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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: majesticseagull on Wed, 30 March 2016, 17:39:55

Title: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: majesticseagull on Wed, 30 March 2016, 17:39:55
Hi, I've been lurking this forum ever since I started getting into Mechanical keyboards some years ago. The first mechanical keyboard I got was a Unicomp Ultra Classic which I loved, and which also died a tragic death two weeks ago from liquid damage. From there I wanted to try a Topre board and I knew the RealForce is on the top of the list for most people so I got one.

My first time with the switches I didn't really like them compared to the buckling springs I've come from, but I've been using my unicomp for more then a year. So I gave it time and keep typing more and more. My accuracy and speed seems to have improved slightly and I'm loving the THOCK THOCK when I type with it. Yet I can't help but feel, is this really the end when it comes to mechanical keyboards is there anything above the RealForce? Also what is a good wrist rest for for this keyboard as the full size one I was using is obviously too large.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: majesticseagull on Wed, 30 March 2016, 17:43:31
Image https://imgur.com/h7qJPL0
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: 1391406 on Wed, 30 March 2016, 18:49:13
Although Topre has a huge fan base, they're not for everybody. So no, it's not necessarily the end.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: demik on Wed, 30 March 2016, 18:57:47
yes, it's the end. 55g RF is godly
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: losing_ctrl on Wed, 30 March 2016, 19:10:39
I have the exact same keyboard and I love it. My all time favorite switch is buckling spring, and I have multiple Unicomp's and Model Ms, and I love all of them. However Topre 55g is something special. I would love a Topre 55g full size keyboard. My RealForce 87u 55g felt a little funny at first, but after awhile, it started to make sense and just feel great to me. However there is no switch or keyboard that is the best for everyone. If you like buckling springs, you may want to try MX Greens. I am typing this on my WASD V2 double-shot PBT keyboard with MX Greens, and it is very nice typing feel. Try as many different switches as you can. For me, the best relatively quiet switches are Topre. MX Clears are also an excellent choice if you need a keyboard that does not drive your family members or co-workers crazy.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Kompanion on Wed, 30 March 2016, 19:15:43
You have made the correct decision. I haven't found anything better than my 55g RF. But you have to remember everyone has their own preference. It's better to try a lot and narrow down to what you really want. If you don't want to spend the money, just hit up a local meetup and try some of the boards that people bring. There are usually a lot to sample. Good luck!
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Magna224 on Thu, 31 March 2016, 01:26:44
If I had to choose one stock keyboard that had to stay stock and it was the only I could ever use it would be the 55g 87u. There are many more interesting switches out there though.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 31 March 2016, 01:44:53
Coming from BS, I think you made a good decision going with the 55g Realforce. Give yourself a little time to really get into the feel. I love BS too and switch between my Realforce 55g and SSK at home (soon to be model F 62, cannot wait!).
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Jokrik on Thu, 31 March 2016, 02:14:14
yes, it's the end. 55g RF is godly

Hmmmm...
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 31 March 2016, 02:19:40
yes, it's the end. 55g RF is godly

Hmmmm...

i might actually agree when it comes to non-clicky tactile switches.
for clicky, Model F! or maybe beam spring but i've never actually tried one
Model M sucks
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: demik on Thu, 31 March 2016, 02:34:15
yes, it's the end. 55g RF is godly

Hmmmm...


55g RF switches are end game switches

hhkb is end game keyboard
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: madhias on Thu, 31 March 2016, 02:55:25
Coming from BS, I think you made a good decision going with the 55g Realforce. Give yourself a little time to really get into the feel. I love BS too and switch between my Realforce 55g and SSK at home (soon to be model F 62, cannot wait!).

Switching between a SSK and a Realforce TKL with 55g is really great. I do that too!
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 31 March 2016, 05:26:29
Coming from BS, I think you made a good decision going with the 55g Realforce. Give yourself a little time to really get into the feel. I love BS too and switch between my Realforce 55g and SSK at home (soon to be model F 62, cannot wait!).

Switching between a SSK and a Realforce TKL with 55g is really great. I do that too!


Nice, I am always amazed at how light the 55g feels at first when you switch from BS. Add an HHKB to the duo and you have the perfect trio of boards IMHO :)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 31 March 2016, 07:43:10
I didn't like the SSK much, traded my HHKB and now I'm using MX Clears and Topre 55g.
What's next? I bought a bunch of Zealios switches.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: toxicdrift on Thu, 31 March 2016, 08:00:56
congratulations! 55g 87u is def end game for me, it was slightly heavy when i started aswell but now my fingers are used to it now. :thumb:
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Polymer on Thu, 31 March 2016, 09:04:57
Yet I can't help but feel, is this really the end when it comes to mechanical keyboards is there anything above the RealForce?

If you end up stick with Topre...sort of.

I think it cuts down on people's buying...part of it is just there aren't a lot of variations and there just isn't a lot of choice.  You also don't have all of the keycaps available...

Some people still buy a ton because in general they just love everything and want almost everything...but I've seen it in quite a few other people where they just slow down.

For me, I still like Cherry for gaming but I'm definitely not looking at Cherry boards...I mean, still considering the Cherry Silents when they come out on some sort of TKL or Custom....and these new MX Clones are interesting..especially since they're smoother...but when it comes to the boards I use for typing...I dunno..blinging out Topre is basically limited to a few Artisan caps, some colored Realforce sets and PBT Spacebars...and that limitation is probably a good thing...for my wallet anyways...Cheaper than looking at 10 different MX keyboards, different switches, dozens of keycaps sets and constantly trying to find the board I want to type on everyday...
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Macsmasher on Thu, 31 March 2016, 14:09:31
I own an 87U 55g, an 87U variable silent and an HHKB. I haven't bought any keyboards in almost three years. What's the point? That would be like owning three Lexus luxury cars and buying a Kia 'just because'. In fact, I gave away all my Cherry boards to friends.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: jerue on Thu, 31 March 2016, 14:47:44
Let me put it this way:

If I were stuck on a deserted island but could wish for one thing, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

If I could travel back in time, but was only allowed to buy just ONE keyboard, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

If a higher being was a keyboard, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

 ^-^
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: digi on Thu, 31 March 2016, 14:49:09
Let me put it this way:

If I were stuck on a deserted island but could wish for one thing, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

If I could travel back in time, but was only allowed to buy just ONE keyboard, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

If a higher being was a keyboard, it would be a Realforce 87u 55g.

 ^-^

(http://s3.amazonaws.com/rapgenius/1381943727_26-you-youre-good-facebook-cover.jpg)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: BucklingSpring on Thu, 31 March 2016, 20:10:40
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 02 April 2016, 01:58:15
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)


That is very close to my end game keyboard - 55g uniform, yellow keycaps, Digilog case.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Sat, 02 April 2016, 17:04:40
Much as i love my 87U 55G lately i have really been preferring my HHKB overall honestly.  Actually finding i prefer the 45G for long term usage as the 55g can get a bit stiff for long term usage IMO coming from using MX Browns all the time.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Polymer on Sun, 03 April 2016, 07:08:11
Much as i love my 87U 55G lately i have really been preferring my HHKB overall honestly.  Actually finding i prefer the 45G for long term usage as the 55g can get a bit stiff for long term usage IMO coming from using MX Browns all the time.

Yeap...that's why 45g is the mainstream and 55g is the niche board...

There is plenty to like about the 55g...but in general 45g will be easier on your hands...

I'm sure Topre didn't just pull the weighting out of their bum...there is a reason for it...
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Macsmasher on Sun, 03 April 2016, 09:23:58
I prefer my 87U variable to my 87U 55g.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Sun, 03 April 2016, 14:44:29
Much as i love my 87U 55G lately i have really been preferring my HHKB overall honestly.  Actually finding i prefer the 45G for long term usage as the 55g can get a bit stiff for long term usage IMO coming from using MX Browns all the time.

Yeap...that's why 45g is the mainstream and 55g is the niche board...

There is plenty to like about the 55g...but in general 45g will be easier on your hands...

I'm sure Topre didn't just pull the weighting out of their bum...there is a reason for it...


Indeed, i may actually sell the board locally in the future and replace it with a 45g RF or another HHKB.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sun, 10 April 2016, 05:34:19
I own an 87U 55g, an 87U variable silent and an HHKB. I haven't bought any keyboards in almost three years. What's the point? That would be like owning three Lexus luxury cars and buying a Kia 'just because'. In fact, I gave away all my Cherry boards to friends.

So you are a collector in denial? ;-)

No I can see what you're coming at. But aren't you curious how BS and alps feel, for instance?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sun, 10 April 2016, 05:34:59
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)


Looks really nice... where can you buy such a case?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: romevi on Sun, 10 April 2016, 08:17:52
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)


Looks really nice... where can you buy such a case?

Only secondhand now, and around $300 or more.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sun, 10 April 2016, 08:34:22
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)


Looks really nice... where can you buy such a case?

Only secondhand now, and around $300 or more.

Can I cry now? Damn... that is a nice case. But soo expensive much.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 11 April 2016, 06:04:46
Oh you just remind me that I have one too :-)

Digilog aluminum case, mixed yellow-black keyset... Expensive toy.
Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=51282.0;attach=52281;image)


Looks really nice... where can you buy such a case?

Only secondhand now, and around $300 or more.

Can I cry now? Damn... that is a nice case. But soo expensive much.

A while back I said my end-game keyboard was a 55g RealForce with yellow keycaps and Digilog case.

As time passes this dream is getting further and further away.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: AverageHybrid on Mon, 11 April 2016, 10:53:07
Wait how did you get the cable to run out of the center of the back of the board? I thought the Realforce only had two routes which were only to the sides?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: cryptokey on Mon, 11 April 2016, 11:41:57
Wait how did you get the cable to run out of the center of the back of the board? I thought the Realforce only had two routes which were only to the sides?

Can confirm it has channels for the sides and direct back (also using mine from centre).

More
(https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Felitekeyboards.com%2Fproddata%2Fimages%2Fth%2F87UB_back1000_th0x0.jpg&f=1)


EDIT:
Also, props to kudos to majesticseagull for making a jump from buckling spring to topre and sticking with it.  They're so different!
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: romevi on Mon, 11 April 2016, 11:43:38
Wait how did you get the cable to run out of the center of the back of the board? I thought the Realforce only had two routes which were only to the sides?

Can confirm it has channels for the sides and direct back (also using mine from centre).

More
Show Image
(https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Felitekeyboards.com%2Fproddata%2Fimages%2Fth%2F87UB_back1000_th0x0.jpg&f=1)

Yeah, you can run it from the center or the sides; the Realforce has routes for all three.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Macsmasher on Wed, 13 April 2016, 23:02:24
I own an 87U 55g, an 87U variable silent and an HHKB. I haven't bought any keyboards in almost three years. What's the point? That would be like owning three Lexus luxury cars and buying a Kia 'just because'. In fact, I gave away all my Cherry boards to friends.

So you are a collector in denial? ;-)

No I can see what you're coming at. But aren't you curious how BS and alps feel, for instance?


Sure, I'm always open to different switches and boards. I've used BS boards in the past. And I'd jump the Topre ship if there was something better. Alps is compared to Topre, but I'm already there with Topre, so what's the point of trying Alps?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Wed, 13 April 2016, 23:11:44
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 14 April 2016, 18:02:57
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)


WHERE DID YEH GET THOSE CAPS?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 14 April 2016, 18:03:48
I own an 87U 55g, an 87U variable silent and an HHKB. I haven't bought any keyboards in almost three years. What's the point? That would be like owning three Lexus luxury cars and buying a Kia 'just because'. In fact, I gave away all my Cherry boards to friends.

So you are a collector in denial? ;-)

No I can see what you're coming at. But aren't you curious how BS and alps feel, for instance?


Sure, I'm always open to different switches and boards. I've used BS boards in the past. And I'd jump the Topre ship if there was something better. Alps is compared to Topre, but I'm already there with Topre, so what's the point of trying Alps?

Topre is really nice indeed. I still want to try some Alps out of curiosity but nothing more. Topre 55g plate mountend pretty much nails it for me.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Thu, 14 April 2016, 18:07:16
45G Case mounted Topre has definitely become my endgame...that said for clicky switches i would not mind buying a Clicky ALPS board one day....so much nicer than MX blues.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 14 April 2016, 18:10:02
45G Case mounted Topre has definitely become my endgame...that said for clicky switches i would not mind buying a Clicky ALPS board one day....so much nicer than MX blues.

Care to explain differences and similarities? Coz I'd like enjoyable clickies. And I don't like blues.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: klennkellon on Thu, 14 April 2016, 19:22:29
Congrats, thinking of getting one myself, though I'm undecided if I want 45g or 55g.

I've heard that 55g Topre actually feels heavier than Buckling Springs, is this true?
Title: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: dgneo on Thu, 14 April 2016, 19:25:33
Congrats, thinking of getting one myself, though I'm undecided if I want 45g or 55g.

I've heard that 55g Topre actually feels heavier than Buckling Springs, is this true?

Definitely feels lighter IMO. Granted the actuation of the rubber dome is a lot different than the buckling spring. I'm honestly starting to love my 55g 87u a little more than my HHKB. Not sure if that's a good or bad thing
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Thu, 14 April 2016, 19:39:55
Congrats, thinking of getting one myself, though I'm undecided if I want 45g or 55g.

I've heard that 55g Topre actually feels heavier than Buckling Springs, is this true?

Definitely feels lighter IMO. Granted the actuation of the rubber dome is a lot different than the buckling spring. I'm honestly starting to love my 55g 87u a little more than my HHKB. Not sure if that's a good or bad thing

I'd have to agree 55g Topre still feels lighter than BS by a good margin....that said 55G topre i still find gets very fatiguing after long term use.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Thu, 14 April 2016, 23:56:26
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)


WHERE DID YEH GET THOSE CAPS?


I got them from EliteKeyboards when they used to carry them years ago.  :)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: digi on Fri, 15 April 2016, 00:11:48
old skool reaper in da house with the pimp board..
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Bucake on Fri, 15 April 2016, 01:42:15
i agree that 55g topre feels less heavy than model m BS. the force curve also is obviously different.
+1 for no membrane @ topre.

@reaper awesome yellow caps! is the texture the same as stock black caps?
my black caps are way gritter than my white ones so i'm curious as to how their colored sets feel :-)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Fri, 15 April 2016, 06:42:10
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)


WHERE DID YEH GET THOSE CAPS?


I got them from EliteKeyboards when they used to carry them years ago.  :)

AWW... I want more Topre caps. Are they ABS?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: losing_ctrl on Fri, 15 April 2016, 08:10:32
Congrats, thinking of getting one myself, though I'm undecided if I want 45g or 55g.

I've heard that 55g Topre actually feels heavier than Buckling Springs, is this true?

Definitely feels lighter IMO. Granted the actuation of the rubber dome is a lot different than the buckling spring. I'm honestly starting to love my 55g 87u a little more than my HHKB. Not sure if that's a good or bad thing

I'd have to agree 55g Topre still feels lighter than BS by a good margin....that said 55G topre i still find gets very fatiguing after long term use.

I'll just chime in to agree that 55g Topre feels much lighter than buckling springs. 55g is not that heavy a switch, so I sometimes feel puzzled when I read that people have concerns about the weight being too stiff for long term use. I used to type on a Model M all day in a previous job and not really think about it, and my hands are pretty wimpy. I guess it's what you get used to.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Fri, 15 April 2016, 09:00:17
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)


WHERE DID YEH GET THOSE CAPS?


I got them from EliteKeyboards when they used to carry them years ago.  :)

AWW... I want more Topre caps. Are they ABS?


Yup.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: dante on Fri, 15 April 2016, 09:46:18
I'll just chime in to agree that 55g Topre feels much lighter than buckling springs. 55g is not that heavy a switch, so I sometimes feel puzzled when I read that people have concerns about the weight being too stiff for long term use. I used to type on a Model M all day in a previous job and not really think about it, and my hands are pretty wimpy. I guess it's what you get used to.

Well ... there are a couple theories for this.

First is possibly the environment a particular batch was made in.  There are some who have stated that they owned a 55g that was significantly stiffer than a recent one they tried.  This is possibly due to the humidity/etc. at the factory.  Also, think about the initial FC660C's and how the later one feels stiffer.  Nobody at the consumer level knows what goes on behind the scenes.

Second the type of person to buy something like a Realforce 55g is likely a mechanical keyboard fan - as I really doubt a newcomer is going to drop two stacks on their first go around.  So you have a camp of people who have probably mostly used reds/browns/blues/ergo clears trying out the 55g and going "whoa nelly, stiff brah!"  However, if you come from a corporate environment where the domes could potentially be around 55g-70g then those folks are going to be like "what a bunch of weaklings - this is nothin'"

Another thing I'd like to point out in your comparison is not all buckling springs are of equal stiffness.  The IBM 1390120 and Unicomp 103 are some of the lightest that I've tried; while a early 90's M was tired out my hands pretty quick.  I especially made sure I spelled everything correct because I didn't want to retype anything!
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Fri, 15 April 2016, 17:05:38
I'll just chime in to agree that 55g Topre feels much lighter than buckling springs. 55g is not that heavy a switch, so I sometimes feel puzzled when I read that people have concerns about the weight being too stiff for long term use. I used to type on a Model M all day in a previous job and not really think about it, and my hands are pretty wimpy. I guess it's what you get used to.

Well ... there are a couple theories for this.

First is possibly the environment a particular batch was made in.  There are some who have stated that they owned a 55g that was significantly stiffer than a recent one they tried.  This is possibly due to the humidity/etc. at the factory.  Also, think about the initial FC660C's and how the later one feels stiffer.  Nobody at the consumer level knows what goes on behind the scenes.

Second the type of person to buy something like a Realforce 55g is likely a mechanical keyboard fan - as I really doubt a newcomer is going to drop two stacks on their first go around.  So you have a camp of people who have probably mostly used reds/browns/blues/ergo clears trying out the 55g and going "whoa nelly, stiff brah!"  However, if you come from a corporate environment where the domes could potentially be around 55g-70g then those folks are going to be like "what a bunch of weaklings - this is nothin'"

Another thing I'd like to point out in your comparison is not all buckling springs are of equal stiffness.  The IBM 1390120 and Unicomp 103 are some of the lightest that I've tried; while a early 90's M was tired out my hands pretty quick.  I especially made sure I spelled everything correct because I didn't want to retype anything!

Makes sense that stiffness depends on type of switch / exact mechanism involved.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Polymer on Sat, 16 April 2016, 07:38:58
Well ... there are a couple theories for this.

Buckling springs have lower resistance at the start as well...so your fingers have momentum and their own weight helping you on the way down.  Topre starts off at 55g. 

That's why comparing switches with different force curves is difficult..you can't just just look at peak force...

Same reason why Browns, which peak at 55g seem lighter to me than 45g Topre...if I press them slowly, Browns will take more force..if I'm typing, they feel lighter.

Not to mention you just get used to what you're using...
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 16 April 2016, 08:12:03
Well ... there are a couple theories for this.

Buckling springs have lower resistance at the start as well...so your fingers have momentum and their own weight helping you on the way down.  Topre starts off at 55g. 

That's why comparing switches with different force curves is difficult..you can't just just look at peak force...

Same reason why Browns, which peak at 55g seem lighter to me than 45g Topre...if I press them slowly, Browns will take more force..if I'm typing, they feel lighter.

Not to mention you just get used to what you're using...

Interesting! I really should get a BS to feel how they are different from topre and clears.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Polymer on Sat, 16 April 2016, 09:12:20
You should..but they're quite loud..

I grew up using them and to me they feel pretty cheap...but they have stood the test of time and some people love them...
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 16 April 2016, 09:16:22
You should..but they're quite loud..

I grew up using them and to me they feel pretty cheap...but they have stood the test of time and some people love them...

Why do you think they feel cheap? Do they feel / sound "squeaky"?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Polymer on Sat, 16 April 2016, 09:23:00
No..they just feel cheap to me...They always have. 
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Bucake on Sat, 16 April 2016, 10:51:39
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 16 April 2016, 13:09:14
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: klennkellon on Sat, 16 April 2016, 16:52:27
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 16 April 2016, 18:03:51
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs

Then I gotta get me one of those! Nah.. 104 (or 102 without win keys I suppose?) should suffice. It'll already fill my desk completely.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: klennkellon on Sun, 17 April 2016, 03:19:11
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs

Then I gotta get me one of those! Nah.. 104 (or 102 without win keys I suppose?) should suffice. It'll already fill my desk completely.
no model F's exist in a standard 104 or 102 key layouts, closest is a 122 key terminal board which you'll need a converter for.

Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sun, 17 April 2016, 06:58:55
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs

Then I gotta get me one of those! Nah.. 104 (or 102 without win keys I suppose?) should suffice. It'll already fill my desk completely.
no model F's exist in a standard 104 or 102 key layouts, closest is a 122 key terminal board which you'll need a converter for.

Oh yeah looked it up at deskthority now (I should've been less lazy and done that immediately). That 122 is really sick huge man. It literally wouldn't fit on my desk.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: 1391406 on Sun, 17 April 2016, 13:47:22
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs

The 122-key F's are just over 8 lbs.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Sun, 17 April 2016, 14:56:28
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Can I use it to kill the burglar?
A Model F especially, a 122 key Model F is twice the weight, almost 7 lbs

The 122-key F's are just over 8 lbs.

Damn... can you actually lift it yourself? :P
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 17 April 2016, 23:24:48
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Sorry Sunshine, get an Ellipse F77 Keyboard then you'll know what true perfection is  8) .
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: 1391406 on Sun, 17 April 2016, 23:37:42
skip the Model M and take a Model F! now that is a keyboard

Sorry Sunshine, get an Ellipse F77 Keyboard then you'll know what true perfection is  8) .

My idea of perfection requires at least 87 keys.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: nmur on Sun, 17 April 2016, 23:49:20
I'm using one right now.  :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fZqX7Qw.jpg)


WHERE DID YEH GET THOSE CAPS?


I got them from EliteKeyboards when they used to carry them years ago.  :)

AWW... I want more Topre caps. Are they ABS?


Yup.

only the space bar is ABS, the rest is PBT
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Mon, 18 April 2016, 00:23:08
^ Thanks for the correction.  I've been out of GH for so long I don't even know my PBT or ABS anymore. lol
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: nmur on Mon, 18 April 2016, 00:42:12
^ Thanks for the correction.  I've been out of GH for so long I don't even know my PBT or ABS anymore. lol

haha well then as a refresher, PBT is the tougher plastic which resists shining/yellowing, ABS, not so much. you may be interested to know that there have been PBT topre spacebars produced more recently that are quite nice

I wish I were around here back when you were so I could have picked up some realforce keysets... I have a red and a blue set, but they're not cheap now and some of them are so rare that I've only heard of them or seen them in old pictures (mostly blank sets, which I'd kill for)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Mon, 18 April 2016, 00:50:19
I wish I were around here back when you were so I could have picked up some realforce keysets... I have a red and a blue set, but they're not cheap now and some of them are so rare that I've only heard of them or seen them in old pictures (mostly blank sets, which I'd kill for)


Well, good thing I kept some then...   :)

(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/eddie84/OCN/Mech%20keyboard%20club/key%20caps/DSC05870.jpg)
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: nmur on Mon, 18 April 2016, 00:54:10
I wish I were around here back when you were so I could have picked up some realforce keysets... I have a red and a blue set, but they're not cheap now and some of them are so rare that I've only heard of them or seen them in old pictures (mostly blank sets, which I'd kill for)


Well, good thing I kept some then...   :)


Show Image
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/eddie84/OCN/Mech%20keyboard%20club/Realforce/DSC07820.jpg)

juuuicy dude :)

I'm jelly


Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Mon, 18 April 2016, 01:04:32
juuuicy dude :)

I'm jelly


I can't believe these things become so rare.  Back then, EK had a bunch of them in different colors (including blanks) on their web site...  including that OG tri-color Clack.  I remember we all were thinking, Damn!  No one is buying that ugly keycap.  Myself I bought 3 of them (2 MX and 1 Topre) since I had a few boards lying around and I love those Clacks since they go great with my screen name.  IIRC, they were $35 each plus shipping.


Now I heard someone paid close to $1k for just one of those caps.  It's mind boggling.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: iLLucionist on Mon, 18 April 2016, 03:36:34
^ Thanks for the correction.  I've been out of GH for so long I don't even know my PBT or ABS anymore. lol

haha well then as a refresher, PBT is the tougher plastic which resists shining/yellowing, ABS, not so much. you may be interested to know that there have been PBT topre spacebars produced more recently that are quite nice

I wish I were around here back when you were so I could have picked up some realforce keysets... I have a red and a blue set, but they're not cheap now and some of them are so rare that I've only heard of them or seen them in old pictures (mostly blank sets, which I'd kill for)

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 18 April 2016, 06:10:30
I wish I were around here back when you were so I could have picked up some realforce keysets... I have a red and a blue set, but they're not cheap now and some of them are so rare that I've only heard of them or seen them in old pictures (mostly blank sets, which I'd kill for)


Well, good thing I kept some then...   :)

Show Image
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/eddie84/OCN/Mech%20keyboard%20club/key%20caps/DSC05870.jpg)


Ooh a nice new yellow set :D
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: reaper on Mon, 18 April 2016, 08:25:56
Ooh a nice new yellow set :D


Hi Rowdy.   :)   Yeah, I kept these printed keycaps and sold off most of the blanks since I'm too old and too lazy to be remembering the letters (occasionally still look down when I type).
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 24 April 2016, 01:32:21
Ooh a nice new yellow set :D


Hi Rowdy.   :)   Yeah, I kept these printed keycaps and sold off most of the blanks since I'm too old and too lazy to be remembering the letters (occasionally still look down when I type).

Sometimes need to for those convoluted passwords most sites seem to demand these days.
Title: Re: Just got my RealForce 87u 55g
Post by: atlas3686 on Fri, 10 June 2016, 01:53:21
juuuicy dude :)

I'm jelly


I can't believe these things become so rare.  Back then, EK had a bunch of them in different colors (including blanks) on their web site...  including that OG tri-color Clack.  I remember we all were thinking, Damn!  No one is buying that ugly keycap.  Myself I bought 3 of them (2 MX and 1 Topre) since I had a few boards lying around and I love those Clacks since they go great with my screen name.  IIRC, they were $35 each plus shipping.


Now I heard someone paid close to $1k for just one of those caps.  It's mind boggling.

You were definitely around for the best of times :) Had to struggle like mad to find some topre caps just for a little variation. And lets not even get started on the clacks! Want a topre OG so badly.