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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Engine on Sat, 19 March 2011, 19:44:41

Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Sat, 19 March 2011, 19:44:41: I am wondering if anyone else is going to buy a Leopold tenkeyless from EK and which switch if you are and why?
I just ordered both Blues and Browns. Don't know when they're coming but no hurry. I'm trialing these specimens for my first Cherry boards ever. I've done a lot of research here/Wiki and have concluded I like these two Cherry switches best for first try.
I'm leaning towards Blues as I like "clack" but am curious about Browns too because of hearing they're "ergo".
I'm also shopping for my Wife and Mom and want them to have an arrary of switches to trial/choose from.
I don't know if they'll want something quieter or what but I think that Blues/Browns are a good start, hence getting both.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 19 March 2011, 21:42:12: I'm getting one with Browns. This will be my very first mech 'board and here's my story:

Started out simply wanting a high-quality and 'minimalist' board, as I wanted it to last and didn't care for extra 'media' keys, screens, or discoballs/lasers. Began my search having no idea there was anything besides rubber domes and scissor switches. The latter of which I didn't know the name for, just calling them 'thin ones' :lol:.

My first consideration was the Apple wireless alluminum. However, decided against it because I've always had a strong dislike for Apple, preferred wired for obvious reason, and I couldn't do without a proper tactile bump, a term I was unfamiliar with.

Next stop was Steelseries, hearing about them while browsing StarCraft 2 forums. For a while was set on the 6Gv2, but then I saw someone mention that they prefer 'Tenkeyless' (which I also hadn't heard before and thus didn't know what it meant) because they didn't need the numpad and enjoyed the space saved (Eureka! :biggrin:).

So I searched 'Tenkeyless' and up popped the Filco, which led me to finding this lovely forum and of course learning about the various switches and such :smile: Didn't take me long to figure I wanted Browns, as the click of Blues would get me in trouble (though I'll probably get one later on for home use) and linear wasn't appealling at all.

Then decided to order a Filco Tenkeyless from Armygroup, but not before I saw a thread on EliteKeyboards' upcoming Leopolds. "Great!" I thought, because should I have any problems it'd be much easier dealing with a company located here in the US. After some waiting...then a bit more waiting...and for good measure, another helping of waiting, I pre-ordered the aforementioned and am really looking forward to it. :hat:
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: reaper on Sat, 19 March 2011, 21:51:45: I pre-ordered the first day Brian let us in. lol Needed something to go with this Leopold carrying case.. it's getting lonely sitting here all by itself. =D
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: tgthan on Sat, 19 March 2011, 22:28:05: I'm not because I don't know where to buy a replacement spacebar if I should ever want one. Until keycap sets have a Leapold spacebar option, I guess I'll stick with Duckys.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Brummell on Sat, 19 March 2011, 22:46:55: I ordered a blue, I'll probably eventually order a brown too if I like this one. I have a private office, so I don't worry too much about the click.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: dirtyb on Sun, 20 March 2011, 00:18:23: I ordered a brown.

I bought because...
It was a good price and seems like good build quality. Also it's from a reputable seller.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Sun, 20 March 2011, 01:19:31: I too found geekhack.org and mechies by steps. Also, I chose the Leos for their rep and the seller's rep as well. I can't wait to see them in my home. By the way, I left this site linked in another thread but here it is again for those who want to see review of the Leopolds....Quite interesting and frankly sealed the deal for me.
http://www.overclock.net/keyboards/883735-elitekeyboards-replacement-filco-tenkeyless-leopold-fc200r.html
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 20 March 2011, 01:19:53: NO cuz of the stupid non standard spacebar :)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: zakazak on Sun, 20 March 2011, 09:30:37: i wanted too.. but then i realized there is no german layout available :S
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: neo on Sun, 20 March 2011, 10:09:51: Quote from: jomiyo;314592
I started out simply wanting a high-quality and 'minimalist' board

My story exactly. Only I did order Filco Brown from Armygroup. I like it very much, but mostly for high quality construction and perfect layout. The "mechanical" part is nice, but I still think I would be fine if I could find any decent quality rubber dome that looks like Filco. Why practically all keyboards nowadays need to have "disco-balls and lasers"?
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Lophostrix on Sun, 20 March 2011, 12:14:42: With everyone complaining about the non-standard spacebars on Leopolds: is there actually a standard, or is it just that most companies happen to use the same key molds and so they are all similar, and Leopold happens to use a different mold?
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: iMav on Sun, 20 March 2011, 12:17:36: I ordered an Archiss quite a while ago...but did buy a Leo soft case for it. I'm sure I'll pick up a few from EK once they are readily avialable. I always try to funnel orders through vendors who cater to the GH community.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: chel- on Sun, 20 March 2011, 16:20:53: I'm still considering it since I want to try either browns or blue but I honestly don't know if I can look beyond the rounded edges =/
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Saffa on Sun, 20 March 2011, 17:24:23: Probably going to order one in the next few days. Will be my first mechanical keyboard (Typing on an unbearable, 4 year old rubber dome that's dying right now). Just have to decide between browns and blues. I'm leaning towards blues right now, but I don't know whether the sound will drive my future college roommate crazy next year :S

Only thing is, I kind of want the Otaku version which only comes in browns. S'pose I could get some Filco blank keycaps and swap them though...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: BababooeyHTJ on Sun, 20 March 2011, 17:44:11: Quote from: panda-R;314645
NO cuz of the stupid non standard spacebar :)

Same here, finding replacements for the windowed keys doesn't help either.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: iMav on Sun, 20 March 2011, 19:02:35: Quote from: tgthan;314597
I'm not because I don't know where to buy a replacement spacebar if I should ever want one. Until keycap sets have a Leapold spacebar option, I guess I'll stick with Duckys.

Here's my Leo/Archiss-compatible spacebar.

(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=15816&stc=1&d=1299375056)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Sun, 20 March 2011, 19:25:23: Nice! Did you make 'em? My Dad was in Prototype for years for 3M. He also made parts for our cars, like pumps/valves/gauges, etc.
I think I might shell out just once in my life for a truly "custom" keyboard made like that. It would be the answer to the mac metal chasis. All metal casing keyboard w/all metal keys. Choose a nice clacky switch, may as well be BS but Unicomp wouldn't go for that but maybe EK?
Let's think about that. A modder's dream! Could even be an official "geekhack.org" model.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: RiGS on Sun, 20 March 2011, 19:57:54: It was custom made by KBC.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Variable on Mon, 21 March 2011, 00:28:23: I ordered a blue leo

I like the look, it was easy to order, and I figured there'd be a bunch of orders from here so I could jump on board with what would be a hot topic
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 21 March 2011, 00:35:40: Quote from: BababooeyHTJ;314963
Same here, finding replacements for the windowed keys doesn't help either.

windowed keys don't bother me because i'm so awesome, i don't know if that helps for you though.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: TickleMeElmo on Mon, 21 March 2011, 02:34:57: I am conflicted whether to buy one of the Leopolds or if I should go for the limited edition Ducky.... choices.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: CephalicCarnage on Mon, 21 March 2011, 03:37:03: Quote from: iMav;315000
Here's my Leo/Archiss-compatible spacebar.

Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=15816&stc=1&d=1299375056)

WOW!:nod::nod::nod:
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Surly73 on Mon, 21 March 2011, 07:16:16: I've been waiting since the fall to order a Filco tenkeyless w/Browns. Ever since about the first time they went "out of stock" and never came back.

I ended up ordering from PCHome a couple of weeks ago as it was taking way too long to get Cherry products back up for sale at EK. It is nice to see pretty aggressive pricing now that they are finally almost here.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: ThoughtThief on Mon, 21 March 2011, 08:33:33: After hearing about mech keyboards from starcraft 2 forums, I also made my way here. I have been lurking mostly for months waiting for EK to get some tenkeyless cherries back up. I almost pulled the trigger on a choc mini, but ordering from overseas made me hesitant. Like others, I have been waiting for so long already, a little more waiting hasn't really phased me. I pre-ordered a blue and otaku brown for my first mech boards. I really wanted a blue otaku, so this way I can just switch the keycaps and have my blue otaku at home and use the browns for work. Win/Win!
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Chobopants on Mon, 21 March 2011, 10:06:27: I pre-ordered a Blue Leo, this is the first I've heard of any spacebar issue. Looking at the pictures, at least, I can't see it being any different than my Filco's. Is it the mounting underneath that's different? Doesn't really phase me but I'm curious as to the difference.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Saffa on Mon, 21 March 2011, 11:21:53: Quote from: Chobopants;315218
I pre-ordered a Blue Leo, this is the first I've heard of any spacebar issue. Looking at the pictures, at least, I can't see it being any different than my Filco's. Is it the mounting underneath that's different? Doesn't really phase me but I'm curious as to the difference.

I think it's the fact that Leopold's stabilizers are closer together than the filco's, so the spacebars are non-compatible.

Don't quote me on that though :) Just remember reading that somewhere....
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: vicariouscheese on Mon, 21 March 2011, 15:01:08: Isn't it that filcos (and das) use the thin metal bar stabilizers on their large keys, while leopolds use the triple switch-thingy?

obviously those are the technical terms used...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 21 March 2011, 15:33:25: yes but the dam leopolds stabilizers aren't in the same dam position as the other cool peeps.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: mooremanifestation on Wed, 23 March 2011, 02:59:13: I pre-ordered a Leo w/browns from EK. I've been waiting quite a while to get a keyboard with browns from a US distributor at what I consider a reasonable price. EK's price is better than I was expecting. Also, I've read enough good things about the quality of Archiss/Leopold and the quality control at EK. Between the two, I feel fairly confident that I'll be happy with the result.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: pm_ on Wed, 23 March 2011, 03:18:31: But my god, it's taking forever...I hope End of March doesn't mean the 31st. It would be nice to have it in my hands by then.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: pcunite on Wed, 23 March 2011, 07:47:55: I choose keyboards over the tiniest of details it seems:

* The Das is too shiny and no Tenkeyless or Black MX switches
* The Leopold has windowed keys and rounded corners

I'm waiting for keyboardco to get Filco Tenkeyless Blacks in their Amazon store ... looks like they just got in some new boards, but not the one I'm waiting on ...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Brummell on Wed, 23 March 2011, 08:31:35: Quote from: pcunite;316642

I'm waiting for keyboardco to get Filco Tenkeyless Blacks in their Amazon store ... looks like they just got in some new boards, but not the one I'm waiting on ...

They need some more tenkeyless in there. If they'd keep Amazon stocked they'd become a preferred vendor really quickly.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Surly73 on Wed, 23 March 2011, 10:11:30: Quote from: pcunite;316642
I choose keyboards over the tiniest of details it seems:

* The Das is too shiny and no Tenkeyless or Black MX switches
* The Leopold has windowed keys and rounded corners

I'm waiting for keyboardco to get Filco Tenkeyless Blacks in their Amazon store ... looks like they just got in some new boards, but not the one I'm waiting on ...

Check the classifieds for Majestouch's EK clearout posts.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Chobopants on Wed, 23 March 2011, 13:17:43: Quote from: pcunite;316642
I choose keyboards over the tiniest of details it seems:

* The Das is too shiny and no Tenkeyless or Black MX switches
* The Leopold has windowed keys and rounded corners

I'm waiting for keyboardco to get Filco Tenkeyless Blacks in their Amazon store ... looks like they just got in some new boards, but not the one I'm waiting on ...

Not that I really care which keyboard you buy but...

- replacing windowed keys is pretty much trivial and wouldn't cost you more than a couple dollars

- and..
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/7071474/temp/rounded_corners.png)
don't know what kind of corners you think that Filco has but they look pretty round to me! (first one is Leopold)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: pcunite on Wed, 23 March 2011, 14:33:59: Quote from: Chobopants;316866

... replacing windowed keys is pretty much trivial and wouldn't cost you more than a couple dollars ...

But then I would not have the cool lights on the top right row. I like led's, just not scatter around the board.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Brummell on Wed, 23 March 2011, 20:04:52: Quote from: pcunite;316642

I'm waiting for keyboardco to get Filco Tenkeyless Blacks in their Amazon store ... looks like they just got in some new boards, but not the one I'm waiting on ...

They're in there now, along with browns, blues and reds.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Saffa on Wed, 23 March 2011, 20:12:38: Curious, is there any benefit to preordering it? Will the price go up once the Leopolds start shipping? Still trying to decide between blues or browns (or others....) and I haven't had a chance to visit a store with them to try, so I might miss the preorder date.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: EZjiji on Wed, 23 March 2011, 20:35:07: Not really other than the fact that you'll be one of the first to get it. I bet the chances of you getting one in April is pretty slim if you didn't pre-order.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Lophostrix on Wed, 23 March 2011, 20:45:00: Quote from: Saffa;317275
Curious, is there any benefit to preordering it? Will the price go up once the Leopolds start shipping? Still trying to decide between blues or browns (or others....) and I haven't had a chance to visit a store with them to try, so I might miss the preorder date.

The first shipment will probably sell out fast. Preordering helps EK measure the demand and plan future shipments.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Saffa on Wed, 23 March 2011, 21:43:43: Okay, thanks. Just trying to make sure I get what I want because I'm on a tight budget where $100 makes a difference (even though I'll probably end up getting blues and browns and others later when I have more to spend). Have to plan out and get my new computer parts too since mine is seriously outdated at the moment.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Wed, 23 March 2011, 21:50:39: I think that the price could go up. I saw somewhere but can't find/prove now, that this was in fact a "pre-order" price. You know it won't get cheaper but it could always go up in price, especially if the Leos get popular. I went ahead and pre-ordered because I too am on a budget and am "trying" different switches on limited funds, also I really believe they'll go up in price someday. I think $99 is as good as it gets, so I grabbed it. I worked a little overtime this weekend and already paid for one of my two new Leos. I ordered Browns and Blues by the way. Hope that helps. =)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Chobopants on Wed, 23 March 2011, 22:53:50: Quote from: Engine;317341
I think that the price could go up. I saw somewhere but can't find/prove now, that this was in fact a "pre-order" price. You know it won't get cheaper but it could always go up in price, especially if the Leos get popular. I went ahead and pre-ordered because I too am on a budget and am "trying" different switches on limited funds, also I really believe they'll go up in price someday. I think $99 is as good as it gets, so I grabbed it. I worked a little overtime this weekend and already paid for one of my two new Leos. I ordered Browns and Blues by the way. Hope that helps. =)

Good man! So excited for my blue Leo for work. Going to buy everyone earplugs.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Hak Foo on Thu, 24 March 2011, 00:28:56: Probably not.

I like my numpad, and I can't justify the cost difference over a -3000, MKB-135, or Rosewill.

If I want something more novel, the PLU and Ducky boards offer me halfway to what I want with their media-control key layer.

I guess the main market for Leopolds are "people who wanted a specific Filco but didn't get in in time for it", and I never really lusted for a Filco (I considered a Zero briefly only, because I like those switches best, but the lack of numpad...)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: oddfuture on Thu, 24 March 2011, 00:36:00: I won't be until they stock full size boards patience is virtue D:
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: NimbleRabit on Thu, 24 March 2011, 01:15:18: I bought an archiss a few months ago and couldn't be happier!
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Reaif on Thu, 24 March 2011, 11:01:39: This forum and I have a love hate relationship. Right now I kind of hate it. I am low on funds, but just purchased a leo with blues from EK. All the talk of a possible price increase made me scared lol. I don't know what to do with my self sometimes. Here's hoping they ship at the end of the month as planned :)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: ColdStorm on Thu, 24 March 2011, 14:57:58: Bought mine yesterday. Going to take 6-10 days to ship to Canada though X_X Very excited to get my first mechanical keyboard. Browns btw.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Thu, 24 March 2011, 21:12:57: I actually wonder if some late pre-order folks will have to wait until a "next batch"? I ordered mine last weekend and I am prepared to have to wait longer. There's very little info except for a few key words/phrases, like "second batch" but not indicating if that means different switches, full version or the same tenkeyless for the "second batch" of "late" orderers. Hm.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: muchadoaboutnothing on Thu, 24 March 2011, 21:32:00: Quote from: Engine;318118
I actually wonder if some late pre-order folks will have to wait until a "next batch"? I ordered mine last weekend and I am prepared to have to wait longer. There's very little info except for a few key words/phrases, like "second batch" but not indicating if that means different switches, full version or the same tenkeyless for the "second batch" of "late" orderers. Hm.

We're getting this info from where exactly? I'm curious because I only preordered recently.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: cerhem293 on Thu, 24 March 2011, 21:43:11: I planned on getting a Leopold for work so that I could leave my precious filco red tenkeyless at home. Idk, but something about the Leopold just makes it seem really unattractive. So I just ended up spending that money I put aside on 150 keys from the group buy :)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Engine on Thu, 24 March 2011, 22:05:47: Quote from: muchadoaboutnothing;318132
We're getting this info from where exactly? I'm curious because I only preordered recently.

http://www.elitekeyboards.com/index.php?sub=news&id=19
(For some reason, I can't get this link to turn "HOT". Just copy/paste into your browser search window.)

Sorry, I didn't mean to alarm anyone. Just read the above news update from the Leopold page on EK. I was only wondering about things, not sure.
Read the News Update and decide for yourself. For one thing, the $99 price tag IS introductory to answer an earlier post in this forum. Also, he mentions "first come first serve" for "this batch". But he also mentions some possible additions to the Leo series, like full size keyboards, more switches, etc but not for "8 weeks out".
Me personally, I wasn't whining but just wondering period.

Oh, and by the way, I emailed EK about "us" getting an updated news letter to let us know how the kb shipping is going, especially if there's a delay?
His reply:
Everything is on schedule. We plan to start shipping pre-ordered
products before the end of the month, as planned and promised. If any
delays are discovered ahead of time, we will send a special e-mail to
all customers with a pending pre-order, but I wouldn't justify one
product being delayed by a week as global "newsletter" worthy material.
We are working on an ATOM feed feature to our website, but I don't have
a date on the launch yet.

Thanks for your support!

Best Regards,
Brian
http://elitekeyboards.com

The month is almost over and haven't heard anything negitive, so must be ok. Plus, I'm not so sure that enough people pre-orderd to make it necessary to hit a second batch of pre-orders.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Variable on Thu, 24 March 2011, 23:54:31: I hope not! I don't blame EK at all for whatever goes down, I'm new to this, but I really want my tenkeyless
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 26 March 2011, 06:25:35: Quote from: neo;314755
Why practically all keyboards nowadays need to have "disco-balls and lasers"?

Well, amongst tons of other things (cars, clothes, etc.), it's similar with computer towers for example. You pretty much have to decide whether you want it to look like a computer tower or an alien's refridgerator. I used to be a bit obsessed with the wank of the latter, but now I love my plain Lian Li. Although, admittedly, if I were filthy rich and had the time, I'd probably go all-out on a thoroughly modded $5k+ gaming monster system just because.

On 'boards, it's the same with hype/needs. E.g. backlights when gaming in the dark a lot, extra media/macro keys and screens for their obvious uses, and generally when one couldn't care less about space-saving and of course personal definitions of 'cool'.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 26 March 2011, 10:26:09: lol, agreed.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: asfogh on Sat, 26 March 2011, 11:00:58: I would be all over a Leo if I didn't already have a filco tenkeyless otaku. replaceable cable, cable track = awesome. my only complaint is the LEDs and the bubbled windowed key but those are probably replaceable. all for ~60$ less than I paid. maybe I'll sell this and get a new one :-)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Surly73 on Sat, 26 March 2011, 12:13:03: I know that would certainly appreciate the removable cable on the Leo compared to my Filco. At home I have a desktop USB hub 6" from my keyboard/mouse area which I connect to. It would be nice to order a 1' USB cable for the keyboard instead of tying up a ball of cabling in a fancy Filco velcro strap.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: duckyduck on Tue, 29 March 2011, 10:07:26: 2 more days! I'm excited :)
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Variable on Tue, 29 March 2011, 15:30:07: Quote from: harrison;318931
the features and wank are for the people who feel the need to flaunt. it's not function, it's barely a feature. but then, we're talking on a mechanical keyboard forum. function function function.

different people have different aesthetic preferences. doesn't mean they need to flaunt, perhaps they just like the look.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 29 March 2011, 15:36:00: Quote from: Variable;320899
different people have different aesthetic preferences. doesn't mean they need to flaunt, perhaps they just like the look.

Agreed. I fall into this group. I buy the nicest looking thing that has the features and function I want. It has to have both function and aesthetics, though.

It's like women. If she has a great personality but is dog-ugly, then she's just a friend. If she's hot but is a real *****, then she's just a ****-buddy. GF or wife has to have both.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 02 April 2011, 10:06:06: Just got mine. Everything is in perfect working order and I absolutely love it. Will be getting another with Blues soon!
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 02 April 2011, 10:54:40: Can't help, but surely others will. Obviously can't do a proper review because of that and the fact that I'm a lowly newb.

However, the only 'negative' I can find is with the key alignment. The right shift, alt, and windows are each a bit off, and there are a few lesser, hardly noticeable ones elsewhere. Although none of it is a bother to me and it's not as bad as other instances I've seen posted.

Anyway, yeah, I'm well chuffed :biggrin:
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: EZjiji on Sat, 02 April 2011, 11:22:38: OMG, this mechanical keyboard feels so different than my rubber dome. The not bottoming out is really cool, but I love the sound of it bottoming out though <3.

I don't really know how to give a review since I don't really have much to compare with. The keys feel really smooth, a really small bump from the lettering. The LED lights are good brightness. One minor annoying I have is that the spring on the spacebar echos a little bit when you hit it a little harder.

Oh, and about the rounded edges, unless you have a Filco right next to it, you can't really notice it.

The sound, I've adapted pretty well to not bottoming out so the sound isn't so bad, but when I play some starcraft or stepmania, I can see why some people are really bothered by the sound. It's acutally quite loud despite being a brown not a blue.

You get no Leopold sticker either. I was a little sad about that too.

I only have a camera phone so I won't be able to take photos. No scale on me either. :o
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: jomiyo on Sat, 02 April 2011, 14:41:50: Quote from: EZjiji;323326
OMG, this mechanical keyboard feels so different than my rubber dome. The not bottoming out is really cool, but I love the sound of it bottoming out though <3.

Heh, same.

Quote from: EZjiji;323326
You get no Leopold sticker either. I was a little sad about that too.

Hmm, just realised that. Ah well, I wasn't gonna use it anyway, as it would've just been added to my pile of other unused stickers. For the collection's sake, tho, I'll make sure to get one next time.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: mooremanifestation on Sat, 02 April 2011, 15:08:31: My digital kitchen scale says 917g, without the cable or clear plastic cover. It's a lettered Leopold w/browns, if that matters.

Quote from: ripster;323287
Congrats!!!

If anybody gets a chance I'd like for the Wiki:

- Picture of keys (focus as close as you can and crop to 640x480)
- Weigh it
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: EZjiji on Sat, 02 April 2011, 15:12:37: 917g? That can't be right. This keyboard is heavy as hell. Fedex labeled the package as twice that value, 1.8kg
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: pm_ on Sat, 02 April 2011, 15:52:40: Finally got my browns a few hours ago. Some initial thoughts:

Negatives:
1. The rubber feet do not work well at all when you are using the legs. I'm not a heavy typer, nor do I really push on the keyboard in any way, so it's not an issue for me, but might be to some. If you don't use the legs, the keyboard adheres to the desk pretty well.

2. The spacebar sounds clicky, a little similar to a blue switch, if I depress it right of center. If I depress it left of center, the clickiness isn't there and it sounds fine. I think something must be loose/faulty/not attached properly. It's annoying and I hope it's not too difficult to fix.

Positives:
Feels and sounds MUCH better than the Cherry G80-8113 with browns I was using for the last few weeks. I attribute this to the following:
* Plate mount and smaller, better made housing. Together, keystorkes feel sturdier, and sound better; echo in the housing is substantially reduced
* Better key caps. I haven't used a lot of different keycaps, but the fingertips grip the key caps well and don't slip

Misc:
Make sure to push the USB cable into the keyboard all the way. It requires a little bit of a push to get it in.

Overall:
Great keyboard so far and worth it, provided I can resolve this clicky spacebar issue.

Question: Are there any tricks to removing the spacebar on these keyboards?
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: RiGS on Sat, 02 April 2011, 17:45:09: Quote
The spacebar sounds clicky, a little similar to a blue switch, if I depress it right of center. If I depress it left of center, the clickiness isn't there and it sounds fine. I think something must be loose/faulty/not attached properly. It's annoying and I hope it's not too difficult to fix.

That's the reason why I hate the cherry style stablizers.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: keyboardlover on Sat, 02 April 2011, 18:17:07: Never had that issue with mine...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: MrSneis on Sat, 02 April 2011, 18:22:14: That's funny one of my major likes about Filco is the extra rubber on the fold out feet, I recall reading somewhere that the rubber is not necessary on the Leo because it's more stable overall. Looks like it's still a good thing to have!
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Surly73 on Sat, 02 April 2011, 18:47:55: Quote from: MrSneis;323526
That's funny one of my major likes about Filco is the extra rubber on the fold out feet, I recall reading somewhere that the rubber is not necessary on the Leo because it's more stable overall. Looks like it's still a good thing to have!

My home office desk has glass on top and my Filco is stuck like glue - love it.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Lophostrix on Sat, 02 April 2011, 20:45:38: My spacebar is a little noisier on the right side than the left, but certainly no noisier than bottoming out a key.

I see what you mean about the keyboard sliding. It's definitely more stable with the feet up than down. It doesn't move while I type though, and I'm always repositioning my keyboard anyway.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: EZjiji on Sat, 02 April 2011, 21:23:31: I don't think you can really hear the spacebar squeek anyway when your actually typing and not spamming the spacebar.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: EZjiji on Sat, 02 April 2011, 23:13:38: o.o How hard do you hit your spacebar? I don't even know what a mouse sounds like, but I can't even think about how a echo-like spring sound would sound like a mouse.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: godofdeath on Sun, 03 April 2011, 00:42:08: not until they got full sized
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: MrSneis on Sun, 03 April 2011, 01:09:20: So I'm hearing some of the larger keys are noiser and the board likes to move around... anything else?
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Chobopants on Sun, 03 April 2011, 01:15:40: Quote from: kalrykh;323569
i can hear my backspace. i thought there was a damn mouse or something in the room. so i'd stop typing, and look around and it would get quiet. took me a few minutes to realize it was only happening when i hit my backspace key :P whatever the case, i just voided the hell out of my warranty trying to get this thing open. i've renamed it "donor."

Hmm, sounds similar to the insert/0 key on my numpad on my filco brown when I first got it. That key is Jump for me in FPS games (I mouse left handed). The part of the key that was rubbing around wore in or something along those lines so now no more squeaking. Wondering if the same will happen for you.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Lophostrix on Sun, 03 April 2011, 01:40:03: Quote from: MrSneis;323603
So I'm hearing some of the larger keys are noiser and the board likes to move around... anything else?

Arg, I had a big list of things typed, and it all went away when I accidentally refreshed :( :(. So short version:

- Large keys aren't that loud. You can hear the stabilizers in certain spots but the noise just gets lost in the background when you are typing fast.

- The keyboard does slide fairly easily when the risers, but only if you push it. It hasn't moved at all on me while just typing. I actually like that I can move it around without too much trouble.

- The lettering is very clear. (I did exchange my Otaku that was wrongly sent for the lettered version. I'm glad I did.) It's the type where you can feel the letters with your fingers if you try, but you really have to feel for it. Hopefully it doesn't wear off.

Ok, those are the downsides. Don't let it get to you. Overall the keyboard is great. The rounded bevel looks much better in person than it does in pictures, as do the windowed caps lock / scroll lock keys. The blue LEDs are pretty bright but not blindingly so. The detachable USB cable is great. There are three channels so it can come out the back either to the left, right, or straight back. The rubber feet are solid and the lifter things make a nice clicking sound when you move them.

But the most important part: it feels great to type on. Maybe I'm just used to rubber domes (this is my first mechanical keyboard). I don't think you can beat it for the price.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Lophostrix on Sun, 03 April 2011, 16:19:59: Quote from: kalrykh;323803
There is actually a space between "back space" on the backspace key, where as there is no space between S and L in capslock :P

I noticed that too. When I saw that I said outloud hmm...maybe they should have used backspace between back and space.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: wideyes on Mon, 04 April 2011, 12:45:56: I would second the notion that the Leopold looks better in person. It's hard for me personally to imagine anyone faulting the look (it's no-frills), but then this is geekhack, Home of the Picky. The lack of logo and the no-wasted-space ethic of the board give it a simple elegance. The Leopold Otakus are probably some of the stealthiest boards around.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: Chobopants on Mon, 04 April 2011, 13:00:30: Live-Foruming (lol?) my impressions of the Leopold Blue in this thread today:
http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?p=324365
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: wideyes on Mon, 04 April 2011, 13:26:06: Quote from: ripster;324393
I've come to the conclusion that Leopold users don't have cameras.

Hah! I do, and I was planning on posting some pics. Unfortunately, I'm an amateurish photographer, so it might take me a little while to get some that really highlight the attractiveness of the board.

We can't all be gods of the forum jpg like Ripster :hail:
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: meeekus on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:18:29: Once my lettered browns arrive I'll take some photos in the lightbox at work.

Also, first time poster.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: reaper on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:22:08: ^ welcome to Geekhack and let see those pics. =D
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:22:25: I received a Leo from EK on Saturday and have a camera... any special requests?

Also - I'm thinking of returning it, as switching between it and the Topre I bought a couple of months ago may be too jarring... :\

Second time poster...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: meeekus on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:30:04: Quote from: reaper~;324536
^ welcome to Geekhack and let see those pics. =D

Sadly nothing shows up yet on my fedex tracking. Could be 1-2 days more. Order #547x
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: reaper on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:32:30: Quote from: omf;324537
I received a Leo from EK on Saturday and have a camera... any special requests?

Also - I'm thinking of returning it, as switching between it and the Topre I bought a couple of months ago may be too jarring... :\

Second time poster...

Welcome aboard and I think ripster wants it in 640 x 480 in this format below (borrowed from toast) so he could add it to wiki, if he hasn't done it already:

(http://ipfox.ca/files/fc200r/keys.jpg)

^ this pic is good but kinda dark so bright, natural light would be best. =)

Quote from: meeekus;324543
Sadly nothing shows up yet on my fedex tracking. Could be 1-2 days more. Order #547x

We can wait a few more days. =P
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: reaper on Mon, 04 April 2011, 17:54:38: Quote from: ripster;324552
Hey, that'll work! Thanks!

Don't thank me... thank toast. It's from his thread (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=16876). =P
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: spolia optima on Mon, 04 April 2011, 18:07:26: I'm buying a 10keyless Leo w/browns as soon as I have an extra hundred bucks. Can't wait. and I really hope EK decides to stock sets of PBT or POM keycaps.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 04 April 2011, 18:15:23: Quote from: spolia optima;324578
I'm buying a 10keyless Leo w/browns as soon as I have an extra hundred bucks. Can't wait. and I really hope EK decides to stock sets of PBT or POM keycaps.

I'm surprised that EK hasn't jumped on the custom cap (full sets) market. I realize that it is just begining in the states, but it seems like it will take off eventually, even if the mechanical board market doesn't grow much beyond what it is now. From a business support perspective, though, if I were a small company, I may shy away from having to deal with inquiries like "I accidently pulled out one of my stems! Now what...?"

I hope EK is able to offer at least some basic choices in the future.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: spolia optima on Mon, 04 April 2011, 18:25:49: Quote from: digitalleftovers;324582
I'm surprised that EK hasn't jumped on the custom cap (full sets) market. I realize that it is just begining in the states, but it seems like it will take off eventually, even if the mechanical board market doesn't grow much beyond what it is now. From a business support perspective, though, if I were a small company, I may shy away from having to deal with inquiries like "I accidently pulled out one of my stems! Now what...?"

I hope EK is able to offer at least some basic choices in the future.

Well, they come with keypullers, so I imagine majestouch gets emails like that all the friggin' time.

But yeah, Cherry Corp keycaps feel like tits on a filco. Wish I could get a full matching set :(
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 18:42:23: Here are some alternate POV pictures for those interested...
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 19:34:33: Quote from: ripster;324623
This cracks me up.

Is the manual in Japanese or Korean or Chinese?

Yeah, I was going to comment on that and forgot to! Do you see where it says "Licensed by Microsoft" at the bottom-left of the label? I imagine they copied text from some other product...

Mine didn't come with a manual at all, but the label on the box says "Made in Taiwan". No other "Engrish" on the packaging, as far as I can tell.

EDIT: Oh, I see it says "Logo key licensed by Microsoft" now. Still seems awkward, if not outright wrong.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 19:37:57: I was surprised to see the little 'navels' at the top edge of the keycaps. Is that pretty common?
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: daerid on Mon, 04 April 2011, 20:50:26: Great pics!!! Makes me want one even more. Although with the Filco in stock at Amazon it makes it a bit tough to wait :(
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 21:00:01: I'm planning on returning mine, as I've decided I can't live without the keypad. If anyone's interested, I'd be up for selling it to someone instead of returning it.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: daerid on Mon, 04 April 2011, 21:19:47: Quote from: omf;324700
I'm planning on returning mine, as I've decided I can't live without the keypad. If anyone's interested, I'd be up for selling it to someone instead of returning it.

Which one do you have? I'd only be interested in the Otaku brown :-\
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: muchadoaboutnothing on Mon, 04 April 2011, 21:23:44: The pics he posted are of labeled browns.

omf: I wouldn't give up yet, but it's your choice. I thought the same thing, but I gave up my numpad for a week and now I'm doing fantastic without it. Worth it to get the mouse closer to the home row, IMO.
Title: Are you buying an EK Leo? Discussion...
Post by: omf on Mon, 04 April 2011, 21:50:32: Quote from: daerid;324703
Which one do you have? I'd only be interested in the Otaku brown :-\

It's the non-Otaku brown. :\

Quote from: muchadoaboutnothing;324706

omf: I wouldn't give up yet, but it's your choice. I thought the same thing, but I gave up my numpad for a week and now I'm doing fantastic without it. Worth it to get the mouse closer to the home row, IMO.

Thanks - I'm giving it a couple more days to see if I get used to it, but I hadn't realized that several of the programs I use frequently have special key combinations for the keypad. (e.g. Ctrl+Keypad-9 does something special). I've been using these so long that it had become an unconscious action.

I do like the keyboard, though - and the price is certainly much nicer than the Realforce units.