks so good.

does it look better now?  (http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/files/attach/images/60/512/237/009/bd96a9e21a2e93381e87d561e1364e12.jpg)

 ;)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: WarCommand on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:11:01
Not even a fan of 1800 but this looks so good.

does it look better now?  (http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/files/attach/images/60/512/237/009/bd96a9e21a2e93381e87d561e1364e12.jpg)

 ;)
:-X
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: yomammary on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:21:04
Give me a 55g option please :-[
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:36:50
Ohhh no, oh no.. no no no no. Need To Buy. G-damn they look sexy :-X
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: AMongoose on Tue, 06 September 2016, 08:48:42
Just noticed there is no height difference on the topre version as there is for the cherry one at images on the OP.
Does this means that it's going to be flat profiled?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: JaccoW on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:13:04
Just noticed there is no height difference on the topre version as there is for the cherry one at images on the OP.
Does this means that it's going to be flat profiled?
Isn't that usually the case with Topre?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lepidus on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:16:09
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/55975693/fc980.jpg)

WHY?
I'm sure I'll have a constant urge to rip that sticker, and then after I do I will always feel something is missing.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:17:06
Oooooooohhh wow.  :eek:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:17:51
And here I was thinking I was done buying keyboards.... :eek:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:18:38
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/55975693/fc980.jpg)


WHY?
I'm sure I'll have a constant urge to rip that sticker, and then after I do I will always feel something is missing.

I'm sure after a few months there will be a group buy for a nicer sticker to replace that sticker.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Moistgun on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:19:06
hnnnnnngggg


do not want
do not want
hhkb is life
do not need
hhkb is life

 :confused:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: WarCommand on Tue, 06 September 2016, 09:23:41
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/55975693/fc980.jpg)


WHY?
I'm sure I'll have a constant urge to rip that sticker, and then after I do I will always feel something is missing.

I'm sure after a few months there will be a group buy for a nicer sticker to replace that sticker.
$75, limited to 12. BUY NOW
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Neo.X on Tue, 06 September 2016, 10:39:54
Hope there will be a silent version, I am so into it right now.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: AMongoose on Tue, 06 September 2016, 10:47:09
Just noticed there is no height difference on the topre version as there is for the cherry one at images on the OP.
Does this means that it's going to be flat profiled?
Isn't that usually the case with Topre?

It doesn't seems very flat judging by the photos.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xondat on Tue, 06 September 2016, 10:56:10
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/55975693/fc980.jpg)


WHY?
I'm sure I'll have a constant urge to rip that sticker, and then after I do I will always feel something is missing.
****. Ruined. Why would they do this?  :'(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Tue, 06 September 2016, 10:57:52
Looks like the numpad is flat profile, but the rest is sculpted
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: BucklingSpring on Tue, 06 September 2016, 11:13:07
I just had a two tone FC980C  on my xmas list.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xondat on Tue, 06 September 2016, 11:14:20
Looks like the numpad is flat profile, but the rest is sculpted
Numpad looks sculpted... Not sure I follow on this one.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: sony on Tue, 06 September 2016, 11:27:48
Looks like the numpad is flat profile, but the rest is sculpted
Numpad looks sculpted... Not sure I follow on this one.
Hard to tell from the picture. If it means anything the hipro has a uniform numpad. The regular height full size topre boards are sculpted though, so I'm going to bet that it'll be sculpted for this board.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Tue, 06 September 2016, 11:48:20
Looks like the numpad is flat profile, but the rest is sculpted
Numpad looks sculpted... Not sure I follow on this one.
Hard to tell from the picture. If it means anything the hipro has a uniform numpad. The regular height full size topre boards are sculpted though, so I'm going to bet that it'll be sculpted for this board.

Hah, I was just looking at a hi pro realforce picture before I posted my response and forgot which keyboard I was looking at for a minute there.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Giorgio on Tue, 06 September 2016, 12:52:40
I've never seen an ISO leopold :-(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 06 September 2016, 12:56:33
Oh my, oh my... This is some serious stuff there! I am worrying that there won't be French ISO release though... Let's pray for it mes amis!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Tue, 06 September 2016, 14:57:15
Uh oh, I just did a quick test of how I actually use a numpad.  My thumb usually hits the leftmost edge of the wide zero key.  Man oh man I desperately want this keyboard, but I hope that isn't a dealbreaker for me.  Hopefully it will at least be an improvement from when I was trying to use the numpad left handed.  I gave it several months but it was just too slow.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: mike52787 on Tue, 06 September 2016, 16:18:24
was going to continue saving for a lightsaver, but the topre version of this is calling my name
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: MandrewDavis on Tue, 06 September 2016, 16:34:15
And the day has finally come that I can use my PBT spacebars :D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Erzegovaz on Tue, 06 September 2016, 16:47:05
waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat :eek: :eek: :eek:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: BaconEggandCheeseBagel on Tue, 06 September 2016, 20:32:33
Oh my god.

Here I am with a Compact-sq :/ Sort of tempted to sell it as I prefer topre...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Adgar on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:03:17
It looks not bad.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: moh18one on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:34:49
I can't wait anymore this keyboard is so majestuous. It's the perfect size for a keyboard. I was looking to buy a realforce 87U but wow !!!!!!!!  This keyboard is calling me <3

Thank you God, a compact topre keyboard with a PBT spacebar. Fuking yessss  yesss yeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssss  !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:40:24
  • 45g Uniform Topre switches

SHOW STOPPER!!!!!!!!!!!! WHERE IS THE 55G LOVE?!?!!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: sony on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:53:42
  • 45g Uniform Topre switches

SHOW STOPPER!!!!!!!!!!!! WHERE IS THE 55G LOVE?!?!!
Not in Korea apparently.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:56:54
Looking forward to seeing the price point of the FC980C. Really want to pick one up
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Tue, 06 September 2016, 21:57:23
  • 45g Uniform Topre switches

SHOW STOPPER!!!!!!!!!!!! WHERE IS THE 55G LOVE?!?!!
Not in Korea apparently.

True dat homez.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 07 September 2016, 02:06:44
Looking forward to seeing the price point of the FC980C. Really want to pick one up

Think Mechanical Keyboards might be into this soon  8) .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: MandrewDavis on Wed, 07 September 2016, 02:27:11
[Removed]
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kasakka on Wed, 07 September 2016, 02:54:05
The placement of the Delete, Insert, Pgdn and Pgup keys is pretty horrible though. One can only hope that the Fn button would access Home/End/Pgup/Pgdn on the arrow keys and possibly delete on the Backspace.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: WarCommand on Wed, 07 September 2016, 06:01:40
Funny enough, one of the founders of /r/MK already has an FC980M in-hand.

I don't think that's his.

Quote
New Leopold FC980 in white
Photos from Keyboard Hell in HK
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kenmai9 on Wed, 07 September 2016, 12:36:23
wow this looks awesome.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Wed, 07 September 2016, 21:32:41
Very interested in this, curious what the price point will end up being..
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 08 September 2016, 05:47:45
Another nail in the coffin of replacement Topre keycap sets - imaging trying to find a set to match this layout!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Thu, 08 September 2016, 07:18:40
Another nail in the coffin of replacement Topre keycap sets - imaging trying to find a set to match this layout!

We'll have to run group buys specific for this layout.  :(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Thu, 08 September 2016, 07:44:57
Keycaps? All black every time all the time until forever. Maybe a few artisans though
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 08 September 2016, 08:07:51
Keycaps? All black every time all the time until forever. Maybe a few artisans though
Maybe for you, not for me :-*
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Thu, 08 September 2016, 09:00:30
Keycaps? All black every time all the time until forever. Maybe a few artisans though
Maybe for you, not for me :-*

Fine. Be unique and completely original, see if I care! Hmmp :p
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Thu, 08 September 2016, 13:47:07
Is it November yet?!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 08 September 2016, 22:30:47
Another nail in the coffin of replacement Topre keycap sets - imaging trying to find a set to match this layout!

No Rowds, you just keep buying More and MORE of the FC980s.  You just don't stop until they stop manufacturing them at their facility.

When these 1800 series start selling, I'm stock piling them till the day I die, that is what is meant by being devoted to this type of keyboard  8) .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Fri, 09 September 2016, 00:07:56
I was all excited until I saw the Delete, Home/End and Page Up/Down layout. I would much prefer just a straightforward TKL, since pretty much all of us serious keyboard enthusiasts already have an independent numpad keyboard on the left side (Mine's a Leopold FC210TP).

The FC660C is one of my favorite keyboards in terms of the typing feel, but I prefer TKL. If Leopold had a TKL Topre, I'd jump on it immediately.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 09 September 2016, 06:35:42
If Leopold had a TKL Topre, I'd jump on it immediately.

Hey, Realforce already makes all sorts of TKLs both Variable, 45g and 55g's.

Stop pushing something that is so widely available already sunshine, this FC980M/FC980C layout is UNIQUE hence it stays as is, if you want anything in a TKL layout look elsewhere.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Fri, 09 September 2016, 13:55:43
If Leopold had a TKL Topre, I'd jump on it immediately.

Hey, Realforce already makes all sorts of TKLs both Variable, 45g and 55g's.

Stop pushing something that is so widely available already sunshine, this FC980M/FC980C layout is UNIQUE hence it stays as is, if you want anything in a TKL layout look elsewhere.

I have those RealForce keyboards already, and no, they don't feel like my Leopole FC660C. There's something special about the combination of FC660C's 45g weighting and the keycaps. It feels heavier than RealForce's 45g, but slightly lighter than RealForce's 55g, and the keycap has this almost wood material quality in the way it feels when making contact with the case. Also, the color palette the beige/dark gray is uniquely differently from any other Topre keyboard makers. I would love to see the FC660C as a TKL, and I would buy it in a heartbeat and sell my 55g RealForce (although I'd keep my ergonomic weighted/silenced RealForce).
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 09 September 2016, 14:27:30
If Leopold had a TKL Topre, I'd jump on it immediately.

Hey, Realforce already makes all sorts of TKLs both Variable, 45g and 55g's.

Stop pushing something that is so widely available already sunshine, this FC980M/FC980C layout is UNIQUE hence it stays as is, if you want anything in a TKL layout look elsewhere.

I have those RealForce keyboards already, and no, they don't feel like my Leopole FC660C. There's something special about the combination of FC660C's 45g weighting and the keycaps. It feels heavier than RealForce's 45g, but slightly lighter than RealForce's 55g, and the keycap has this almost wood material quality in the way it feels when making contact with the case. Also, the color palette the beige/dark gray is uniquely differently from any other Topre keyboard makers. I would love to see the FC660C as a TKL, and I would buy it in a heartbeat and sell my 55g RealForce (although I'd keep my ergonomic weighted/silenced RealForce).

Eh, wood material quality?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Fri, 09 September 2016, 14:43:24
If Leopold had a TKL Topre, I'd jump on it immediately.

Hey, Realforce already makes all sorts of TKLs both Variable, 45g and 55g's.

Stop pushing something that is so widely available already sunshine, this FC980M/FC980C layout is UNIQUE hence it stays as is, if you want anything in a TKL layout look elsewhere.

I have those RealForce keyboards already, and no, they don't feel like my Leopole FC660C. There's something special about the combination of FC660C's 45g weighting and the keycaps. It feels heavier than RealForce's 45g, but slightly lighter than RealForce's 55g, and the keycap has this almost wood material quality in the way it feels when making contact with the case. Also, the color palette the beige/dark gray is uniquely differently from any other Topre keyboard makers. I would love to see the FC660C as a TKL, and I would buy it in a heartbeat and sell my 55g RealForce (although I'd keep my ergonomic weighted/silenced RealForce).

Eh, wood material quality?

It's kind of hard to describe. It's the way the keycaps feel when it hits the case. The keycap feels more solid than other similar keycaps I've tried, with a denser vibration frequency or something. It reminds me of how hollowed out/carved wood feels when you clack it top down against a solid surface, but on a miniature scale. It's unique to the FC660C. I don't know if the partly because of the case too, or just the keycaps, or combination of both.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 09 September 2016, 21:26:27
I would love to see the FC660C as a TKL, and I would buy it in a heartbeat and sell my 55g RealForce (although I'd keep my ergonomic weighted/silenced RealForce).

The word here is PATIENCE because I never thought in my lifetime I would actually see an 1800-styled keyboard with THORPIES  :o .

Still blows my mind, so if Leopold is going to make these then for sure a TKL 45g Leopold is coming down the line.  Actually excited about owning some Leopolds, so it's good to see what will happen next with Realforce in regards to specialized keyboard layouts as well.

A competitive future is coming and these manufacturers have to give what the public desires.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Sat, 10 September 2016, 18:44:50
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/55975693/fc980.jpg)


WHY?
I'm sure I'll have a constant urge to rip that sticker, and then after I do I will always feel something is missing.

++++

I would really love to buy one if they just omitted the Leopold branding and those labels :(

Edit: I have a Leopold numpad with Cherry stabs, It's the only decent Cherry stab usage I've come across, I also remember seeing one interview, which hinted some keyboard companies have secret methods that result in a better typing experience over competitors, made me wonder if Leopold's expert stab usage was one of them
Edit 2: I guess I'm still going to buy one of the black MX's when they are available, can't resist my curiosity, even though I'm not going to use the default caps, the profile looks pretty interesting
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: PunksDead on Sat, 10 September 2016, 19:12:29
Oh **** yes!

Daddy needs a new topre board
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Geroximo on Sat, 10 September 2016, 19:48:44
This is actually really good.
I'm just worried about the price.
I don't think they will let these keyboards go for a reasonable price.
RIP wallet?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: derzemel on Sat, 10 September 2016, 23:11:45
OMG!!! want!!! badly!!! hnnnnngg!!!!


ok, reddit orgasimc way of talking out of the way... 1800 is my favorite layout (working on the plans for a custom as we speak) and adding Topre to it is the best thing I can imagine.

But, as there is always a "but", this is not a classic 1800 layout.

The fact that they added Print Screen, Pause, Scroll Lock, Home, End as FN commands is brilliant as it makes the keyboard even more compact and resulting in 98 keys

Now the things that bother me about it:

1. Why don't Leopold add media control on their Topre keyboards? those are the only things missing from the FC660C to be perfect.
 
2. I do not like the positioning and the size of the FN keycap. I think it would have been way better to be 1U, instead of the Ctrl.

3. I am also not convinced by the use of a full sized + key on the numpad. But this is mitigated a bit by the use of the FN layer commands.

4. As OO2 on Deskthority said: "I wonder why they didn't go with similar font and legends that they used on the FC660C... It looks like they have re-used a lot of Realforce's crappy legend caps like for 'Backspace' and 'Enter' keys. They looked much nicer on the FC660C IMO."

Sent from fat fingers on small screen...

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 11 September 2016, 04:17:44
Another nail in the coffin of replacement Topre keycap sets - imaging trying to find a set to match this layout!

No Rowds, you just keep buying More and MORE of the FC980s.  You just don't stop until they stop manufacturing them at their facility.

When these 1800 series start selling, I'm stock piling them till the day I die, that is what is meant by being devoted to this type of keyboard  8) .

All I need is the money :(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: mike52787 on Sun, 11 September 2016, 10:58:05
Is there any indication these will be made with 55g domes? Im used to 75g switches right now, so 45 would be a steep drop.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Sun, 11 September 2016, 14:22:12
Is there any indication these will be made with 55g domes? Im used to 75g switches right now, so 45 would be a steep drop.

I don't feel that the weight corresponds equally between different switch types. It doesn't even correspond within the same switch type. For example, Leopold's 45g Topre does not feel like RealForce's 45g (Leopold's feel heavier, more like 50g).
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Beanhead on Fri, 16 September 2016, 11:10:42
Looks like I'm replacing my K70 at home with a 980C. I do wish that the dark color came in the same colorway as the dark FC660C (black board, dark grey keycaps) though.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Fictiouz on Fri, 16 September 2016, 11:12:35
Damn these boards are nice. Did not know these were around.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: vivalarevolución on Fri, 16 September 2016, 12:45:13
Full on splurge fest here guys, wow.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Fri, 16 September 2016, 13:05:10
Is there any more info on availability/price/where to buy for these?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Thu, 22 September 2016, 08:38:56
Has anyone armed with something better than just Google Translate been keeping up with the announcement? I think they were doing a giveaway for one.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: fublamchu on Thu, 22 September 2016, 08:47:09
Here's hoping that someone makes an Alu. case for this like the FC660M
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Thu, 22 September 2016, 09:07:00
Here's hoping that someone makes an Alu. case for this like the FC660M

Wow, indeed that would make things perfect
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Mon, 26 September 2016, 08:55:44
The Leopold FC980M is available for preorder on mechanicalkeyboards.com (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=365).
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:06:26
OOOOO

Am I mistaken or does it really not have the unnecessary "Leopold" side-tag?!

I think I'm going to get a brown MX one, to test the layout, see how Leopold applied Cherry stabs, then gift it to my brother with GMK Carbon on

Now that I've settled with the 60% form factor, all that extra size is unnecessary, yet the 1800 form factor is really, really alluring
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:27:53
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

Now if they'll just update this one...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Mon, 26 September 2016, 12:43:51
I'll paraphrase SpAmRay's link

More
Blank Page


C'mon mechanicalkeyboards.com..
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: skuko on Wed, 28 September 2016, 06:51:39
i am deffo getting a MX brown version of this.

would someone be willing to proxy buy it for me in the states and 20$ gift ship it to EU?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: pchatterjee on Sat, 01 October 2016, 13:41:21
No chance for MX Clears on these is there?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 01 October 2016, 14:03:05
Hm, well I guess I might have an hhkb challenger...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Sat, 01 October 2016, 14:59:18
Indeed an MX Clear version would be nice, an MX Tactile Grey version and I would take that as a divine sign and let go off my 60% obsession
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Ashlyn on Sat, 01 October 2016, 15:09:13
This looks so nice , I hard silent MX red types best
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: pchatterjee on Sun, 02 October 2016, 12:08:37
Indeed an MX Clear version would be nice, an MX Tactile Grey version and I would take that as a divine sign and let go off my 60% obsession

Tactile grey would be nice.  Anything that was similar to buckling spring feel with a little less noise would be nice. 
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: pchatterjee on Sun, 02 October 2016, 12:13:36
This looks so nice , I hard silent MX red types best

If you are a touch typist maybe - I can see someone typing faster on this type of switch.  I think most people have different preferences for actuation points/pressure points -- most people get mech keyboards because they feel better than the chiclet and scissor switch keyboards which have no feel at all when you press the keys, which I think are closer to what reds really are.

For some of us, we like the tactility of a switch that takes more pressure to press.  Best typing feel for me is still buckling spring or the old apple alps keyboards.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: gandroider on Sat, 08 October 2016, 20:08:08
Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Sat, 08 October 2016, 23:22:06
Wow! So soon!

Looks great

How does the stabilised keys feel?
Space/Enter etc.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Sat, 08 October 2016, 23:27:24
When's FC980C going to be released?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 09 October 2016, 00:13:24
Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.

Not bad looking with SP's key-set, really lifts this keyboard into ENVY - Status  >:D .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: mrboovn on Sun, 09 October 2016, 01:06:42
When's FC980C going to be released?
Same :(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: gandroider on Sun, 09 October 2016, 01:13:54
Wow! So soon!

Looks great

How does the stabilised keys feel?
Space/Enter etc.

The original keys feels and "tasted" just like the previous Leopold I owned. Solid and thick PBT keycaps. If you have known the Vortex PBT keycap, they feel similar but Vortex still prevail.


When's FC980C going to be released?

Same :(

I've bought it recently from the PC Gear in Seoul. Mr. Park (the owner) informed that the availibility of FC980C will be ready in Korea around early of November. Even not all of the FC980M was ready at his store. The Black-case with Navy keycaps will just arrive sometimes between 10-15 October 2016.

Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.

Not bad looking with SP's key-set, really lifts this keyboard into ENVY - Status  >:D .

Thanks for the compliment. I always equipped my Leopold with this Dolch, because my fingers love it. Now, I have to put the FC900R to the bunker for a while.

Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.

Not bad looking with SP's key-set, really lifts this keyboard into ENVY - Status  >:D .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: skuko on Thu, 13 October 2016, 04:16:32
Wow! So soon!

Looks great

How does the stabilised keys feel?
Space/Enter etc.

The original keys feels and "tasted" just like the previous Leopold I owned. Solid and thick PBT keycaps. If you have known the Vortex PBT keycap, they feel similar but Vortex still prevail.


When's FC980C going to be released?

Same :(

I've bought it recently from the PC Gear in Seoul. Mr. Park (the owner) informed that the availibility of FC980C will be ready in Korea around early of November. Even not all of the FC980M was ready at his store. The Black-case with Navy keycaps will just arrive sometimes between 10-15 October 2016.

Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.

Not bad looking with SP's key-set, really lifts this keyboard into ENVY - Status  >:D .

Thanks for the compliment. I always equipped my Leopold with this Dolch, because my fingers love it. Now, I have to put the FC900R to the bunker for a while.

Hi, I've received my FC980M and super-incredibly satisfied with its built.
Just like the FC980 it is sturdy yet compact for a daily use at home.

Too bad the DSA Dolch did not have the 1u size of "ALT". Thus, I'm using a spare blank keycap to get a hold for a while.

Not bad looking with SP's key-set, really lifts this keyboard into ENVY - Status  >:D .

can you please photograph it next to a TKL board? for a reference of sizes....ideally next to a FC750RT if you have one :)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: absfac on Sun, 23 October 2016, 00:37:30
It looks like the FC980M's stock caps come with stepped Caps Lock, and a stepped Ctrl to swap into that spot, only? Horrid.

The stepped Caps Lock is visible in many sites' product photos, and demo typing videos on YouTube. And there's a closeup of the replacement Ctrl here:

https://kknews.cc/digital/255z9y.html

Yes, a lot of buyers are going to swap out the stock caps, but it's just annoying, what if I prefer the feel of the stock caps on the outer keys? So frustrating. In every other way this board is exactly what I've been looking for.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Sun, 23 October 2016, 00:47:44
It looks like the FC980M's stock caps come with stepped Caps Lock, and a stepped Ctrl to swap into that spot, only? Horrid.

The stepped Caps Lock is visible in many sites' product photos, and demo typing videos on YouTube. And there's a closeup of the replacement Ctrl here:

https://kknews.cc/digital/255z9y.html

Yes, a lot of buyers are going to swap out the stock caps, but it's just annoying, what if I prefer the feel of the stock caps on the outer keys? So frustrating. In every other way this board is exactly what I've been looking for.

I don't get what your complaint is, I guess you don't like Stepped keycaps? - but you would like to use the default caps?

I think a more severe concern is the steppedness of that stepped keycap, it doesn't look standard, I'm guessing, with their history with non-standard stuff, Leopold must-have made it a standard capslock slot, but with a non-standard custom keycap
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: TerryMathews on Sun, 23 October 2016, 21:38:53
(https://i2.kknews.cc/large/e910005ca56f06f6ace)

Based on this, I believe the switch is in the standard (non-stepped) capslock location. A stepped caps lock should be to the left of the tab switch as depicted below.

(http://park10.wakwak.com/~jpspace/key/picture/g81/DSC01724.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Sun, 23 October 2016, 22:20:34
When's FC980C going to be released?
Same :(
According to Leopold's website, May.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Sun, 23 October 2016, 22:47:51
When's FC980C going to be released?
Same :(
According to Leopold's website, May.

Really? I thought it was November/December.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Mon, 24 October 2016, 07:18:21
 
Quote
Black model in black body with a black combinations, such as black model real-Force ( meoksaek stamped ) and the keycaps are mounted , white model FC660C a combination of white and gray body white / is white two-tone key caps are mounted .
 
Leopold will look good in overseas markets, as well as a keyboard that is domestic new releases . Has plans to introduce and sell through partners in many countries, including the United States and China to sell its existing products.
 
Leopold FC980M is 10 and will be sold early May , the general model is 135,000 won (VAT included ) noise model is 137,500 won (VAT included ) have been sold in pricing .
 
Leopold FC980C if the schedule is flexible but there dressed and production , roughly 11 appears to be sold in May , sales prices have not yet been determined .
 
We own a long time prepared products. Let customers ask for your interest and support.
Thank you.





Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Giorgio on Mon, 24 October 2016, 08:04:01
When's FC980C going to be released?
Same :(
According to Leopold's website, May.

May, be released? Will it have ISO?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nickheller on Mon, 24 October 2016, 08:06:03
I'm sure there will be bars on F and J as well
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Mon, 24 October 2016, 20:23:22
I messaged Widebasket on eBay and he said he would have the topre variant sometime in November, but wouldn't give me pricing info.  I hope mechanicalkeyboards.com gets these eventually since I'm sure getting them from him won't be cheap.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 24 October 2016, 21:42:57
Will probably buy the 980C. 1800 layout is one of my favorites.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Tue, 25 October 2016, 04:18:06
When does the FC980Ti come out?

LOL :D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 25 October 2016, 05:07:42
I messaged Widebasket on eBay and he said he would have the topre variant sometime in November, but wouldn't give me pricing info.  I hope mechanicalkeyboards.com gets these eventually since I'm sure getting them from him won't be cheap.

So it's ON, Widebasket or Mechanical Keyboards, who wants dibs on who will get it in first to sell .......   8)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Crapbag on Tue, 25 October 2016, 08:34:58
When does the FC980Ti come out?

LOL :D

I don't get it.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Tue, 25 October 2016, 08:39:54
http://www.geforce.com/hardware/desktop-gpus/geforce-gtx-980-ti
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: sony on Wed, 26 October 2016, 10:34:31
980C novatouched? Gonna need 2 novatouches lol.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Wed, 26 October 2016, 10:48:36
980C novatouched? Gonna need 2 novatouches lol.

Isn't there custom sliders already?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 26 October 2016, 12:30:46
980C novatouched? Gonna need 2 novatouches lol.

Isn't there custom sliders already?
the upcoming realforce rgb will have mx-compatible sliders, these will not.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Wed, 26 October 2016, 12:33:31
Looking forward to that Realforce RGB, just saw, but what I mean is, there were multiple projects for custom Topre-to-MX conversion kits, so is buying a Novatouch as a donor still a thing?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: sony on Wed, 26 October 2016, 13:41:07
There are sliders coming soon but there aren't mod housings. I guess if you're fine with drilling into them, there's that option.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: DuckNorris on Wed, 26 October 2016, 16:03:49
Would these keyboards be an issues with GMK keycap sets due to the small 0 numpad key because I would hate to put a novelty keycap and mess everything up ;_;

Edit: Nvm I just saw other keys like the shift key were also non uniform so it wouldn't work with the current sets

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: IneffableTao on Wed, 26 October 2016, 16:25:37
Most of the recent GMK sets include "1800" compatibility which is very similar to this layout.  Those 1800 packs typically include a 1.75 shift, 1u numpad 0's, and row appropriate Ins/Del cluster (a few others too, but not needed here).
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 26 October 2016, 16:39:07
1800 layout has been a standard inclusion for some time now. I wouldn't worry about it.

Remember when Leopold spacebars had off center switches and you couldn't buy custom caps for them until a universal mold was made? That's something to be worried about.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: dilbertprogrammer on Thu, 27 October 2016, 07:40:03
I would surmise (and hope!) the FC980C will become available in November ("11") since the FC980M listed for sale this month ("10").
I just checked in with MechanicalKeyboards.com and they don't have ETA for the FC980C as of yet.  I hope they get plenty, as I bet they will sale quickly!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 27 October 2016, 07:52:41
Wow, just saw the keys they assigned above the numpad... How did they even arrive at that :/

Guess I'll be getting a Hasu USB adapter for this if I get one.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Phenix on Thu, 27 October 2016, 07:53:11
Come on.. really no hhkb/ISO variant..
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Thu, 27 October 2016, 08:11:21
ISO variant..

(http://i.imgur.com/TnQRX6v.gif)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: AMongoose on Thu, 27 October 2016, 08:22:39
ISO variant..

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TnQRX6v.gif)


Because iso is great.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Thu, 27 October 2016, 09:17:59
ISO variant..

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TnQRX6v.gif)


Because iso is great.

Good joke friend

(http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/925/494/218.png_large)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 27 October 2016, 13:14:05
So are the 980M's shipping?? Anybody got one yet?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Thu, 27 October 2016, 13:23:13
So are the 980M's shipping?? Anybody got one yet?

I've seen some videos of them on YouTube
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Thu, 27 October 2016, 13:29:28
So what is general opinion here? Grab an M or wait for the C?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: alienman82 on Thu, 27 October 2016, 13:30:24
removed.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Thu, 27 October 2016, 14:59:16
Leopold is the only company I know that gets Cherry Stabs + Blue Switches right

I wonder if it's the same for this keyboard too
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Thu, 27 October 2016, 17:22:09
So what is general opinion here? Grab an M or wait for the C?

It's Leopold, so you can do either.

I'll probably grab one in a month or two becuase I like the 1800 layout.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Viezo on Fri, 28 October 2016, 09:44:01
Man I really hype about this board.
Definitely gonna grab the C ;D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kawasaki161 on Fri, 28 October 2016, 09:54:23
So what is general opinion here? Grab an M or wait for the C?

First grab a M to try out the Silent Reds and then grab a C later because it's the first Topre board in that layout.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Fri, 28 October 2016, 15:05:56
So what is general opinion here? Grab an M or wait for the C?

First grab a M to try out the Silent Reds and then grab a C later because it's the first Topre board in that layout.

Man, I wish I liked Cherry switches more.  I tried the MX Silents on the Strafe board that came out last year and was really unimpressed. 
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: vivalarevolución on Fri, 28 October 2016, 16:32:28
Get a C, Cherry is out of style
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Fri, 28 October 2016, 16:55:33
Get a C, Cherry is out of style

When? Next month? April? Nobody seems to know.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 28 October 2016, 19:38:16
Man, I wish I liked Cherry switches more.  I tried the MX Silents on the Strafe board that came out last year and was really unimpressed.

MX Silent's are utter CRAP, you need to get yourself some old, vintage MX Blues and/or Blacks, then realize why the Cherry Craze has never left the building.

The rubbish they are making now isn't worth anyone's money because they are just trying to cash in on the idiot Gamer-kids with rich parents.

Other decent switches would be Cherry Clears and Tactile Greys, these are the ones to die for  :thumb: .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Fri, 28 October 2016, 19:42:27
I do like my ergo clears.

I like reds a lot more, but the ergo clears are pretty great, too.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 28 October 2016, 21:29:14
Get a C, Cherry is out of style

When? Next month? April? Nobody seems to know.

Theoretically, sometime in November.

Another unrelated question:  Is shapeways the only way to get loose mxtopper sliders now?  Doesn't look like the jt ones are available anywhere and I don't want to disassemble another 2 novatouch.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Fri, 28 October 2016, 21:33:37
Get a C, Cherry is out of style

When? Next month? April? Nobody seems to know.

Theoretically, sometime in November.

Another unrelated question:  Is shapeways the only way to get loose mxtopper sliders now?  Doesn't look like the jt ones are available anywhere and I don't want to disassemble another 2 novatouch.

You can get the single key ones off taobao. https://world.taobao.com/item/539837545935.htm?fromSite=main&spm=a1z10.3-c-s.w4002-14843696363.24.ju20s6&scene=taobao_shop
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 28 October 2016, 21:56:11
Get a C, Cherry is out of style

When? Next month? April? Nobody seems to know.

Theoretically, sometime in November.

Another unrelated question:  Is shapeways the only way to get loose mxtopper sliders now?  Doesn't look like the jt ones are available anywhere and I don't want to disassemble another 2 novatouch.

You can get the single key ones off taobao. https://world.taobao.com/item/539837545935.htm?fromSite=main&spm=a1z10.3-c-s.w4002-14843696363.24.ju20s6&scene=taobao_shop

Better price than shapeways but still well more than my threshold of purchasing when needing ~100.  Nevermind them only having 21 of them.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KnivesM on Fri, 28 October 2016, 23:14:26
It looks like the FC980M's stock caps come with stepped Caps Lock, and a stepped Ctrl to swap into that spot, only? Horrid.

The stepped Caps Lock is visible in many sites' product photos, and demo typing videos on YouTube. And there's a closeup of the replacement Ctrl here:

https://kknews.cc/digital/255z9y.html

Yes, a lot of buyers are going to swap out the stock caps, but it's just annoying, what if I prefer the feel of the stock caps on the outer keys? So frustrating. In every other way this board is exactly what I've been looking for.

It looks like the FC980M's stock caps come with stepped Caps Lock, and a stepped Ctrl to swap into that spot, only? Horrid.

The stepped Caps Lock is visible in many sites' product photos, and demo typing videos on YouTube. And there's a closeup of the replacement Ctrl here:

https://kknews.cc/digital/255z9y.html

Yes, a lot of buyers are going to swap out the stock caps, but it's just annoying, what if I prefer the feel of the stock caps on the outer keys? So frustrating. In every other way this board is exactly what I've been looking for.

I don't get what your complaint is, I guess you don't like Stepped keycaps? - but you would like to use the default caps?

I think a more severe concern is the steppedness of that stepped keycap, it doesn't look standard, I'm guessing, with their history with non-standard stuff, Leopold must-have made it a standard capslock slot, but with a non-standard custom keycap

Show Image
(https://i2.kknews.cc/large/e910005ca56f06f6ace)


Based on this, I believe the switch is in the standard (non-stepped) capslock location. A stepped caps lock should be to the left of the tab switch as depicted below.

Show Image
(http://park10.wakwak.com/~jpspace/key/picture/g81/DSC01724.jpg)


Little late on this, but as Khan and others have said it's the standard centered capslock with a kindof half-stepped keycap that they've had for a little bit, so any standard aftermarket keycap sets still fit fine.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Giorgio on Sat, 29 October 2016, 02:46:26
Mmmmm. It's not exactly a 1800 layout. I didn't notice it before... Look at all those keys missing on the top of the numpad. And pgup pgdown placed on the same row... No, thanks.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 31 October 2016, 11:00:29
Mmmmm. It's not exactly a 1800 layout. I didn't notice it before... Look at all those keys missing on the top of the numpad. And pgup pgdown placed on the same row... No, thanks.

Hahah I love how that is making you not buy it. This is as close to 1800 as you will probably get with a Topre board.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: absyrd on Mon, 31 October 2016, 11:45:05
I swore I'd never buy another keyboard other than hhkb. That white and grey topre 1800-ish layout, though...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Tue, 01 November 2016, 09:15:53
Mmmmm. It's not exactly a 1800 layout. I didn't notice it before... Look at all those keys missing on the top of the numpad. And pgup pgdown placed on the same row... No, thanks.

Hahah I love how that is making you not buy it. This is as close to 1800 as you will probably get with a Topre board.

Not gonna lie, I do wish they'd found a way to get Home and End in there.  I use those keys all the time.  Very handy for web browsing and other document navigation.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Tue, 01 November 2016, 15:16:04
Mmmmm. It's not exactly a 1800 layout. I didn't notice it before... Look at all those keys missing on the top of the numpad. And pgup pgdown placed on the same row... No, thanks.

Hahah I love how that is making you not buy it. This is as close to 1800 as you will probably get with a Topre board.

Not gonna lie, I do wish they'd found a way to get Home and End in there.  I use those keys all the time.  Very handy for web browsing and other document navigation.

Turn off numlock.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: eyesmiles on Wed, 02 November 2016, 19:29:59
http://geekboards.ru/collection/leopold/product/leopold-fc980c-2 (http://geekboards.ru/collection/leopold/product/leopold-fc980c-2)

A Russian site estimates December release at about roughly ₽22,900 ~ $360 USD
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 02 November 2016, 20:10:34
Mmmmm. It's not exactly a 1800 layout. I didn't notice it before... Look at all those keys missing on the top of the numpad. And pgup pgdown placed on the same row... No, thanks.

Hahah I love how that is making you not buy it. This is as close to 1800 as you will probably get with a Topre board.
.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 02 November 2016, 21:34:59
http://geekboards.ru/collection/leopold/product/leopold-fc980c-2 (http://geekboards.ru/collection/leopold/product/leopold-fc980c-2)

A Russian site estimates December release at about roughly ₽22,900 ~ $360 USD

Sounds high to me. Wouldn't be surprised though.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 02 November 2016, 23:48:25
I'm expecting it to land between novatouch and rf tkl on the price spectrum, so around $200.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 02 November 2016, 23:51:28
I'm expecting it to land between novatouch and rf tkl on the price spectrum, so around $200.

It's a Leopold, I wouldn't be surprised to see it at 250.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 03 November 2016, 06:11:40
I'm expecting it to land between novatouch and rf tkl on the price spectrum, so around $200.

It's a Leopold, I wouldn't be surprised to see it at 250.

Seconded, just look at the price of the FC660C, no way it will be less.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 03 November 2016, 06:44:39
I'm expecting it to land between novatouch and rf tkl on the price spectrum, so around $200.

It's a Leopold, I wouldn't be surprised to see it at 250.

Seconded, just look at the price of the FC660C, no way it will be less.
But part of the FC660C price depends on if you get one with dyesub caps or not.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 03 November 2016, 07:05:38
Seconded, just look at the price of the FC660C, no way it will be less.
But part of the FC660C price depends on if you get one with dyesub caps or not.

Can you even still get them with anything else? Everything I found lately was around $220 and with Dyesub.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 03 November 2016, 07:16:17
Seconded, just look at the price of the FC660C, no way it will be less.
But part of the FC660C price depends on if you get one with dyesub caps or not.

Can you even still get them with anything else? Everything I found lately was around $220 and with Dyesub.
Originally they didn't have dyesubs. I can't speak to current availability.

I'm thinking when they were released they were in the ~$160 price range with pad printed caps.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Fri, 04 November 2016, 20:28:00
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)


Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Erzegovaz on Sat, 05 November 2016, 04:45:34
wowowowowowow! how does it cost with shipping? :"D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Sat, 05 November 2016, 08:09:45
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)


So why are you going to desolder it? What is the intention and the objective?

I'm just trying to learn.

Thanks.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Sat, 05 November 2016, 09:22:01
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)

So why are you going to desolder it? What is the intention and the objective?

I'm just trying to learn.

Thanks.

Just personal preference. Not a fan of linear switches, and ergo clears are awesome. I got a MX silent board because I think it'd be easier to get rid of these switches later on, compared to blues/reds/browns etc.

Side note: the grey cherry stabilizers aren't pre-clipped/lubed like how Ducky's newer red ones are. They don't really feel mushy though compared to the clipped stabs on my other boards.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: potatobot on Sat, 05 November 2016, 09:45:21
I cant choose between this or 96 key layout :(

I can only afford 1  :-\
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: IneffableTao on Sat, 05 November 2016, 16:36:13
Does anyone have experience setting a custom layout on Leopold's?  I saw reference to the inline USB connector but haven't heard much about that
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 05 November 2016, 16:42:06
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)

So why are you going to desolder it? What is the intention and the objective?

I'm just trying to learn.

Thanks.

Just personal preference. Not a fan of linear switches, and ergo clears are awesome. I got a MX silent board because I think it'd be easier to get rid of these switches later on, compared to blues/reds/browns etc.

Side note: the grey cherry stabilizers aren't pre-clipped/lubed like how Ducky's newer red ones are. They don't really feel mushy though compared to the clipped stabs on my other boards.
Thanks for all this great info and pics.

I'm not in much of a buying position right now but am really considering getting one of these boards.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Dureeks on Sat, 05 November 2016, 17:09:37
I'm having a pretty big problem, just got a FC980M, and it just doesn't want to register on my computer.  I'm pretty new to mechanical keyboards, but when I have all the switches on the back turned to off, the caps lock and num lock lights just flash, but it doesn't register any keystrokes. When any of the switches are on, no lights, no registration, please help!!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: potatobot on Sun, 06 November 2016, 00:42:47
I'm having a pretty big problem, just got a FC980M, and it just doesn't want to register on my computer.  I'm pretty new to mechanical keyboards, but when I have all the switches on the back turned to off, the caps lock and num lock lights just flash, but it doesn't register any keystrokes. When any of the switches are on, no lights, no registration, please help!!

Did you buy it online? If its dead when it arrived, you can ask for a replacement right away.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: hurst on Sun, 06 November 2016, 09:30:41
Try it on another computer.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Sun, 06 November 2016, 14:27:07
Try it on another computer.

I agree. If you bought a new Leopold and you know that your computer works with other keyboards definitely RMA
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Dureeks on Sun, 06 November 2016, 19:56:57
Ah, I bought it from MK.com, the usb plug they sent was DOA, I cut down an old PS3 cable to get it working, thanks for the help!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: potatobot on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:18:22
Ah, I bought it from MK.com, the usb plug they sent was DOA, I cut down an old PS3 cable to get it working, thanks for the help!

WHUT?? WHY? WARRANTY???
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:34:41
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)


Hmm, if I could only get some ergo clears with those slider bumpers on the silent.  That might just be an MX board I'd like.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:51:10
Ah, I bought it from MK.com, the usb plug they sent was DOA, I cut down an old PS3 cable to get it working, thanks for the help!

WHUT?? WHY? WARRANTY???

I couldn't do that. Because of import/export fees I guess?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Fri, 18 November 2016, 08:04:14
The FC980C seems to be coming out on either November 23rd or 24th (https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ko&u=http://www.leopold.co.kr/%3Fdoc%3Dbbs/gnuboard.php%26bo_table%3Dnotice%26wr_id%3D304&prev=search).

Here's to hoping I can figure out how to navigate the site by the time it comes out.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: exitfire401 on Fri, 18 November 2016, 08:39:43
The FC980C seems to be coming out on either November 23rd or 24th (https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ko&u=http://www.leopold.co.kr/%3Fdoc%3Dbbs/gnuboard.php%26bo_table%3Dnotice%26wr_id%3D304&prev=search).

Here's to hoping I can figure out how to navigate the site by the time it comes out.

That+Ctrl Alt sliders...my 10AE is on it's way out the door! haha
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: moh18one on Fri, 18 November 2016, 20:56:59
The FC980C seems to be coming out on either November 23rd or 24th (https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ko&u=http://www.leopold.co.kr/%3Fdoc%3Dbbs/gnuboard.php%26bo_table%3Dnotice%26wr_id%3D304&prev=search).

Here's to hoping I can figure out how to navigate the site by the time it comes out.

That+Ctrl Alt sliders...my 10AE is on it's way out the door! haha

Are they the same keycaps as the Realforce keyboard ? :eek:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: KHAANNN on Sat, 19 November 2016, 01:46:57
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)


Thank you sir

I came to see some photos, and you over delivered

I wonder what kind of innovation lays behind those gray cherry stabilisers, from my point of view, stabilisers are the bottlenecks of keyboards, and seeing gray ones on a Leopold really makes me wonder

Not being clipped is also pretty interesting

------

I wished to buy one FC980M for the sake of science, but decided to be more conservative with money recently, maybe if they roll out one with greys or clears, I would let go off my newly found enlightenment
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Sat, 19 November 2016, 09:20:43
Show Image
Show Image
Show Image
Show Image
Show Image
Show Image
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1) (http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)

Thank you sir

I came to see some photos, and you over delivered

I wonder what kind of innovation lays behind those gray cherry stabilisers, from my point of view, stabilisers are the bottlenecks of keyboards, and seeing gray ones on a Leopold really makes me wonder

Not being clipped is also pretty interesting

------

I wished to buy one FC980M for the sake of science, but decided to be more conservative with money recently, maybe if they roll out one with greys or clears, I would let go off my newly found enlightenment

You're welcome :)
I have to say, the 980M is 100% worth the price even with the standard switches. Hopefully they'll break their tradition and add MX clears since AFAIK they've never had it on any of their previous boards.
(Also, since my previous post, I've actually swapped the stock MX silents back into the board. I had a bad experience with 55g MX Silents in my VE.A so opted rushed to swap in ergoclears, but after swapping some stock MX silents back in, I fell in love).
I really want to buy/try out the 980C as well (after the great experience with the 980M), but after spending $300 on the Taobao XDA GB, I don't think it's within my budget anymore.

And just for fun, here's some weight comparisons of the 980M with other boards I've used.

Acrylic CP-SQ w/ GMK Hyperfuse: 2.41 lb | 1.09 kg
Leopold FC980M w/ stock keycaps: 2.48 lb | 1.12 kg
VE.A w/ Gateron PBT: 2.68 lb | 1.22 kg
Das Keyboard 3 w/ stock keycaps: 2.70 lb | 1.22 kg
LZ-GH w/ no keycaps: 5.89 lb | 2.67 kg
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: losing_ctrl on Sat, 19 November 2016, 16:12:23
I wonder why Leopold doesn't provide more variety with their MX switches. I'd be interested in an MX Clear or MX Green FC980M. Maybe the've built some and found there was too much ping? Or maybe other MX switches are just not popular enough.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: skuko on Wed, 23 November 2016, 04:06:08
Just got my 980M with silents today. Overall probably the most solid stock board I've tried so far.
Took it apart and about to desolder it, here's some crappy pics of the breakdown.
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/q1jT47s.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6Jjpnv.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/XW0kwlk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3IcKBN.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KNox0mp.jpg?1)



Edit: hotswap modded and ergo-clear'd. Going to be a nice replacement for my cp-sq!
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vJRHKAT.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/35tsUSj.jpg)


you got pm sir :)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: potatobot on Wed, 23 November 2016, 04:51:46
I wish the FC980C have cherry mx compatible stems as well :(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: losing_ctrl on Wed, 23 November 2016, 10:01:20
The FC980C seems to be coming out on either November 23rd or 24th (https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ko&u=http://www.leopold.co.kr/%3Fdoc%3Dbbs/gnuboard.php%26bo_table%3Dnotice%26wr_id%3D304&prev=search).

Here's to hoping I can figure out how to navigate the site by the time it comes out.

"Leopold's latest 2016 FC980C capacitive solid state keyboard will be available on Wednesday, November 23."

So today seems to be the day it becomes available according to the most recent announcement (along with a run of "Real Force 87 10th Anniversary Quiet English"), but I'm not sure where to buy. I've been checking mechanicalkeyboards dot com, but nothing there yet.

Any other outlets that will be stocking this keyboard that I can check?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: kekstee on Wed, 23 November 2016, 10:46:17
There is a price listed here, maybe it's also possible to buy and proxy it: http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/item.php&it_id=1479442456
265,000 KRW ~ $223.6

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: losing_ctrl on Wed, 23 November 2016, 11:30:38
There is a price listed here, maybe it's also possible to buy and proxy it: http://www.leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/item.php&it_id=1479442456
265,000 KRW ~ $223.6

Thanks for the link!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: cosogi on Wed, 23 November 2016, 23:53:07
I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Wed, 23 November 2016, 23:56:28
I tried ordering from that link, but I'm running into problems during the checkout--my information isn't fully accepted, probably due to having a U.S. address/phone number?

I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Where did you buy it from?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: cosogi on Thu, 24 November 2016, 00:00:10
I tried ordering from that link, but I'm running into problems during the checkout--my information isn't fully accepted, probably due to having a U.S. address/phone number?

I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Where did you buy it from?

It sells on http://leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/item.php&it_id=1479442456 and I'm now living in south korea.
I think leopold doesn't offer oversea delivery.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Thu, 24 November 2016, 00:14:54
It sells on http://leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/item.php&it_id=1479442456 and I'm now living in south korea.
I think leopold doesn't offer oversea delivery.

I just sent you a PM.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: audax989 on Thu, 24 November 2016, 00:22:50
I tried ordering from that link, but I'm running into problems during the checkout--my information isn't fully accepted, probably due to having a U.S. address/phone number?

I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Where did you buy it from?

It sells on http://leopold.co.kr/?doc=cart/item.php&it_id=1479442456 and I'm now living in south korea.
I think leopold doesn't offer oversea delivery.

sent you one as well
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: durainello on Thu, 24 November 2016, 03:14:16
Using Easybuy7.com but not sure does it ships to USA, gotta check with them.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 24 November 2016, 12:08:38
Anyone try seeing if this fits in a Dolch PAC case?...with minor modifications? lol
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: moh18one on Thu, 24 November 2016, 15:36:34
I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Is this compatible with Realforce keycaps ?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: cosogi on Thu, 24 November 2016, 17:28:40
I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Is this compatible with Realforce keycaps ?

Yes. but except for bottom modifier keys and right shiftbar.
space bar is the same size as realforce.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: moh18one on Fri, 25 November 2016, 06:18:12
I've just got my 980C board!
It sounds thock as much as realforce.

Is this compatible with Realforce keycaps ?

Yes. but except for bottom modifier keys and right shiftbar.
space bar is the same size as realforce.

Oh nice  :thumb:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Jaceun on Fri, 25 November 2016, 13:31:51
For anyone that has experience with Topre to MX adapters, will doing so work on the 980C? I imagine it will be just fine for everything except the stabilizers, as I'm not sure how they mount. I don't have any Topre boards, so I don't know how to anticipate this. I would really like to put my GMK Carbon on my eventual 980C, whenever it hits US shores!

So far I've found these adapters: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Topre-to-MX-adapter-Topre-change-into-MX-switch/32748140639.html?shortkey=zAVzaARz&addresstype=600&detailNewVersion=&categoryId=70802
(If there are better ones out there, please let me know!)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 25 November 2016, 22:30:12
For anyone that has experience with Topre to MX adapters, will doing so work on the 980C? I imagine it will be just fine for everything except the stabilizers, as I'm not sure how they mount. I don't have any Topre boards, so I don't know how to anticipate this. I would really like to put my GMK Carbon on my eventual 980C, whenever it hits US shores!

So far I've found these adapters: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Topre-to-MX-adapter-Topre-change-into-MX-switch/32748140639.html?shortkey=zAVzaARz&addresstype=600&detailNewVersion=&categoryId=70802
(If there are better ones out there, please let me know!)

Those should work for the 1x and other unstabilized keys, but probably not the stabilized ones.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nubbinator on Fri, 25 November 2016, 22:33:03
I swore I'd never buy another keyboard other than hhkb. That white and grey topre 1800-ish layout, though...

Looks sexy, but if it feels like the FC660C, it will be awful.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: cosogi on Sat, 26 November 2016, 07:03:23
Looks sexy, but if it feels like the FC660C, it will be awful.

No. 980C feels somewhere between HHKB and Realforce, much lighter than FC660C.
Perhaps it's the difference between a topre keyboard produced in Japan and China.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Sat, 26 November 2016, 10:03:03
Looks sexy, but if it feels like the FC660C, it will be awful.

No. 980C feels somewhere between HHKB and Realforce, much lighter than FC660C.
Perhaps it's the difference between a topre keyboard produced in Japan and China.

Really? That's actually bad news for me, because I like how FC660C feels. Any lighter would make it similar to Novatouch, and that's a bit too light. I might have to pass on this if that"s the case.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: losing_ctrl on Sat, 26 November 2016, 17:08:52
Well, for better or worse, it's now available on widebasket's ebay store:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Leopold-FC980C-Electrostatic-Capacitive-Switch-Keyboard-Dye-Sublimated-White-PBT-/282270034728

I am sorely tempted, however he's charging shipping on this model when he usually offers free shipping, possibly because he knows there will be some pent up demand for it. So that extra $$ makes me want to wait.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: audax989 on Wed, 30 November 2016, 08:01:52
Got mine straight from Leaderskey. Thanks to the handy reddit guide I was able to find the store and haggled a little bit since, I paid in cash.

(http://i.imgur.com/hX3BJum.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Z4z7Mlk.jpg)
255,000 KRW = ~$220.00 not a bad deal imo.

(http://i.imgur.com/Fe8d0hV.jpg)

I can only directly, compare this to the hhkb and a short time with a 660c. HHKB still wins the feels hands down and it feels a little less solid than the 660c. This might be due to the lack of lube or I might be mistaken. Overall, this is a great work board for me and the layout is awesome.

ps. thanks also, to cosogi for reminding me that these were in stock during my trip to Korea.

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Jaceun on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:01:24
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:15:17
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

I should have waited a few weeks. I ordered through Easybuy7 and ended up paying $275.48 total, shipping included.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:19:10
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

But not in black. :(
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:21:04
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

I just spent more than I should have on a board and am going to have to wait a bit before I can get another, hoping these do not sell out by the time I have...


I should have waited a few weeks. I ordered through Easybuy7 and ended up paying $275.48 total, shipping included.

Still not too bad though, and you'll get it sooner yeah? I would pay a premium to get something in my hands quicker.


Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Jaceun on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:22:37
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

But not in black. :(

I am assuming the Dark Gray is their "Black." At least I hope so, because I ordered one!

I've only seen the two models out there, so I think that's the one.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:26:16
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

But not in black. :(

I am assuming the Dark Gray is their "Black." At least I hope so, because I ordered one!

I've only seen the two models out there, so I think that's the one.

(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980_image_1_710.jpg)

Notice that the prominent keyboard in this photo is white with gray mods.

(http://up.fd.zol-img.com.cn/t_s640x426_w3/g5/M00/02/01/ChMkJlfPjy-IEHmBAARuupitZYgAAVFgwNhrhQABG7S876.jpg)

This picture shows it a little better. I'll email them and find out.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Jaceun on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:41:31
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

But not in black. :(

I am assuming the Dark Gray is their "Black." At least I hope so, because I ordered one!

I've only seen the two models out there, so I think that's the one.

Show Image
(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980_image_1_710.jpg)


Notice that the prominent keyboard in this photo is white with gray mods.

Show Image
(http://up.fd.zol-img.com.cn/t_s640x426_w3/g5/M00/02/01/ChMkJlfPjy-IEHmBAARuupitZYgAAVFgwNhrhQABG7S876.jpg)


This picture shows it a little better. I'll email them and find out.

Good point. I wish they had product photos up to make this all easier.

From what I can tell, the front-printed white and black are MX versions and the other two are their Topre counterparts.

I am under the impression those top two are the only two 980C versions available. So white would have to be the one with the gray mods, and dark gray would have the be the other black...ish.... one if any of this makes sense.

In any case, the official word on it will be appreciated!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:46:27
For anyone interested, the pre-orders are up!

https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=366

But not in black. :(

I am assuming the Dark Gray is their "Black." At least I hope so, because I ordered one!

I've only seen the two models out there, so I think that's the one.

Show Image
(http://www.leopold.co.kr/data/cheditor/1609/fc980_image_1_710.jpg)


Notice that the prominent keyboard in this photo is white with gray mods.

Show Image
(http://up.fd.zol-img.com.cn/t_s640x426_w3/g5/M00/02/01/ChMkJlfPjy-IEHmBAARuupitZYgAAVFgwNhrhQABG7S876.jpg)


This picture shows it a little better. I'll email them and find out.

Good point. I wish they had product photos up to make this all easier.

From what I can tell, the front-printed white and black are MX versions and the other two are their Topre counterparts.

I am under the impression those top two are the only two 980C versions available. So white would have to be the one with the gray mods, and dark gray would have the be the other black...ish.... one if any of this makes sense.

In any case, the official word on it will be appreciated!

I have an official email! And you're right!

(http://i.imgur.com/jSJvpR1.png)

1.) Dark grey FC980C :
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2196 (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2196)

2.) White FC980C :
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2197 (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2197)

3.) Black FC980M :
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2047 (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2047)

4.) White FC980M :
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2054 (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2054)


The images will be added to our site later today. These listings were only added about an hour ago.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Jaceun on Tue, 06 December 2016, 14:52:02
Nice! Teamwork!  :thumb:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Tue, 06 December 2016, 23:36:53
980c allegedly shipping in Korea
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Urbi on Wed, 07 December 2016, 11:04:17
Looks promising.

Any chances we will see them with an ISO-Ger Layout/Keycaps?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 07 December 2016, 14:27:43
Looks promising.

Any chances we will see them with an ISO-Ger Layout/Keycaps?

Don't think I've ever seen a Leopold with an ISO layout but I could be wrong.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 07 December 2016, 19:12:00
Well, for better or worse, it's now available on widebasket's ebay store:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Leopold-FC980C-Electrostatic-Capacitive-Switch-Keyboard-Dye-Sublimated-White-PBT-/282270034728 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Leopold-FC980C-Electrostatic-Capacitive-Switch-Keyboard-Dye-Sublimated-White-PBT-/282270034728)

I am sorely tempted, however he's charging shipping on this model when he usually offers free shipping, possibly because he knows there will be some pent up demand for it. So that extra $$ makes me want to wait.

Actually his pricing is only about an extra $5.00 up on Mechanical Keyboards pricing.  BUT he offers way cheaper shipping so I had to buy one.

Expecting delivery soon because Korea is only North of us Convicts and I have always received any items from them, within a weeks time.

Never thought I would see a genuine Thorpie done in a traditional 1800 series layout, kudos to Leopold for doing it and Widebasket for providing it  :thumb: .

Thanks for posting this link because I totally forgot about this keyboard, which shall be added to my extensive collection that my gran-kiddies will adore.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: evrydayzawrkday on Thu, 08 December 2016, 08:28:03
I swore I'd never buy another keyboard other than hhkb. That white and grey topre 1800-ish layout, though...

Looks sexy, but if it feels like the FC660C, it will be awful.

Wait, so I am not the only person who hated the way the 660C felt?  ;D

It was really disappointing. I love my 87U 45g, but I wish it was in the form factor of a 660C since I don't need the additional keys.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Sun, 11 December 2016, 18:24:51
So the 980C does not have media controls? That's disappointing.

Can anyone please confirm?

Much appreciated.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: audax989 on Sun, 11 December 2016, 18:31:35
So the 980C does not have media controls? That's disappointing.

Can anyone please confirm?

Much appreciated.

that is correct. no media controls on the 980c.

unless I have no idea what I'm doing.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Sun, 11 December 2016, 18:42:53
So the 980C does not have media controls? That's disappointing.

Can anyone please confirm?

Much appreciated.

that is correct. no media controls on the 980c.

unless I have no idea what I'm doing.

This is very disappointing. I checked the manual and there is nothing there.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Mon, 12 December 2016, 15:54:33
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
[attachimg=1]

It's hard to get used to the placement of the delete and navigation keys though, since my muscle memory is based on TKL layout.

The keys feel pretty much just like the FC660C. I don't really notice too much difference besides the font. The weight is more like RF 55g, probably because it's new and the domes are still crisp.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: audax989 on Mon, 12 December 2016, 15:57:43
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
(Attachment Link)

looking good man. is that a 980c or 980m?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Mon, 12 December 2016, 16:14:18
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
(Attachment Link)

looking good man. is that a 980c or 980m?

It's the Topre.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Geroximo on Mon, 12 December 2016, 16:36:02
It's the Topre.
Is it genuine Topre?
I thought Leopold keyboards use Topre clones?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Mon, 12 December 2016, 17:03:44
It's the Topre.
Is it genuine Topre?
I thought Leopold keyboards use Topre clones?

What gave you that
It's the Topre.
Is it genuine Topre?
I thought Leopold keyboards use Topre clones?

What gave you that impression?

From Deskthority's Leopold FC660C wiki page:

Quote
Designed by Leopold, manufactured in China (everything points towards Varmilo factory), inspected in Japan (likely by Topre) — some of this is visibly printed on the FC660C packaging. From the start of the FC660C project, it has been very important to Leopold to really impress Topre with the quality of this product. No corners were cut, no expense spared to build a keyboard that's on par with Topre keyboard products, and in many ways that was successfully (over)achieved.

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Dee1 on Tue, 13 December 2016, 09:04:56
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
(Attachment Link)

It's hard to get used to the placement of the delete and navigation keys though, since my muscle memory is based on TKL layout.
Wow, it looks very nice! :)
What are your thoughts on the placement of the FN key and its key-combo partners? At first glance, it seems like using "FN + Arrow Keys" or any of the other combinations might be a bit awkward, which is the only thing holding me back from buying this right now.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Tue, 13 December 2016, 10:25:02
Guys
Does Leopold provide alternative key caps so the user can switch Caps Lock and Control?
Can anyone please let me know?
Thanks.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Giorgio on Tue, 13 December 2016, 10:42:12
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
(Attachment Link)

It's hard to get used to the placement of the delete and navigation keys though, since my muscle memory is based on TKL layout.

Hey, they saved 5mm and added 3 leds! What an intelligent design choice.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Tue, 13 December 2016, 11:37:48
Guys
Does Leopold provide alternative key caps so the user can switch Caps Lock and Control?
Can anyone please let me know?
Thanks.

They do for the 980m. No idea about the c.

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Tue, 13 December 2016, 11:43:27
Guys
Does Leopold provide alternative key caps so the user can switch Caps Lock and Control?
Can anyone please let me know?
Thanks.

They do for the 980m. No idea about the c.



Thanks. I was indeed wondering about the C model.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Tue, 13 December 2016, 12:57:40
Guys
Does Leopold provide alternative key caps so the user can switch Caps Lock and Control?
Can anyone please let me know?
Thanks.
Mine didn't include any extra keycaps--not CTRL or CapsLock, or the bonus WASD colored ones. The only extra included in the package was a wire keycap puller with red handle.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Tue, 13 December 2016, 13:17:25
Mine arrived today. I swapped out some keycaps to give it a bit of interesting contrast.
(Attachment Link)

It's hard to get used to the placement of the delete and navigation keys though, since my muscle memory is based on TKL layout.
Wow, it looks very nice! :)
What are your thoughts on the placement of the FN key and its key-combo partners? At first glance, it seems like using "FN + Arrow Keys" or any of the other combinations might be a bit awkward, which is the only thing holding me back from buying this right now.

I personally dislike using Fn combos as compromise for missing keys, since they make it much more cumbersome to try to do additional combos that require one of the Fn combos as the base key. In the case of the FC680C, it's a lot better than keyboards with less keys (such as 60% keyboards), because you have alternative approaches to your navigation cluster. For example:

Fn + Arrow keys will give you Home/End and Pg UP/Down. This is identical to the FC660C.

The numpad with NumLock disabled will give you dedicated Home/End and Pg Up/Down keys. Since I have a dedicated numpad on the left side, I never use the numpad on the FC680C and always have the NumLock deactivated, so I can use the navigation keys.

The 4-key row above the numpad gives you dedicated Pg UP/Down keys, and Fn will turn them into Home/End. This is the one I dislike because the distance from Fn to those keys is too far and not comfortable to use at all. But since you have other options for those keys, it's not a big deal.

Other than Fn keys, what bothers me the most is the placement of the Delete keys (one above the numpad, and one at the bottom of the numpad), because neither one matches the position of a TKL layout, and while typing, my muscle memory of hitting the Delete key with my pinky is so ingrained that I just can't get used to the FC680C's Delete keys' positions, so every time I need to hit Delete, I have to pause and look down.

Another annoyance is the placement of the arrow keys. When using the mouse, my muscle memory makes me shift my right hand to the left to access the arrow cluster, but whenever I do that now, I end up at the numpad instead. I do like having the vertical enter key of the numpad there though, since it's much easier to hit than the normal enter key.

Truth is, if Leopold had a TKL version of their Topre keyboard, I'd have gotten that instead, but who knows if that'll ever happen, so I jumped on this just in case they'll never release a TKL version.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: evoman on Tue, 13 December 2016, 17:43:24
Can anyone compare this to the RealForce TKL? Or NovaTouch? (in terms of feel and build quality)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Lunatique on Tue, 13 December 2016, 18:31:46
Can anyone compare this to the RealForce TKL? Or NovaTouch? (in terms of feel and build quality)

It's definitely better than Novatouch. Novatouch keys rattle a lot more and don't feel as solid. The weight/tactile bump is also less on the Novatouch. Novatouch's keycaps are also cheap quality, since CoolerMaster expects customers to swap out the keycaps for custom ones.

It's comparable to RF keyboards overall (I have two RF 87Us--one is silenced ergonomically weighted, and one is 55g). I prefer Leopold's keycaps more though--they feel unique (I've mentioned this many times on GH before), sort of like they are denser. And for some weird reason, they create this illusion for me that feels like they are made from some kind of hard wood.

Frame is very solid on all these keyboards. All of them are high-end products in that regard.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Wed, 14 December 2016, 12:36:12
Guys
Does Leopold provide alternative key caps so the user can switch Caps Lock and Control?
Can anyone please let me know?
Thanks.
Mine didn't include any extra keycaps--not CTRL or CapsLock, or the bonus WASD colored ones. The only extra included in the package was a wire keycap puller with red handle.

Thank you.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 14 December 2016, 12:38:04
I'm way too lazy to google, can somebody who own's one of these can you give me a rough footprint on desk size? freedom units preferred but i'll take the other if that's all you got. :D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: nrp on Wed, 14 December 2016, 12:41:44
I'm way too lazy to google, can somebody who own's one of these can you give me a rough footprint on desk size? freedom units preferred but i'll take the other if that's all you got. :D

38.5 cm Is what I see on the web
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Dee1 on Wed, 14 December 2016, 14:59:35
Truth is, if Leopold had a TKL version of their Topre keyboard, I'd have gotten that instead, but who knows if that'll ever happen, so I jumped on this just in case they'll never release a TKL version.
Thanks for taking the time to type up such a detailed reply! It was very helpful.  :)
& A Leopold TKL would be pretty dreamy.  ;D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jon86 on Thu, 15 December 2016, 10:35:51
Is there a technical limitation of some sort that made Leopold discard the media functions on their topre switch boards? The 980M seems to have them and I wish that the 980C would have them as well. Then for me it would make a great addition to my lovely 750R and 900R. 
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: ceflame on Thu, 15 December 2016, 12:01:30
Is there a technical limitation of some sort that made Leopold discard the media functions on their topre switch boards? The 980M seems to have them and I wish that the 980C would have them as well. Then for me it would make a great addition to my lovely 750R and 900R. 

I'm guessing Topre makes the PCBs for the 980C, and most Topre boards don't have media key functionality.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jon86 on Fri, 16 December 2016, 03:49:57
Good to know. Thanks!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: evoman on Fri, 16 December 2016, 04:15:42
Sorry if this was said somewhere or should be obvious - but can someone please give me an idea of what sort of keycap profile the FC980C has?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 16 December 2016, 04:16:34
It's a dayum shame that Leopold/Topre keyboards don't have media functionality. That black 980c tho :eek:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: quasistellar on Wed, 11 January 2017, 11:10:55
Sorry if this was said somewhere or should be obvious - but can someone please give me an idea of what sort of keycap profile the FC980C has?

Not sure about their topre caps, but their mx caps use something called "step scupture" which is closer to cherry profile than OEM.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 12 January 2017, 20:10:36
It's a dayum shame that Leopold/Topre keyboards don't have media functionality. That black 980c tho :o

Real MEN don't need media keys because the PC only plays and stops when he tells it too  8) .
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Niomosy on Thu, 12 January 2017, 20:14:11
It's a dayum shame that Leopold/Topre keyboards don't have media functionality. That black 980c tho :eek:

Certainly killed my interest immediately on seeing that.  Oh well.  Come on RealForce RGB 75% board!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Altis on Thu, 12 January 2017, 20:58:46
It's a dayum shame that Leopold/Topre keyboards don't have media functionality. That black 980c tho :o

Real MEN don't need media keys because the PC only plays and stops when he tells it too  8) .

I often forget that there even are media keys on keyboards. Never got into using them. I suppose Mute could be useful.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Fri, 13 January 2017, 14:44:00
I've recently found out about these keyboards and their interesting layout. I've always demanded 100% keyboards, but this one has all you need but with the advantages of the shorter width. I've never understood tenkeyless layouts because the numpad is a very important part in a keyboard, whilest it's the cursors and all the repeated ins, home, del, end, etc. that is unnecesary. I especially like the numpad for gaming, since I hate wasd. Actually, I was considering buying the FC980M with browns instead of a full size 980R... until I noticed what they have done with the top right row. It's simply a dumb idea. Why remove printscreen, scroll lock and pause (forcing you to use key combinations with FN) and replace them with redundant keys that are already in the numpad? Leopold should sell these keyboards with an extra set with the original printscreen, scroll lock and pause keycaps, and give the user the chance to reconfigure them by hardware.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Sat, 14 January 2017, 09:52:20
Have anyone already seen how the ISO layout has been designed for these models?

And, have you experienced any problems with the right shift key, both as regard it being a bit shorter and also because it's not stabilized (does it wobble or stuck if pressed on its sides?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: davkol on Sat, 14 January 2017, 14:21:17
I've used 1.75u Shift on Noppoo Choc Mini, Cherry G80-1800 and mostly lately Phantom, and there shouldn't be any problem.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Zhuni on Mon, 16 January 2017, 05:15:17
Is the 980c key feel lighter then the 660c? I was hoping for something light like the Realforce 45g
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Mon, 16 January 2017, 06:49:56
Are the keycaps on the Leopold FC980M (Topre) printed or dye sub, or does it depends if it's the white or the black model? I've seen some specs where they're supposed to by pbt dye sub, but here it's says they are printed:

http://candykeys.com/product/fc980c-white-ansi (http://candykeys.com/product/fc980c-white-ansi)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Sencha on Mon, 16 January 2017, 10:38:01
FC980C is dye sub on both white and black
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Mon, 16 January 2017, 12:14:08
A question to all the users of a Leopold FC980: have yo been able to get used to the position of the del key? Or do you find easier to use the numpad del key? In both cases it would be necessary to forget your muscle memory and re-learn, so which one of these positions would be better?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: davkol on Mon, 16 January 2017, 12:26:43
I've used a variety of layouts and never had to forget the old one, when switching to something different.

I've also used keyboards with Delete in a position similar to FC980 without any issues.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: jerue on Mon, 16 January 2017, 13:13:41
made a few small adjustments to the OP and added order links for those who want to buy  :thumb:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: iLLucionist on Mon, 16 January 2017, 16:58:11
So people of the Topre: how does the FC980C stack up against the HHKB and the 87U 55G?

How does Topre 45G plate-mounted feel?

How is the build quality?

That layout looks enticing... mmm... I wanna have babies with it.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: harahyuna on Tue, 17 January 2017, 19:14:46
Anyone know if Fn+Left arrow will act as Home and Fn+Right arrow will act as End on the Leopold FC980C similar to 660C? Was wondering because on this picture, it states Fn+PgUp instead of arrow keys. http://i.imgur.com/W5qwu8y.jpg
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Rayoui on Tue, 17 January 2017, 20:35:30
Up/dn is PgUp/PgDn and left/right is home/end.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: harahyuna on Tue, 17 January 2017, 20:42:47
Up/dn is PgUp/PgDn and left/right is home/end.

I got them mixed up but does Fn+Arrow keys(Left/Right) work for Home/End on the FC980C though? Someone mentioned it only works with Fn+PgUp/PgDown printed on front keycaps and doesn't work with arrow keys similar to 660C so I'd just like to confirm.

EDIT: Just got the keyboard. Can confirm it works.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Rayoui on Tue, 17 January 2017, 20:55:14
I don't have the board so I can't test but this is from the FC980C page on mechanicalkeyboards.com.

(https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/images/products/large_2197_FC980C_8.JPG)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: zacho on Thu, 19 January 2017, 13:32:44
I just got my second ever mech keyboard, upgrading from a Cooler Master Rapid-I with MX Blues to a black Leopold FC980M with MX Browns (random gift from the brother :P ). I have a GMK Hyperfuse set that i've put on my FC980M but don't have the 1u CTRL and 1U ALT for the bottom row. Any suggestions on single caps that would match the Hyperfuse colorway and profile?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Thu, 19 January 2017, 16:04:34
What del key are you using, the one that is on the printscreen position or the one on the bottom of the numpad? Both are far from where the del key should be, but I'm trying to get used to any of the new positions.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: exime on Fri, 20 January 2017, 10:15:50
Wow this layout is genius!!!  I had no idea it existed.   Full keyboards are a couple inches too wide for my preferred keyboard/mouse functuay and TKL is leaving out my beloved numpad.  The two inches in the middle always seemed like a waste as I don't need a dedicated section for scroll lock, pause, insert, home etc..  although I do love delete, it seems to be in a pretty good place.  And let's be honest - I never use my media keys.

Picked up the last White FC980M on MK in Cherry Blue!   

Happy to support what I think is the perfect compromise to save 2 inches for mouse space.   Hope this layout becomes a thing because it just makes so much sense. 

The only change I'd make as Leopold is swap the location of the delete key and numlock key so that the backspace and delete key are right next to each other.  That would have been total genius. Dedicated Print Screen would be nice too but not sure what it would replace.

 :thumb:  :llama:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: exime on Fri, 20 January 2017, 12:35:43
What del key are you using, the one that is on the printscreen position or the one on the bottom of the numpad? Both are far from where the del key should be, but I'm trying to get used to any of the new positions.

I haven't received mine yet but is there a way to swap the numlock and delete key?  That would definitely complete this layout.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Fri, 20 January 2017, 13:43:00
What del key are you using, the one that is on the printscreen position or the one on the bottom of the numpad? Both are far from where the del key should be, but I'm trying to get used to any of the new positions.

I haven't received mine yet but is there a way to swap the numlock and delete key?  That would definitely complete this layout.

I have also considered this possibility. Numlock would look a bit weird outside the numpad, and accompanied by ins, (although it would still be aligned and next to the scrolllock indicator) but the del key position would be closer to the standards and easier to reach. It would also be aligned with backspace, which makes sense. For me it would be very easy to apply this solution: swap the keycaps and let Autohotkey work its magic.

Much better:
(https://s27.postimg.org/hmzpdfwpv/delete_num_swap.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: exime on Fri, 20 January 2017, 14:51:53
Nice!  That's the first thing I'll do when I receive mine then  :cool:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Fri, 20 January 2017, 16:26:12
Well, actually my plan is this. If I find blank keycaps, it will be perfect. Otherwise I don't mind, as those keys will have useful functions after all.

(https://s29.postimg.org/i3geqdacn/keys_plans.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Tue, 31 January 2017, 09:22:22
Do you know what's the purpose of the FN combination that allows to choose between n-key rollover and 6-key roll-over? If I plug my keyboard via usb, it's already limited to 6-key, right? And if I'm using PS2, why would I want to limit it to 6-key?

And what about the F1, F2, F3, F4? I've read that's for controlling key repetition. Isn't that already set up by Windows under the keyboard configuration panel?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: hking0036 on Tue, 31 January 2017, 09:30:42
Do you know what's the purpose of the FN combination that allows to choose between n-key rollover and 6-key roll-over? If I plug my keyboard via usb, it's already limited to 6-key, right? And if I'm using PS2, why would I want to limit it to 6-key?

And what about the F1, F2, F3, F4? I've read that's for controlling key repetition. Isn't that already set up by Windows under the keyboard configuration panel?
There's some weird work around for usb but yeah it should be limited to 6kro. Some BIOSes have issues with nkro and won't boot so that's why that's there.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Sun, 05 February 2017, 13:23:44
I'm waiting for a ANSI FC980M with browns in stock. However, I'm also considering the FC980C, despite its price, because I'd really like to try Topres and have one model with Topres for home and one with MXs for work. The only thing that prevents me from placing my order is the ABS spacebar. Do you know if the black PBT spacebar that is sold by http://www.keyboardco.com matches the original color?

http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp (http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 05 February 2017, 20:36:32
I'm waiting for a ANSI FC980M with browns in stock. However, I'm also considering the FC980C, despite its price, because I'd really like to try Topres and have one model with Topres for home and one with MXs for work. The only thing that prevents me from placing my order is the ABS spacebar. Do you know if the black PBT spacebar that is sold by http://www.keyboardco.com matches the original color?

http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp (http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp)

Are you sure that spacebar is PBT?

The stock ABS spacebars aren't that bad. Don't let it stop you from getting a great keyboard!
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Mon, 06 February 2017, 03:21:49
Now that you mentioned it, there isn't any reference about if being PBT. Maybe it's a stock abs spacebar as replacement.

The problem I have with the spacebar is that I always press it on the exact same place, so it gets shiny very quickly.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: testplsignore on Sat, 11 February 2017, 09:50:23
Has anyone taken their FC980C apart?

I have a feeling it will similar to the FC660C

Thinking about installing some Hyper rings and MX sliders...
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: exime on Wed, 15 February 2017, 12:27:02
I'm loving my Leopold FC980M.  Really the perfect layout I hope it stays around in the future.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: speaktobrett on Tue, 04 April 2017, 20:37:39
Are the FN's for volume control on this keyboard?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 04 April 2017, 21:41:43
Are the FN's for volume control on this keyboard?
Looks like it.

(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170405/784a630816aaf5b09af7c6fe4b7c9136.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: MyNewBoard on Thu, 04 May 2017, 16:21:57
Are the FN's for volume control on this keyboard?
Looks like it.

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170405/784a630816aaf5b09af7c6fe4b7c9136.jpg)


This does not work for my FC980C.
I'm also very curious what that 4th dipswitch does..
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: avid on Sun, 07 May 2017, 11:11:17
A question about the fc980c color. How simular to realforce 87 (in black) is it?
Can you read the fonts in a normal room?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Puddsy on Sun, 07 May 2017, 14:02:38
Looks like same color, different font.

It's legible in a normally lit room, but if you keep your room dark you'll have some issues. Considering it's mostly standard that's not a giant issue, but if you're not too familiar with the layout it might be problematic.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Mon, 22 May 2017, 11:00:45
Just picked up the FC980C, very nice board, you have the thockiness of a HHKB without the horrid HHKB layout ;D
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: WarCommand on Mon, 22 May 2017, 11:03:00
without the horrid HHKB layout ;D
Girl bye
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Mon, 22 May 2017, 15:57:21
The Fn + arrow cluster is actually nice for pg up/dn & home / end. Once you remember it's there, it's pretty easy to get used to.

Lovin' it so far.

Thock Thock Thock
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 22 May 2017, 16:03:57
The Fn + arrow cluster is actually nice for pg up/dn & home / end. Once you remember it's there, it's pretty easy to get used to.

Lovin' it so far.

Thock Thock Thock
I totally overlooked that for a while but got used to having home and end on the top row on the right side.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Mon, 22 May 2017, 16:12:16
It's almost like Leopold knew I was a mathematician (if you seen some of my posts on GH you'll know that I can pretty much break anything down to an algorithmic level  :)))

(http://i.imgur.com/4Ju1hbz.jpg)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 22 May 2017, 16:16:39
It's almost like Leopold knew I was a mathematician (if you seen some of my posts on GH you'll know that I can pretty much break anything down to an algorithmic level  :)) )



digi trade me caps your know you want a storm trooper look :spam:
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: digi on Mon, 22 May 2017, 16:39:43
digi trade me caps you know you want a storm trooper look :spam:

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3o7btT1T9qpQZWhNlK/giphy.gif?response_id=59235a6c5c160945c539739a)
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Entropia on Tue, 30 May 2017, 16:44:45
I have finally received my FC900 keycap set. I wanted the printscreen and the pause keycaps back to their standard location. I use printscreen for capturing my screen very often. The pause key is for pausing and unpausing my music with foobar2000. The new F2 key is actually for launching this program (I don't need a scrolllock key for anything). The numlock and the delete key have swapped their positions. Now I can reach the delete key easily and it sits in a position that is closer to the standard.

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Origami_Rabbit on Fri, 04 August 2017, 21:17:44
I really wish fc980c having spare caps lock and ctrl swap keycaps like they did to fc660c.
Anyway, anyone knew where can I get 1.25 topre blank keycaps for the replacement of left ctrl on fc980c?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: prosecutedmind on Sat, 07 October 2017, 16:16:40
Anyone know if the 980C has a standard lower row?
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 07 October 2017, 21:45:29
Anyone know if the 980C has a standard lower row?
Depends on what you call standard.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/29783e4ae1539201a228b699d1d6fbc8.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Hyde on Mon, 09 October 2017, 15:04:43
Has anyone taken their FC980C apart?

I have a feeling it will similar to the FC660C

Thinking about installing some Hyper rings and MX sliders...

Don't do it, I tried it on my wife's FC660C and it killed all the tactility (hypersphere rings).  Unless you have purple sliders otherwise I'd recommend not mod it (even with purple slider it still reduce travel a tiny bit).

Even my Realforce 104UW is not nearly as tactile as before.

Anyone know if the 980C has a standard lower row?

If you want to buy a standard 104 key set and throw it on and everything matches perfectly?  Then no.

You'd have to join a group buy that offers extra keys to get all the keys you want.
Title: Re: New Leopold Keyboards: FC980M & FC980C
Post by: Squall on Mon, 15 January 2018, 14:42:56
Anyone knows if the 980C will come out in any ISO layout ?