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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: vardhana on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:25:24

Title: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: vardhana on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:25:24
FILCO anounces NEW keyboard; Majestouch MINILA
https://www.diatec.co.jp/products/list_mkr.php?mkr_c=45

US67keys and JP68Keys are available with Cherry MX Brown, Black, Blue, Red

This is US67keys layout
(http://www.diatec.co.jp/image_prod/MINILAUSBUSS.jpg)

It has DIP switches;
1 Disable Windows and App key
2 Swap Caps Lock for Ctrl
3 Change left Fn to Space
4 Change right Fn to Space
5 Swap ESC for [`~]
6 Swap BacfkSpace for [|\]
(http://www.diatec.co.jp/image_prod/MINILAUSBUSDIP.png)

It has also detathable USB cable and 1 USB port.
(http://www.diatec.co.jp/image_prod/MINILAUSB.jpg)


Price is 11800yen.
How do you think? Do you want to buy?

[Added]
English pages
http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/det.php?prod_c=1320 US Brown swtich
http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/det.php?prod_c=1321 US Black swtich
http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/det.php?prod_c=1322 US Blue switch
http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/det.php?prod_c=1323 US Red switch
http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/MINILAUK/ UK layout
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: jooks1184 on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:27:08
Oh wow, i really want that. :eek:
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: missalaire on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:28:31
(https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/c0.0.843.403/p843x403/531960_504573496261873_59508243_n.jpg)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: The_Beast on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:29:25
Not really loving the layout
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:29:43
Hell No...

I would not buy that... seriously, wtf, weird freaking bezel... waste of space... Dip switches useless gimmick...

POKER FTW.... in this case.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:30:35
I WOULD HOWEVER, like to get my hands on those "rounded" Fn keys on the bottom...

Can anyone see if they can get a group buy of "JUST THOSE"
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:31:09
Why the left control 1.75, and the space is sooooooooooooooooooo tiny. That would be unusable for me, I press space always right under the C V keys... unless I could remap that left FN to space lol.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:31:48
Why the left control 1.75, and the space is sooooooooooooooooooo tiny. That would be unusable for me, I press space always right under the C V keys... unless I could remap that left FN to space lol.

Impossible
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:35:33
Yes I know of course, it was a joke... that perhaps was not funny. But the 1.25 key is not much smaller than the spacebar anyway :) Also, I wonder why they bothered to have 2nd layer cursor key and on ESDF seems pointless. One thing they did get right was the 2nd layer nav cluster though. Much better than Poker and Pure.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:41:05
DIP switch setting:
1. Win + App key disabled
2. Ctrl / Cap swap
3. L FN = Space
4. R FN = Space
5. ESC and Graves key swap layer
6. Backslash and backspace swap

Also, I wonder why they bothered to have 2nd layer cursor key and on ESDF seems pointless. One thing they did get right was the 2nd layer nav cluster though. Much better than Poker and Pure.

Actually. I like arrows in the typing cluster in the function layer. It means that I could cursor around without going outside of homerow. I prefer to use actual arrow keys when I am just browsing around though.





Edit: So ya, now that I have time to absorb it. I don't like the edit cluster. I wish it was 1 key over to the left. Lysol doesn't like Pure's but they're the one that makes the most sense to me. I still think 5x16 is probably the way to go. Shoehorning this many key makes a clusterpluck of a layout. 16.5 of Leopold isn't that great either. I'll probably buy one regardless though.

The exterior looks like they hired the same designer as the WASD V2 guy.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ComradeSniper on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:43:23
I don't like the layout at all, I'll be steering clear of this one.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sth on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:44:09
too little too late, no pun intended.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:44:33
LOL how long until we get 1x spacebars?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sleepy916 on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:44:57
Do not want.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:48:44
Do not want.

Absolutely want.  It's a Filco of course.  :p
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: metalliqaz on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:49:41
Wow, same time as the Leopold.   Still don't like 60% layouts, but this is interesting.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: calavera on Wed, 06 February 2013, 19:54:45
Space bar is too short, and left ctrl is too big for no reason. I'm gonna wait for the leopold one to release. :(
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:00:51
I'm only waiting for my GH60... I can achieve my own perfection.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:04:30
I'm only waiting for my GH60... I can achieve my own perfection.

I really dig those rounded 1.5x keys... My perfect keyboard would have a full set of those.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: vardhana on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:22:42
FILCO says
Quote
This is a new keyboard layout suggestion. So,  there are arguments both for and against the measure.
in their Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/FILCO.KB.kobo
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nehkz on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:24:07
I don't really like the "jagged" edge up the top there. But other than that, it looks good.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:26:22
I don't really like the "jagged" edge up the top there. But other than that, it looks good.

This...

I don't care about he layout, because that is easily change-able... but the extra bezel is aesthetically awful..

The Western version of the board will probably have the "long" space bar, so people could probably stop worrying about that.


BUT why go through all that crap,, when you can get a Poker 2,, which will likely be the END all board for modders..
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Halverson on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:31:35
I just want to say, that is my perfect spacebar :D
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:40:16
Spacebar wouldn't work for me either.  I'd be on the gap between it and the right Fn for typing, and then I'd need the left Fn for space to game.

I too would love to get my hands on the roundy Fn caps.
Title: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Halverson on Wed, 06 February 2013, 20:52:38
B and N are my spacebar sweet spots, JIS realforce made me love tiny spacebars.
Not a fan of the ISO enter though, or JIS I suppose.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: guilleguillaume on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:06:21
I warn you that the Left Shift has a different size compared to a standard LShift so replacement keycaps would be a headache.

The JIS layout one is a copy of the HHKB PRO JP with different key sizes in the last row:

(http://i.imgur.com/QltK1.jpg)

The spacebar is the best one they could fit in the keyboard.  It is just perfect for me.


Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:37:59
^ My right shift is (looks) bigger than your spacebar :p
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:46:37
^ My right shift is (looks) bigger than your spacebar :p

I think it's cuz in Japanese, SHIFT isn't a problem because they don't have capitals...

They also DON"T need space bar nearly as much.. because there doesn't need to be spacing between words like ours.

they only need space between punctuation, and new clause.

well, I know they have capital characters, but those are rare, and i've only seen them for numbers.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tauburn on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:47:25
i'm not sure how i feel about it. It's different, but i'm sure i'd get used to it. I wouldn't buy one without trying it first though. I'd rather have more switch variety in the  majestouchs than a new keyboard model. i'd love for a filco with clears.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: SmallFry on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:49:02
Less 60%, more rebooting of the Zero line!
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 06 February 2013, 21:53:26
^ My right shift is (looks) bigger than your spacebar :p

I think it's cuz in Japanese, SHIFT isn't a problem because they don't have capitals...

They also DON"T need space bar nearly as much.. because there doesn't need to be spacing between words like ours.

they only need space between punctuation, and new clause.

well, I know they have capital characters, but those are rare, and i've only seen them for numbers.

That is interesting insight.  Thank you for that.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: cobraj on Wed, 06 February 2013, 22:19:46
Not too shab.
Got a few things I don't like about it.
Anyone know if this comes with a plate pre-installed?

EDIT: just realised it does when i went to the link in the OP.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: vardhana on Wed, 06 February 2013, 22:24:42
^ My right shift is (looks) bigger than your spacebar :p

I think it's cuz in Japanese, SHIFT isn't a problem because they don't have capitals...

They also DON"T need space bar nearly as much.. because there doesn't need to be spacing between words like ours.

they only need space between punctuation, and new clause.

well, I know they have capital characters, but those are rare, and i've only seen them for numbers.

Many(?) Japanese uses space bar for Kana-Kanji translation.
JIS keyobard has 3 special keys related Japnese input near the space bar, but some Japanese hate these.
Other keys function same with Input Method default settings.
People who hate these special keys(or like long space bar) buy US layout keyboard in Japan.

People used "Kana input" method need Shift key to input small letter.
However, almost Japanese use "Roman letter input" method. So, I think Shift key are not very important for Japanese keyboards.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: eyesmiles on Wed, 06 February 2013, 23:18:20
I prefer the layout in the FKB91JPM (http://www.diatec.co.jp/products/det.php?prod_c=5) as opposed to the MINILA. Gotta love that metal plate/wrist rest
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 06 February 2013, 23:25:42
I prefer the layout in the FKB91JPM (http://www.diatec.co.jp/products/det.php?prod_c=5) as opposed to the MINILA. Gotta love that metal plate/wrist rest

what a ripoff... they give you an aluminum top plate and that's it..
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: quake4mhg on Thu, 07 February 2013, 00:57:03
Luckily I feel what most of you guys feel about this minila. I'm a level 1 keyboard geek now  :p
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 07 February 2013, 00:59:03
Was exciting, and then meh. Saw the layout.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Thu, 07 February 2013, 01:09:21
Too many 60% keyboards in the market. We need to see some 65% keyboards (around 70 keys) ... something in-between a Poker and a RACE. Leopold FC660M could be it, but it's missing at least 2 keys :-(
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: cobraj on Thu, 07 February 2013, 02:43:38
Was exciting, and then meh. Saw the layout.

Lol. I don't know why these companies don't ask users on GH and DT about the layout and suggestions for improvement before they go ahead and make it.
Could avoid some pretty dumb designs.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: daerid on Thu, 07 February 2013, 04:02:21
Not gonna lie, actually pretty excited about this. I always hit space right below the B and N keys, always with my right thumb. This layout will allow me to reclaim some of that wasted space. It's got dedicated arrow keys, which means I can use it in Visual Studio without it being all awkward like the HHKB.

And, of course.. it's a Filco.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: vun on Thu, 07 February 2013, 05:17:28
Bleeeh, if it had a proper right shift that'd be nice.
Still, might get one in ISO if the ISO Pure and Ducky 60% board either fail to show up or have even worse layouts when they do come out.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 07 February 2013, 05:43:57
Too many 60% keyboards in the market.

Don't you just love it though, it means there's more competition for this non-standard layout.  Instead of being bled by Poker maker's and HHKB we now have a potential BIG player wading in.  Good luck to them.  I for one will buy it just to support their venture into the 60% realm. 

Trust me it'll sit in it's original box down in the basement for many years to come.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: R E D H O T on Thu, 07 February 2013, 07:02:13
Saw title and smiled thinking it would be a cherry MX version of Filco FKB-86E, or Ortek MCK-84. Then shakes head after seeing a layout for another 60% keyboard.

Personally, I love small space bars. Relaxed, my thumb is most of the time between V and B key and sometimes in middle of B when gaming.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: cobraj on Thu, 07 February 2013, 07:16:00
I hate the look of a small spacebar, rather than the functionality.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 07 February 2013, 08:11:42
Less 60%, more rebooting of the Zero line!

Now that would be a nice change in the market! Bring back ALPS!

Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: JPG on Thu, 07 February 2013, 08:18:32
I went to diatec website and found they had a "gaming brand" for accessories. Anyone know of these? CyberSnipa it's called.

https://www.diatec.co.jp/products/CS/
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Vintage on Thu, 07 February 2013, 10:39:51
That spacebar..... :eek:

Kinda unnecessary too because it has 2 "Fn" keys.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: file_id on Thu, 07 February 2013, 10:55:40
^ My right shift is (looks) bigger than your spacebar :p

I think it's cuz in Japanese, SHIFT isn't a problem because they don't have capitals...

They also DON"T need space bar nearly as much.. because there doesn't need to be spacing between words like ours.

they only need space between punctuation, and new clause.

well, I know they have capital characters, but those are rare, and i've only seen them for numbers.

Thanks. You learn something new every day.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Thu, 07 February 2013, 16:27:56
I don't like where the delete key is. Oh well. I don't make many mistakes anyways.  :D
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 07 February 2013, 16:36:53
I went to diatec website and found they had a "gaming brand" for accessories. Anyone know of these? CyberSnipa it's called.

https://www.diatec.co.jp/products/CS/

Google Cyber Snipa and you'll have your answer. Diatec is an importer/reseller. They sell several brands of keyboards. http://www.diatec.co.jp/shop/list.php?cate_c=1&subcate_sq=3
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Binge on Thu, 07 February 2013, 16:38:58
I prefer the layout in the FKB91JPM (http://www.diatec.co.jp/products/det.php?prod_c=5) as opposed to the MINILA. Gotta love that metal plate/wrist rest

Where is can has do I receive plz and thank you?  :p :p :p :p :p :p
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 07 February 2013, 16:54:50
I instantly think Filipino Filco  :D


(http://wikitravel.org/upload/shared//thumb/1/16/Ph_map_manila_large.png/300px-Ph_map_manila_large.png)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: hasu on Thu, 07 February 2013, 17:42:02
It reminds me this for Japanese, no doubt. Filco's naming skill!
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100420044257/godzilla/images/b/bf/Minilla04_.jpg)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: precarious on Thu, 07 February 2013, 17:49:10
space bar location is ridiculous, too far to the right for the left thumb to comfortably reach it ;0

left thumb for life.  the dip switch option is nice, i guess, but i'd prefer a less fragmented version.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: hasu on Thu, 07 February 2013, 18:02:13
Too many 60% keyboards in the market. We need to see some 65% keyboards (around 70 keys) ... something in-between a Poker and a RACE. Leopold FC660M could be it, but it's missing at least 2 keys :-(

Love 60%. I need more! 65% is out of taste for me. haha.

Cursor keys in 60%?, ah no thank you!
Cursor cluster on Poker is good compromise but ESDF, WASD, IJKL or HJKL is enough, anyhoo.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: simingma on Thu, 07 February 2013, 20:56:45
Will be interested if there is a Mac version.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Hyde on Thu, 07 February 2013, 22:33:54
Will be interested if there is a Mac version.

lol get the Matias one  :P
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sth on Thu, 07 February 2013, 22:35:18
Will be interested if there is a Mac version.
it will work with OS X fine im sure just like every other filco that i know of. if you want the mods in the 'correct' place it is trivial to do so via System Preferences > Keyboards > Modifier keys
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: FoxWolf1 on Thu, 07 February 2013, 22:40:35
Not keen on the layout for this one.

Also not keen on the lack of a TrackPoint.

Size is probably a preference thing; personally, I'd consider this size category to be unnecessarily small for my purposes.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: simingma on Fri, 08 February 2013, 00:02:28
I like a better engineered Filco with Mac function keys, Win/Mac modifier key cap sets 

Will be interested if there is a Mac version.
it will work with OS X fine im sure just like every other filco that i know of. if you want the mods in the 'correct' place it is trivial to do so via System Preferences > Keyboards > Modifier keys
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sth on Fri, 08 February 2013, 00:03:19
I like a better engineered Filco with Mac function keys, Win/Mac modifier key cap sets 

Will be interested if there is a Mac version.
it will work with OS X fine im sure just like every other filco that i know of. if you want the mods in the 'correct' place it is trivial to do so via System Preferences > Keyboards > Modifier keys
you can get mac mods elsewhere, but this board has weird mods so maybe not.  just touch type and get blanks :D
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 08 February 2013, 02:10:51
I mean if it's cheap I might just get it for whatever (cuz its Filco amirite) but I'd rather grab a different mini board available.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: developej on Fri, 08 February 2013, 03:44:37
they make mini keyboard and then they add 2cm top bezel :D
i also don't like the layout :c pure still has the best layout for me...also, why noone still makes mini keyboard with trackpoint :c
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 08 February 2013, 08:25:24
I mean if it's cheap I might just get it for whatever (cuz its Filco amirite) but I'd rather grab a different mini board available.

MSRP is almost 130 USD. Um ya........
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Fri, 08 February 2013, 08:41:28
What's MSRP?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Mainian on Fri, 08 February 2013, 09:26:02
I'll be buying one with red or black switches when I can.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Fri, 08 February 2013, 10:29:16
What's MSRP?

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=MSRP&l=1
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: shawn o on Fri, 08 February 2013, 10:57:20
ISO version:

http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/MINILAUK/
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 08 February 2013, 11:01:31
ISO version:

http://www.diatec.co.jp/en/MINILAUK/

Wonder if there will be a version "without" that top bezel part.. I think it's only there because they need the space for the USB hub.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: jooks1184 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:18:59
So got a tweet back from keyboard co. They said that the minila should be available on their amazon store in the next month or 2.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 08 February 2013, 21:56:32
So got a tweet back from keyboard co. They said that the minila should be available on their amazon store in the next month or 2.

Pretty sure only noobs would buy one of these.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: jooks1184 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 22:58:15
lol
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: cobraj on Fri, 08 February 2013, 23:48:08
they make mini keyboard and then they add 2cm top bezel :D
i also don't like the layout :c pure still has the best layout for me...also, why noone still makes mini keyboard with trackpoint :c

I too am not a fan of the bezel. But it had a plate already installed and it's a filco. Sacrifices :(
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Magna224 on Sat, 09 February 2013, 01:13:30
Less 60%, more rebooting of the Zero line!

Yuup.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Saturn on Sat, 09 February 2013, 01:16:41
a new filco, COOOOL... but i don't care for the layout at all unfortunately.  1x right shift, nonstandard left shift, too many things on the bottom row, tiny tiny space bar, arrow keys both as separate keys and on the function layer... two fn keys on either side of the space bar.

yeah, this is one of my least favorite of all the compact keyboard layouts i've seen
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: HWI on Sat, 09 February 2013, 21:45:02
Looks like the Z row is shifted to the left some. That combined with the midget spacebar make it a no go for me.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Sun, 10 February 2013, 08:53:19
I wonder if Filco is monitoring the feedback about the look and may change the layout before they release it. They still have several weeks. I won't buy it with that layout but if they make some nice changes i would. i hate where that delete button is, as well as the midget space bar.  :mad:
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 10 February 2013, 13:04:50
If there are only several weeks to go, I don't imagine they would have sufficient time to make any changes in the layout.  At least not based on opinions in one online forum.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 10 February 2013, 13:39:07
The tilde key placement is interesting. I may use that for the M-60 and place a normal Escape key at the top-left position.

Shift_R sucks, however. And that space bar.

- Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Sun, 10 February 2013, 14:15:42
It sucks because i love Filco and i would have bought a red, blue and brown model from them but not with that layout. I may settle for the Leopold.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 11 February 2013, 07:38:56
It sucks because i love Filco and i would have bought a red, blue and brown model from them but not with that layout. I may settle for the Leopold.
I think the only thing this has in common with the Majestouch series is the badge.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: cobraj on Mon, 11 February 2013, 13:32:33
It sucks because i love Filco and i would have bought a red, blue and brown model from them but not with that layout. I may settle for the Leopold.
I think the only thing this has in common with the Majestouch series is the badge.

Haha. And the backplate :P
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: purplebanana on Tue, 12 February 2013, 23:45:46
It looks awesome, I love the double fn keys and their placement.
I'm not sure how fond I am about the smaller right shift key, but I'd probably get used to it. Also I don't understand why the left control is bigger than usual. I love how the space bar is short on the right hand side but I would probably appreciate a longer left hand side (aka use a normal sized left control key)(<--Although perhaps the space bar being shown is a more regular size?). I am also unsure if I like the second layer, being able to customize this would be awesome, perhaps replace the apps button with the a pn button (I honestly have no idea what the apps or menu button does, as I regularly use a laptop keyboard). I'm also not a huge fan of the size of the bezel, I wish it was smaller like the pure/poker. But so far I think this may be the nicest 60% I've seen.
That being said I would love to see a (65%) keyboard like the Leopold FC660M with no spacing in between the backspace and the insert key and the extra home/end/pgDn/pgUp keys. On this keyboard I'd also like to see a similar bottom row to the filco minila and a programmable second layer.
But that's just me.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 12 February 2013, 23:59:46
It looks awesome, I love the double fn keys and their placement.
I'm not sure how fond I am about the smaller right shift key, but I'd probably get used to it. Also I don't understand why the left control is bigger than usual. I love how the space bar is short on the right hand side but I would probably appreciate a longer left hand side (aka use a normal sized left control key)(<--Although perhaps the space bar being shown is a more regular size?). I am also unsure if I like the second layer, being able to customize this would be awesome, perhaps replace the apps button with the a pn button (I honestly have no idea what the apps or menu button does, as I regularly use a laptop keyboard). I'm also not a huge fan of the size of the bezel, I wish it was smaller like the pure/poker. But so far I think this may be the nicest 60% I've seen.
That being said I would love to see a (65%) keyboard like the Leopold FC660M with no spacing in between the backspace and the insert key and the extra home/end/pgDn/pgUp keys. On this keyboard I'd also like to see a similar bottom row to the filco minila and a programmable second layer.
But that's just me.

Welcome to Geekhack!
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: quake4mhg on Wed, 13 February 2013, 02:50:00
Is there a spacebar can fit onto the 3 switches, then we can have "one regular spacebar" without the gaps? 
Or ... fits 2 switches on either side?

(http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j283/digitalillustration/filco-minila-spacebar-question-01_zps92841702.jpg)

After photoshopped, looks like it's impossible :rolleyes:
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 13 February 2013, 04:42:46
Let's say you do this.. You'd be dropping 135g force, almost super black...
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: inteli722 on Wed, 13 February 2013, 06:35:18
Let's say you do this.. You'd be dropping 135g force, almost super black...

Well...at least that would prevent accidental spacebar! :))
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: phetto on Wed, 13 February 2013, 07:15:41
If only someone could run a GB for those spacebars in beige/white I'd be really happy.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: leisilin on Wed, 13 February 2013, 14:06:15
Finally Filco give us something new.
I used to have a poker for my laptop, but I gave it up after several weeks.
I found I'd prefer to at least have normal layout, as sometimes you will use the "F" keys, and "DELETE" "PAGE UP/DOWN".
Moreover, a 80% keyboard is tiny enough.
For my advice, you can try it, but only after you already have other "normal layout" keyboards.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Wed, 13 February 2013, 14:20:45
Uhm. WANT.

My only gripe is the small spacebar, but this is as close to what I've wanted as it's probably going to get.
Definitely in for one.
Hopefully they use a removable controller as well..

Though, they heck were they thinking when they used that large CTRL key.
Thats completely useless =(
EDIT: it looks like they wanted to make it as similar as possible to the JPY version for simplicity of manufacture sake.
though.. why they need those two FN keys in the JPY version is beyond me.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: SmallFry on Wed, 13 February 2013, 14:21:33
What appeals to you about this board? Just curious.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Wed, 13 February 2013, 14:26:28
What appeals to you about this board? Just curious.

The biggest part is: Supports full unix mode.
ESC above tab
ctrl instead of caps lock
backspace right above enter

If we can replace the controller in it, we can come very close to HHKB layout.

EDIT: mistyped backspace.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 13 February 2013, 17:27:53
The biggest part is: Supports full unix mode.
ESC above tab
ctrl instead of caps lock
backspace right above \
You just described Poker and Pure.
(Fn Q on the Poker to swap ESC and grave key).
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Wed, 13 February 2013, 17:54:27
The biggest part is: Supports full unix mode.
ESC above tab
ctrl instead of caps lock
backspace right above \
You just described Poker and Pure.
(Fn Q on the Poker to swap ESC and grave key).

Thats because I mistyped the backspace key.
That and the Fn keys on the pure keep me away... the fact that Fn+ shift does ANYTHING is terrible.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Arktik on Thu, 14 February 2013, 04:27:25
Too many 60% keyboards in the market. We need to see some 65% keyboards (around 70 keys) ... something in-between a Poker and a RACE. Leopold FC660M could be it, but it's missing at least 2 keys :-(

Maybe the Keycool 84 LED (back lit) http://kc-keycool.com/product.php?mod=detail&id=20
It is not really in between the Race and Poker actually more like the Race but I think it has a better layout.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: phetto on Thu, 14 February 2013, 05:34:03
I watch pics of this keyboard several times a day and looking forward to it. I really hope I can snatch one of those JIS ones.
Make a new spacebar over at shapeways or something similar in beige, and go cherry hunting for different keycaps that I know exist in beige.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Thu, 14 February 2013, 23:00:20
I watch pics of this keyboard several times a day and looking forward to it. I really hope I can snatch one of those JIS ones.
Make a new spacebar over at shapeways or something similar in beige, and go cherry hunting for different keycaps that I know exist in beige.

Looks like I am doing the same.
Looking forward to hearing information about the release date, etc.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Plater on Thu, 14 February 2013, 23:16:15
I'm not too sure about the placement of the Up arrow keys on the left side of the right shift key. I think they might as well just have neglected the Right Shift gear all together.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Thu, 14 February 2013, 23:35:33
I'm not too sure about the placement of the Up arrow keys on the left side of the right shift key. I think they might as well just have neglected the Right Shift gear all together.

I would not disagree with that. But some people use right shift and I can understand filco's reasoning.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: KangarooZombies on Thu, 14 February 2013, 23:57:10
I love 60%.
Ill probably get one out of curiousity. But that spacebar does bother me..
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: HybridCore on Mon, 18 February 2013, 16:16:01
Eh, I don't really like the layout of these %## boards. They're nice and compact though. May get one to bring around with me since I cringe when using rubber domes...
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: kboardvintage on Tue, 19 February 2013, 02:29:24
what a weird spacebar
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: guilleguillaume on Fri, 22 February 2013, 08:36:38
The Keyboard Company: Filco MiniLa First Impressions

(http://www.keyboardco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/TCblj4Nh.jpg) (http://www.keyboardco.com/blog/index.php/2013/02/filco-minila-first-impressions/)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Fri, 22 February 2013, 08:49:28
imgur gallery linked to from the article.
http://imgur.com/a/3stbz
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 22 February 2013, 08:58:53
That review was worthless.. I know what it looks like already, take it apart fgs... :D
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: terry8471 on Sat, 02 March 2013, 04:32:18
For one thing, finally someone out there has designed a layout that the Fn is easy to reach. All the 60% keyboards so far put the Fn in some strange places that is damn difficult to reach or force my fingers into some weird gesture. I think FILCO has done a fantastic job in designing the Minila. The US layout is perfect in my opinion, but I do agree that the ISO and JP layouts are rather messed up... Only if Minila was fully reprogrammable, I would definitely buy this, over the Pure Pro, Poker II, etc.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Grim Fandango on Sat, 02 March 2013, 05:00:47
Looks good, but I am afraid the layout would really take some getting used to. Generally , that is something I am unwilling to do. I tend to get peripherals that work for me without having to do anything for it.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: mechanisch on Sat, 02 March 2013, 11:48:00
Sooo close... but that Right SHIFT (which I use), don't know if I could ever adjust to that.  And what's the purpose of the Left CTRL being so large?  I don't understand some of the design choices I guess. 
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: orlando on Sat, 02 March 2013, 12:06:50
But that spacebar! Still can't get over it. I naturally hit between the Fn & spacebar, I know you can convert fn to spacebar but eitherway my thumb would be hitting a gap. Not sure about this layout for me, perhaps if there was a spacebar keycap that would connect fn-spacebar.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: chel- on Sat, 02 March 2013, 12:35:55
Not too impressed. I don't think I could get used to the shift keys or space bar. I'd choose a Poker over this any day.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sat, 02 March 2013, 12:40:26
The spacebar looks okay considering you can switch the FN keys to the spacebar, but I don't think I could get used to that 1x shift. Who thought a left shift that small was a good idea?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Sinzz on Sat, 02 March 2013, 12:46:55
The spacebar looks okay considering you can switch the FN keys to the spacebar, but I don't think I could get used to that 1x shift. Who thought a left shift that small was a good idea?

ISO keyboards usually have that size shift iirc
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Sat, 02 March 2013, 13:06:34
Yeah i am not going to buy it. I would if the space bar was better but i think i will wait for the Poker to come out. Sucks because i really love Filco.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: pochiko on Sat, 02 March 2013, 15:55:24
No media key, again?  :(
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Sat, 02 March 2013, 16:01:22
The spacebar looks okay considering you can switch the FN keys to the spacebar, but I don't think I could get used to that 1x shift. Who thought a left shift that small was a good idea?

You get an almost full sized shift in the ANSI version.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: shibbyllama889 on Sun, 03 March 2013, 11:41:47
I use a Pure as a work keyboard at the office, and I can see Filco put a lot of thought into this layout. It seems really bizarre at first glance, but it's actually very logical and makes a lot of sense. Here are some of my favorite features.

Pros:

1) The dip switches are excellent. I use the "HHKB" layout, so I would switch backspace with pipe and switch capslock with L-Ctrl. It's always nice having dip switches for that functionality, and the fact it comes with replacement keycaps is great. Being able to switch the Fn keys to spacebar is a nice touch, but I don't seem myself using them. I can see how a small backspace can be annoying to people, but you all should really swap backspace and pipe!

2) The Fn key placement looks perfect. If anyone has used a Poker or a Pure, you know that you really have to curl your thumb to reach Fn or you have to move you hand. You definitely have to move your hand for the HHKB Fn button. But the MiniLa looks like it's placed in a way where you never have to move your hands off the home row.

3) The Fn layer looks better than anything I've seen, definitely an improvement over the Pure. Arrow keys under your left hand without moving them from the home layer! That's huge for quick edits where you don't want to move your hands to the dedicated arrow keys. But, if you are doing heavier text editing where you are using a combination of Shift, Ctrl, Arrow Keys, and Home/End, then the dedicated arrow keys will make that much easier than on any usual 60% keyboard.

Insert, Delete, Home, End, PgUp, and PgDn all look pretty easy to access without moving from the home layer as well.


Cons:

1) Odd key sizing.Makes for finding aftermarket keycaps difficult to impossible. R-Shift is definitely a worry, and the spacebar might take some getting used to. You'll probably also have to turn L-Fn into a spacebar in order to use it for gaming. But I see this keyboard as geared towards typing and working in an office environment. I don't think a small spacebar is actually a bad thing, there is a lot of wasted space there in standard layouts. It will just be something to get used to. L-Ctrl is also a bit awkward. It could be manufacturing ease that people have talked about, but it's either have it the way it is or make another key larger (App or Spacebar I suppose.

This keyboard is definitely meant for someone who touch types properly. If you have "proper" technique then you should be hitting that small spacebar fine.

2) I really like using stock keycaps for work keyboards to keep them looking "normal" as well as preserving Fn layer legends. But I don't hear anything good about Filco's keycaps. If their UV coating is as ****ty on the MiniLa as other Filcos, then that's a worry.


In the end, I can see this as a robust 60% workhorse keyboard if you take a little time to get used to the changed layout. But in order to improve the standard keyboard layout, you have to deviate from the standard. This is especially true for 60% boards where real estate is limited. If I didn't want to try topre switches so badly and Filco's keycaps didn't suck so hard, I would seriously consider this keyboard. Might consider it regardless...
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Mon, 04 March 2013, 10:37:43
I just noticed the board has no setting for a Control key on the right side. There should be a dip switch to change the App key to a Control.
How do they expect people to hit Ctrl-A or Ctrl-C, single handedly ?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: shibbyllama889 on Mon, 04 March 2013, 19:34:09
I just noticed the board has no setting for a Control key on the right side. There should be a dip switch to change the App key to a Control.
How do they expect people to hit Ctrl-A or Ctrl-C, single handedly ?

You hit R-Ctrl + A and C? I can't remember the last time I used R-Ctrl. I think most people do in fact hit Ctrl+A and Ctrl+C with one hand.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: alaricljs on Mon, 04 March 2013, 20:29:45
sordna is one of them there proper typists where chording is considered poor behavior.  He is pointing out that you are required to do it single handedly
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Mon, 04 March 2013, 21:09:57
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ? By the way, apart from being easier on the hand, using 2 hands is way faster too than doing single-hand combos which take completely off the typing position.
I'm in bash all day and use Ctrl-A to go to the beginning of the line and Ctrl-E to go to the end, and the right control is by far the fastest and most comfortable way. Try it sometime :-)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: hasu on Mon, 04 March 2013, 22:49:47
That convex Fn key! I've never seen that 1.5u key. I want them.
I always press Alt with my thumbs, they might be good for my thumbs :D
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: shibbyllama889 on Tue, 05 March 2013, 06:02:04
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ? By the way, apart from being easier on the hand, using 2 hands is way faster too than doing single-hand combos which take completely off the typing position.
I'm in bash all day and use Ctrl-A to go to the beginning of the line and Ctrl-E to go to the end, and the right control is by far the fastest and most comfortable way. Try it sometime :-)

Just miming the actions of using R-Ctrl for anything takes me from the typing position much more and feels like a big stretch. It's probably not "technically" proper technique, but using one hand for common shortcuts has always felt easier. I swap L-Ctrl and Caps Lock and that's proved to be the easiest for shortcuts like that. If you're using Ctrl a lot, you should try setting Caps Lock to L-Ctrl.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 05 March 2013, 06:56:45
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ? By the way, apart from being easier on the hand, using 2 hands is way faster too than doing single-hand combos which take completely off the typing position.
I'm in bash all day and use Ctrl-A to go to the beginning of the line and Ctrl-E to go to the end, and the right control is by far the fastest and most comfortable way. Try it sometime :-)
I prefer to hit control with my palm/base of the pinky. Less hand movement for me that way.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 05 March 2013, 07:32:09
That's crazy talk right there!
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: nullstring on Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:21:05
How often do you really hit control though.. If you're hitting Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, you're probably already disrupted by the mouse or hitting shift+home keys or something, all which are going to require you to move your hands anyway.

besides, right control is so far away, I think that doing it single handedly for ctrl+C, ctrl+V has to be about the same.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: jimmystar on Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:38:42
that space is large enought

i have tried that
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 05 March 2013, 16:21:59
How often do you really hit control though.. If you're hitting Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, you're probably already disrupted by the mouse or hitting shift+home keys or something, all which are going to require you to move your hands anyway.
That's why I made my function layer to have all those keys on or 1 key away from homerow.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: daerid on Tue, 05 March 2013, 16:47:03
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ? By the way, apart from being easier on the hand, using 2 hands is way faster too than doing single-hand combos which take completely off the typing position.
I'm in bash all day and use Ctrl-A to go to the beginning of the line and Ctrl-E to go to the end, and the right control is by far the fastest and most comfortable way. Try it sometime :-)

I just did, and I think my right hand wanted to strangle me for abusing it so. Hitting right control from the home row is the most uncomfortable stretch on a keyboard I've done in a while.

It's far easier just to remap CapsLock to LControl, and then use your left pinky to hit it. Much more ergonomic, way less strain on your hands.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Binge on Tue, 05 March 2013, 16:59:53
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ? By the way, apart from being easier on the hand, using 2 hands is way faster too than doing single-hand combos which take completely off the typing position.
I'm in bash all day and use Ctrl-A to go to the beginning of the line and Ctrl-E to go to the end, and the right control is by far the fastest and most comfortable way. Try it sometime :-)

I just did, and I think my right hand wanted to strangle me for abusing it so. Hitting right control from the home row is the most uncomfortable stretch on a keyboard I've done in a while.

It's far easier just to remap CapsLock to LControl, and then use your left pinky to hit it. Much more ergonomic, way less strain on your hands.

Well yeah it is more ergonomic but seriously... how is that a strain??? play guitar and get your 9" pinky-pointer stretch going.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Tue, 05 March 2013, 18:33:43
Folks, you are not supposed to hit the right control by stretching your hand open, but by moving your entire arm. This way both your hands remain very relaxed at all times.
But contorting your left hand to hit Control and A single-handedly, not only moves one of you hands away from typing position anyway, but puts a lot of strain on it.
Ctrl-Q and Ctrl-W are even worse than Ctrl-A. Apart from straining your hand, it takes more time to bend your hand rather than move your other hand.

Anyway, our bodies are symmetric and there's a reason we have 2 shifts, 2 alts and 2 controls.
BTW, while my usage of the 2 shifts is pretty even, I use the right control far more frequently than the left. I guess I will have to map the App/Menu key to be a right Control, no big deal. On my Poker I sacrifice the same key anyway (for the tilde).
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 05 March 2013, 19:59:50
I use the left control almost exclusively, like 99.99%.  I like to make Ctrl-[AZXCFS] with one hand.  I can "touch type" but there are a few motions that I usually don't perform correctly.  For example, there are several capital letters that I tend to make with one hand and I tend to make '?' with my right index and pointer finger.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: davkol on Tue, 05 March 2013, 22:58:14
Yup, if you touch type, you naturally use your left pinky for A. So how are you supposed to hit the left control ?
Use Your Palm or Semi-Fist (http://ergoemacs.org/emacs/emacs_pinky.html)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: orlando on Wed, 06 March 2013, 19:17:04
Keyboardco.com has listed the Minila. April 19th appears to be the ship date, not sure on how accurate that projected date is.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 06 March 2013, 23:54:58
I wasn't sure about this at first, but I'm pretty certain I'll be getting one after giving it some thought. 

I only press the spacebar with my right thumb, pretty much just right in the center of that short space.  And the main thing is that I've been thinking of doing a custom layout with a function key for my left thumb.  That makes the esdf arrows perfect for coding/etc. 

My only big complaints are that it'll be hard to get custom keys for those non-standard bottom row sizes, and I'd prefer a normal shift key on the right and lose the arrows.  With the big FN key, they're not as useful.  But, overall, I'll give it a try I think.

Edit: Oh... I didn't notice the small backspace key.  Screw that, I make a lot of mistakes.  That singlehandedly ruins it for me... I hit right in the middle of those two keys, and I'm too stubborn to change for one dinky keyboard. ;-)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: audioave10 on Thu, 07 March 2013, 00:00:41
That's just too small for me but I can see the minimalists loving it.  :(
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: sordna on Thu, 07 March 2013, 00:16:57
Edit: Oh... I didn't notice the small backspace key.  Screw that, I make a lot of mistakes.  That singlehandedly ruins it for me... I hit right in the middle of those two keys, and I'm too stubborn to change for one dinky keyboard. ;-)

The dipswitches allow setting the key right above the enter to backspace, see the OP. It's a bigger key and closer to the typing position.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: aggiejy on Thu, 07 March 2013, 00:23:38
Thanks, but yeah, I noticed that.  Probably a good alternative.  However, I got used to that with the HHKB and it threw off all my experiences on my other boards. :)  Can't be having that!
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Solanin on Tue, 02 April 2013, 22:52:50
Doesn't matter. .  bought one as soon as it hit the shop. . . Love it!
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Sinzz on Wed, 03 April 2013, 02:51:04
Is it up for sale in any US stores yet?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: berserkfan on Wed, 03 April 2013, 06:05:22

that is one ridiculously tiny space bar!

Space bars, by definition, are for thumbs and intended for BOTH thumbs. If your hands are ok with that (maybe longer thumbs) I can understand. But for most people?


I warn you that the Left Shift has a different size compared to a standard LShift so replacement keycaps would be a headache.

The JIS layout one is a copy of the HHKB PRO JP with different key sizes in the last row:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/QltK1.jpg)


The spacebar is the best one they could fit in the keyboard.  It is just perfect for me.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Solanin on Thu, 04 April 2013, 01:30:35
Is it up for sale in any US stores yet?
Nah . .  it's in Vietnam.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Capitalistix on Thu, 04 April 2013, 11:25:44
waaat the faaak. I would totally buy this thing if greenies were an option but everyones so damn racist against mx greens...

Wonder how difficult changing the switches on this would be...
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ComradeSniper on Thu, 04 April 2013, 21:51:56
waaat the faaak. I would totally buy this thing if greenies were an option but everyones so damn racist against mx greens...

Wonder how difficult changing the switches on this would be...

About the same as any other Filco board I'd imagine.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Macsmasher on Fri, 05 April 2013, 21:18:17
Not gonna lie, actually pretty excited about this. I always hit space right below the B and N keys, always with my right thumb. This layout will allow me to reclaim some of that wasted space. It's got dedicated arrow keys, which means I can use it in Visual Studio without it being all awkward like the HHKB.

And, of course.. it's a Filco.

+1 here. I'm kind of liking the layout for a compact. You can swap BS with Backslash. A Fn 'and' Win key on the left. Dedicated arrow keys.

I like the idea of a shorter Spacebar, even on a full-size board anyway. Since I Alt with my thumbs, it would eliminate reaching so far under my palms. However, this one might be a tad too short. My left thumb typically hits under the right corner of 'V', which is in the 'taint' area left of Spacebar. But that might be such a big deal to adjust for.

All these new compact boards makes me wonder if there are plans to update the HHKB layout. The current layout has been out for years. And with everybody else coming out with improvements to the compact layout, HHKB has to be considering it.

Things I think could be improved on my HHKB...

*  Fn and Win key left of Spacebar.
*  Reconsider the arrow key placement.
*  Possibly reduce size of Spacebar.
*  Utilize the dead space in the lower corners with some much needed keys. I for one would like to have a R Control key.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 17 April 2013, 11:19:15
Got one today. I don't like the backspace options mainly.  I wish I could make the left Fn key a backspace key, but doesn't seem possible.  Also, I noticed that I do in fact sometimes use my left thumb for space... not often, but a couple times so far in testing. Of course, that's not a problem because you can flip a switch to make left fn a space bar too.  Just no good backspace option unless you like HHKB style or are good at hitting that little top-right key.

Great feel though, nice size.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ValerieV on Thu, 18 April 2013, 05:19:42
I have one as well and are you surprised that the space key hasn't been an issue for you? I thought it was going to be too small but i have had no problems what so ever. Thoughts about the small space bar...
Title: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: aggiejy on Thu, 18 April 2013, 09:02:44
I have one as well and are you surprised that the space key hasn't been an issue for you? I thought it was going to be too small but i have had no problems what so ever. Thoughts about the small space bar...

Agreed. The only time I found myself trying to hit a space on the left function key is if my right hand reached for the mouse or something, but very easy to train for. Literally the only gripe I have is backspace. (And perhaps the inability to find replacement caps for the space/fn keys)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: best.eu on Thu, 18 April 2013, 15:38:18
Looks awesome, anyone know if this will come with Swedish layout or blank? This would make a great backpack keyboard with blue switches when you have to type something while not on your own PC.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Hour on Thu, 18 April 2013, 19:36:17
Dat space bar..
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 26 May 2013, 08:52:58
I agree the bezel would have been better as a plain rectangle with rounded edges.  But this layout looks very promising.

2 questions:

1 - Can you remap the left Fn key using windows registry hacks?  (ala Sharpkeys)

2 - Is a white model available, hopefully w/PBT caps or is someone offering white PBT replacement caps?  The slightly off sizes including space bar and possible unknown placement of things under caps could make full cap swaps difficult.

Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Hypersphere on Mon, 08 July 2013, 22:37:51
Folks, you are not supposed to hit the right control by stretching your hand open, but by moving your entire arm. This way both your hands remain very relaxed at all times.
But contorting your left hand to hit Control and A single-handedly, not only moves one of you hands away from typing position anyway, but puts a lot of strain on it.
Ctrl-Q and Ctrl-W are even worse than Ctrl-A. Apart from straining your hand, it takes more time to bend your hand rather than move your other hand.

Anyway, our bodies are symmetric and there's a reason we have 2 shifts, 2 alts and 2 controls.
BTW, while my usage of the 2 shifts is pretty even, I use the right control far more frequently than the left. I guess I will have to map the App/Menu key to be a right Control, no big deal. On my Poker I sacrifice the same key anyway (for the tilde).

I tend to agree. I use Right-Control very often. Is it in fact possible to reassign the APP key as Right-Control? I did not see an option for this. I use Mac OS X and Linux; sometimes I use Windows. (What is the APP key? Is it the "Menu" key? Never use that anyway.)

Thanks.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: uberzone on Mon, 29 July 2013, 10:10:51
I just got this board after quite a bit of deliberation. The double function keys are what really sold me. I like the fact I don't have to move my fingers off the home row to use the arrow keys. The backspace was a concern as it seems to be for a lot of people here. One thing that nobody has mentioned yet is that you can use (FN + ;) as delete. So again you don't have to move your fingers off the home row to delete. Very smart in my opinion.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: SeriouSSpotS on Mon, 29 July 2013, 10:17:26
I just got this board after quite a bit of deliberation. The double function keys are what really sold me. I like the fact I don't have to move my fingers off the home row to use the arrow keys. The backspace was a concern as it seems to be for a lot of people here. One thing that nobody has mentioned yet is that you can use (FN + ;) as delete. So again you don't have to move your fingers off the home row to delete. Very smart in my opinion.

FN layers have been interesting me the more I read into it.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: Hypersphere on Mon, 29 July 2013, 11:38:49
Yes, the more I look at the Fn layer on the Filco Minila, the more I can see the logic in it. Nevertheless, I wish they had incorporated some additional intuitive options, such as Fn+UpArrow = PgUp, etc. Moreover, I think I could grow accustomed to the small spacebar and possibly the small right-shift, but I anticipate having problems with the small backspace and the absence of a right-control. I also wish they had lopped off the top bezel making the overall shape rectangular; I don't really need the LEDs. Finally, after learning the Fn layer, i would want to replace the keycaps with more off-white and light gray dye-sub PBT, but this could be problematic with all the odd-sized keys. Other posters have made the same points, but perhaps redundant mention will help get the attention of the Filco people who might be monitoring the keyboard forums.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: uberzone on Mon, 29 July 2013, 12:23:58
One thing that nobody has mentioned yet is that you can use (FN + ;) as delete.

FN + ;

Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: ImperfectLink on Mon, 29 July 2013, 12:34:31
I was skeptical as well but bought it anyway. It's really growing on me and I'm finding the Fn keys well... Fn good.
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: kelpfrond on Fri, 16 August 2013, 08:57:54
Got this board more than a month ago and used it constantly. To me, it's nearly perfect in all aspects (Fn key positions, aesthetics, feel, size, etc.). Having the keyboard centered in front of you while still maintaining a convenient mouse position is just wonderful. I had some problems with my right shoulder after extended gaming sessions. They're gone now, and I believe it's because of this board. I'm really happy I took the risk and bought a compact... it took less than a week of use to realize it's the best form factor for me and I'll probably not buy anything else in the future.

BUT, there are two issues you should think over before buying a MINILA:


If it wasn't for #2, I'd wholeheartedly recommend the MINILA to anyone looking for a compact. As it is, I still like it, but I'm disappointed. The only reason I was able to forgive all the pain that right SHIFT caused was the wonderful Fn keys that made my typing faster and more convenient, never straying far from home row. The highlight of this is the Fn+semicolon combo which is easy to learn and super-comfy. However, the moment you get comfortable & fast with all the Fn keys, and are ready to fall in love with the board, it starts to play tricks on you... meh Filco, you should have made the Fn keys work better! Still, it's a really cute board...

Of course, you should think twice before getting a MINILA if:
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 16 August 2013, 23:14:25
Welcome to Geekhack!

Thanks for the review - brief but comprehensive :)
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: achikin on Wed, 18 April 2018, 06:13:35
Can I remap Fn key to something else e.g. Ctrl?
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 18 April 2018, 07:32:21
Can I remap Fn key to something else e.g. Ctrl?
Typically FN keys cannot be changed (especially on OEM boards) as they work at a hardware level with no OS interaction.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: NEW FILCO keyboard - Majestouch MINILA
Post by: mittyzz on Sat, 21 April 2018, 16:25:15
Dang I like that.