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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Hyde on Tue, 16 October 2012, 21:43:18

Title: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: Hyde on Tue, 16 October 2012, 21:43:18

Mmmmm lately I've been thinking about trying out buckling spring (currently own a mx brown and mx red).  Now I'm just wondering if I should get a refurbished IBM Model M or brand new Unicomp.

IBM Model M:

- Refurbished
- Iconic, Vintage
- PS2 only
- Cost around $100 after shipping

Unicomp Model M:

- Brand New
- Since it has USB compatibility might last longer over the years
- PS2 or USB
- Cost around $100 before shipping

I know IBM Model M is 2KRO, anyone know if Unicomp Model M is still 2KRO only?

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: fohat.digs on Tue, 16 October 2012, 22:02:04

I don't think that you will do better than 2KRO in either case.

Surely you can get a used Model M for half that price. I had a hard time getting $60 for an immaculate bolt-modded blue label a few months ago.

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: SmallFry on Tue, 16 October 2012, 22:02:25

You can get IBM M's cheaper than that. I'd go with an M over a Unicomp, just for a reason to make a Soarerverter.

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: Hyde on Wed, 17 October 2012, 08:44:42

Yeah I can get a Modem M for around $60 but shipping will be around $40 so in the end it will be around $100.  Damn you high shipping cost.

Unicomp will be a bit cheaper because it's slightly lighter and smaller but would still more more expensive than Model M I think.  Mmmmm choices....

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Wed, 17 October 2012, 08:48:00

I've got a Model M for sale.  See the link in my sig. 

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 17 October 2012, 09:27:18

Quote from: Hyde on Wed, 17 October 2012, 08:44:42

Yeah I can get a Modem M for around $60 but shipping will be around $40 so in the end it will be around $100.  Damn you high shipping cost.

Unicomp will be a bit cheaper because it's slightly lighter and smaller but would still more more expensive than Model M I think.  Mmmmm choices....

Clearly you should get both.

If not, then you could try the Unicomp "Bargain Basement" Kentucky version +/- a few normal keycaps for less money.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: 0100010 on Wed, 17 October 2012, 11:14:14

I went through the same decision process myself a couple weeks ago.  Decided on a Unicomp, since I have no significant nostalgic desire towards a Model M in general (but I do want an M13 and an SSK).

I wanted an all black / blank Unicomp, and there were several paths to get there :

($102), $79 for a black classic + $23 for black keys, or
($89) for a blank black custom, or
($103.50), $59 for the wildcat + $23 for keys + $20 for case + $1.50 for LED cover

You can tell by my avatar which route I went...

Title: Re: Unicomp Model M or IBM Model M?
Post by: jkercado on Wed, 17 October 2012, 11:23:03

I had a 1993 Model M at the office, but I decided that I wanted a more modern looking device, plus to also have the advantages of having a brand-new unit with warranty, and "native" USB support. I went with the Ultra Classic 104. Very happy with my decision; the Unicomp actually feels smoother and lighter than my old Model M. Plus it looks great (look at my avatar!). Unicomp makes great stuff.