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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Fandom on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:17:02

Title: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Fandom on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:17:02
Hey guys,

I recently bought a Filco Majestouch-2 Ninja, and while overally impressed by the quality of the keyboard, I was met with the dreaded ping issue.. ever since then, I've spent an unhealthy amount of time on these forums already, enough to know a few things about a lot of keyboards out there (and about guys like ripster too).

I've decided to return the Filco in hopes that it was simply defective, as certain keys ping MUCH more than most of them, but enough to annoy when typing in a silent room.

Here's where I need your help:
I'm looking for a no-bull**** keyboard, it does not need: LEDs, macro keys, media keys, USB ports (ok those would be nice, but not needed), detachable cable. Portability is not an issue.
It could be preferably Full Size, but TKL could be acceptable too. It should have nice and durable keycaps (LOVED the ones on the Filco). If they could be blank too, that would be even better. last but not least, I'm looking for it in Europe.

As I am mainly typing/browsing 80% of the time, and gaming only 20%, I'm looking for Brown switches: the ones on the Filco felt really nice. I haven't tested red yet, blacks were too heavy and blues too noisy for my preference (but I can see how they could be awesome for certain people).

I am starting to narrow it down to:
Zowie Celeritas (the speed thing is probably completely useless, and I'm worried about the keycaps)
QuickFire TKL (rubber keycaps are apparently nice, but I'm worried about this whole 'convertible numpad' and how useful/annoying it might be)

I'm really looking forward to your suggestions guys. I loved the Filco, and didn't mind paying for it, as it would have been perfect if I didn't feel I was playing the piano when there was no music in the background.

Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: funkymeeba on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:20:37
Ping!
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Photekq on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:21:18
You could try a KBT oni or KBT one. They come with PBT caps.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: SmallFry on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:21:36
(http://assets.diylol.com/hfs/2b6/8cf/b0b/resized/too-damn-high-meme-generator-the-ping-is-too-damn-high-f8c369.jpg)
Title: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:22:14
McRip effect strikes again...
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: t2russo on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:28:27
Springs releasing occasionally ping.  I don't know if you will end up chasing the dragon trying to avoid that.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Skull_Angel on Thu, 28 March 2013, 22:34:31
"Lube mod the spring to reduce the ping!"
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: morpheus on Thu, 28 March 2013, 23:29:43
Get the HPE 87 Brown from Qtan.

Mine came lubed and ready to go. It's relatively quiet and a dream to type on. The only key that comes close to "ping-ing" is the space bar.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 29 March 2013, 00:11:53
As mentioned the springs are the ultimate cause of ping (and to some extent stabilizers), and I firmly believe that any keyboard, but particularly plate systems can ping, the only difference is how loud it is. In the case of the Filco, I think the plate and case design actually amplifies it. My BW Ultimate does it and so does my Das, they just aren't as loud, probably due to the way the plate is held in place. It can't vibrate and ring as easily.

As such, the goal is to stop both vibration (and amplification).
Lubing the springs (and stabilizers) can help as the springs can move easier and not snap, sort of like tectonic plates, as long as they slide free, no earthquakes, bind up, and they eventually snap. A more solid case can act as a damper (due to stiffness and mass) and supporting the plate better, thus it no longer amplifies the ping, admittedly, that isn't exactly a cheap method. Thin key caps also amplify it, so double thick caps may help (I have yet to try them). Other things to try is foam under the board (I use foam that comes with motherboards), and putting silicone or disk brake squeal stop on the plate (I have to try it, but it's cheap at parts stores), both filling the air holes, and dampening vibration. While cheap and easy, these will likely have the least effect.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: OnTheBrink on Fri, 29 March 2013, 00:14:16
Don't mean to hijack the thread but check out what I say here about this very topic:

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40745.msg810673#msg810673

Also my video here:

list=PL__n_9ODMKvfwzYEyochqaWekNOVPUFhQ&index=1
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 29 March 2013, 01:47:03
Also my video here:
list=PL__n_9ODMKvfwzYEyochqaWekNOVPUFhQ&index=1
I'm not saying Ducky is better or worse (I haven't even seen a Ducky in person).

A lot of the noise on your Filco spacebar is related to the amount of lube. Some companies use more, some less. Adding a bit would really alter how it sounds and feels. This applies to both types of stabilizers. I would bet the Ducky didn't spare any, while Filco seems to be rather cheap about it.

As to the key wobble, it's mostly the switch itself. I have one keyboard with keys that are so tight, I though it would break the stem coming off, and they still wobble as much as much as you show in the video. There is speculation that Cherry has changed something recently in the switches as there seems to be an uptick in number of bad switches, particularly blues not clicking.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: stingrae on Fri, 29 March 2013, 10:14:26
hmm sadly ping is a risk with any mechanical keyboard. So uhh get an old das ultimate model s....and if it pings just keep it and remember everyday that you aren't typing on those awful dome boards =|

Other options: wait for cm storm to release their next full keyboard, buy a quickfire rapid and learn not to need the numpad...

Edit: you may find keyboards ping less when put on a mat it also removes the potential wobble issues...
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: swagpiratex on Fri, 29 March 2013, 12:18:26
You just need to keep typing on it, usually the ping goes away after you switch out the keycaps.

Anyways, you would be looking at CM Quickfire Rapid if you're okay with TKL, or a full-size Leopold.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: OnTheBrink on Fri, 29 March 2013, 13:08:12
Also my video here:
list=PL__n_9ODMKvfwzYEyochqaWekNOVPUFhQ&index=1
I'm not saying Ducky is better or worse (I haven't even seen a Ducky in person).

A lot of the noise on your Filco spacebar is related to the amount of lube. Some companies use more, some less. Adding a bit would really alter how it sounds and feels. This applies to both types of stabilizers. I would bet the Ducky didn't spare any, while Filco seems to be rather cheap about it.

As to the key wobble, it's mostly the switch itself. I have one keyboard with keys that are so tight, I though it would break the stem coming off, and they still wobble as much as much as you show in the video. There is speculation that Cherry has changed something recently in the switches as there seems to be an uptick in number of bad switches, particularly blues not clicking.

I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: flizz on Fri, 29 March 2013, 13:37:09
you'll end up back to Filco, it just feels right :)
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 29 March 2013, 15:59:13
I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.

I have several hundred switches spanning several years, you can actually watch the stem move more in some of them, and usually it's the newer ones moving more than the older  more worn out ones. The last bunch of clears I got, at least 2 of the 100 batch were so bad they wouldn't even click and wobbled more than the older switches I have. So yes, there is some variance in them. Caps can add to it as well, but it's not all of it. As for the switch moving, if it was moving, the solder joints or pins would break insanely fast. It doesn't take much to rip off the pins or break them.

I still think the Filco is noisier due to the plate design, the case does almost nothing to help dampen the noise.

While I do think Filco is overpriced, and a bit over-rated, they are still one of the best options. Though admittedly, other companies are really starting to close in. The QFR being one of the leaders on this, give it another year and Filco will be in dire need of an update or price drop.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Grim Fandango on Fri, 29 March 2013, 16:26:59
Oh, the dreaded ping issue rears its ugly head again.

I have it on both my filco's. One of them even pings when I press the space-bar. I found that once I stopped worrying about it, I really do not hear or notice it, especially since I do not bottom out on every keystroke. I found that when it comes to mechanical keyboards, worrying about rattle, squeak and ping will make your life lot harder. I am not trying to trivialize it, or tell you that you should not care, I am just saying you should do yourself a favor and  not go OCD about it.

I remember when I told a friend that a lot of the Logitech mice have this high pitched static beep (like an old CRT television). He put his ear to his G500 (which he already had for a while by then).... and it suddenly bugged him. What I am saying is, you have to put it into perspective and see how it affects you in actual use, rather than when sitting there hard-pressing the keys that give the most pronounced ping until you go crazy.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: bazemk1979 on Fri, 29 March 2013, 17:42:20
Show Image
(http://assets.diylol.com/hfs/2b6/8cf/b0b/resized/too-damn-high-meme-generator-the-ping-is-too-damn-high-f8c369.jpg)

Preach it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: OnTheBrink on Fri, 29 March 2013, 18:48:02
I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.
While I do think Filco is overpriced, and a bit over-rated, they are still one of the best options. Though admittedly, other companies are really starting to close in. The QFR being one of the leaders on this, give it another year and Filco will be in dire need of an update or price drop.

This is where I disagree. I just cannot justify, even at this present time, someone purchasing a Filco Majestouch 2 at $130 when you can get a Ducky Shine 2 for $10 cheaper and includes full backlighting with amazing lighting effects and options, dip switch options, removable USB cable (with routing on the bottom makes this udoubtabely a pro), quieter case design, better quality stock keys and a far more active presence.

I could go on, but disagreeing with these points would just be doing so for that sake of doing.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 29 March 2013, 19:17:14
This is where I disagree. I just cannot justify, even at this present time, someone purchasing a Filco Majestouch 2 at $130 when you can get a Ducky Shine 2 for $10 cheaper and includes full backlighting with amazing lighting effects and options, dip switch options, removable USB cable (with routing on the bottom makes this udoubtabely a pro), quieter case design, better quality stock keys and a far more active presence.

I could go on, but disagreeing with these points would just be doing so for that sake of doing.
And despite all that, they are still selling quite well. While you can say that we here at GH over promote it, we are but a small, teeny tiny fraction of the keyboard buying public. Maybe there is a sea of change coming, maybe Ducky will become the next Filco.  Who knows.

At any rate,
Lighting and removable cables are personal preference and some see them as just more things to go wrong. Dip switches are only good if you use them. And stock keycaps? This is Geek Hack, we don't use stock keycaps.  ;D

One small question, any aluminum cases fit your keyboard?
At the end of the day, Filco is still the standard everything is measured by and made to fit.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Fandom on Fri, 29 March 2013, 19:18:31
Thanks for the replies guys. I've been using the Filco for a couple days now, I don't think the ping has improved at all, but I don't hear it during the day; in the evening though, it gets really annoying. It literally sounds like this: clackclackclackping clackclackpingclacpingclackclackping. It's bugging me. It's almost like I can hear windows making an error sound (even though I turned off windows error sounds 12 years ago).

I've heard of the Ducky Shine 2 before but since I didn't particularly care about the LEDs I didn't pay it much attention. Plus I think in the forum threads I visited at the time, a lot of people were favorable of the Filco instead among the two. I guess it comes down to preference. Do you know anywhere in Europe that it's being sold?

Two questions. What's 'dip switch options', and, are the Ducky Shine 2 keycaps better than the rubber ones on the Quickstorm TK?



 

Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 29 March 2013, 19:19:58
Dip switches let you alter the key layout.
For example some let you disable the winkey, or turn capslock into CTRL.

I don't know about the Ducky caps, but if they aren't doubleshot then they will wear through and expose the lighting underneath at some point. Could be 6 weeks, could be 2 years.



Edit: Ducky uses a laser to engrave the keys, which means they will eventually bleed through.
Not as much of a plus as made out to be.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Photekq on Fri, 29 March 2013, 19:30:47
I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.
While I do think Filco is overpriced, and a bit over-rated, they are still one of the best options. Though admittedly, other companies are really starting to close in. The QFR being one of the leaders on this, give it another year and Filco will be in dire need of an update or price drop.

This is where I disagree. I just cannot justify, even at this present time, someone purchasing a Filco Majestouch 2 at $130 when you can get a Ducky Shine 2 for $10 cheaper and includes full backlighting with amazing lighting effects and options, dip switch options, removable USB cable (with routing on the bottom makes this udoubtabely a pro), quieter case design, better quality stock keys and a far more active presence.

I could go on, but disagreeing with these points would just be doing so for that sake of doing.
Just because you cannot justify it doesn't mean that others can't. You have to remember that it's entirely a matter of opinion, and just because you like a feature doesn't mean that everyone else does aswell. I know that a lot of people dislike backlighting, and find the lighting effects vulgar. I also know that a lot of people don't care about removable cables and DIP switch options. Also, you complain about the keys with stabilisers making a noise.. This is because they're costar stabilisers and not cherry stabilisers. I, and many others, think cherry stabilisers feel mushy and would prefer costars... it's just unfortunate that costars usually make a noise without lubrication.

I have tried a new Ducky model (can't remember the exact model) that my friend owns, and I do agree that it's a high quality board. I would go so far as to say that its quality is on par with the Filco's, but I disagree that its quality is better than that of the Filco.

At the end of the day it really is all opinion. The things you're complaining about are things that some people actually like, and the things that you like about the Ducky are not things that everyone likes. I have no problem with you voicing your opinion, but it annoys me when you say things as if they are facts. For example in the comments of your video you said :
Quote
Filcos are overpriced and over hyped. Ducky is the top brand and is getting more recognition now. The difference on Geekhack forums has been favorable towards the, now too. I think anyone who has their newer line (Ducky Shine 2 and Pro) is recognizing them as the leader in quality, originality and innovation.
Most of that, if not all of that, is false or a matter of opinion and I can say with certainty that none of it is fact.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 29 March 2013, 19:56:29
I Agree Ducky Shine is probably the Best board... IF YOU DON"T want to mod....

If you gonna MOD... then Filco is still the board to get..
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 29 March 2013, 21:51:18
My choice for no-bull**** tier:

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=220

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=206

My choice for no-bull**** no-modding CHEAP tier:

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=262
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: zoolzoo on Sat, 30 March 2013, 06:59:35
My choice would be a Filco.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Fandom on Sat, 30 March 2013, 09:46:30
My choice for no-bull**** tier:

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=220

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=206

My choice for no-bull**** no-modding CHEAP tier:

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=262

Thanks! Those are all interesting options.
I've read a few horror stories about Vortex keyboards; should I be worried? Especially since I can't find them available in Europe anywhere.
Comparing the Ducky Zero to the Shine 2, what differences are there aside of the backlighting?
Title: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: aggiejy on Sat, 30 March 2013, 09:53:51
I got another Filco recently and it was VERY pingy compared to my others out of the box. But as soon as I put different key caps on it and used it for about a week, it's as normal as can be. Not sure why some are pingier than others out of the box.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 30 March 2013, 10:33:45

Thanks! Those are all interesting options.
I've read a few horror stories about Vortex keyboards; should I be worried? Especially since I can't find them available in Europe anywhere.
Comparing the Ducky Zero to the Shine 2, what differences are there aside of the backlighting?

I honestly can't vouch for the Vortex bc I've never owned it but Duckys I can vouch for because I've owned multiple. I believe the only difference is the back lighting but i cant check to make sure right now because im on my phone. I actually have a thread on the ducky zero somewhere on the forums. I'd say the ducky zero is the best value keyboard out right now for the amount of technical features you get for the cheap price.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: OnTheBrink on Sat, 30 March 2013, 23:21:38
I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.
While I do think Filco is overpriced, and a bit over-rated, they are still one of the best options. Though admittedly, other companies are really starting to close in. The QFR being one of the leaders on this, give it another year and Filco will be in dire need of an update or price drop.

This is where I disagree. I just cannot justify, even at this present time, someone purchasing a Filco Majestouch 2 at $130 when you can get a Ducky Shine 2 for $10 cheaper and includes full backlighting with amazing lighting effects and options, dip switch options, removable USB cable (with routing on the bottom makes this udoubtabely a pro), quieter case design, better quality stock keys and a far more active presence.

I could go on, but disagreeing with these points would just be doing so for that sake of doing.
Just because you cannot justify it doesn't mean that others can't. You have to remember that it's entirely a matter of opinion, and just because you like a feature doesn't mean that everyone else does aswell. I know that a lot of people dislike backlighting, and find the lighting effects vulgar. I also know that a lot of people don't care about removable cables and DIP switch options. Also, you complain about the keys with stabilisers making a noise.. This is because they're costar stabilisers and not cherry stabilisers. I, and many others, think cherry stabilisers feel mushy and would prefer costars... it's just unfortunate that costars usually make a noise without lubrication.

I have tried a new Ducky model (can't remember the exact model) that my friend owns, and I do agree that it's a high quality board. I would go so far as to say that its quality is on par with the Filco's, but I disagree that its quality is better than that of the Filco.

At the end of the day it really is all opinion. The things you're complaining about are things that some people actually like, and the things that you like about the Ducky are not things that everyone likes. I have no problem with you voicing your opinion, but it annoys me when you say things as if they are facts. For example in the comments of your video you said :
Quote
Filcos are overpriced and over hyped. Ducky is the top brand and is getting more recognition now. The difference on Geekhack forums has been favorable towards the, now too. I think anyone who has their newer line (Ducky Shine 2 and Pro) is recognizing them as the leader in quality, originality and innovation.
Most of that, if not all of that, is false or a matter of opinion and I can say with certainty that none of it is fact.

I don't have to remember anything and my point stands. I am not trying to be rude, but it seems like you are missing the context of the post. I am not saying that others cannot justify buying a Filco, but rather that "I" cannot justify it. Especially when cheaper boards, like the Ducky Shine 2 in this example, are cheaper yet add additional options and even as you say, are on par or better made than the Filco.

Like I said, I FEEL that they are over hyped and over priced. If anyone disagrees, then like I said, they are simply disagreeing for the sake of disagreeing. Whether or not people care about those additional options, the fact is they still remain at a cheaper price point. This is not opinion... this is fact.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Photekq on Sat, 30 March 2013, 23:51:55
I think the wobble has a lot to do with how the switch is attached to the surrounding casing and plate. Also, the sounds were not from lube or lack there of, it was because the inner bar was either bent or not constructed properly and was causing it to feel loose within the key. I would chalk this up to something I might have done, but it was present on every stabilized key.

My Ducky Shine 2, when I first got it, was stiff from needing lube and the difference between poor manufacturing and 'needing lube' is definitely something more felt. The squeek in my Ducky was more of a 'brand new' feeling and eventually broke in. But the sounds the Filco made when using it made it feel cheap. It's hard to explain, which is why I created the video.

What I really don't understand is how the Filco was more noisy even when I switched the keys to the Ducky ones just to make side by side comparison. I know I say this a lot, but I feel like Filco is hugely over hyped and there are a plethora of better boards with more options on the market. I was simply not impressed and like I said, it is more of a feeling. When I cracked open my Ducky Shine 2, I immediately noticed the difference. Hard to explain, but it just oozes quality and attention to detail.
While I do think Filco is overpriced, and a bit over-rated, they are still one of the best options. Though admittedly, other companies are really starting to close in. The QFR being one of the leaders on this, give it another year and Filco will be in dire need of an update or price drop.

This is where I disagree. I just cannot justify, even at this present time, someone purchasing a Filco Majestouch 2 at $130 when you can get a Ducky Shine 2 for $10 cheaper and includes full backlighting with amazing lighting effects and options, dip switch options, removable USB cable (with routing on the bottom makes this udoubtabely a pro), quieter case design, better quality stock keys and a far more active presence.

I could go on, but disagreeing with these points would just be doing so for that sake of doing.
Just because you cannot justify it doesn't mean that others can't. You have to remember that it's entirely a matter of opinion, and just because you like a feature doesn't mean that everyone else does aswell. I know that a lot of people dislike backlighting, and find the lighting effects vulgar. I also know that a lot of people don't care about removable cables and DIP switch options. Also, you complain about the keys with stabilisers making a noise.. This is because they're costar stabilisers and not cherry stabilisers. I, and many others, think cherry stabilisers feel mushy and would prefer costars... it's just unfortunate that costars usually make a noise without lubrication.

I have tried a new Ducky model (can't remember the exact model) that my friend owns, and I do agree that it's a high quality board. I would go so far as to say that its quality is on par with the Filco's, but I disagree that its quality is better than that of the Filco.

At the end of the day it really is all opinion. The things you're complaining about are things that some people actually like, and the things that you like about the Ducky are not things that everyone likes. I have no problem with you voicing your opinion, but it annoys me when you say things as if they are facts. For example in the comments of your video you said :
Quote
Filcos are overpriced and over hyped. Ducky is the top brand and is getting more recognition now. The difference on Geekhack forums has been favorable towards the, now too. I think anyone who has their newer line (Ducky Shine 2 and Pro) is recognizing them as the leader in quality, originality and innovation.
Most of that, if not all of that, is false or a matter of opinion and I can say with certainty that none of it is fact.

I don't have to remember anything and my point stands. I am not trying to be rude, but it seems like you are missing the context of the post. I am not saying that others cannot justify buying a Filco, but rather that "I" cannot justify it. Especially when cheaper boards, like the Ducky Shine 2 in this example, are cheaper yet add additional options and even as you say, are on par or better made than the Filco.

Like I said, I FEEL that they are over hyped and over priced. If anyone disagrees, then like I said, they are simply disagreeing for the sake of disagreeing. Whether or not people care about those additional options, the fact is they still remain at a cheaper price point. This is not opinion... this is fact.

You feel that they're overhyped and overpriced, and yet you said "Filcos are overpriced and over hyped. Ducky is the top brand and is getting more recognition now. The difference on Geekhack forums has been favorable towards the, now too. I think anyone who has their newer line (Ducky Shine 2 and Pro) is recognizing them as the leader in quality, originality and innovation." in the comments of your video.

Like I said (or implied) before : I respect your points and opinions and I think some of them are valid, it just annoys me slightly when people voice their opinions as if they are fact.

The things I said weren't all my personal opinions.. I'm just telling you why people may choose the Filco over the Ducky. Also, when I said 'I would go so far as to say that its quality is on par with the Filco's' I only meant in certain areas. From my experience with the two boards (a few months with the Filco, and 1-2 weeks with a Ducky that had been used for a few months by someone else) I still think the Filco is a better quality board overall and I prefer the feel of it. I guess that is where our opinions differ.

I know that the Duckys are cheaper but the Filcos and the Duckys are different boards with different qualities and price points. Just because the Filco costs more does not make it overpriced. If you think it's overpriced then fair enough, just don't go around stating it as fact.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 31 March 2013, 01:55:31
(http://cdn.chud.com/2/23/238c351a_Eating-Popcorn-3-michael-jackson-21626092-257-192.gif)
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: jabar on Sun, 31 March 2013, 02:26:31
Filco would be much better if they didn't continue to sell keyboards with their terrible ABS keycaps.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 31 March 2013, 02:31:54
Filco would be much better if they didn't continue to sell keyboards with their terrible ABS keycaps.

+1 to that.

It seems the Filco keycaps are a love or hate issue. Some people love the Filco keycaps and others seem to absolutely abhor them for the sticky feeling they get when worn. As much as I love PBT's the most, I actually don't mind the feeling of shining Ducky ABS keycaps; they kind of feels nice and smooth. I have yet to feel Filco shinies so I wouldn't know.

tl;dr - PBT > ABS, IMO :P

P.S. jabar, we just recently joined the 400 club together :D That's two clubs we're together in <3

Edit: P.P.S. We're in 3 clubs together! G500! <333
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: ShivaYash on Sun, 31 March 2013, 04:37:36
This is an interesting thread... perhaps mechanical boards aren't for you, your complaint is of something most are seeking, an audible click, that some would call a PING. I have the FILCO with dampeners and Cherry MX browns... it has been well used for nearly 6 months now, and it is pure silk. But yes, it is a loud board. The dampeners have helped with the noise but when I use it, it is clear that I am typing. I use it in my home office, and for work, if I had to share an office, it would not be the right board.

Good luck on your quest.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: zoolzoo on Sun, 31 March 2013, 07:33:43
You probably wanna go with the Filco I think.
Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Grim Fandango on Mon, 01 April 2013, 08:28:12
This is an interesting thread... perhaps mechanical boards aren't for you, your complaint is of something most are seeking, an audible click, that some would call a PING. I have the FILCO with dampeners and Cherry MX browns... it has been well used for nearly 6 months now, and it is pure silk. But yes, it is a loud board. The dampeners have helped with the noise but when I use it, it is clear that I am typing. I use it in my home office, and for work, if I had to share an office, it would not be the right board.

Good luck on your quest.

Nah, what people usually refer to as Ping , is the "ping" sound that some boards have after you pressed a key and release. It is quite different from the feedback that is part of the switch, and is a known "issue" on Filco keyboards.

While I own a Filco, I have to agree that they are a bit too expensive at this point. I am happy with what I got and what I paid for it, but at the price point, there are a lot of appealing alternatives. One thing that would make the filco a more appealing option would be if they would use a different keycap. The standard ones are ABS, but also look bad, with inconsistent sloppy print. This is perhaps my biggest, or really only issue with the filcos.

Title: Re: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: Abacus1234 on Mon, 01 April 2013, 13:04:55
This issue seems common to plate mounted boards in general. My Quickfire Rapid has a couple of keys that make a slight pingy sound when I release the key. I think it just has to do with plates not absorbing vibrations very well.
Title: Turned Filco down -- what else is out there?
Post by: ShivaYash on Thu, 04 April 2013, 12:33:31
Poor printing of key caps on filco boards? Perhaps you have a bad batch? I am very picky and all my keys are 100% perfect.