Model F and Blue ALPS.These, no question about it.
I've recently gotten back into Mechanical Keyboards, and started using my Omnikey 102 again. My 102 has complicated white alps, and I'm quite loving the feel. While I enjoy various MX switches you can't beat the feel of vintage keyboards. So vintage keyboard users, what are some of your favorite switches? What are your favorite vintage keyboards?
My 102 as picturedShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/nDHEPrO.jpg)
I found an old ADB keyboard with white SMKs locally that I'm going to swap for the Monterey blues from one of my other boards.
Why? SMK whites are very nice and pretty much feel like SMK "Montereys" to me.
do people really prefer the switches of a model M over those of a model F..?Although I much prefer the sound and feel of Model F switches over Model M, I think that Model M keyboards are more accessible for many people. By this I mean that Model M boards can easily be interfaced with modern computers, they have the standard ANSI layout that many prefer, and they are readily available. I still use my IBM Model M SSK because I very much appreciate its design -- but it would really be fantastic if it had Model F switches.
because, in my opinion, the model F just destroys the model M. i really see no contest between the two when it comes to switches / typing experience.
In no particular order:
Capacitive BS, Membrane BS, SKCM Blue, SKCL Green, SKCM Brown, SKCM Orange, Marquardt Butterfly, IBM Beamspring, Hall Effect
In no particular order:
Capacitive BS, Membrane BS, SKCM Blue, SKCL Green, SKCM Brown, SKCM Orange, Marquardt Butterfly, IBM Beamspring, Hall Effect
Which boards do come with each one?
do people really prefer the switches of a model M over those of a model F..?I remember back in the day when I had Fs to type on at school and an M at home, I actually did prefer the M. I can't recall why though. It's been over 20 years since I've typed on an F. :(
because, in my opinion, the model F just destroys the model M. i really see no contest between the two when it comes to switches / typing experience.
I do prefer the 101/102-key Model M keyboard overall. I don't have to think, adjust, compensate, or in any way feel strange typing on them.It's the same with me. I'm not sure if it's because I started on the PC with an M or if it's just because it's the best for my hands, but either way the M is effortless to use.
I agree with the others Blue ALPS and Monterey Blues are very very nice. I found an old ADB keyboard with white SMKs locally that I'm going to swap for the Monterey blues from one of my other boards. That will be a really nice keyboard.
Correct. In fact I think SMK 2nds aren't compatible with ANYTHING else!I agree with the others Blue ALPS and Monterey Blues are very very nice. I found an old ADB keyboard with white SMKs locally that I'm going to swap for the Monterey blues from one of my other boards. That will be a really nice keyboard.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't believe that Monterey Blue switches can be swapped outright for Alps switches. I think the base pins are different.
My favorite is buckling spring switches. I do prefer the 101/102-key Model M keyboard overall. I don't have to think, adjust, compensate, or in any way feel strange typing on them. The comfort zone is there, and I don't need to worry about disturbing others when I use it.
Enjoy what you use! I do!Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/SKBHOWQ.jpg)
My favorite is buckling spring switches. I do prefer the 101/102-key Model M keyboard overall. I don't have to think, adjust, compensate, or in any way feel strange typing on them. The comfort zone is there, and I don't need to worry about disturbing others when I use it.
Enjoy what you use! I do!Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/SKBHOWQ.jpg)
I have never used these switches and I am very curious. Seems to be the switch of choice for many veterans. One thing I notice from a practical point of view is that these things are freaking HUGE. If you truly use your deskspace as a workspace, then that can not be convenient. The 60% keyboard if I need the space I can push it aside, but these huge vintage boards there is no aside to push it to because it already occupies most of your desk. I am not trying to sound like an elitist, simply trying to analyze.
I bet if a company can create a switch with the unique feel of these buckling spring keys, yet take advantage of the smaller form factor, I'm sure they would be banking it.
yet take advantage of the smaller form factor, I'm sure they would be banking it.
Thanks all for the replies! Now you've all mentioned switches, but what about keyboards? What are some great alps boards? Inexpensive boards, expensive and/or desirable boards are both welcome.
And now for something completely different: Oki Tactile Gourd Spring.? ? ? ? ?
And now for something completely different: Oki Tactile Gourd Spring. My favorite clicky switch.Interesting, I had heard of them recently but they didn't look like they'd be much good. Hmmm, might have to keep an eye open then :) .
And now for something completely different: Oki Tactile Gourd Spring. My favorite clicky switch. I don't mind vintage MX Blue either. And that comes from someone, who hates clicky switches otherwise.
I don't actually use vintage keyboards though, only vintage MX Black switches on my ErgoDox… and some keycaps.
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