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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: zwmalone on Mon, 19 January 2009, 18:59:24

Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: zwmalone on Mon, 19 January 2009, 18:59:24: The Cherry G80-3000LSCRC-2 is only $65 here (http://www.poshouse.com/item.asp?PID=3737&CID=61) :D It's black even though the picture is white. It's a USB model so no adapter necessary for use but I don't think it's US layout :(
Still a good deal though. I figured I'd post it for anyone who is still looking for a cheap Cherry Blue board (I am :)) and didn't want to risk the reliability issues of the Scorpius M10.
It is US layout with extra character printing on the keycaps.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Chloe on Mon, 19 January 2009, 19:31:09: I think RC is for Chinese/US layout:
http://goods.ruten.com.tw/item/show?11080922198685
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: zwmalone on Mon, 19 January 2009, 19:34:00: So it is a standard US layout with extra keycap printings?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Chloe on Mon, 19 January 2009, 19:42:58: Based on the photo I would say yes.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: zwmalone on Mon, 19 January 2009, 19:45:50: Duly noted.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Chloe on Mon, 19 January 2009, 19:59:21: Some clearer pictures:
http://goods.ruten.com.tw/item/show?11081030621891
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: sandy55 on Tue, 20 January 2009, 00:09:32: Both link don't work for me but I assume RC ( in LSCRC ) stands for Republic China.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: xyzzy on Tue, 20 January 2009, 03:34:04: Quote from: sandy55;18880
Both link don't work for me but I assume RC ( in LSCRC ) stands for Republic China.

Here you go ;)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lowpoly on Tue, 20 January 2009, 06:10:36: I think the extra characters on the keycaps are cool.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Tue, 10 March 2009, 20:12:03: Thread bump :)

This morning I found a comparatively great deal on the G80-3000LSCRC-2 here (http://www.geminicomputersinc.com/g80-3000lscrc-2.html) and I went ahead and ordered one. The seller seems to have a lot of traffic and has great reviews seen here (http://www.google.com/products/reviews?fq=g80-3000+black&cid=e400b4c5b5813364&sort=1&cat=merchants). If it does come with the extra printings, no problem; I second lowpoly in that it seems cool. The great news is that shipping is free (as of now), so my grand total was only $66.25 with three day UPS ground.

If it is of any help I will report what key printings are on the RC model so we have reference. :D

Cheers.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Tue, 10 March 2009, 20:39:18: The RC has english and chinese characters. I just got one. The chinese kind of bug me personally, but the biggest pain is the lack of bumps on the F and H keys. I can get used to both of those things, though. I never look at my keyboard when I'm typing so I won't really even notice once I stop thinking about it. I've also been thinking of putting blank black keys on instead of the letters and numbers to make a half-stealth keyboard, but I'm having a hard time figuring out what would look good.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 10 March 2009, 22:50:53: So tempting. I'm currently repeating to myself that I should not buy another keyboard. Which vendor would you guys recommend between http://www.poshouse.com and geminicomputers.com? I have to e-mail them and see if they ship via USPS, which seems to be best as far as custom broker fee is concerned when shipping North of the border.

This keyboard is motivating me to do my tax returns to see if I will get a refund or not :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Tue, 10 March 2009, 23:16:59: Quote
Which vendor would you guys recommend between http://www.poshouse.com and geminicomputers.com?

Well, I haven't received my board just yet. However judging by the reviews and traffic of Gemini I would go with them for reliability. Gemini is also located in New York if that plays well for you. I live in Oregon so it has some ways to travel lol. However, they could have warehouses elsewhere.

After scouting over poshouse.com it seems that they will be a great choice too and they are located in California. I guess when it comes down to it you can choose which company is closest to you and charges less for shipping :D

For others here (http://www.poshouse.com/item.asp?PID=3737&CID=61) is poshouse.com's listing.

Err . . edit on this note. POShouse charges $19.95 for ground shipping in the US which makes the board $84.90 there. Stick with Gemini for now :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: cmr on Tue, 10 March 2009, 23:32:19: i haven't had any problems with my m10 since that brief business with the spacebar sending two strokes, which only went on for a couple of days
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: o2dazone on Wed, 11 March 2009, 23:14:24: Does anyone know if the blue cherries in the G80-3000LSCRC-2 sound and/or feel any different than the dasIII or Scorpius M10?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: chongyixiong on Thu, 12 March 2009, 01:21:50: http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=150

How about this? Is this blue cherries?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: zwmalone on Thu, 12 March 2009, 08:03:21: Nobody knows. Although it would be killer if it wer as the board is only $20-40...
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Thu, 12 March 2009, 09:20:35: I emailed Cherry to see if they can sell replacement keys (with just English letters or all blank).

I have not heard back from DataCal yet. I asked them the same question.

After seeing the all black keyed Unicomp in the mods section, I've been thinking of doing the same to the G80-3000.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Thu, 12 March 2009, 09:32:57: I was told by Cherry to contact DataCal. If I don't hear back from DC in a couple days, I'll just give them a call.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 12 March 2009, 09:56:35: FKSSR, try this contact info. She'll be glad you called. (You might want to tell her you're from GeekHack) :)

Loree L. Rolnick
Sales Director
DataCal Enterprises
1345 N. Mondel Dr
Gilbert, AZ 85233
480-813-3108 Phone
480-813-3280 Fax

lrolnick@datacal.com
http://www.datacal.com
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Thu, 12 March 2009, 10:23:33: Awesome! Will do! I need to decide exactly what I'm doing with my G80-300 first and wait for another paycheck. I'll also be ordering some replacement keys for the Filco I'm going to get (ordering some light gray ones for a few keys as it will be for gaming).
Title: Your precious advice needed
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 12 March 2009, 16:26:38: I looked for advice from this board and was able to make a good decision when buying my Dell. Once again, I need your advice. How is this keyboard? Is it clicky and tactile similar to the Das (even though I have never seen a Das in person)?

The reason why I'm asking is I'm very tempted in getting this one (and a SpaceSaver too). I called GeminiComputers.com and they only charge $10.00 for shipping through FedEx ground. The person on the phone told me that FedEx should not collect any custom broker fee like for the Customizer, because they use their own broker. $66.25+$10.00 = $76.25 X 1.33 = (about) CDN $101.42. Not bad, considering I'll be getting a refund from my income tax returns :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: zwmalone on Thu, 12 March 2009, 16:28:19: Same exact switches as the das but without the rollover issues :p
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Fri, 13 March 2009, 00:38:45: Quote from: FKSSR;24266
I emailed Cherry to see if they can sell replacement keys (with just English letters or all blank).

I have not heard back from DataCal yet. I asked them the same question.

After seeing the all black keyed Unicomp in the mods section, I've been thinking of doing the same to the G80-3000.

I spoke with them and Signature Plastics. As with any small order the prices are a bit high. Here are the quotes I requested:

Ron from DataCal states:
"I don't really have a minimum but the nature of the business makes small production runs very expensive. Setting up to make blank keys in this case would be about $900. Set up for printing one color would be $250. Depending on your quantity this could add a little or a lot to your per unit cost."

Mellisa from Signature Plastics took the time to fill out a nice quote for me:
Pricing for the full 104 keyboard:

Blanks / Pad Printed / Sublimated
1 set $ 518.71 / set $ 795.79 / set $ 792.69 /
set
2 sets $ 269.01 / set $ 443.56 / set $ 420.40 /
set
3 sets $ 185.78 / set $ 326.14 / set $ 296.30 /
set
4 sets $ 144.15 / set $ 267.44 / set $ 234.25 /
set
5 sets $ 119.18 / set $ 232.21 / set $ 197.03 /
set
10 sets $ 69.24 / set $ 161.76 / set $ 122.56 / set

Pricing for the 'Alphabet and Number' section (total of 36 single size keys)
Blanks / Pad Printed / Sublimated
1 set $ 148.33 / set $ 232.33 / set $ 265.09 /
set
2 sets $ 76.98 / set $ 128.90 / set $ 145.65 /
set
3 sets $ 53.20 / set $ 94.42 / set $ 105.80 /
set
4 sets $ 41.31 / set $ 77.19 / set $ 85.89 /
set
5 sets $ 34.18 / set $ 68.84 / set $ 73.94 /
set
10 sets $ 19.91 / set $ 46.16 / set $ 50.05 / set

Quote from: patrickgeekhack;24329
I looked for advice from this board and was able to make a good decision when buying my Dell. Once again, I need your advice. How is this keyboard? Is it clicky and tactile similar to the Das (even though I have never seen a Das in person)?

The reason why I'm asking is I'm very tempted in getting this one (and a SpaceSaver too). I called GeminiComputers.com and they only charge $10.00 for shipping through FedEx ground. The person on the phone told me that FedEx should not collect any custom broker fee like for the Customizer, because they use their own broker. $66.25+$10.00 = $76.25 X 1.33 = (about) CDN $101.42. Not bad, considering I'll be getting a refund from my income tax returns :)

I am experimenting with the Das right now so I am quite thrilled to get the G80-3000. Wellington posted a great thread using a program called NoisyKeyboard that demonstrates different key clicks here (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=880) :)

I also spoke with GeminiComputers the other day, just to see if my order was moving along without issue. They were very nice and informative. Btw, that is a pretty good deal too!

Quote from: o2dazone;24201
Does anyone know if the blue cherries in the G80-3000LSCRC-2 sound and/or feel any different than the dasIII or Scorpius M10?

Not sure if they feel any different but according to the audio thread by Wellington the Das and M10 sound a bit different.

Quote from: zwmalone;24330
Same exact switches as the das but without the rollover issues :p

I can't wait to give it a shot :D
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 13 March 2009, 09:04:01: Quote from: Mur;24363
Ron from DataCal states:
"I don't really have a minimum but the nature of the business makes small production runs very expensive. Setting up to make blank keys in this case would be about $900. Set up for printing one color would be $250. Depending on your quantity this could add a little or a lot to your per unit cost."

Mellisa from Signature Plastics took the time to fill out a nice quote for me:
Pricing for the full 104 keyboard:
...

Ouch! That's rough. However, if enough people on the board wanted a specific type of key (such as blank black) for cherry boards, it could be worth it. I would be in...

I would think that DataCal would stock up on many different colors of keys for their different orders. Blank black may be a little different, but even that could be a good investment for them, I would think.

Maybe Das Keyboard has extra blank keys they would sell... I'll email them. :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 13 March 2009, 09:33:14: Quote
Maybe Das Keyboard has extra blank keys they would sell... I'll email them.

I have e-mailed them in the past on this, and they have said they do not sell extra key sets. This might be due to them not manufacturing their own 'boards.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 13 March 2009, 10:17:05: Crap... That stinks. You'd think they would at least be able to sell them to people that bought the Das boards with legends...or direct you to a place where you can buy the keys.

Well, I already emailed them, so I'll let you know if they say something different this time.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 13 March 2009, 11:25:07: Das just gave me the same response:

"Unfortunately, we do not sell blank key caps."

Ugh.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 13 March 2009, 12:09:25: I think I'll order one tonight. I have to place the order on the phone since I used a 6-character postal code, whereas the site is setup to use a 5-digit zip code.

I'm hoping I'm not making a mistake. May the force be with me.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lam47 on Fri, 13 March 2009, 13:15:38: I was told by Das that they planned on selling complete key cap sets some time this year.
I have the email somewhere.

Dear Laurie,

I hope this email finds you well.

We are currently working on obtaining replacement key-sets from our manufacturer. It is our aim to have this completed at the beginning of the new year. We do have some keys in stock however, so if you are looking for a specific key I am able to send something to you, otherwise we will need to wait a bit.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Thank you, Alisha
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 13 March 2009, 13:48:53: lam47: When did you receive that message? I'm wondering if that is still their plan. The person that answered my email didn't say that, but I'm wondering if I should ask.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 13 March 2009, 14:44:22: Quote from: FKSSR;24079
The RC has english and chinese characters. I just got one. The chinese kind of bug me personally, but the biggest pain is the lack of bumps on the F and H keys. I can get used to both of those things, though. I never look at my keyboard when I'm typing so I won't really even notice once I stop thinking about it. I've also been thinking of putting blank black keys on instead of the letters and numbers to make a half-stealth keyboard, but I'm having a hard time figuring out what would look good.

How do you like your Cherry G80-3000? I'm still debating on what to do :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Fri, 13 March 2009, 15:18:36: Quote from: FKSSR;24370
Ouch! That's rough. However, if enough people on the board wanted a specific type of key (such as blank black) for cherry boards, it could be worth it. I would be in...

I would think that DataCal would stock up on many different colors of keys for their different orders. Blank black may be a little different, but even that could be a good investment for them, I would think.

Maybe Das Keyboard has extra blank keys they would sell... I'll email them. :)

I would totally want to get in on that. Maybe we should start a separate thread and see if people would like to do an order ;)

Quote from: lam47;24389
I was told by Das that they planned on selling complete key cap sets some time this year.
I have the email somewhere.

Dear Laurie,

I hope this email finds you well.

We are currently working on obtaining replacement key-sets from our manufacturer. It is our aim to have this completed at the beginning of the new year. We do have some keys in stock however, so if you are looking for a specific key I am able to send something to you, otherwise we will need to wait a bit.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Thank you, Alisha

This would be awesome. I hope they are still working out a plan to obtain their key-sets.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 13 March 2009, 15:33:46: I really like the G80-3000.

Here are the two "negatives" I have so far (my positive first impressions are posted in this thread or another one already):
1.) It's too loud to take to my work and type on.
2.) Since I have an AT101W at my work, I'm getting used to the heavier feel of alps, and typing on the blue cherries sort of feels like I'm typing on a toy at times. However, I feel if I typed on the blue cherries more often, I would actually prefer them a lot more.

Saying that, I still really like it a lot. I really want to get a brown cherry board to see if I like it better than the blue cherries. I also am planning to get a buckling spring board soon to see if perhaps I just really prefer alps and bs over cherry switches.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 13 March 2009, 16:20:54: Quote from: FKSSR;24400
I really like the G80-3000.

Here are the two "negatives" I have so far (my positive first impressions are posted in this thread or another one already):
1.) It's too loud to take to my work and type on.
2.) Since I have an AT101W at my work, I'm getting used to the heavier feel of alps, and typing on the blue cherries sort of feels like I'm typing on a toy at times. However, I feel if I typed on the blue cherries more often, I would actually prefer them a lot more.

Saying that, I still really like it a lot. I really want to get a brown cherry board to see if I like it better than the blue cherries. I also am planning to get a buckling spring board soon to see if perhaps I just really prefer alps and bs over cherry switches.

I just placed my order with geminicomputers.com. I use the Customizer at home, and the Dell at work. The Dell, I sometimes put a small towel underneath it when I'm work, but it's like keeping the plastic wrap on the car seats. Believe it or not, the keys feel so much smoother when there is not towel involved. Weird, isn't it? Now, I'll get the chance to try a Cherry switches keyboard.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 13 March 2009, 22:44:07: Quote from: Mur;24363
...I also spoke with GeminiComputers the other day, just to see if my order was moving along without issue. They were very nice and informative. Btw, that is a pretty good deal too!

I called them to place my order this afternoon before leaving the office. They were very helpful, and very quick on the phone. 10 minutes later I the transaction was done and I received a confirmation e-mail. I would have taken less time online, but because their site only accept 5 characters (ZIP Code), I had to do it over the phone. So far, it has been a good experience. I'm waiting to see what it would be like when I get the keyboard.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lam47 on Mon, 16 March 2009, 11:48:28: Quote from: FKSSR;24392
lam47: When did you receive that message? I'm wondering if that is still their plan. The person that answered my email didn't say that, but I'm wondering if I should ask.

Sorry this is a late response.
This was in September or November.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Tue, 17 March 2009, 02:07:42: I received my G80-3000 today. It is everything I expected. Good times :D
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lam47 on Tue, 17 March 2009, 04:12:19: Cool. Which switches did you go for?
I have blacks in mine as I took the blues out for another board.

Glad you are having fun. Cherry make great boards!
I love the snap together design. Makes modding and cleaning so easy.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 17 March 2009, 08:12:14: Quote from: Mur;24687
I received my G80-3000 today. It is everything I expected. Good times :D

You got yours from geminicomputers.com? I placed an order last Friday, and I'm waiting impatiently for it to arrive.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Ulysses31 on Tue, 17 March 2009, 10:02:18: I've been using the G80-3000 with blues for about a week now. It isn't going back.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Tue, 17 March 2009, 12:10:17: Yeah, I really like mine. I figured out last night that the F and J keys have more of a concave dip in them. Yeah, I didn't notice until last night when I was using it. So, ignore my complaint about not having the dimples. :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: o2dazone on Tue, 17 March 2009, 21:29:26: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;24703
You got yours from geminicomputers.com? I placed an order last Friday, and I'm waiting impatiently for it to arrive.
I also ordered mine on Friday, it's getting here (Nevada) on Thursday.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 17 March 2009, 21:33:03: Quote from: o2dazone;24793
I also ordered mine on Friday, it's getting here (Nevada) on Thursday.

If everything goes fine, I should receive mine before the end of the week. I may be close to New York, but it has to clear custom first...
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: cmr on Wed, 18 March 2009, 01:06:47: this is the most recent information i have about das keycap sets.

Quote
Date: Mon, 2 Feb 2009 14:53:17 -0600 (15:53 EST)
--------------------------------------------------------------
Ticket #365404: Blank keycap set for Das III
Company: Individuals
Queue: Purchase request
Priority: normal
Status: in progress

Comment by Alisha Guthery-Morse:
.---
| Dear Chris,
|
| My apologies but we do not carry blank keycap sets at this time. If you have a specific key that you are having issues with I might be able to accommodate. Please let me know.
|
| Thank you, Alisha
`---
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: o2dazone on Wed, 18 March 2009, 17:11:57: You should just send them an email "I'm missing 104 keys exactly, in dire need of replacements. Thanks!"

And then they'll charge you $2 a key or something x_x
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Wed, 18 March 2009, 21:48:33: Well, I decided that I am going to try and trade away my G80-3000 with blue cherries (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?p=24880#post24880).

As I say in my marketplace thread, I thought I would really like the click of the blue cherry switches, but it is starting to wear on me. Over time, I'm realizing that I really prefer the clack of keys more than the click that blue cherries have.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 19 March 2009, 08:46:03: Quote from: FKSSR;24736
Yeah, I really like mine. I figured out last night that the F and J keys have more of a concave dip in them. Yeah, I didn't notice until last night when I was using it. So, ignore my complaint about not having the dimples. :)

Got mine about two minutes ago (at the office). Can't really test it here because it is noisier than my Dell. One thing for sure, I will have to get use to the concave dip.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Thu, 19 March 2009, 09:13:33: haha. No, I'm just going with the brown cherries in the FKBN87M/EB. :D
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 19 March 2009, 10:55:18: Quote from: FKSSR;24400
I really like the G80-3000.

1.) It's too loud to take to my work and type on.

I have both my AT101W and the G80-3000 connected to my computer currently :) Definitely noisier than the AT101W if I start typing fast.

Quote

2.) Since I have an AT101W at my work, I'm getting used to the heavier feel of alps, and typing on the blue cherries sort of feels like I'm typing on a toy at times. However, I feel if I typed on the blue cherries more often, I would actually prefer them a lot more.

The Cherry blue switches have the least resistance among my 3 keyboards which can be ranked like this: Customizer 104, Dell AT101W, Cherry G80-3000.

That being said, I like the feeling. I'll probably use it a night when my baby is sleeping. It's noisy, but not as noisy as the buckling spring.

I've spent quite a lot of money on three keyboard in two months, but I'm very happy. I should avoid buying any keyboard for a while now...
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lal on Thu, 19 March 2009, 12:32:54: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;24920

I've spent quite a lot of money on three keyboard in two months, but I'm very happy. I should avoid buying any keyboard for a while now...

I've said this numerous times already and currently I'm still high on the new M mini, but I'm feeling the cold turkey coming... ;)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 19 March 2009, 12:37:13: Quote from: lal;24925
I've said this numerous times already and currently I'm still high on the new M mini, but I'm feeling the cold turkey coming... ;)

LOL. I think I'll start buying $10 Mitsumi keyboards.
Title: After a few hours
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 19 March 2009, 21:38:54: This is just my personal opinion.

The bad:

1. The keyboard does not seem to be as solidly built as the Dell AT101W or the Customizer 104 (although I had some short circuit problems with this one).
2. Backspace, Enter, right Shift, and numerical keypad +, and spacebar are a bit stiff, especially the spacebar when pressed with my left thumb.

The good:

1. I like the feel of the switches (for the keys not metioned above). They feel and sound different from my Customizer 104 and my AT101W. It's nice to have different types of key switches. It like not having to eat the same dish every day.
2. The look. I don't care much about the Chinese characters on the keys, since I don't look at them when I type. But, I like the simple and elegant design.

Grey area:

1. The concave F and J keys will take some getting used to. I would have preferred the bumps, but that's not a big deal. I'll get used to them.

All in all, I love this keyboard. It's like I have three kids now. I'm happy to see my Dell AT101W when I get to the office in the morning, and I'm happy to see my Customizer and my Cherry keyboards in the evening. Of course, I'm happier to see my daughter and my wife :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lam47 on Fri, 20 March 2009, 14:06:59: The space bar will be a cherry green. They are a stiffer spring than the rest.
The bigger keys might feel stiff due to the metal bracket underneath. You could try a little grease on it to free it up a bit.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 20 March 2009, 14:24:10: Quote from: lam47;24989
The space bar will be a cherry green. They are a stiffer spring than the rest.
The bigger keys might feel stiff due to the metal bracket underneath. You could try a little grease on it to free it up a bit.

Thanks. I try to avoid removing keys with a metal bracket underneath them :( I'll just try to get use to them. Over time, they should loosen up a bit.
Title: By the way...
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 20 March 2009, 15:56:45: Service from geminicomputers.com was fast. As they promised, I did not have to pay a single cent more for custom broker fee. And shipping was cheap: USD $10.00. My only complaint is how they packed the keyboard. It was not the best way to do it for sure. Thank God it arrived safe and sound.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Sat, 21 March 2009, 19:19:00: Quote from: lal;24925
I've said this numerous times already and currently I'm still high on the new M mini, but I'm feeling the cold turkey coming... ;)

I think I spoke too fast. Initially, I wanted to have a buckling spring, an Apls, and a Cherry blue. I now have all three. Yet, I'm finding myself wanting a SpaceSaver...I'm too greedy.

The funny thing is I can only use one keyboard at a time. When I have the Customizer plugged in, I like it and then find myself wanting the Cherry. And when I have the Cherry plugged in, it's the opposite that happens. Too many choices causes paralysis (Barry Schwartz). If all I could have is one keyboard, I would have been very happy. Now, instead of being happier with my two keyboards (the Dell is at work), I'm not :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: nerp on Sat, 21 March 2009, 22:19:50: I bought a M, Customizer 104 and a SpaceSaver is arriving Monday. I need to stop. It's bad enough that I can buy three buckling spring boards. If I start trying to test out other types of switches, I'll be in serious trouble.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Sat, 21 March 2009, 22:27:10: Quote from: nerp;25035
I bought a M, Customizer 104 and a SpaceSaver is arriving Monday. I need to stop. It's bad enough that I can buy three buckling spring boards. If I start trying to test out other types of switches, I'll be in serious trouble.

Indeed, you have a big problem :) Are not most of us, if not all, on this forum have the same problem? In my case, all I wanted was ONE mechanical keyboard. Two months later, I've bought three. This forum is really bad :)

I'll probably end up buying a SpaceSaver, but I have a big project coming. I'll see in what shape I will be financially after it's completed. I hope Unicomp will still be in business by then.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: ozar on Sat, 21 March 2009, 22:30:25: Quote from: nerp;25035
I bought a M, Customizer 104 and a SpaceSaver is arriving Monday. I need to stop. It's bad enough that I can buy three buckling spring boards. If I start trying to test out other types of switches, I'll be in serious trouble.

nerp, how long from order until delivery, if you don't mind me asking?

I ordered a black spacesaver and a set of blank black keys from Unicomp a week ago but haven't heard anything back, yet. They told me over the phone that it would be shipped the next day.

Back on subject... I'd like to have one of those Cherry boards that is the subject of this thread, but they have a pretty big footprint on the desktop and I'm looking for smaller keyboards these days.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Sat, 21 March 2009, 22:39:53: Quote from: ozar;25037
Back on subject... I'd like to have one of those Cherry boards that is the subject of this thread, but they have a pretty big footprint on the desktop and I'm looking for smaller keyboards these days.

There are not the smallest keyboards indeed. But, in my case, when compared to my Customizer, I lose about 1 inch wide, and 0.5 inch deep.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Ulysses31 on Sun, 22 March 2009, 11:41:23: You'll forgive the size once you get a chance to use it :P.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 24 March 2009, 12:24:10: Quote from: itlnstln;24271
FKSSR, try this contact info. She'll be glad you called. (You might want to tell her you're from GeekHack) :)

Loree L. Rolnick
Sales Director
DataCal Enterprises
1345 N. Mondel Dr
Gilbert, AZ 85233
480-813-3108 Phone
480-813-3280 Fax

lrolnick@datacal.com
http://www.datacal.com

I placed a call with Loree just now, got hooked up with a special price (education discount), and got me a G80-3000LXVEU-2 (black case, brown Cherrys, US layout) for $107.80 shipped ($7.80 was for shipping). I'll let you know how it turns out.

On a side note, Loree said that sales increased on this 'board since her contact info and product info was put on this site. I don't know how many members have bought a 'board from her (I haven't seen anything personally), but it seems we are having an influence somewhere! :D
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 24 March 2009, 16:42:15: BTW, if you want one of these 'boards, you will want to hurry. They only have 14 of them left, and there is about a 14-week lead time for Cherry to manufacture more and ship them to DataCal (remember, these are custom keyboards).

Quote
Hello [ItlnStln],

I hope you are well.

I wanted to first thank you for putting me on that web site for the keyboards with the crown switches. I have sold many of these in the past few weeks.

I am down to only 15 left in stock as of today and wanted to know if you wanted to purchase one of these?

I am waiting on Cherry Germany to see what lead-time is on more of these boards. Usual lead-time is 14 weeks but could be longer on this custom board.

If you want to purchase one please call me. 800-459-7931 Ext 3108

I accept Visa, Master Card, and American Express.

Thanks

Loree L. Rolnick
Sales Director
DataCal Enterprises
1345 N. Mondel Dr
Gilbert, AZ 85233
480-813-3108 Phone
480-813-3280 Fax

lrolnick@datacal.com
http://www.datacal.com
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 24 March 2009, 16:47:43: Quote from: itlnstln;25296
(remember, these are custom keyboards).

Is it because of the Cherry brown switches?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 24 March 2009, 16:48:21: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;25297
Is it because of the Cherry brown switches?

Yes, and in this layout.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 24 March 2009, 16:50:35: Quote from: itlnstln;25298
Yes, and in this layout.

I see, I got the one with Chinese characters on them. That being said, I wanted to try a clicky Cherry first. Maybe one day, I'll try the Brown switches. One step at a time.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:32:46: I like the sound and the feedback of my keyboard. However, there seems to be not enough friction between my fingers and the keys. By that I mean, when I'm typing, I feel like my fingers are slipping over the keys. Does anyone who own a similar keyboard has the same feeling?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Ulysses31 on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:38:42: The keys do tend to be slippery to the point of frustration, but I noticed that my G83 keys were far more slippery than the ones on the G80.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:42:28: Quote from: Ulysses31;25445
The keys do tend to be slippery to the point of frustration, but I noticed that my G83 keys were far more slippery than the ones on the G80.

Very well said. There are times when frustration can settle in. This is especially true if I use mine after having used either the Dell or the Customizer. But, if I've been using the G80-3000 for a few days, then I start to get used to it.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:48:32: My ML4100 has no texture at all. It doesn't bother me a whole lot, but I do like well-textured keys. I can tell some difference.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:48:52: I didn't notice that, but I find that I do tend to type more straight-down than in a raking type motion. Therefore, slippery keys probably wouldn't mess me up as much.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Ulysses31 on Wed, 25 March 2009, 15:52:54: The keys are textured though. They're roughened in the same way a Teflon-coated frying pan looks rough, but they are slippery precisely because of that. I have a very old keyboard where the texture has completely worn off and left a glossy polish, and my fingers never slipped on those. There's probably a better contact between those and very slightly damp fingers.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 27 March 2009, 09:03:39: My new 'board is almost here, and I can hardly wait. :) It is being delivered to my office, so I should get some use out of it today.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 27 March 2009, 12:09:53: I just got my G80-3000. It absolutely fantastic. I'll write up a review when I get a chance to use it a little more. One thing's for sure, though. The scooped F and J keys are throwing me off something awful.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Ulysses31 on Fri, 27 March 2009, 12:24:46: I don't mind them really. Have you noticed if your F and J keys sound different to all the others? I reckon it's something to do with the shape of the caps.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 27 March 2009, 12:44:32: Yeah, the sliding sound of the F and J keys is slightly higher pitched.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: FKSSR on Fri, 27 March 2009, 14:39:54: Quote from: itlnstln;25745
I just got my G80-3000. It absolutely fantastic. I'll write up a review when I get a chance to use it a little more. One thing's for sure, though. The scooped F and J keys are throwing me off something awful.

haha. yeah, the G80-3000 I had (w/ blues) messed me up with the scooped F and J keys, at first, but you'll get used to it.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 27 March 2009, 14:49:52: Now that I have been typing on it all afternoon, I haven't had much problem having the scooped keys. My fingers are starting to adjust. I pretty much forgot about my ABS already. :) This thing is pretty awesome. I want to get a Filco, but I kinda like this a little better. I will probably get one, anyway, and use it at work while the Cherry pulls duty at home. I really like the Cherry's no-nonsense, industrial style. People will look at it, and think it's just a cheap-a*s keyboard, but we know the real deal (especially since this thing cost me a little over $100). :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 27 March 2009, 14:51:24: Ulysses, I see what you mean about the keys being a little slick. Eventhough, they are textured, they do have sort of a Teflon feel to them. I am still really enjoying it, though.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: CX23882 on Fri, 27 March 2009, 16:32:57: Having looked inside my G80-3000LSCGB today, the solder job they've done is very good. It's certainly better than the photos I've seen of the Scorpius M10. As for the lack of a cable strain relief thingy on the Cherry G80-3000; it does have one, but it's set back inside the case rather than being on the outside. There is no way you could pull the cable out any more than you could on a keyboard with it visible outside. I don't see any reason to pick the Das III over the G80-3000 unless you really need the superior rollover (albeit with issues) of the Das.

That's not to say you won't end up with a Friday-afternoon model if you go for a Cherry, but the majority of people do seem to be happy with theirs.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lowpoly on Fri, 27 March 2009, 16:37:47: Quote from: CX23882;25785
As for the lack of a cable strain relief thingy on the Cherry G80-3000; it does have one, but it's set back inside the case rather than being on the outside. There is no way you could pull the cable out any more than you could on a keyboard with it visible outside.

I think it's less about pulling the cable out but avoiding sharp bends directly at the case.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 27 March 2009, 21:28:24: Quote from: FKSSR;25767
haha. yeah, the G80-3000 I had (w/ blues) messed me up with the scooped F and J keys, at first, but you'll get used to it.

I'm starting to get used to the scooped F and J. And yes, they do produced a different noise from the other keys.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Fri, 27 March 2009, 21:31:12: Quote from: itlnstln;25770
I really like the Cherry's no-nonsense, industrial style. People will look at it, and think it's just a cheap-a*s keyboard, but we know the real deal (especially since this thing cost me a little over $100). :)

I, too, like the Cherry (and Customizer and AT101W) design. They are no-nonsense like you said. There is nothing fancy about them, yet their simplistic look is what make them look great. They stand out not because they could not add anything more, but rather because there was nothing else to be removed.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: Mur on Sun, 29 March 2009, 16:52:35: Quote from: lam47;24691
Cool. Which switches did you go for?
I have blacks in mine as I took the blues out for another board.

Glad you are having fun. Cherry make great boards!
I love the snap together design. Makes modding and cleaning so easy.

Blues :) Yes, the snap together design is wonderful and removing the keys is hassle free.

Quote from: patrickgeekhack;24703
You got yours from geminicomputers.com? I placed an order last Friday, and I'm waiting impatiently for it to arrive.

Sorry about the late response but yes, and it has been nothing but excellent to type on.

Quote from: patrickgeekhack;24993
Service from geminicomputers.com was fast. As they promised, I did not have to pay a single cent more for custom broker fee. And shipping was cheap: USD $10.00. My only complaint is how they packed the keyboard. It was not the best way to do it for sure. Thank God it arrived safe and sound.

LOL, yeah the packaging was a bit weird. The shipping box was four times the size of the keyboard box and it was stuffed with thick paper bags for padding :) I am sure they are used to shipping out huge amounts of stock at once, that might be the reason.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Sun, 29 March 2009, 17:46:37: Quote from: Mur;26066

Sorry about the late response but yes, and it has been nothing but excellent to type on.

I agree that it is an excellent keyboard to type on, after I started to get used to the scooped F and J keys and the keys being a bit slippery that is. That being said, I find myself going back and forth between this keyboard and my Customizer. I guess one never gets over one's first love :) It louder than a rubber dome, but not as loud as a buckling spring keyboard.

Quote

LOL, yeah the packaging was a bit weird. The shipping box was four times the size of the keyboard box and it was stuffed with thick paper bags for padding :) I am sure they are used to shipping out huge amounts of stock at once, that might be the reason.

Exactly. Brown paper bags for padding...what's up with that LOL.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: MANISH7 on Tue, 31 March 2009, 18:30:11: similar question: what is the cheapest keyboard with mx browns that are available NEW in the USA? all the compaq 11800s are used.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 01 April 2009, 06:43:45: Quote from: MANISH7;26374
similar question: what is the cheapest keyboard with mx browns that are available NEW in the USA? all the compaq 11800s are used.

From what I can tell, either the G80-3000 I bought from DataCal or the Filco I got from majestouch. Brown Cherrys are hard to find new in the US. Both keyboards will run you about $100. Personally, I would just get an MX-11800 if you just want to try somethign out. Even though, they are used, they feel just the same to me as my new G80-3000, so other than cleanliness, perhaps, I don't think you are going to see the difference.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: cchan on Wed, 01 April 2009, 06:54:25: Not to advertise, but I have an MX11800 for sale for $20+shipping.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: MANISH7 on Wed, 01 April 2009, 09:29:19: Thank you both - itlnstln and Tales. PM sent :)
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Tue, 12 May 2009, 04:49:57: I'm starting to love my Cherry a lot. In fact, I never thought I would say that, but I'm finding myself gravitating towards keyswitches requiring less force than the buckling spring switches. Maybe it's because the way my desk is set up. Since I don't have a keyboard tray, the Customizer would have felt needing less force to press the keys if my desk was a tad lower.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 12 May 2009, 07:08:28: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;90386
I'm starting to love my Cherry a lot. In fact, I never thought I would say that, but I'm finding myself gravitating towards keyswitches requiring less force than the buckling spring switches. Maybe it's because the way my desk is set up. Since I don't have a keyboard tray, the Customizer would have felt needing less force to press the keys if my desk was a tad lower.

I started with my Model Ms, then I got my Northgate with white, clicky Alps. After I used several 'boards with different Alps switches (maily blacks), I then got my MX-11800 with Cherry browns and fell in love with them. I am doing the same thing; the more 'boards I use, I find that I like the ones with the lighter switches.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Wed, 13 May 2009, 06:10:20: Quote from: itlnstln;90398
I started with my Model Ms, then I got my Northgate with white, clicky Alps. After I used several 'boards with different Alps switches (maily blacks), I then got my MX-11800 with Cherry browns and fell in love with them. I am doing the same thing; the more 'boards I use, I find that I like the ones with the lighter switches.

I'm following almost exactly the same path. Although I like the sound of the buckling spring keyboard, my fingers get tired when I type for a long time, and I find myself making more typing errors. On the other hand, using the Cherry keyboard, my fingers feel less tired, and I make less typing errors. Oh well!
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: ironcoder on Tue, 26 May 2009, 11:59:41: Quote from: FKSSR;80679
The RC has english and chinese characters. I just got one. The chinese kind of bug me personally, but the biggest pain is the lack of bumps on the F and H keys. I can get used to both of those things, though. I never look at my keyboard when I'm typing so I won't really even notice once I stop thinking about it. I've also been thinking of putting blank black keys on instead of the letters and numbers to make a half-stealth keyboard, but I'm having a hard time figuring out what would look good.

I have an IBM keyboard with bumps on the F and J keys. Never noticed until your post.

What are they there for?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: lal on Tue, 26 May 2009, 12:07:57: For quickly and blindly finding the home row (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_row).
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: ironcoder on Tue, 26 May 2009, 12:11:36: Thanks guys.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Mon, 01 June 2009, 10:05:10: Is che-3000lscrc-2 and G80-3000lscrc-2 the same keyboard?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: wheel83 on Mon, 01 June 2009, 12:27:56: lol good one ripster
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Mon, 01 June 2009, 12:40:24: Quote from: ripster;93689
Che is the Communist Model.

Show Image
(http://open.salon.com/files/che-guevara1232976553.jpg)

Yeah, I noticed that. It brings up the G80 PDF so I think it's the same.

I know who Che is. I asked about che-3000lscrc-2 not Che Guevara. I think they are the same keyboard too. Just wanted to confirm should I come across such keyboard in the future.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Mon, 01 June 2009, 12:56:30: Quote from: ripster;93728
Just having fun.

Here (http://www.barcodediscount.com/catalog/cherry/part-g80-3000lscrc-2.htm) is another confirmation.

Can I tell a Canadian joke now?

Patrick, you're originally from the US I assume??

I know you were having fun...just had to pretend was serious for a second :bounce:

You can tell your joke...the last time I check this place was not under a totalitarian regime. No, I'm not from the US originally.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Mon, 01 June 2009, 12:58:54: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;93735
last time I check this place was not under a totalitarian regime.

It's nice. We just broke free from ours.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Mon, 01 June 2009, 13:03:41: Actually Ripster, I don't mind the jokes at all. I'm always looking for opportunities to laugh. It does not take much to get me laughing happily. Isn't laughter the best medicine?
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Mon, 01 June 2009, 13:15:14: Quote from: ripster;93739
I dunno. You're still in Texas.

D*mn, you're right.

Texas is, too.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Mon, 01 June 2009, 13:19:45: Quote from: ripster;93739

My son just tells me I'm annoying. Wait until you have a teenager!

Don't we all think we know better than anyone when we are teenagers? I have a few years to go before this happens. Will I be 100% prepared? No. But I like to think about it this way. I'm in the ocean now, like it or not, I have to swim.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: patrickgeekhack on Thu, 06 August 2009, 21:46:48: This keyboard must sell very well. Geminicomputers.com is out of stock again.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 07 August 2009, 08:37:20: Quote from: patrickgeekhack;107790
This keyboard must sell very well. Geminicomputers.com is out of stock again.

From a cost/quality standpoint, the G80-3000 at Gemini reigns supreme for Cherry-based 'boards. If was going to check out a blue Cherry 'board, this would be the one.
Title: Cheapest RELIABLE keyboard with Cherry Blues
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 07 August 2009, 10:13:12: Quote from: ripster;107895
Anyone following this the product code is G80-3000LSCRC-2. Other vendors APPEAR to be carrying it but call first. I can't imagine this being a standard stock item (Chinese Lettering for the US market?) so they will eventually run out.

They have run out of stock several times and get it back in stock, so it might be a regular stock item. It might not have been originally intended for the US market, but I guess it is selling so well that they keep restocking it.