What Keyboard Are You Using Now?

[ironic moustache]

Got a Poker 2 with Blues in the mail a couple of days ago and have been trying to use it EVERYWHERE (within reason). I didn't like Blues that much when I first tried them on a different board, but somehow this time they make (almost) perfect sense. Time to get some keycaps, now...

[terrpn]

home

ducky 1087/green alps............swapped out most caps with bow ds

wang 724/orange alps with orig pbt caps

office

realforce 87/55u

model m when i can get away with it 

[CommonCurt]

home

ducky 1087/green alps............swapped out most caps with bow ds

wang 724/orange alps with orig pbt caps

office

realforce 87/55u

model m when i can get away with it 

Nice.  I have been wanting one of the Ducky TKL's with green ALPS.  Can't find anyone selling one anywhere.

[Pacifist]

home

ducky 1087/green alps............swapped out most caps with bow ds

wang 724/orange alps with orig pbt caps

office

realforce 87/55u

model m when i can get away with it 

Nice.  I have been wanting one of the Ducky TKL's with green ALPS.  Can't find anyone selling one anywhere.

That and the filco zero. Want some small alps board with at least 6kro

[CommonCurt]

home

ducky 1087/green alps............swapped out most caps with bow ds

wang 724/orange alps with orig pbt caps

office

realforce 87/55u

model m when i can get away with it 

Nice.  I have been wanting one of the Ducky TKL's with green ALPS.  Can't find anyone selling one anywhere.

That and the filco zero. Want some small alps board with at least 6kro

Yea I have been looking for a Zero for a while, but everyone else always gets to them before me

[terrpn]

yup..........they (dk1087/green alps) are hard to find for sure

i think bunny might have one still nib if i recollect?

i would rather have a zero, but they are even harder to find!

i know a lot of people didn't like the ducky alps, but i love it- the clank'ier the better for me

the stock keycaps are horrible, but i knew that when i bought it. i bought to switch out

the wang with the "orange alps"..........what can i say as i love it

i'm a sucker for the older boards anyway- you get some real duds sometimes, but i take the chance on getting a gem

[daerid]

das keyboard 4. after i spilled coffee on the mac version  )

Review? I really like the direction they went design wise, but I'm wary of their new OEM

[epzy]

Trying out this peasant keyboard called Filco Majestouch 2 (MX Blue) for tonight.

[HPE1000]

Trying out this peasant keyboard called Filco Majestouch 2 (MX Blue) for tonight.

Show Image

I just recently desoldered mine, mx blues are so bleh to me, old/vintage blacks here I come.  :P

[epzy]

Trying out this peasant keyboard called Filco Majestouch 2 (MX Blue) for tonight.

Show Image

I just recently desoldered mine, mx blues are so bleh to me, old/vintage blacks here I come.  :P

^^^

I only like Blue and Red in MX flavor. Haven't tried teh vintage switches yet, but I've heard good things.

[suby4me]

das keyboard 4. after i spilled coffee on the mac version  )

Review? I really like the direction they went design wise, but I'm wary of their new OEM

I'll try and cook one up. It's not too shabby.

edit: a link for the review http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=57578.0

[aref]

THIS! Just got it today. Wasd + Vortex double shot pbts. I randomly switch between blues and browns every couple months... I'm fickle... This Wasd has blues.

Show Image

Great looking KB. MX Blue switches under double-shot PBT key caps must have a nice feel. I switch between 55g Topre and MX Red keyboards; I think it's in our nature to change key switches. Enjoy the keyboard.

[user 18]

I actually have 4 boards on my desk right now, all plugged in and switching between the four.

This sentence is typed on my RK9000 with MX Reds.
This sentence is typed on my Max Nighthawk x8 with MX Browns.
This sentence is typed on my CM QFR with MX Blues.
This sentence is typed on my CM QFR, formerly with MX Blues, now modded to MX Clears.

Of the four, I think I like the Clears the best, then Blues, with Reds and Browns duking it out for last place.

[epzy]

Back to my HHKB Pro 2. Going to use my Realforce soon, just need to receive some new springs first. Realforce feels nicer, but the HHKB destroys the RF in terms of layout and form factor, imo...

[dante]

I have Topre Typeheavens for both home and work.  I love them!

[Pacifist]

I have Topre Typeheavens for both home and work.  I love them!

hows the build quality?

[dante]

I have Topre Typeheavens for both home and work.  I love them!

hows the build quality?

Realforce feels more solid; however the Typeheaven is more fun and comfortable to type on IMHO.

The only thing I'm jealous about on the Realforce is the variable option, I'm probably the only one that would love a variable Typeheaven.

[aref]

After three days of using my K65/MX Reds, I've returned to my...
Realforce 87UB/55-gram. This keyboard is an absolute.

[user 18]

After three days of using my K65/MX Reds, I've returned to my...
Realforce 87UB/55-gram. This keyboard is an absolute.

No SSK? Seems a bit odd to me

[marcusant]

I switch between a G80-8100 with clears (clears are really enjoyable after using them for a bit (my favorite switch), but switching back from something else makes them feel too tough and mushy) and a Lexmark Model M. I have a Leopold FC660M with blues on the way though for use on the go.

Pictures of the behemoths (spare me for my potato pics):
http://i.imgur.com/gVUrG6S.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YtUi95k.png

[okwchin]

Apple A1242 and A1255 keyboard. Chicklet 60% board with arrow keys and media keys. Functionally everything I need, and as far as chicklet keys go, one of the better feeling ones. Have been using apple chicklet keys since the first macbook white.

Recent acquisition, Ducky Shine 3 yellow yellow yellow board with brown switches. a month so far, and its not bad to type on. Quite a lot louder compared to an aluminium framed chicklet dome board, a very deep feel that makes my fingers sore with light use. Still getting used to the fact that a mechanical doesn't need full throw to activate the switches, trying hard not to bottom out too hard.

On the way, KBT Pure with bumblebee key set. Excited to return to the 60% form factor. As surprising as it is to me that I naturally make use of the numpad on the ducky, I much prefer to keep the mouse close. I have tried remapping ctl + wasd as my arrow keys, incase the bottom right keys don't work too smoothly.

[aref]

After three days of using my K65/MX Reds, I've returned to my...
Realforce 87UB/55-gram. This keyboard is an absolute.

No SSK? Seems a bit odd to me

SSK is tucked away. Replaced by the 87UB.

[Glissant]

Something I would like to call chatter heaven

[lwls]

Steelseries 6gv2. *sniff*

My Ducky Mini is in the shop, converting blues into jailhouse blues.
I really miss the extra space.

[iLLucionist]

HHKB Pro 2 (just new) and Filco MJT 2 Ninja TKL with Browns and o-rings. Switching back and forth... not decided yet what will be my default, coming from browns.

[user 18]

HHKB Pro 2 (just new) and Filco MJT 2 Ninja TKL with Browns and o-rings. Switching back and forth... not decided yet what will be my default, coming from browns.

Well if you decide you don't like the HHKB, I'm sure you'll be able to find a buyer for it here

[aref]

Something I would like to call chatter heaven


(Attachment Link)

Veldig fint tastatur. Gled deg over dem.
In case I made a translation error: Very nice keyboards. Enjoy them.

[Heezy]

At the moment, I'm using Topre 55g, and sometimes mx Browns on my girlfriends computer. Waiting for my code to arrive from massdrop!

[iLLucionist]

HHKB Pro 2 (just new) and Filco MJT 2 Ninja TKL with Browns and o-rings. Switching back and forth... not decided yet what will be my default, coming from browns.

Well if you decide you don't like the HHKB, I'm sure you'll be able to find a buyer for it here

Hehe, thanks I'll keep that in mind

[aref]

Been using the 55g/87UB; time to switch to the MX Red/K65 for a day or two so I can feel the smooth and sweet simplicity of 'emex reds' on an exposed keyboard. When I
bottom-out, which is pretty much with each keystroke, the key caps make a satisfying 'chock' sound on the keyboard's aluminum platen. This is an ever-so-nice change in feel.

[Flyersfan1]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

[aref]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

We must be feeling a similar thing: I just tucked away my 55g Topre for my 45g K65 keyboard.

[Frenir]

I'm now using my new HHKB pro 2 and I'm really enjoying it.

[iLLucionist]

I'm now using my new HHKB pro 2 and I'm really enjoying it.

What do you like better? I also recently switch from the Filco MJT2 TKL with Browns to the HHKB pro 2 (if I read your signature correctly). What do you think of the tactility on your HHKB? I am already planning on buying the Type S...

[VesperSAINT]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

Preferring 45g over 55g is not too crazy. However, not really a fan of how 45g feels on RF. The 660C on the other hand, dayum... it's like a lighter 55g because of how responsive and poppy it is. If the HHKB wasn't so much fun to thock on (and the layout), I'd probably be using the 660C over it.

[aref]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

Preferring 45g over 55g is not too crazy. However, not really a fan of how 45g feels on RF. The 660C on the other hand, dayum... it's like a lighter 55g because of how responsive and poppy it is. If the HHKB wasn't so much fun to thock on (and the layout), I'd probably be using the 660C over it.

Your comment is a convincing testimonial for an FC660C. And I said no more keyboards...

[JaccoW]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

Preferring 45g over 55g is not too crazy. However, not really a fan of how 45g feels on RF. The 660C on the other hand, dayum... it's like a lighter 55g because of how responsive and poppy it is. If the HHKB wasn't so much fun to thock on (and the layout), I'd probably be using the 660C over it.

Your comment is a convincing testimonial for an FC660C. And I said no more keyboards...

Hell, even I am tempted to buy a Topre now

[intelli78]

There seems to be a difference in FC660Cs depending on their date of manufacture. Units from the original run are a lot squishier, and newer ones are firmer, almost a 50g feel. If that's what's most important to you, I advise against buying used.

[VesperSAINT]

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

Preferring 45g over 55g is not too crazy. However, not really a fan of how 45g feels on RF. The 660C on the other hand, dayum... it's like a lighter 55g because of how responsive and poppy it is. If the HHKB wasn't so much fun to thock on (and the layout), I'd probably be using the 660C over it.

Your comment is a convincing testimonial for an FC660C. And I said no more keyboards...

I'm still using my Realforce 104-DK from the Massdrop group buy. I know i'm in the minority, but I prefer 45g plate mounted topre's to 55g.

Preferring 45g over 55g is not too crazy. However, not really a fan of how 45g feels on RF. The 660C on the other hand, dayum... it's like a lighter 55g because of how responsive and poppy it is. If the HHKB wasn't so much fun to thock on (and the layout), I'd probably be using the 660C over it.

Your comment is a convincing testimonial for an FC660C. And I said no more keyboards...

Hell, even I am tempted to buy a Topre now

Eh he he ~ You should be! It's a great board. The way the 660C feels and sounds most closely resembles that of the 55g compared to that of the other 45g Topres, which is why I think the 660C is the best feeling 45g Topre. The 45g RF is definitely "squishier" and doesn't feel as responsive/poppy. This variation between the two plate mounted boards may have to do with the difference in construction and how much vibration/resonance there is within the cases *shrugs*. The HHKB kind of stands alone because of its case-mount, which is lacking a metal plate. It definitely has that squishy feel that the RF has but it's balanced out by the extra resonance/vibration from the plastic mounting. It definitely feels less sturdy but also makes it fun to type on, if that makes any sense. For this reason, I choose to have fun on the HHKB over the good feels of the 660C because when it comes to best feels, the 55g wins because I prefer the stiffer peak force at top.

I'd highly recommend the 660C as anyone's first Topre keyboard if you're going for purely best light feels. The keyboard is absolutely high quality, and the worry about the only one flaw, which is the pad printing, seems to have been resolved with blank version and a dye-sub version (soon in USA). The 66% layout is quite preferable to many as well with the dedicated arrow keys. The price is awesome too, even with the Nova coming out in the future. HOWEVER, I cannot guarantee safety of you wallet... A common curse of the 45g Topre is spending another $180-200+ on a 55g in the future ) I speak from personal experience, and leading others down this path to the same results.

There seems to be a difference in FC660Cs depending on their date of manufacture. Units from the original run are a lot squishier, and newer ones are firmer, almost a 50g feel. If that's what's most important to you, I advise against buying used.

This is an interesting statement. Didn't know that. My 660C definitely felt a lot stiffer when I first got it brand new, but it's definitely broken in and gotten slightly slighter. Luckily though, it's still responsive and poppy as ever though. Are there different manufacturers/factories that make the Topre rubber cups?

[intelli78]

This is an interesting statement. Didn't know that. My 660C definitely felt a lot stiffer when I first got it brand new, but it's definitely broken in and gotten slightly slighter. Luckily though, it's still responsive and poppy as ever though. Are there different manufacturers/factories that make the Topre rubber cups?

I couldn't tell you. That statement is based on my own, subjective experience, and I have seen at least one other member make the same observation. I make no guarantees about what you'll get, but there's a pronounced difference in the older vs. newer units I've used (n=3).

The rest of your analysis re: 660 vs HHKB etc is spot on, as usual.

[VesperSAINT]

This is an interesting statement. Didn't know that. My 660C definitely felt a lot stiffer when I first got it brand new, but it's definitely broken in and gotten slightly slighter. Luckily though, it's still responsive and poppy as ever though. Are there different manufacturers/factories that make the Topre rubber cups?

I couldn't tell you. That statement is based on my own, subjective experience, and I have seen at least one other member make the same observation. I make no guarantees about what you'll get, but there's a pronounced difference in the older vs. newer units I've used (n=3).

The rest of your analysis re: 660 vs HHKB etc is spot on, as usual.

Oo, I see! I'd definitely take your word on it because I know you have quite the experience with 660C I should find the manufacture date of mine so I can add to your bank It'd also let me know how mine feels compared to that of yours. If mine happens to be an earlier date and I like the feel of this, I might like the feel of the newer ones even more!

[intelli78]

Alright, I just did some science.





1 nickel = 5g

Blank Leo = purchased new by me from EK in Feb 2014, serial #944

Key 1: held 11 nickels, 12th collapsed the dome
Key 2: held 11 nickels, 12th collapsed the dome
Key 3: held 10 nickels, 11th collapsed the dome
Key 4: held 10 nickels, 11th collapsed the dome
Key 5: held 10 nickels, 11th collapsed the dome

Average force required to collapse domes: 57g

Printed Leo = I purchased used, but it was part of first production run, serial #419

Key 1: held 9 nickels, 10th collapsed the dome
Key 2: held 9 nickels, 10th collapsed the dome
Key 3: held 10 nickels, 11th collapsed the dome
Key 4: held 10 nickels, 11th collapsed the dome
Key 5: held 9 nickels, 10th collapsed the dome

Average force required to collapse domes: 52g

I did multiple trials on each key, until I was satisfied that the results were consistent.

So, it seems there is, on average, a 5g difference between the two models. Of course this is not statistically significant, but these two Leos are absolutely different.

Sadly, I don't have my 55g RF handy to use as a control.

If you want to post your serial number and test results, it would be interesting to see.

[intelli78]

Also, those are low as **** serial numbers, are there really that few 660s in existence?!?!?!?

[VesperSAINT]

That is some awesome stuff!!!

Only concern is that your printed has seen more use and had more break-in time than the blank, but this shows that there definitely is either break-in or differences in weight among models! Excellent work, good sir. Just awesome!

I shall try to gather some nickels and do a test on mine!

[intelli78]

True, but according to the guy I bought the printed one from, it only saw occasional use over a 2-3 month period. I used my blank a lot since I bought it, and it didn't change. So I'm still inclined to think there's a production difference.

Need MOAR data

[epzy]

For KEYBOARD SCIENCE?


xD

[intelli78]

For KEYBOARD SCIENCE?


xD

god damn right. here is the first ever legit keyboard science experiment. http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=57706.0

[Frenir]

I'm now using my new HHKB pro 2 and I'm really enjoying it.

What do you like better? I also recently switch from the Filco MJT2 TKL with Browns to the HHKB pro 2 (if I read your signature correctly). What do you think of the tactility on your HHKB? I am already planning on buying the Type S...

I'm really loving the thunk, but I still plant to use my Filco frequently since they're both great but completely different typing experiences.

[Pacifist]

Back to the KC84 with blacks. CM quality is **** compared to something decent. PBT>the subpar ABS CM uses, Blacks>reds, list goes on and on

[epzy]

Using my Ducky G2Pro with stock MX Clears. Bought this board, loved it for a day, started to dislike it the next day. Left it in its box for a month or so, but damn it feels amazing to be back on Clears... So easy not to bottom out, it's insane. Raw tactility, love it. I can't imagine how freaking good ergo-clears is going to feel (62/65g).