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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: swimmingbird on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:21:17

Title: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:21:17
I'm finding that I don't have enough general keyboard chat stuff in my watched thread coming up so I wanted to start a thread where people could post and discuss their predictions or thoughts about what's happening in the keyboard community, the implications and so forth.

Ideally this thread would be focused on keyboards, keycaps, layouts, switches, geekhack, groupbuys, vendors and any other topic related topic If possible predictions should try and elicit discussion amongst community members. If you want feel free to add a date on to your predictions if you want to test it down the road.

I'll start off with a few that I've had on my mind lately:

1. More and more GMK buys will be run either through vendors or in conjunction with vendors - I predict 4+ full GMK sets to be run through Massdrop in 2016

2. Sandwich style board designs like GON and Winkeyless will be copied by major manufacturers - 


I'd love to hear all of your predictions  :D
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: fknraiden on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:28:26
I have a feeling that one or more of the "Elders" here will get out of the KB game for good.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:31:56
This sounds like fun. I predict that by the end of 2017:

1. Signature Plastics will create a new keycap profile, similar to DCS but thicker, in order to compete with GMK.

2. Matias will expand their line of Alps-compatible switches, to offer more choices for hobbyists.

3. njbair will finally score some blue Alps switches.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: raymogi on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:33:30
Here's an easy prediction. Applies to me and everyone else here.

More money will fly out of our wallets... sacrificed for the KB gods...
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:36:54
NJBair, coming from one of the dudes picking up an unpaid order, I assumed I wasn't in the raffle. Definitely not going to be upset if not entered- just happy to be here! If we do get included it's just a pretty sweet bonus :) So no worries bra, don't think about it too much

This sounds like fun. I predict that by the end of 2017:

1. Signature Plastics will create a new keycap profile, similar to DCS but thicker, in order to compete with GMK.

2. Matias will expand their line of Alps-compatible switches, to offer more choices for hobbyists.

3. njbair will finally score some blue Alps switches.

1. Just opened my package of JTK Debut keycaps - these are what SP should have done with DCS... I'm not sure how responsive SP are to investment though - it seems like it took so much effort just to get R4 shifts in SA profile, I don't think they'd be willing to drop the cash for molding an entire set of nice thick cherry profile caps - would be really nice though considering that they are basically the only custom place offering Alps compatible sets (at least in DCS)

2. Would be cool but do Matias have the cash to do it? It seems like at the moment they are trying to get more OEMs to start using their existing switches in their boards (e.g. V80 TKL).

3. Fingers crossed  :D
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:37:35
Here's an easy prediction. Applies to me and everyone else here.

More money will fly out of our wallets... sacrificed for the KB gods...

That's like predicting that the sun is going to come up tomorrow
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: FrostyToast on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:39:14
1. There will be drama with a keycap artisan
2. A group buy runner or vendor will disappear
3. Massdrop will **** up a group buy. Again.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:42:02
2. Would be cool but do Matias have the cash to do it? It seems like at the moment they are trying to get more OEMs to start using their existing switches in their boards (e.g. V80 TKL).

It wouldn't take much, since the sliders are identical in all Matias switches, only the tactile/click leaf would change, and probably different spring weights, etc.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jonathanyu on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:47:52
1. There will be drama with a keycap artisan
2. A group buy runner or vendor will disappear
3. Massdrop will **** up a group buy. Again.

This is the fate on gh. not prediction
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:48:47
2. Would be cool but do Matias have the cash to do it? It seems like at the moment they are trying to get more OEMs to start using their existing switches in their boards (e.g. V80 TKL).

It wouldn't take much, since the sliders are identical in all Matias switches, only the tactile/click leaf would change, and probably different spring weights, etc.

Care to make a prediction on clicky/tactile/linear? Weight?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:53:12
2. Would be cool but do Matias have the cash to do it? It seems like at the moment they are trying to get more OEMs to start using their existing switches in their boards (e.g. V80 TKL).

It wouldn't take much, since the sliders are identical in all Matias switches, only the tactile/click leaf would change, and probably different spring weights, etc.

Care to make a prediction on clicky/tactile/linear? Weight?
Since I've only tried Quiet Clicks so far (I've got some Clicks on the way from BlueNalgene), I'll hold off on the specifics. But probably a total of two linear styles with different weights, and a second tactile option as well.

I'm not an expert on the mechanics of simplified Alps, but I wonder if they could offer a switch with a different actuation point.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Snowdog993 on Wed, 18 November 2015, 22:53:59
A very unique buckling spring keyboard will emerge in the near future:

1. Space Saving TKL
2. Between 84-94 keys.
3. Fully configurable ~ Programmable.
4. Diode / Fiberglass construction.
5. Custom Bezel (actually can be easily modified)
6. Frame/Scroll buffering up to 255 characters.  (Not exactly NKRO but pretty cool...)
7. There will be several "sizes" for the new board.  (Actually 2-3 options depending on configuration)
8. ANSI and ISO options.
* MASS Production picked up by a MAJOR manufacturer.

I wish.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: darkclone24 on Thu, 19 November 2015, 01:47:24
The supply of 60% keyboards via both manufacturers and group buys will grow larger than the demand, and we'll see a lot of failed group buys for 60s next year.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: FrostyToast on Thu, 19 November 2015, 03:19:46
1. There will be drama with a keycap artisan
2. A group buy runner or vendor will disappear
3. Massdrop will **** up a group buy. Again.

This is the fate on gh. not prediction

Very true. I'll provide something a little more insightful than the basic stuff.

1. Matias will venture further into the keycap space; expanding not only with their PBT caps but also interesting colorways
2. A unique and original custom model f keyboard following Ellipse's success
3. Some sort of custom housing for a topre keyboard. Realforce, HHKB, etc.
4. JTK will not be available for production outside of [CTRL]Alt exclusive sales; not even a PMK style voting system
5. Increased support for custom ALPS boards through GH run GBs, keyboard kits specifically
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: fanpeople on Thu, 19 November 2015, 03:22:43
I predict that there will not be a HHKB 3 as HHKB has already achieved perfection.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Oobly on Thu, 19 November 2015, 03:44:49
1. There will be a new font made for SA profile to allow designers more choice
2. Documents detailing SP's capabilities in different profiles will be produced, including accurate specifications for legend designs
3. Designers will start to use more gloss caps and polycarbonate in their SA designs
4. SA profile SHIF T key legends will be fixed on future sets
5. SA profile will continue to be the most popular with designers, despite the lead time, due to all the options it affords designers
6. Cherry will finally make a switch that the community really wants (a 62g dampened Clear perhaps) and isn't scratchy, but will it be too little, too late?
7. A portable mechanical keyboard for phones and tablets will be released
8. JTK will introduce backlit Cherry profile doubleshots that actually look nice with backlighting on and off
9. UKKeycaps will run a GB for a Devlin "Q" profile caps set <-looking forward to this one
10. I will spend too much money on keyboards and keycaps

But I cheated on a few of those... ;D

I don't think SP will make a new set of molds for "thick DCS", but if they did I'd want them to redesign the bottom rows to have a flatter angle and maybe even symmetrical spacebar and Alt keys (convex, like the spacebar) since most people use their thumbs for those.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jaffers on Thu, 19 November 2015, 03:57:40
Definitely agree with the GMK sets. In particular I think that there will be a classic beige GB again and it will actually reach MOQ this time.
65% to 75% GB's will become increasingly more popular as 60% alone is not functional enough.
Cherry profile will become available at Signature Plastics.
People will have a falling out with Signature Plastics for fluctuating prices.
Massdrop will make a loss for having too many el cheapo chinese keyboards that can be bought off ali express for less
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: FrostyToast on Thu, 19 November 2015, 04:03:04
Definitely agree with the GMK sets. In particular I think that there will be a classic beige GB again and it will actually reach MOQ this time.
65% to 75% GB's will become increasingly more popular as 60% alone is not functional enough.
Cherry profile will become available at Signature Plastics.
People will have a falling out with Signature Plastics for fluctuating prices.
Massdrop will make a loss for having too many el cheapo chinese keyboards that can be bought off ali express for less

SP already has DCS which is pretty much Cherry profile already.
They would not waste the time and resources in producing a new Cherry profile unless there was the additional motive for thicker caps.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: KHAANNN on Thu, 19 November 2015, 12:02:50
I think GMK is going to screw everyone by allowing custom double-shots through Uniqey, we will all enjoy it tho

Gone the days feeling special because you scored GMK's for your absurd layout, <$500 will buy any custom colorscheme, you can sell the accompanying keyboard later on
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: azhdar on Thu, 19 November 2015, 12:07:52
DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Melvang on Thu, 19 November 2015, 12:09:33
I predict I will purchase a mill, make custom cases for model F and start my learning and transition to building Datamancer level cases for F AT, 122, Unsaver, and possibly XT.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jonathanyu on Thu, 19 November 2015, 12:14:45
DrHubble's MIRA will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

this is actually what i predict as well..
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Photekq on Thu, 19 November 2015, 12:24:01
DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.
High quality prediction.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Oobly on Thu, 19 November 2015, 15:02:35
I predict I will purchase a mill, make custom cases for model F and start my learning and transition to building Datamancer level cases for F AT, 122, Unsaver, and possibly XT.

I like this prediction a lot. And look forward to seeing it fulfilled!
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Thu, 19 November 2015, 17:04:40
Backlit topre keyboard. Just seems like an inevitability.

PMK will never materialize. Seems like vaporware at this point, and its easier for them to just reproduce what they feel like to keep their tooling busy. Massdrop will dominate SP group buys, and very few will be run by individuals/ctrlalt/etc.

3 months from now there will be 10 different SA interest checks claiming they are about to go to group buy.



Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Melvang on Thu, 19 November 2015, 18:01:41
I predict I will purchase a mill, make custom cases for model F and start my learning and transition to building Datamancer level cases for F AT, 122, Unsaver, and possibly XT.

I like this prediction a lot. And look forward to seeing it fulfilled!

Current thought is a two metal pieces total.  The solid back plate is also the case, all milled from one block, and the swiss cheese plate for the barrels is also the top half of the case, all milled from a second block.  The biggest hurdle, is this would require either some serious CAM/CNC, or I think it could be possible with manual using 4 axis.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: nmur on Thu, 19 November 2015, 18:42:01
Razer/Corsair will release 60% gaming keyboard lines, with marketing advertising their space saving properties. Overtakes the pok3r.

Less keys = less LEDs to break, right?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Thu, 19 November 2015, 19:25:50
DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.
High quality prediction.

DrHubble's MIRA will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

this is actually what i predict as well..

 :'(
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Thu, 19 November 2015, 19:30:51
Razer/Corsair will release 60% gaming keyboard lines, with marketing advertising their space saving properties. Overtakes the pok3r.

Less keys = less LEDs to break, right?

I think what azhdar said about 65% is probably more likely - non-GH/DT/r/mk people need to see arrow keys to feel comfortable
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Thu, 19 November 2015, 19:38:11


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Thu, 19 November 2015, 19:45:41


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Thu, 19 November 2015, 19:49:12


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Thu, 19 November 2015, 20:01:24


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.

Thought you were talking about MIRA
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: potatowire on Thu, 19 November 2015, 20:41:38


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Thu, 19 November 2015, 20:56:58


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Maybe I'm losing my mind, but I can't tell where they changed it to buy themselves an extra 0.25U. What am I missing?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Melvang on Thu, 19 November 2015, 20:58:18


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Maybe I'm losing my mind, but I can't tell where they changed it to buy themselves an extra 0.25U. What am I missing?

Left control
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Thu, 19 November 2015, 21:08:47


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Maybe I'm losing my mind, but I can't tell where they changed it to buy themselves an extra 0.25U. What am I missing?

Left control
I don't think so, see how the 1U winkey lines up with the left shift on both boards?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: potatowire on Thu, 19 November 2015, 21:55:17


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Maybe I'm losing my mind, but I can't tell where they changed it to buy themselves an extra 0.25U. What am I missing?

Left control
I don't think so, see how the 1U winkey lines up with the left shift on both boards?

I think the parallax makes it look like it lines up, even though it doesn't. L CTRL does look like a 1.25u on the new board.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Thu, 19 November 2015, 22:00:16


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

There's a nonstandard bottom row?
Leopold FC660 has a 6U spacebar.
The 660 *had* a 6u space bar.

http://imgur.com/a/TM7E4
Maybe I'm losing my mind, but I can't tell where they changed it to buy themselves an extra 0.25U. What am I missing?

Left control
I don't think so, see how the 1U winkey lines up with the left shift on both boards?

I think the parallax makes it look like it lines up, even though it doesn't. L CTRL does look like a 1.25u on the new board.
I think those are both 6.25 spacebars, guys.

Maybe I was wrong and it wasn't the length of the spacebar but the location of the stems.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: SamirD on Thu, 19 November 2015, 22:55:56
A very unique buckling spring keyboard will emerge in the near future:

1. Space Saving TKL
2. Between 84-94 keys.
3. Fully configurable ~ Programmable.
4. Diode / Fiberglass construction.
5. Custom Bezel (actually can be easily modified)
6. Frame/Scroll buffering up to 255 characters.  (Not exactly NKRO but pretty cool...)
7. There will be several "sizes" for the new board.  (Actually 2-3 options depending on configuration)
8. ANSI and ISO options.
* MASS Production picked up by a MAJOR manufacturer.

I wish.
In a related prediction, buckling spring boards demand falls even more because all the ipeople out there want super silent quiet things that look pretty.  :rolleyes:  In related news, Apple fanboy gets knocked out with a slap to the head by an F122... :))
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Snowdog993 on Thu, 19 November 2015, 23:15:14
In a related prediction, buckling spring boards demand falls even more because all the ipeople out there want super silent quiet things that look pretty.  :rolleyes:  In related news, Apple fanboy gets knocked out with a slap to the head by an F122... :))

#4 is the most important part of the whole thing. 
It will be a fiberglass membrane-type design with diodes. 
The springs will be clicking on that fiberglass rather than metal.
It will have a distinctive sound, but not exactly the same as the original Model M. 
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 19 November 2015, 23:28:39
I think those are both 6.25 spacebars, guys.

Maybe I was wrong and it wasn't the length of the spacebar but the location of the stems.

Definitely both 6.25
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 20 November 2015, 01:55:54


DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

I would be okay with this, especially if the nonstandard bottom row issues are addressed and corrected.

I quite like the Magicforce 68 key. It uses all standard caps and has 4 edit keys. Downside is it's only 1u narrower than a TKL, but I think it's a good compromise of compactness / functionality. I have 2 on order from Massdrop so I'll how it is to actually use. I suspect I'll be as fast on it as on a TKL, the FN layer arrows and edits on my 60% do slow me down a touch when editing.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Niomosy on Fri, 20 November 2015, 02:11:38
An ANSI 122 board will come to fruition.
A standard split + tented Cherry MX compatible board will be available... with the 6 on the left side.
Someone will manufacturer small batches of hall effect switches and put Cherry compatible stems on them.
Tall deep dish PBT doubleshot keycaps will become a reality.

I'll wait up from this dream.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: njbair on Fri, 20 November 2015, 07:17:55
All major keycap group buys moving forward, will require photorealistic 3D renders to be taken seriously.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 20 November 2015, 11:39:47
All major keycap group buys moving forward, will require photorealistic 3D renders to be taken seriously.

It is already becoming the new standard, it does draw in a good bit of interest.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: bcredbottle on Fri, 20 November 2015, 11:42:27
The availability of artisans will massively increase to the point where tier 1 artisan caps are readily available on the primary market.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: davkol on Fri, 20 November 2015, 12:05:31
A standard split + tented Cherry MX compatible board will be available... with the 6 on the left side.
That's not much of a prediction, actually, considering that Kinesis is already running Idk-how-manyeth round of surveys for the gaming Freestyle.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Fri, 20 November 2015, 12:09:03
The availability of artisans will massively increase to the point where tier 1 artisan caps are readily available on the primary market.

I think the opposite. It's gonna be really easy to buy lower "tier" keycaps, but the top tier caps are only gonna be traded for other top tier caps.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 20 November 2015, 13:15:29
The availability of artisans will massively increase to the point where tier 1 artisan caps are readily available on the primary market.

I think the opposite. It's gonna be really easy to buy lower "tier" keycaps, but the top tier caps are only gonna be traded for other top tier caps.

I agree with you, there's a lot of people wanting to become artisans but the quality is no where near. Tier 1 selection will likely stay around the same.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jonathanyu on Fri, 20 November 2015, 15:21:03
The availability of artisans will massively increase to the point where tier 1 artisan caps are readily available on the primary market.

I think the opposite. It's gonna be really easy to buy lower "tier" keycaps, but the top tier caps are only gonna be traded for other top tier caps.

isn't that what happen right now already?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 20 November 2015, 15:22:22
I predict nobody will be interested in keyboards or keycaps.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Niomosy on Fri, 20 November 2015, 15:58:31
A standard split + tented Cherry MX compatible board will be available... with the 6 on the left side.
That's not much of a prediction, actually, considering that Kinesis is already running Idk-how-manyeth round of surveys for the gaming Freestyle.

It is when you consider the timeline for them actually putting that into effect.  That and, ideally, it would be in a single case similar to an MS Ergo.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: zombimuncha on Fri, 20 November 2015, 16:03:02
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: potatowire on Fri, 20 November 2015, 16:31:08
I think those are both 6.25 spacebars, guys.

Maybe I was wrong and it wasn't the length of the spacebar but the location of the stems.

Definitely both 6.25

I'm going to pretend I never said otherwise. I definitely should've known better. I actually owned a 660M once upon a time...
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Weltschmerz on Fri, 20 November 2015, 20:10:29
Maybe more support for alps sets? Hopefully some keycap sets that go beyond 60% for nerds like me who like arrow keys.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: KRKS on Sat, 21 November 2015, 03:26:44
1. Cherry will clone Purple Zealios, and people will still think Cherry invents anything nowadays.
2. CMStorm will go Gateron, probably as an option first to ease the transition for the non-enthusiast folks.
3. Ultimate oH look i stole hhkb name and claim bull in the funding page now gib mony pls Keyboard will be funded, and become "Razer of split keyboards" - terrible but with heaps of fanboys.
4. Some other esports group will follow fNatic and make their own peripheral brand(or like in their case, buy an existing company).
5. Alps will continue slow but steady popularity growth. Being able to buy a Matias without either import tax or pound tax(ANSI Matias Quiet Pro for PC from the Keyboard Company, costs ~730 PLN + shipping. That's a Novatouch and enough change to get a good optical mouse like some of the x7's or an Alcor) would help.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Sat, 21 November 2015, 07:23:04
The availability of artisans will massively increase to the point where tier 1 artisan caps are readily available on the primary market.

I think the opposite. It's gonna be really easy to buy lower "tier" keycaps, but the top tier caps are only gonna be traded for other top tier caps.

isn't that what happen right now already?

Well yeah. And more artisans in the game won't do anything but further that trend.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jaffers on Sat, 21 November 2015, 08:17:49
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
I predict this will not happen
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: zombimuncha on Sat, 21 November 2015, 08:26:39
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
I predict this will not happen
Yeah, it might just be wishful thinking.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Niomosy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:41:11
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
I predict this will not happen

SA on Alps might eventually happen but there will need to be a concentrated effort on the part of the community to push for that.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jaffers on Sat, 21 November 2015, 18:14:53
Yeah, it might just be wishful thinking.

SA on Alps might eventually happen but there will need to be a concentrated effort on the part of the community to push for that.

I just feel like its not the year of the alps. Maybe we will have to go over the chinese calendar again and see when that will happen.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Fri, 11 December 2015, 08:21:52
The WhiteFox will be delayed by a significant amount of time due to Massdrop's greediness in running more than 500 units in the first run
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 11 December 2015, 09:00:25
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
I predict this will not happen

SA on Alps might eventually happen but there will need to be a concentrated effort on the part of the community to push for that.


Hmmm.... not sure SP has all the SA profile keycap sizes in the correct rows for that. I'd assume you'd want support for AEKII, Matias and KBP layouts... If everyone use a single layout for Alps switches, though, it would be feasible. Dolch SA for Alps stems could actually get enough orders to work, IMO.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: xondat on Fri, 11 December 2015, 09:34:09
More and more metal Korean TKLs will be made. :cool:
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Niomosy on Fri, 11 December 2015, 13:42:45
Once the Matias PBT keycaps are brought to market interest in Alps in general will increase. Another manufacturer will release a keyboard with Alps/Matias switches, and there will be an Alps SA keycap group buy.
I predict this will not happen

SA on Alps might eventually happen but there will need to be a concentrated effort on the part of the community to push for that.


Hmmm.... not sure SP has all the SA profile keycap sizes in the correct rows for that. I'd assume you'd want support for AEKII, Matias and KBP layouts... If everyone use a single layout for Alps switches, though, it would be feasible. Dolch SA for Alps stems could actually get enough orders to work, IMO.

I think something like Dolch, Granite, or other wildly popular, regularly run set would probably be the way to go.  Wider appeal gets more buyers which can offset costs.

If SP is missing caps, we might just have to improvise a bit for certain layouts for a time.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: ideus on Sat, 12 December 2015, 12:41:28
There is a difference between prediction and forecasting, I wonder if someone has put together some data to get some of the second type.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Sat, 12 December 2015, 16:35:20
There is a difference between prediction and forecasting, I wonder if someone has put together some data to get some of the second type.

What were you thinking of forecasting?

At one point I was tracking Massdrop and GB order numbers to see how they were changing over time
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: ideus on Sat, 12 December 2015, 17:31:09
There is a difference between prediction and forecasting, I wonder if someone has put together some data to get some of the second type.

What were you thinking of forecasting?

At one point I was tracking Massdrop and GB order numbers to see how they were changing over time


That may be a good start, what the figures you have already recollected tell you?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: jaffers on Sat, 12 December 2015, 18:28:42
There is a difference between prediction and forecasting, I wonder if someone has put together some data to get some of the second type.

What were you thinking of forecasting?

At one point I was tracking Massdrop and GB order numbers to see how they were changing over time

We should actually invest a little time into these forecasts they could prove useful in the future.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Sat, 12 December 2015, 21:45:43
There is a difference between prediction and forecasting, I wonder if someone has put together some data to get some of the second type.

What were you thinking of forecasting?

At one point I was tracking Massdrop and GB order numbers to see how they were changing over time

We should actually invest a little time into these forecasts they could prove useful in the future.

Yeah I might get back into it
Need to update my personal spending model as well - it's been like 4 months since I added anything to it

+ my prediction about massdrop being greedy bastards confirmed - whitefox max quantity is now 2000 units
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 13 December 2015, 04:37:43
Cherry may just stop making new MX switches all together within the next decade or so. There are better, cheaper clones and mechs are just a tiny portion of ZF's business already.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: azhdar on Sun, 13 December 2015, 04:59:28
Cherry may just stop making new MX switches all together within the next decade or so. There are better, cheaper clones and mechs are just a tiny portion of ZF's business already.

Well they just released a new cherry mx switch a month ago : mx natural white (linear in betweenred & black).

http://www.kitguru.net/peripherals/keyboards/jon-martindale/cherry-announces-new-mechanical-switch-mx-rgb-nature-white/

and the RGB switches are somewhat new too, so it does look like this market is still attractive to Cherry Corp.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Sun, 13 December 2015, 08:08:48
Cherry may just stop making new MX switches all together within the next decade or so. There are better, cheaper clones and mechs are just a tiny portion of ZF's business already.

I think that's quite a while away - they still have a strong brand appeal to the larger less-enthusiasty market that allows them to sell switches for more than competitors
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: SamirD on Mon, 14 December 2015, 00:45:01
I predict buckling springs will still be buckling and springing.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Xonar on Mon, 14 December 2015, 01:57:17
-Xonar will decide to buy not just an F77 from Ellipse, but an F62 as well.
-Xonar will sell his car and buy his Unsaver, F50, and Industrial Model M back.
-Xonar will finally restore his F107.

 :'(

More serious (but probably unrealistic) predictions:
-Someone will make PBT doubleshot Cherry profile caps and it will be all the rage. (think PBT Dolch  :eek:)
-Matias will attempt to replicate the feel of Blue Alps as closely as possible in a new switch variant, and even use blue sliders for good measure.
-We'll see the first RGB backlight-compatible 60% custom PCBs after the K-Type keyboard sees success. Winkeyless will lead the way.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Jokrik on Mon, 14 December 2015, 02:05:21
Cherry may just stop making new MX switches all together within the next decade or so. There are better, cheaper clones and mechs are just a tiny portion of ZF's business already.

Well they just released a new cherry mx switch a month ago : mx natural white (linear in betweenred & black).

http://www.kitguru.net/peripherals/keyboards/jon-martindale/cherry-announces-new-mechanical-switch-mx-rgb-nature-white/

and the RGB switches are somewhat new too, so it does look like this market is still attractive to Cherry Corp.

I'm very sure that Cherry Corp still be as profitable or even more in the future
That because I read somewhere that they've been concentrating in China's market for the last year or so

Honestly, one reason why there are so many billionaires in China is because of the population itself has a very high consumption level, let alone the NUMBER of population
Even though you failed miserably somewhere else, but you succeed in China it doesn't matter
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: henz on Mon, 14 December 2015, 02:05:28
i predict i will buy more keyboard stuff. most likely more keycaps and a ultimate hacking keyboard.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: SamirD on Mon, 14 December 2015, 13:17:46
i predict i will buy more keyboard stuff.
I think you just predicted my future as well, lol.

Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Mon, 14 December 2015, 13:23:44
More serious (but probably unrealistic) predictions:
-Someone will make PBT doubleshot Cherry profile caps and it will be all the rage. (think PBT Dolch  :eek:)
-Matias will attempt to replicate the feel of Blue Alps as closely as possible in a new switch variant, and even use blue sliders for good measure.
-We'll see the first RGB backlight-compatible 60% custom PCBs after the K-Type keyboard sees success. Winkeyless will lead the way.

I agree heavily with all three of these. Although you know that the first PBT doubleshot cherries will be some garbage legend choice for some reason.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: zombimuncha on Mon, 14 December 2015, 13:49:36
-Matias will attempt to replicate the feel of Blue Alps as closely as possible in a new switch variant, and even use blue sliders for good measure.
pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls !
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: E3E on Mon, 14 December 2015, 13:59:24
-Matias will attempt to replicate the feel of Blue Alps as closely as possible in a new switch variant, and even use blue sliders for good measure.
pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls !

If they actually did this, I'd be blown away. They'd HAVE to make a complicated contact mechanism or some very close approximation because that's where a lot of the solid feel comes into play. Even taking off a few mm of length from the contact plate kills some of that solidness. Short contact SKCM/SKCLs (whites, salmons, yellows) don't feel as good as the longer contact versions (blues, oranges, greens). Just IME/imo.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: ctm on Wed, 16 December 2015, 16:35:57
ALPS revival in 2016!
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Altis on Wed, 16 December 2015, 17:01:24
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: swimmingbird on Wed, 16 December 2015, 18:12:37
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?

nope

best bet is to wait out for an rgb compatible (4 pin lighting) pcb and just pair it up with zealios - I imagine one will be released sometime in 2016
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Altis on Thu, 17 December 2015, 16:33:19
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?

nope

best bet is to wait out for an rgb compatible (4 pin lighting) pcb and just pair it up with zealios - I imagine one will be released sometime in 2016

It'll be for gaming so I'll be going for MX Browns actually.

I know Corsair has a TKL but 60% would be ideal for gaming to allow more mouse space.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Thu, 17 December 2015, 17:11:38
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?


Vortex just teased a Pok3r with RGB LED's
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: E3E on Thu, 17 December 2015, 17:14:41
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?


Vortex just teased a Pok3r with RGB LED's

I was actually going to mention this when I first glanced that post, but I wasn't sure if I was remembering something I had actually seen or just imagined. :P I heard of the RGB pok3r being in the works for a while now.  :eek:
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: Altis on Thu, 17 December 2015, 18:34:42
Is anyone aware of any upcoming 60% Cherry MX boards with full RGB lighting?


Vortex just teased a Pok3r with RGB LED's

Thanks for the tip. I'll stay tuned for updates... seems like it's been in the works for a little bit, so hopefully a release isn't all too far off.  :cool:
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: WolfTickets on Fri, 18 December 2015, 11:23:20
I believe the near future will have the introduction of Artisan Keypullers after a near death experience due to keyboard related bacteria.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: azhdar on Fri, 18 December 2015, 13:27:41
DrHubble's MIRA GB will fail dramatically and at best will have a full year of delay.

More people will realise that 65% is the best layout out there, so new 65% boards will arrive.

WhiteFox proved me right on my second point.

My first point will be proved right too.
Title: Re: Keyboard Prediction Thread
Post by: E3E on Fri, 18 December 2015, 13:41:11
Alps Artisans will start to gain traction with the big shots eventually paying attention to Alps once again (and I probably won't be any part of it, since I never win raffles :P).
 
My worst fear? Alps will catch on for a while, then fall into obscurity again.
 
If support continues though, I see Alps gaining a pretty big chance to land a foot hold and we'll be seeing more and more cap sets coming around along with customs and PCBs. Skullydazed is DEFINITELY in support of Alps, and his clueboard service will hopefully provide a lot of great opportunities in that area if all goes well.

Overall, I see a lot of innovation for Alps in the next year if the enthusiasm for this old switch family remains and continues to grow.