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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Touch_It on Tue, 14 October 2014, 15:55:45

Title: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: Touch_It on Tue, 14 October 2014, 15:55:45
So with Christmas coming up I was thinking about getting a unicomp keyboard.  Now I guess my first question is what is the difference between classic and ultra classic.

Secondly would the general consensus be that it feels better than an IBM Model M2 (my current keybaord), but maybe not as good as a good condition Model M.  I do actually really like the feel of it even though it has some condition issues.
Title: Re: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: 0100010 on Tue, 14 October 2014, 15:57:41
Classic is the normal Model M case size.  Ultra Classic is smaller case size.
Title: Re: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: dorkvader on Tue, 14 October 2014, 15:58:09
I dunno, some people like the M2 a lot. Have you replaced the capacitors in the controller yet?

Having typed on an M15 (same technology as the M2) I would say I like the unicomp more.

Another option is to get an IBM model M, if you don't mind cleaning up some dirt.
Title: Re: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: Touch_It on Tue, 14 October 2014, 16:04:21
I dunno, some people like the M2 a lot. Have you replaced the capacitors in the controller yet?

Having typed on an M15 (same technology as the M2) I would say I like the unicomp more.

Another option is to get an IBM model M, if you don't mind cleaning up some dirt.

Honestly had to replace the capacitors.  Mine was built sometime in 1990 and is apparently one of the few in the land without issues (yet).   My issues are I am missing 3 springs.  Have 3 bad ones  2 broken tabs that hold the top plate on and had to repair a bad trace.  And I messed up and the tab key on mine is crazy sensitive.  (decided to remap and disable the key vs open the damn thing up.

Honestly I wouldn't mind cleaning up the dirt on one but honestly I don't want to ask for money to buy one and it would be hard to try to explain to someone how to buy a model M from ebay or the classifieds here lol.   Also  I really kinda wanted a windows key for a change.
Title: Re: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: fohat.digs on Tue, 14 October 2014, 17:19:42
Huh?

The M2 could have been awesome but they made all the mistakes in the wrong places.

If you have a good one you should keep it.
Title: Re: IBM Model M2 vs Unicomp Ultra Classic
Post by: Touch_It on Tue, 14 October 2014, 19:29:41

Huh?

The M2 could have been awesome but they made all the mistakes in the wrong places.

If you have a good one you should keep it.
yeah
I don't have any plans on not keeping it.  I guess just a matter of if I would like it enough to justify asking for it.  I have a non functional m so it's hard to judge without actually using it but I actually think I like the m2 feel more. 

Shame they are a pain to service and it's sad that unicomp doesn't make them.

With everything said and done though I think I want one for work.  (Noise isn't an issue)