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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 10:36:28

Title: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 10:36:28: Hi It's been few years since I bought my first mech keyb partially thanks to this forum. It's CM CMStorm Quickfire Rapid (MX blue) Tenkeyless.
Now I need new keys at the office. Went ahead and bough this one: SteelSeries 6Gv2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Red Cherry Switches Edition
Absolutely hated both keys layout and MX Red switches. Next one will be MX Blue - not willing to take more chances - I like blue and going to stick with it on next one.

Budget - $100 or so.
Few current contenders :
1) Cooler Master CM Storm Quickfire Tk Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard USB Cherry MX Blue Key Switch
2) FUNC KB-460 Cherry MX Blue Switch Backlight Key Illumination Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Black

Things important to me:
Layout - aka same - no unusual and different key sizes. Durability and Price. USB plug (usb 3.0 hub would be a nice plus, but not crucial).
Needs to have the numpad - important for work stuff.

Not important at all:
LED, illumination, NKRO - macro keys, detachable cord, multimedia
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 16:49:09: 25 views, 0 replies? C'mon - I have here for opinions of experts
Two more contenders:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1104473-REG/cooler_master_sgk_6010_gkcl1_us_quickfire_trigger_z_gaming.html
and
http://www.ncixus.com/products/?sku=95834&vpn=DK2108SZ-CUSALAAB1&manufacture=Ducky&promoid=1374

both about $105 (ducky is on sale)

Help me to narrow it down
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 16:57:27: Rosewill?
Something like this?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823201082

That's about the best I can suggest.
But then again....
I am no expert on them.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:04:29: Rosewill? Customers on newegg have mixed reviews, particularly common issue with detachable usb cable.
I'm my experience Rosewill pretty much produced item bottom of the barrel, thou they are trying to change that image.... slowly
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:06:59: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:04:29
Rosewill? Customers on newegg have mixed reviews, particularly common issue with detachable usb cable.
I'm my experience Rosewill pretty much produced item bottom of the barrel, thou they are trying to change that image.... slowly

Oh stop it. This is the V2. The USB issue is a non-issue with it. I suggested something right up your alley.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:17:16: dude, don't get me wrong - they layout and switches are A OK. Lack of illumination not a big issue (but other keys at same price have it)
It's "right up my alley"
As for usb cable issues: I didn't imagined, it's right there in newegg reviews of V2 model - which you linked to.

what I am saying is - I could get CM Trigger-Z for $6 more, Func KB-460 is only $80 or Ducky DK2108SZ Blue for $95
Again - Why would I choose Rosewil (thou it valid suggestion) over more known keyboard brands?
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:19:22: I don't know. I'd rather you would get buckling spring if you asked me MY opinion. However, the Rosewill V2 is a solid keyboard and you would be happy with it.
Get another opinion.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:22:11: Out of all the ones you listed, I'd go with the Ducky. It should be the best built board of the lot.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:26:26: Quote from: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:19:22
I don't know. I'd rather you would get buckling spring if you asked me MY opinion. However, the Rosewill V2 is a solid keyboard and you would be happy with it.
Get another opinion.
I am asking YOUR opinion - How about this one: http://www.pckeyboard.com/page/UltraClassic/UB40P4A ??

Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:22:11
Out of all the ones you listed, I'd go with the Ducky. It should be the best built board of the lot.

Thanks ! I think $95 for that board is a steal
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:28:36: Don't waste your money on a Unicomp Model M.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:30:16: Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:28:36
Don't waste your money on a Unicomp Model M.
This. You can get a better IBM model for less
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25: Quote from: hwood34 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:30:16
Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:28:36
Don't waste your money on a Unicomp Model M.
This. You can get a better IBM model for less

You know what they say on forums - link or this didn't happen :)
Seriously thou - it needs be USB - no ps/2 ports on laptop doc and rather not use an adapter
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:36:51: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25
Quote from: hwood34 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:30:16
Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:28:36
Don't waste your money on a Unicomp Model M.
This. You can get a better IBM model for less

You know what they say on forums - link or this didn't happen :)
Seriously thou - it needs be USB - no ps/2 ports on laptop doc and rather not use an adapter

Scour eBay, check Craigslist, watch sales here, etc. It's pretty common to find one under $100.

For USB, buy one of these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-to-SDL-6-Pin-6ft-IBM-Lexmark-Unicomp-Model-M-Clicky-Keyboard-Cable-NEW-/301654850280?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item463c07bae8

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BEIGE-USB-to-SDL-6-Pin-6ft-IBM-Lexmark-Unicomp-Model-M-Clicky-Keyboard-Cable-NEW-/271470078682?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f34e0aada

That said, I'd still stick with the Ducky. IMO, if you're getting a BS keyboard, it's Model F or nothing.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:43:04: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25
Quote from: hwood34 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:30:16
Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:28:36
Don't waste your money on a Unicomp Model M.
This. You can get a better IBM model for less

You know what they say on forums - link or this didn't happen :)
Seriously thou - it needs be USB - no ps/2 ports on laptop doc and rather not use an adapter

You can. It might cost you a bit more than $100 if you decide to go Model M with the Colossus controller and a bolt-mod. You can find some deals if you are patient. Let me see... Link or it didn't happen?
http://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/universal-model-m-controller-t9820.html
That controller allows USB functionality with the Model M keyboard. (About $40)
(http://deskthority.net/resources/image/19918)
You might find a good deal on a terminal board like my 1392595 for under $40...
Then if you want to get ambitious you can even add the LED Overlay and LED panel too.
http://imgur.com/a/O7ayY
http://imgur.com/a/bBFuv

Or maybe you can make a deal with Maxx at Phosphorglow.net and get one of his 1391401's with the new controller already installed, but I think it may cost you a bit more than $100.
http://phosphorglow.net/store/products/1371401-11081990/
Nothing wrong with sending him a message. You may get a great deal!
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: fohat.digs on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:52:49: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25
rather not use an adapter

Why not?

But seriously, there are a lot more switches out there than MX blue. Expand your horizons. Explore switches rather than cases and brands.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: EscapeVelocity on Sun, 21 June 2015, 18:38:44: Id suggest any Ducky keyboard.

There is also

Das Keyboard 4 Pro which has a USB 3.0 hub and media controls, with really nice volume knob.
Corsair Vengeance K70 which has nice volume knob media controls but no USB hub

and the Cooler Master full size Quickfire Storm whatever

Rosewill 9000v2 aint bad.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: EscapeVelocity on Sun, 21 June 2015, 18:53:34: This thread helped me find the Ducky Ive been looking for.

Ducky DK9087 w/Orange LEDs (though Id prefer Clears or Greens to) Cherry MX Blue.

My fav illumination is Green or Amber(Orange). Like the old car audio head units from Alpine. Less strain on the eyes. Full RGB where you can pause it a custom color is nice though.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:27:18: Quote from: fohat.digs on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:52:49
Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25
rather not use an adapter
Why not?
But seriously, there are a lot more switches out there than MX blue. Expand your horizons. Explore switches rather than cases and brands.
Model F with replacement SDL to USB cable seems like viable option. Locked plug - this is not what consider an adapter, but a replacement cord - and totally possible option. I was referring to ps/2 to usb plasticky pos.

Quote from: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:43:04
You can. It might cost you a bit more than $100 if you decide to go Model M with the Colossus controller and a bolt-mod. You can find some deals if you are patient. Let me see... Link or it didn't happen?
http://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/universal-model-m-controller-t9820.html
That controller allows USB functionality with the Model M keyboard. (About $40)
Show Image
(http://deskthority.net/resources/image/19918)

You might find a good deal on a terminal board like my 1392595 for under $40...
Then if you want to get ambitious you can even add the LED Overlay and LED panel too.
http://imgur.com/a/O7ayY
http://imgur.com/a/bBFuv

Or maybe you can make a deal with Maxx at Phosphorglow.net and get one of his 1391401's with the new controller already installed, but I think it may cost you a bit more than $100.
http://phosphorglow.net/store/products/1371401-11081990/
Nothing wrong with sending him a message. You may get a great deal!
It seems like ether way a replacement cord or replacement board seem to cost about same :) Now you got my attention :)

Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:36:51

That said, I'd still stick with the Ducky. IMO, if you're getting a BS keyboard, it's Model F or nothing.
Ducky on sale plus one more quiet cheapy one (don't ask) might be the ticket.

Quote from: EscapeVelocity on Sun, 21 June 2015, 18:38:44
Id suggest any Ducky keyboard.

Das Keyboard 4 Pro which has a USB 3.0 hub and media controls, with really nice volume knob.
Corsair Vengeance K70 which has nice volume knob media controls but no USB hub

and the Cooler Master full size Quickfire Storm whatever

Rosewill 9000v2 aint bad.
Das Keyb 4 Pro looks very nice and has features I want, it's the price which is turns me off a bit. Almost double from I paid for CM RapidStorm TKL.
Can't find much of full sized storm, the closest one I did find is CM Trigger-z - seems like about same thing.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:33:03: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:27:18
Quote from: fohat.digs on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:52:49
Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 17:33:25
rather not use an adapter
Why not?
But seriously, there are a lot more switches out there than MX blue. Expand your horizons. Explore switches rather than cases and brands.
Model F with replacement SDL to USB cable seems like viable option. Locked plug - this is not what consider an adapter, but a replacement cord - and totally possible option. I was referring to ps/2 to usb plasticky pos.

Model F doesn't use an SDL cable.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:40:49: Ok, In short term - I got the Ducky, but you guys changed my option regarding Original Model M. I was not aware of replacement cord nor replacement board.
I just might get me one of these next time around, which like my collection of headphones - it's never the last one :)

I will follow up after I get it and test it a bit
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:42:08: Honestly, IMO, if you're going to do Buckling Spring, skip the Model M and go for a Model F. There's just no comparison.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:44:47: Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:42:08
Honestly, IMO, if you're going to do Buckling Spring, skip the Model M and go for a Model F. There's just no comparison.

F/M - whatever you say man - I will look for F model then.
For clearance purposes - what's the sane way of getting Model F connected to usb port?
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:46:04: Soarer's mod, xwhatsit controller, or external adapter.
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: fohat.digs on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:47:49: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:44:47
For clearance purposes - what's the sane way of getting Model F connected to usb port?

Orihalcon's cables.

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=64670.msg1721780#msg1721780 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=64670.msg1721780#msg1721780)
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 20:16:00: And you are telling this person that he can get a Model F with all the work done to it as well as the adapters for around $100?

*I would suppose about the only keyboard that is close to an ANSI 101 is the 107 key 4704.*

And functional 107 key 4704's cost, oh say, around $300 or more. Not to mention all the hard work involved getting them working. Or dig deeper to find a functional board for it if you actually purchased a bad one?

Of course money is no object when talking about the Model F keyboard.

Or are you trying to talk him into an XT or AT keyboard with the big ass enter? And have him make that ANSI? Go for the XTAnt? Remember what the OP requested.

Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 10:36:28
Budget - $100 or so.
Few current contenders :
1) Cooler Master CM Storm Quickfire Tk Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard USB Cherry MX Blue Key Switch
2) FUNC KB-460 Cherry MX Blue Switch Backlight Key Illumination Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Black

Things important to me:
Layout - aka same - no unusual and different key sizes. Durability and Price. USB plug (usb 3.0 hub would be a nice plus, but not crucial).
Needs to have the numpad - important for work stuff.

Not important at all:
LED, illumination, NKRO - macro keys, detachable cord, multimedia
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 20:44:35: It seems like the rabbit hole goes much, much deeper than I could've imagine - over $600 for a keyboard????
http://www.ebay.com/itm/IBM-Vintage-Clicky-Keyboard-RARE-4700-Model-F-/251620237236?pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item3a95bc1fb4

It seems like some people REALLY love their vintage bucking springs...
Title: Re: Looking for help selecting next mech keybaord
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 20:53:21: Quote from: boredsysadm on Sun, 21 June 2015, 20:44:35
It seems like the rabbit hole goes much, much deeper than I could've imagine - over $600 for a keyboard?
It seems like some people REALLY love their vintage bucking springs...

Yep. I wasn't kidding. That was probably a Kishsaver.

Here is a current 4704. Note: this is without the Xwhatsit adapter or modifying the keys to true ANSI.
This is a current listing by Orihalcon. (He is a member here...)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Original-IBM-4704-Banking-System-Keyboard-TESTED-107-Key-Model-F-6020218-/281689692136

Now, I hope my suggestion is taken seriously and you consider what I did suggest for you. I am doing my best to keep you in your budget and help you get the most for your money.