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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: EpicSNES on Mon, 28 July 2014, 00:49:26

Title: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Mon, 28 July 2014, 00:49:26
I recently bought a Poker II, but I really don't like it as much as I thought I would so I'm looking into going back to a standard TKL.

I found this in my search but have never heard of the company KUL before: https://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=keyed_up_labs,tenkeyless&pid=es87u_cl_bbb_al

Has anyone had experience with this brand? I like all the DIP switch options and it seems to meet my needs for the most part.

Initially I was interested in getting a CMStorm Quickfire Rapid, but the Mx Red version has an ugly red backplate which I really don't like otherwise it would have been perfect :(
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: blackbox on Mon, 28 July 2014, 00:53:03
Tacticalstache was very satisfied with the ES-87 at the geekhack livestream #1
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: user 18 on Mon, 28 July 2014, 00:56:38
I've only heard good things about it. There's a review thread of it on here somewhere that I was reading the other day, let me see if I can find it.

E: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=59116.0
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Mon, 28 July 2014, 03:58:06
Awesome thanks.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Remedy on Mon, 28 July 2014, 11:50:42
I have been very impressed by the build quality of the KUL ES-87, especially compared to that of the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid.  If you have any questions specifically regarding comparing these two boards I should be able to answer them.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpecTP on Mon, 28 July 2014, 15:45:58
I just picked up the KUL ES-87 with MX clears.  A solid keyboard.  Very well built.  I'm still getting used to the MX clears which have made my fingers feel more tired after several days of heavy MMO use.  I'm thinking I should have opted for MX reds instead.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Remedy on Mon, 28 July 2014, 16:06:20
I just picked up the KUL ES-87 with MX clears.  A solid keyboard.  Very well built.  I'm still getting used to the MX clears which have made my fingers feel more tired after several days of heavy MMO use.  I'm thinking I should have opted for MX reds instead.

What type of keyboard were you using previously to play the same game(s)?
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpecTP on Tue, 29 July 2014, 01:13:21
I just picked up the KUL ES-87 with MX clears.  A solid keyboard.  Very well built.  I'm still getting used to the MX clears which have made my fingers feel more tired after several days of heavy MMO use.  I'm thinking I should have opted for MX reds instead.

What type of keyboard were you using previously to play the same game(s)?

I've been using an IBM Model M and a Logitech G15
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Tue, 29 July 2014, 03:55:35
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 29 July 2014, 05:15:55
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Remedy on Tue, 29 July 2014, 10:54:59
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

I ordered (and received) two KUL ES-87s from MK last week.  I got one with mx clears for my office and the other with mx blacks for home (to replace my QFR w/mx reds). 

Now I just need to find a suitable numeric keypad, which is proving to be much harder than I had anticipated.  I really hope that KUL ends up producing one eventually.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Wed, 30 July 2014, 07:00:10
I have heard nothing but good things about the KUL, but I really hope to have some comparative reviews. As an owner of Deck keyboards, Model Fs, and Tipro, I already have what I think are some of the best around. Is there a reason why I would want to sell something of mine and buy a KUL? And please, don't say their font is nicer than Deck's font.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: dante on Wed, 30 July 2014, 07:47:38
I just picked up the KUL ES-87 with MX clears.  A solid keyboard.  Very well built.  I'm still getting used to the MX clears which have made my fingers feel more tired after several days of heavy MMO use.  I'm thinking I should have opted for MX reds instead.

Even MX Blacks feel lighter than Clears :D
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 30 July 2014, 08:32:29
I just picked up the KUL ES-87 with MX clears.  A solid keyboard.  Very well built.  I'm still getting used to the MX clears which have made my fingers feel more tired after several days of heavy MMO use.  I'm thinking I should have opted for MX reds instead.

Even MX Blacks feel lighter than Clears :D

If typing on clears feels heavier than typing on blacks your doing it wrong :P
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: kaje on Wed, 30 July 2014, 11:41:23
Bleh. Contacted KUL and they won't have any Blues until September. Why don't any of these manufacturers want my money?  :(
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: dante on Wed, 30 July 2014, 11:42:21
Bleh. Contacted KUL and they won't have any Blues until September. Why don't any of these manufacturers want my money?  :(

They want your money.  Cherry can't produce switches fast enough.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: kaje on Wed, 30 July 2014, 11:44:24
Bleh. Contacted KUL and they won't have any Blues until September. Why don't any of these manufacturers want my money?  :(

They want your money.  Cherry can't produce switches fast enough.

There seems to be plenty in every configuration other than the ones I'm interested in. Haha
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Wed, 30 July 2014, 12:24:56
Bleh. Contacted KUL and they won't have any Blues until September. Why don't any of these manufacturers want my money?  :(

They want your money.  Cherry can't produce switches fast enough.

Is it "Cherry can't produce switches fast enough", or "Cherry's Chinese contractors can't produce switches fast enough because they are also busy producing for Kailh and others?"
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 30 July 2014, 12:30:55
Bleh. Contacted KUL and they won't have any Blues until September. Why don't any of these manufacturers want my money?  :(

They want your money.  Cherry can't produce switches fast enough.

Is it "Cherry can't produce switches fast enough", or "Cherry's Chinese contractors can't produce switches fast enough because they are also busy producing for Kailh and others?"

AFAIK all genuine cherry switches are still made in Germany.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Wed, 30 July 2014, 13:40:01
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)

I got the keyboard today. My initial impressions are very good. I'm getting the same feeling as I did with my first mechanical keyboard, since I've got it I've been on type racer and enjoying the feeling of typing. I can't believe the amount of resistance the hinges have for the fold out feet. It's a good thing because it doesn't seem like an after-thought, they're very solid, along with the grippiness on my desk.

I do like the overall aesthetics of the board. The capslock, scroll lock, and power mode LED's look very nice through the keycap windows. I also personally love the diamond replacing the super (Windows) key, agnostic keyboards ftw.

For the negative:
The plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap, maybe it's the finish I'm not too sure. If I'm wrong in this observation let me know.
Most of the keycaps have this little mark at the top, seems like something happened in manufacturing, it's not a bother to me but it's noteworthy.
More
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png)

But hey, if you have any questions that doesn't require me pulling the board apart, feel free to ask or PM.

Edit: Thanks Spamray, adjusted.
Edit2: I really fail at modifying posts....
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 30 July 2014, 13:50:09
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)

I got the keyboard today. My initial impressions are very good. I'm getting the same feeling as I did with my first mechanical keyboard, since I've got it I've been on type racer and enjoying the feeling of typing. I can't believe the amount of resistance the hinges have for the fold out feet. It's a good thing because it doesn't seem like an after-thought, they're very solid, along with the grippiness on my desk.

I do like the overall aesthetics of the board. The capslock, scroll lock, and power mode LED's look very nice through the keycap windows. I also personally love the diamond replacing the super (Windows) key, agnostic keyboards ftw.

For the negative:
The plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap, maybe it's the finish I'm not too sure. If I'm wrong in this observation let me know.
Most of the keycaps have this little mark at the top, seems like something happened in manufacturing, it's not a bother to me but it's noteworthy.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png) (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png)

For some reason I can't but spoiler tags around that image. :-[

But hey, if you have any questions that doesn't require me pulling the board apart, feel free to ask or PM.

The sprue marks on the keycaps are fairly normal and you will find them on most keycaps.

Also for spoiler tags use this

Code: [Select]
[more] yourimagelinkhere [/more]
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: dante on Wed, 30 July 2014, 14:21:59
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)

I got the keyboard today. My initial impressions are very good. I'm getting the same feeling as I did with my first mechanical keyboard, since I've got it I've been on type racer and enjoying the feeling of typing. I can't believe the amount of resistance the hinges have for the fold out feet. It's a good thing because it doesn't seem like an after-thought, they're very solid, along with the grippiness on my desk.

I do like the overall aesthetics of the board. The capslock, scroll lock, and power mode LED's look very nice through the keycap windows. I also personally love the diamond replacing the super (Windows) key, agnostic keyboards ftw.

For the negative:
The plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap, maybe it's the finish I'm not too sure. If I'm wrong in this observation let me know.
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png)


The KUL case only feels cheap if you compare it keyboards of the 80's; it's very durable well made compared to the current competition.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpecTP on Wed, 30 July 2014, 14:36:03
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)

I got the keyboard today. My initial impressions are very good. I'm getting the same feeling as I did with my first mechanical keyboard, since I've got it I've been on type racer and enjoying the feeling of typing. I can't believe the amount of resistance the hinges have for the fold out feet. It's a good thing because it doesn't seem like an after-thought, they're very solid, along with the grippiness on my desk.

I do like the overall aesthetics of the board. The capslock, scroll lock, and power mode LED's look very nice through the keycap windows. I also personally love the diamond replacing the super (Windows) key, agnostic keyboards ftw.

For the negative:
The plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap, maybe it's the finish I'm not too sure. If I'm wrong in this observation let me know.
Most of the keycaps have this little mark at the top, seems like something happened in manufacturing, it's not a bother to me but it's noteworthy.
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png)


For some reason I can't but spoiler tags around that image. :-[

But hey, if you have any questions that doesn't require me pulling the board apart, feel free to ask or PM.

I don't know what you mean by 'plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap'.  I find the case to be quite sturdy and well constructed.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 30 July 2014, 15:11:05
Thanks for the update!

As SpAmRaY said, sprue marks are common, although these are somewhat larger than most others I have seen.

My white KeyCool seems, to me anyway, to have the cheapest feeling case - dunno, maybe it's a bit thiner, maybe a different plastic.  The KeyCool is great though, PBT keycaps too!
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: kaje on Wed, 30 July 2014, 17:05:27
I guess I'll just forgo the blues and get the brown switches. The only experience I have with those is trying the G710+ which has the O-rings so I'll like them more without.

(http://i.perezhilton.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/216701_v2.gif)
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Wed, 30 July 2014, 17:32:24
I just purchased the KUL with mx reds yesterday. Can't wait to get it. :-)

Please let us know what you think, even with just a mini review :)

I got the keyboard today. My initial impressions are very good. I'm getting the same feeling as I did with my first mechanical keyboard, since I've got it I've been on type racer and enjoying the feeling of typing. I can't believe the amount of resistance the hinges have for the fold out feet. It's a good thing because it doesn't seem like an after-thought, they're very solid, along with the grippiness on my desk.

I do like the overall aesthetics of the board. The capslock, scroll lock, and power mode LED's look very nice through the keycap windows. I also personally love the diamond replacing the super (Windows) key, agnostic keyboards ftw.

For the negative:
The plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap, maybe it's the finish I'm not too sure. If I'm wrong in this observation let me know.
Most of the keycaps have this little mark at the top, seems like something happened in manufacturing, it's not a bother to me but it's noteworthy.
Show Image
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109939032/keycap%20mark.png)


For some reason I can't but spoiler tags around that image. :-[

But hey, if you have any questions that doesn't require me pulling the board apart, feel free to ask or PM.

I don't know what you mean by 'plastic used for the case feels a bit cheap'.  I find the case to be quite sturdy and well constructed.

I guess I could have elaborated that I was comparing it to my Ducky Shine III and HPE87. The case seems to have more flex in it.

Edit: Then again, the plastic is just different than what I'm used to. So time will tell. :-)
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: gbohn on Thu, 31 July 2014, 15:46:32
I just got a KUL-87 keyboard with MX Clears (I wanted to try them out since I never had a keyboard with them before).

  I've only had it a few days and overall, it seems at least as good a build as my other keyboards (Leopold FC500 and 200R).

  There's only two things I don't like:

A) The key-caps have the same issue for me that all the lasered/filled white on black keys have.
 
     At least for my use, the white lettering gets gray/soiled very quickly and I can't get them bright white again.
     In my case I always end up replacing the key-caps with Double-shots or PBT and so that problem isn't an
     issue for me after that.

and

B) I'm not loving the clears. Coming from MX Blues they seem too heavy for me after a while. I'll try them some
    more, but at least so far they seem to get tiring after a while.

 If the KUL-87 was available with MX Blue I'd probably have been happier. As it is I'm going to dig out my MX Brown Leopold keyboard and give that another try for comparison..

Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: saturnotaku on Thu, 31 July 2014, 16:19:39
B) I'm not loving the clears. Coming from MX Blues they seem too heavy for me after a while. I'll try them some
    more, but at least so far they seem to get tiring after a while.

 If the KUL-87 was available with MX Blue I'd probably have been happier. As it is I'm going to dig out my MX Brown Leopold keyboard and give that another try for comparison..

I'm in the same boat as you regarding MX clear switches. As a fan of browns, I thought the clears would be an upgrade, but the WASD CODE 87 I had for the last couple days just wasn't cutting it. It's surprising that KUL is not making a blue version. If that's what you're really after, you could give the WASD V2 (http://www.wasdkeyboards.com/index.php/products/mechanical-keyboard/wasd-v2-87-key-custom-mechanical-keyboard.html#ad-image-0) a try. It offers different layouts via dip switches, and you can customize the keycaps. If you want to supply your own caps, they produce a barebones version that's significantly cheaper.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: TheMark on Thu, 31 July 2014, 18:18:44
I received mine today with clears... They're a bit heavy for my liking.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: user 18 on Thu, 31 July 2014, 18:44:00
I received mine today with clears... They're a bit heavy for my liking.

I was very afraid I had made a terrible decision after I modded my QFR to clears. After a week of using it, it became my favourite board. If you're coming from lighter switches, clears take some getting used to, but I recommend you give it a chance. That said, heavy switches aren't for everyone.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: TheMark on Thu, 31 July 2014, 19:19:15

I received mine today with clears... They're a bit heavy for my liking.

I was very afraid I had made a terrible decision after I modded my QFR to clears. After a week of using it, it became my favourite board. If you're coming from lighter switches, clears take some getting used to, but I recommend you give it a chance. That said, heavy switches aren't for everyone.

I'm committed to using it as my daily board for a month before making any changes.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 31 July 2014, 19:19:40
Clears are only heavy if you bottom out.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: gbohn on Fri, 01 August 2014, 08:40:35
> Clears are only heavy if you bottom out

  "Bottoming out" would probably best describe my typing style...  :)
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: dantan on Fri, 01 August 2014, 08:58:33
I have been very impressed by the build quality of the KUL ES-87, especially compared to that of the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid.  If you have any questions specifically regarding comparing these two boards I should be able to answer them.

Please tell us more. I have used the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid and found it very solid. I opened it and think it is well built. If the KUL is even more well built, does that mean you have a thicker plate? Or a metal casing? Is the weight any different?
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: gbohn on Fri, 01 August 2014, 09:19:40
> Is the weight any different?

For what it's worth I have a Leopold FC200R Blue 87 with SP key caps, and a KUL-87 clear with stock key caps.

  The weights (without cord) are:

   Leopold-  901 grams
   KUL-87-   991 grams

  I don't know how much the different key caps come into play...

  I also have a Majestouch 2 Blue 87 which weighs in at 1006 grams, but that's with the (non-removable) cord. I'm just guessing that the cord is about 50-60 grams of that weight. (This has Cherry DS key caps).
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Remedy on Fri, 01 August 2014, 10:00:21
I have been very impressed by the build quality of the KUL ES-87, especially compared to that of the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid.  If you have any questions specifically regarding comparing these two boards I should be able to answer them.

Please tell us more. I have used the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid and found it very solid. I opened it and think it is well built. If the KUL is even more well built, does that mean you have a thicker plate? Or a metal casing? Is the weight any different?

I have not weighed them, but I have had both the QFR and KUL side by side on my desk.  That being said, the KUL feels much heavier.  If the QFR was a brick, the KUL would be a cinder block in comparison.  That's obviously an exaggeration, but the weight difference is significant.

Edit: I'm not trying to take anything from away from the QFR because I think it's a great keyboard (especially for the price).  If you compare the retail prices of both ($90 vs $130), I can totally justify the $40 difference in my own mind.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Puddsy on Fri, 01 August 2014, 18:55:03
If you're on the fence just buy the thing

It's so good I dont even need to say why.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: asdfasdfasdf on Sat, 02 August 2014, 18:37:35
I have been very impressed by the build quality of the KUL ES-87, especially compared to that of the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid.  If you have any questions specifically regarding comparing these two boards I should be able to answer them.

Please tell us more. I have used the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid and found it very solid. I opened it and think it is well built. If the KUL is even more well built, does that mean you have a thicker plate? Or a metal casing? Is the weight any different?

+1. Would definitely like to hear how this KUL stacks against its competitors with more qualitative detail.
I mean every 2 bit reviewer has been like oh wow quality without actually going into it (well that's like 80% of YouTube and general reviews ... what i am trying to say is that anybody who uses a mechanical keyboard the first time will say WOW QUALITY even if it is a subpar mechanical keyboard).

Everybody always says wow what a solid board or something like that. At $130 with thin abs keycaps i really wish they showed off/demonstrated some of this quality.

If you're on the fence just buy the thing

It's so good I dont even need to say why.

People have said this about every brand though and everybody says this about the newest board that they buy.

Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: Skull_Angel on Sat, 02 August 2014, 20:08:54
I have been very impressed by the build quality of the KUL ES-87, especially compared to that of the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid.  If you have any questions specifically regarding comparing these two boards I should be able to answer them.

Please tell us more. I have used the CM Storm Quickfire Rapid and found it very solid. I opened it and think it is well built. If the KUL is even more well built, does that mean you have a thicker plate? Or a metal casing? Is the weight any different?

+1. Would definitely like to hear how this KUL stacks against its competitors with more qualitative detail.
I mean every 2 bit reviewer has been like oh wow quality without actually going into it (well that's like 80% of YouTube and general reviews ... what i am trying to say is that anybody who uses a mechanical keyboard the first time will say WOW QUALITY even if it is a subpar mechanical keyboard).

Everybody always says wow what a solid board or something like that. At $130 with thin abs keycaps i really wish they showed off/demonstrated some of this quality.

If you're on the fence just buy the thing

It's so good I dont even need to say why.

People have said this about every brand though and everybody says this about the newest board that they buy.



A decent member review has been posted and there have been replys backing up the statements made as well as a few going more in-dpeth. I think the link was even one of the first posts in this thread;

Yep, reply #2, here ya go:

I've only heard good things about it. There's a review thread of it on here somewhere that I was reading the other day, let me see if I can find it.

E: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=59116.0

Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Sat, 02 August 2014, 20:31:27

A decent member review has been posted and there have been replys backing up the statements made as well as a few going more in-dpeth. I think the link was even one of the first posts in this thread;

Yep, reply #2, here ya go:

I've only heard good things about it. There's a review thread of it on here somewhere that I was reading the other day, let me see if I can find it.

E: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=59116.0

Like the people asking (I believe), I also read the review. Didn't see sufficient reason to buy the KUL and not the Deck Francium, or a Filco TKL.

At most the review proved that KUL Is better than CM QFR, with things like Dip switches and double sided PCB. Author of that article says as much, saying that to beef up a CM QFR to the standards of the KUL will require too much money in improvements. He never compares the KUL to Ducky Shine TKL or any of the better names. At least we know that there are good comparative reviews between the Lexus and the Mercedes/ BMW/ Volvo/ whatever else is in the luxury class.

That's still very far from proving that KUL Is the 'best' mechanical keyboard around, or even that it is among the best. I am definitely not convinced I should buy KUL.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 02 August 2014, 20:48:46
If you guys would just buy one, you would see why everyone who owns one has nothing but good to say of them.

I'm not a person who has zero experience with mechanical keyboards and thinks that the KUL is great without having some frame of reference. I currently own seven, yes 7, Filco keyboards. Four of them are TKL and three are full size. I own a QFR and two Rosewill RK-9000s. I owned a WASD CODE for a few weeks, before I returned it to WASD. So when I tell you that the KUL is as good or better than any stock keyboard I have tried, excepting the Leopold TypeNow Solid (which has an aluminum housing), I know what I'm saying. The Filco is, and has been, my keyboard of choice barring customs or 60% designs. And I tell you now that the KUL feels more solid and at least as well-built as the Filco.

You can believe me or not. But seeing is believing. When you get the chance to use one in person, you will realize that I'm not wrong.

Also, I have no affiliation with KUL whatsoever. I have not been paid for endorsing the product, nor given anything in exchange for my recommendation. I paid full price for my KUL ES-87 from EliteKeyboards.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: asdfasdfasdf on Sat, 02 August 2014, 21:33:19

A decent member review has been posted and there have been replys backing up the statements made as well as a few going more in-dpeth. I think the link was even one of the first posts in this thread;

Yep, reply #2, here ya go:

I've only heard good things about it. There's a review thread of it on here somewhere that I was reading the other day, let me see if I can find it.

E: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=59116.0

Like the people asking (I believe), I also read the review. Didn't see sufficient reason to buy the KUL and not the Deck Francium, or a Filco TKL.

At most the review proved that KUL Is better than CM QFR, with things like Dip switches and double sided PCB. Author of that article says as much, saying that to beef up a CM QFR to the standards of the KUL will require too much money in improvements. He never compares the KUL to Ducky Shine TKL or any of the better names. At least we know that there are good comparative reviews between the Lexus and the Mercedes/ BMW/ Volvo/ whatever else is in the luxury class.

That's still very far from proving that KUL Is the 'best' mechanical keyboard around, or even that it is among the best. I am definitely not convinced I should buy KUL.

Let's note that that review was just meant to be a sort of more thorough intro into the kul board.
Alot of that $130 quality wasn't particularly shown because most of the quality boards do have a double sided pcbs and stuff like that.
Again, that wasn't the point of the review so let's not dwell on that too much.

So that was a cool review and I read it.
I kinda came to the same conclusion as Beserkfan.
As Beserkfan said we don't see sufficient reason to buy this board (which is more expensive).

Another thing is how does the KUL ES -87 stack against other 2014 keyboards?
Filco has been pretty stagnant in their wired keyboards (at least they haven't updated their majestouch line in a while),
I know Ducky used to be ass (maybe it still is) and I know the Leopold 700 had some issues but that was 2 years ago and they've been releasing new stuff since then (and they both have 2014 releases).


If you guys would just buy one, you would see why everyone who owns one has nothing but good to say of them.

I'm not a person who has zero experience with mechanical keyboards and thinks that the KUL is great without having some frame of reference. I currently own seven, yes 7, Filco keyboards. Four of them are TKL and three are full size. I own a QFR and two Rosewill RK-9000s. I owned a WASD CODE for a few weeks, before I returned it to WASD. So when I tell you that the KUL is as good or better than any stock keyboard I have tried, excepting the Leopold TypeNow Solid (which has an aluminum housing), I know what I'm saying. The Filco is, and has been, my keyboard of choice barring customs or 60% designs. And I tell you now that the KUL feels more solid and at least as well-built as the Filco.

You can believe me or not. But seeing is believing. When you get the chance to use one in person, you will realize that I'm not wrong.

Also, I have no affiliation with KUL whatsoever. I have not been paid for endorsing the product, nor given anything in exchange for my recommendation. I paid full price for my KUL ES-87 from EliteKeyboards.

That's a pretty emotional response Mr. Vulcan ... well you can't help it you're only human after all.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Sat, 02 August 2014, 21:41:02
If you guys would just buy one, you would see why everyone who owns one has nothing but good to say of them.

I'm not a person who has zero experience with mechanical keyboards and thinks that the KUL is great without having some frame of reference. I currently own seven, yes 7, Filco keyboards. Four of them are TKL and three are full size. I own a QFR and two Rosewill RK-9000s. I owned a WASD CODE for a few weeks, before I returned it to WASD. So when I tell you that the KUL is as good or better than any stock keyboard I have tried, excepting the Leopold TypeNow Solid (which has an aluminum housing), I know what I'm saying. The Filco is, and has been, my keyboard of choice barring customs or 60% designs. And I tell you now that the KUL feels more solid and at least as well-built as the Filco.

You can believe me or not. But seeing is believing. When you get the chance to use one in person, you will realize that I'm not wrong.

Also, I have no affiliation with KUL whatsoever. I have not been paid for endorsing the product, nor given anything in exchange for my recommendation. I paid full price for my KUL ES-87 from EliteKeyboards.

I like to hear this reply.

Even though it still doesn't make me feel like buying a KUL (I have enough keyboards), solid replies from an experienced person who owns or has owned many competing brands are important endorsements.

Let's say JDC was joined by another five or six names. SpamRay, Hashbaz, TP4tissue, CPTbadass, fohat.digs and they were all saying the same thing. I would be motivated off my ass to get a KUL also!

BTW JDCarpe, right now I'm hoarding money for that (surprise, surprise) switch moddable JIS plate purchase. I plan to get one JIS TKL, one JIS fullsize and two Tipro aluminium plates eventually. So haven't got any money to try out the KUL...  :))
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: dante on Sat, 02 August 2014, 21:54:52
Only thing that bothers me are those who simultaneously put Filco up on a pedestal while bashing the KUL solely on its keycaps.

The Filco's stock keycaps are just as pedestrian.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 02 August 2014, 22:27:10
Only thing that bothers me are those who simultaneously put Filco up on a pedestal while bashing the KUL solely on its keycaps.

The Filco's stock keycaps are just as pedestrian.
Yeah, the keycaps are in the same category as the Filco stock keycaps. It doesn't really matter to me, because I don't like OEM profile caps, so I never use stock keycaps anyway. Even the stock PBT caps on my Keycool came off the first day. To slight a keyboard because it doesn't come with thick PBT caps is not even relevant to me, because: PBT is all hype; they are still OEM profile.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: EpicSNES on Sun, 03 August 2014, 07:13:06
Only thing that bothers me are those who simultaneously put Filco up on a pedestal while bashing the KUL solely on its keycaps.

The Filco's stock keycaps are just as pedestrian.
Yeah, the keycaps are in the same category as the Filco stock keycaps. It doesn't really matter to me, because I don't like OEM profile caps, so I never use stock keycaps anyway. Even the stock PBT caps on my Keycool came off the first day. To slight a keyboard because it doesn't come with thick PBT caps is not even relevant to me, because: PBT is all hype; they are still OEM profile.

How would you say the quality of the case compares to a Filco? My initial impressions was that it was cheap'ish plastic, but maybe I was wrong. Now that I've had some more time with it, it doesn't seem as bad anymore.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 03 August 2014, 08:13:45
Only thing that bothers me are those who simultaneously put Filco up on a pedestal while bashing the KUL solely on its keycaps.

The Filco's stock keycaps are just as pedestrian.
Yeah, the keycaps are in the same category as the Filco stock keycaps. It doesn't really matter to me, because I don't like OEM profile caps, so I never use stock keycaps anyway. Even the stock PBT caps on my Keycool came off the first day. To slight a keyboard because it doesn't come with thick PBT caps is not even relevant to me, because: PBT is all hype; they are still OEM profile.

How would you say the quality of the case compares to a Filco? My initial impressions was that it was cheap'ish plastic, but maybe I was wrong. Now that I've had some more time with it, it doesn't seem as bad anymore.

I think all commonly produced keyboards have plastic casings (Except for the Tex, and I'm not so sure if I can call it a commonly produced keyboard).

I will personally prefer to buy an inexpensive second hand keyboard eg a Filco here, then buy a custom/metal casing if I really want that much solidity.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: lightsout714 on Sun, 03 August 2014, 15:31:11
Imo the case is great. Feels much better (solid and better texture) that my QFR.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: TheMark on Sun, 03 August 2014, 17:11:29
Noob question here: how difficult would it be to replace the switches in the KUL with blues?

Is there a DIY guide someplace on generic switch replacement procedures?
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sun, 03 August 2014, 17:19:22
Noob question here: how difficult would it be to replace the switches in the KUL with blues?

Is there a DIY guide someplace on generic switch replacement procedures?

Generally speaking on an OEM board you desolder the switches it comes with then solder in the switches you want.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: eyesmiles on Sun, 03 August 2014, 18:02:25
I’m surprised people still read my introduction of the ES-87, but then again I’ve rarely been on GH lately.

Since considering something to be "quality" can be subjective and varies from person to person, I would say quality to me is something that withstands time and constant use, not just weight and heft of a keyboard which I've seen various people imply that just because the board is heavy, it "must be" quality. The brief overview I did of the KUL and providing shots of the internals was to show those who are fairly versed to see the PCB and the quality of the solder work. It was pretty clean with some spots of flux residue. Great soldering work and a well-made PCB can often attest to withstanding heavy use and time. An important aspect of a great case is how well the top fascia and bottom portion come together. I found that Filcos do that well, only to be trumped by the Leopold FC700R and 660M (quite possibly the 660C as well, but I haven't had the pleasure of touching one). How well a case’s parts are joined, combining the top and bottom of the case in conjunction to how well the plate is positioned internally aid with making an overall rigid keyboard. Since keyboard cases are generally ABS, how does one really determine if they're cheap? Does texture equate to quality? I know some plastic cases are thinner than others, and that makes sense to consider them cheap. But for some boards, their cases are thick enough to withstand being dropped.

With that said, the KUL is on par with Filco in terms of build quality. To compare both: the Filco with an average price of $150 from Amazon (more if directly from keyboardco) versus the $130 KUL from EK or MK, between those 2, I'd go for the KUL over the Filco for ease of availability and savings of $20. The texture and overall feel of the stock key caps from both are far better than what you would find on a KeyCool or QFR. KUL and Filcos are put together really well. Areas where the case comes together are flush where they should be. The plastic used for the KUL and Filco are thick enough that not only do they provide some rigidity, but keep the internals safe from accidents. I consider Duckies to be mid-tier in terms of build probably due to my bias of Duckies being somewhat of a novelty keyboard. Their primary focus seems to be more on programming their LED light shows than anything. I place Ducky to be within the same realm as the QFR. For those with a budget, looking to get the best-bang-for-the-buck AND is only interested in the usual 4 switches, I'd go for a QFR (especially when they're on sale) over a KUL. If you want something with MX clears, I'd choose a KUL over the WASD Code.

Quick background for me as well. I've owned 3 Filcos (an MJ1 and 2x MJ2s), a Leopold FC200R, FC700R, FC660M, Ducky Shine II YotD, Ducky 9008 G2 Pro, KeyCool 87, taken apart and tinkered with 2 QFRs, a Ducky Zero 9087S and played with a WASD Code briefly (and that’s not counting the 60% boards I own or have modded).
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 03 August 2014, 22:39:20
Thank you for a meaty reply, eyesmiles

I own several Decks/TG3s, and guess I am pretty spoilt when it comes to the internals. I was not impressed by the KUL (am eternally surprised how little valued the TG3 is despite quality build), but concede that it definitely has better looking internals than the CMs Keycools and PLU I have seen. There is no stinting or corner cutting as far as I can see.

That said I still don’t know if KUL can be said to be better than the Deck. Apart from the usual grouses I have about the font.
Title: Re: KUL ES-87 Tenkeyless?
Post by: lightsout714 on Sun, 03 August 2014, 23:11:55
Thank you for a meaty reply, eyesmiles

I own several Decks/TG3s, and guess I am pretty spoilt when it comes to the internals. I was not impressed by the KUL (am eternally surprised how little valued the TG3 is despite quality build), but concede that it definitely has better looking internals than the CMs Keycools and PLU I have seen. There is no stinting or corner cutting as far as I can see.

That said I still don’t know if KUL can be said to be better than the Deck. Apart from the usual grouses I have about the font.


Yeah but all those keyboards you listed are hideous. Thats my opinion of course, from a pure build quality standpoint they may win but who doesn't also take style into account.