IBM Model M

[TimIsABat]

Everyone should own one. I just got mine today, and I want to type my life story with this. It feels amazing.

This is just a teaser to a review and possibly a keyboard sound compilation video. I have black alps, mx reds, 62g ergoclears, and a RT101 membrane board.

Seriously though...I found my main when I am not on the go.

[fohat.digs]

I found my main when I am not on the go.

Wait until you try a Model F

[Hypersphere]

Everyone should own one. I just got mine today, and I want to type my life story with this. It feels amazing.

This is just a teaser to a review and possibly a keyboard sound compilation video. I have black alps, mx reds, 62g ergoclears, and a RT101 membrane board.

Seriously though...I found my main when I am not on the go.

Congratulations! I still have my full-size Model M keyboards as well as newer acquisitions of IBM Model M SSKs, which are my current favorites. After experimenting with all sorts of other keyboards, so far I keep coming back to the IBMs.

My current favorite outside of the Model M realm is a CM QF Stealth with Cherry Green switches -- a very solid board. I wish that more keyboards with Cherry switches would be offered with Greens as a standard choice.

[TimIsABat]

Everyone should own one. I just got mine today, and I want to type my life story with this. It feels amazing.

This is just a teaser to a review and possibly a keyboard sound compilation video. I have black alps, mx reds, 62g ergoclears, and a RT101 membrane board.

Seriously though...I found my main when I am not on the go.

Congratulations! I still have my full-size Model M keyboards as well as newer acquisitions of IBM Model M SSKs, which are my current favorites. After experimenting with all sorts of other keyboards, so far I keep coming back to the IBMs.

My current favorite outside of the Model M realm is a CM QF Stealth with Cherry Green switches -- a very solid board. I wish that more keyboards with Cherry switches would be offered with Greens as a standard choice.

I actually quite liked those switches even though I am not a fan of blues. Personally, I feel that the sound and feel of clicky MX switches were cheap. I found the ergoclears to feel more substantial.

I am going to post pictures of my board when my lilac WASD keycaps, RGB modifiers, and my red esc key comes in.

[0100010]

Everyone should own one. I just got mine today, and I want to type my life story with this. It feels amazing.

This is just a teaser to a review and possibly a keyboard sound compilation video. I have black alps, mx reds, 62g ergoclears, and a RT101 membrane board.

Seriously though...I found my main when I am not on the go.

I agree.

[dorkvader]

I found my main when I am not on the go.

Wait until you try a Model F

Wait till you try a selectric.

TO be quite honest, I very much like my IBM buckling springs and pine for my model F until I have it working (stupid mat). I'm glad whenever a GH'er get's to try a new one. Once I get moved in I'll order more parts from mcmaster carr and start doing bolt mods for people again.

[rowdy]

I have two

One feels really tight and clicky, the other one feels a bit looser.  I know the second one has lost quite a few rivets - might be time for a bolt mod on that one.

[Niomosy]

I've got two.  They're primarily for zombie apocalypse defense these days.  My SGI granite sees more use but my RSI isn't entirely happy with either of them.

[The_Ed]

Because nobody will sell me an old style Model M LED board and cable I'll be making one from scratch soon (I added the necessary parts to the trackball mod part orders). So this 120 I'm typing on right now should finally have lock LEDs soon! I should also put it's brother the 131 back together, why is he still over there on the floor?

Also - Anyone who owns a Model M should splurge on an orihalcon SDL to USB cable for it.

[ComradeSniper]

I feel like there's something wrong with my Model M, it sure sounds clicky but it doesn't really feel that way. To be honest I was quite underwhelmed by buckling spring after hearing so much hype about it.

[Vendolius]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

[mapple]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

[rowdy]

I feel like there's something wrong with my Model M, it sure sounds clicky but it doesn't really feel that way. To be honest I was quite underwhelmed by buckling spring after hearing so much hype about it.

Might be in need of a bolt mod.  I have two, one from 1993 and the other from 1995.  One feels really nice, the other one feels a bit loose.

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

If not from the link above, a lot of people have had success buying from eBay.  I got mine from eBay.

[The_Ed]

Both mine were NIB from ebay. The more expensive of the 2 was $100 shipped, so NIB doesn't necessarily mean expensive.

[TimIsABat]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

I found absolutely none these past few months on this site. Always sold out.

[Hypersphere]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

I found absolutely none these past few months on this site. Always sold out.

[Hypersphere]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

I found absolutely none these past few months on this site. Always sold out.

Nevertheless, clickykeyboards.com is still the best source, and it is worth checking frequently. When boards do appear, they go usually go quickly. Not long ago, I saw an IBM Model M SSK on the site, but it was gone by the time I posted about it. However, careful scrutiny of items on eBay can sometimes turn up some winners.

BTW, although this is off-topic, I assume that your list of "horrible computer stuff" is meant to be ironic. You have at least a couple items on the list that are no slouches, such as your Model M. You have also listed a Razer DA 2013 mouse, which I rated second next to the Razer DA Black Edition in a list of a dozen or so mice I have tested -- it is one of the few mice that remains dry to the touch, like PBT keycaps; it also has easy-click buttons (including the center one) and a ratcheting scroll wheel that doesn't make an undue amount of noise.

[GeeGee]

Everyone should own one.

Care to elaborate on that?

[ComradeSniper]

I feel like there's something wrong with my Model M, it sure sounds clicky but it doesn't really feel that way. To be honest I was quite underwhelmed by buckling spring after hearing so much hype about it.

Might be in need of a bolt mod.  I have two, one from 1993 and the other from 1995.  One feels really nice, the other one feels a bit loose.

Hmm, maybe I'll open it up and see if there are any loose rivets.

[TimIsABat]

Everyone should own one.

Care to elaborate on that?

I will when I get the time to make a full on review.

[bitslasher]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

eBay.  They have lots to choose from and it won't cost you an arm and a leg to get one.  Get a 1391401, they are the most common and quite affordable.  You should be able to score a good one for $50.  Just take some time to clean it and it'll be like new.

[GeeGee]

Everyone should own one.

Care to elaborate on that?

I will when I get the time to make a full on review.

Alright, thanks for that.

[TimIsABat]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

eBay.  They have lots to choose from and it won't cost you an arm and a leg to get one.  Get a 1391401, they are the most common and quite affordable.  You should be able to score a good one for $50.  Just take some time to clean it and it'll be like new.

That is going to be your best bet at this point. Or you could be patient and someone here is bound to sell theirs for a good price or hit you up in the classifieds

[dem0critus]

Wheres the best place for me to buy a Model M? I've wanted one for ages.

eBay.  They have lots to choose from and it won't cost you an arm and a leg to get one.  Get a 1391401, they are the most common and quite affordable.  You should be able to score a good one for $50.  Just take some time to clean it and it'll be like new.

That is going to be your best bet at this point. Or you could be patient and someone here is bound to sell theirs for a good price or hit you up in the classifieds

this. tons of these pop up on ebay.  Prices can range pretty wildly, depending on the vintage/condition. ( mandolin crystal.. rofl) You can probably find one in pretty good shape for around 30-50 bucks give or take, though I've seen many go for half that price if you're really on a budget.  Actually, I just bought a new one still sealed in the box.  Just got here 2 days ago.

[ComradeSniper]

I feel like there's something wrong with my Model M, it sure sounds clicky but it doesn't really feel that way. To be honest I was quite underwhelmed by buckling spring after hearing so much hype about it.

Might be in need of a bolt mod.  I have two, one from 1993 and the other from 1995.  One feels really nice, the other one feels a bit loose.

Hmm, maybe I'll open it up and see if there are any loose rivets.

Haven't taken a look at mine yet, but I went to the thrift store and found an IBM buckling spring typewriter and WOW it felt different. Now I understand why people love buckling spring so much. There's definitely something wrong with my model M.

Now I want a spacesaver M.

[1391406]

Nevertheless, clickykeyboards.com is still the best source, and it is worth checking frequently. When boards do appear, they go usually go quickly. Not long ago, I saw an IBM Model M SSK on the site, but it was gone by the time I posted about it. However, careful scrutiny of items on eBay can sometimes turn up some winners.

Clickykeyboards claims they "carefully select, test, clean and re-test all refurbished keyboards" before making them available for sale, but that doesn't necessarily conform to my experience. When I first started getting into Model M's, I ordered two 1391401's from them. I also ended up ordering a number of others from eBay later on. One of the two M's I ordered from clickykeyboards was dirtier than some of those I ordered from eBay, not to mention some of the keys were less clicky to boot. Ultimately, I've been more impressed with some of the purchases I made on eBay, but that's me.

[Game Theory]

THough they have a bunch of used atm
http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/9229

[PadawanGeek]

I have a Lexmark Model M (1398601, '93) and the keys feel pretty heavy with a very defined actuation point and 'click' (quite different from MX), makes for a very satisfying typing experience. Physically in excellent condition though the three LED indicators are non-functional, will look into having it repaired later. I'd gotten it simply because I'd always wanted one....

[TimIsABat]

I'd gotten it simply because I'd always wanted one....

Pretty much why I got one too lol. I felt it was a must have as a collector and enthusiast. I really want a Topre right now as I see at as my next switch that I haven't tried/owned. The fact that they are smoother and softer than MX switches really got me interested in an ergonomics standpoint.

[PadawanGeek]

Pretty much why I got one too lol. I felt it was a must have as a collector and enthusiast. I really want a Topre right now as I see at as my next switch that I haven't tried/owned. The fact that they are smoother and softer than MX switches really got me interested in an ergonomics standpoint.

Yep, I'm trying out any and every switch type I can lay my mitts on, hence my ever expanding collection....still got a YOTS Cherry Blue on reserve/preorder.

[TimIsABat]

Pretty much why I got one too lol. I felt it was a must have as a collector and enthusiast. I really want a Topre right now as I see at as my next switch that I haven't tried/owned. The fact that they are smoother and softer than MX switches really got me interested in an ergonomics standpoint.

Yep, I'm trying out any and every switch type I can lay my mitts on, hence my ever expanding collection....still got a YOTS Cherry Blue on reserve/preorder.

Show Image

I would collect every MX switch, but that would be cray for me. I tried them on the UST so I got the satisfaction of getting to know each switch. I don't want to have the keyboards just sitting there if I paid for them. I would like to use them, and I don't really see myself using blues or browns.

[PadawanGeek]

I would collect every MX switch, but that would be cray for me. I tried them on the UST so I got the satisfaction of getting to know each switch. I don't want to have the keyboards just sitting there if I paid for them. I would like to use them, and I don't really see myself using blues or browns.

For me, I intend to display my KB's when I finally move back to my apartment. Renting it out now as I'm working in a pretty remote area, wanted to spare myself the hassle of daily commute. I plan to have some display cabinets built when I shift back, then I can swap KB's as and when I'm in the mood for something different. I used to be a speed demon when it comes to hardware, built myself an enthusiast level gaming rig, or two, but it gets old this constant pursuit for speed and graphics. My two main systems now are more than capable of seeing me thru max or near max gaming for the near 2-3 years, so I've substituted CPU/GPU for MKB's as a hobby.

[TimIsABat]

I would collect every MX switch, but that would be cray for me. I tried them on the UST so I got the satisfaction of getting to know each switch. I don't want to have the keyboards just sitting there if I paid for them. I would like to use them, and I don't really see myself using blues or browns.

For me, I intend to display my KB's when I finally move back to my apartment. Renting it out now as I'm working in a pretty remote area, wanted to spare myself the hassle of daily commute. I plan to have some display cabinets built when I shift back, then I can swap KB's as and when I'm in the mood for something different. I used to be a speed demon when it comes to hardware, built myself an enthusiast level gaming rig, or two, but it gets old this constant pursuit for speed and graphics. My two main systems now are more than capable of seeing me thru max or near max gaming for the near 2-3 years, so I've substituted CPU/GPU for MKB's as a hobby.

I just want to get a laptop that can handle some demanding games like BF3 and I'm set. Keyboards became more of my hobby now. My girlfriend hates it XD.

[rowdy]

Pretty much why I got one too lol. I felt it was a must have as a collector and enthusiast. I really want a Topre right now as I see at as my next switch that I haven't tried/owned. The fact that they are smoother and softer than MX switches really got me interested in an ergonomics standpoint.

Yep, I'm trying out any and every switch type I can lay my mitts on, hence my ever expanding collection....still got a YOTS Cherry Blue on reserve/preorder.

Show Image

My eye is continually drawn to the board in the bottom right ;)

[evolveS]

I just ordered a 1391401 today (definitely not because I saw this thread ), I'm excited to get some buckling spring action!

[TimIsABat]

I just ordered a 1391401 today (definitely not because I saw this thread ), I'm excited to get some buckling spring action!

You will love it. Gets a bit of getting used to if you are used to light switches, but it totally beats the green and blue sound. The tactility is amazing as well. Just takes up a whole lot of desk space which is a bit of a problem since you really gotta reach for your mouse, but it is just an amazing board.

[evolveS]

You will love it. Gets a bit of getting used to if you are used to light switches, but it totally beats the green and blue sound. The tactility is amazing as well. Just takes up a whole lot of desk space which is a bit of a problem since you really gotta reach for your mouse, but it is just an amazing board.

Thanks, that's really helpful information (I'm extremely used to red switches)! I picked one up mostly for collecting purposes, but I'll put it through it's paces on a couple papers.

[The_Ed]

MX red and old IBM manufactured (NOT wimpy Lexmark or Unicomp) buckling springs are my favorite switches.

[rowdy]

I just ordered a 1391401 today (definitely not because I saw this thread ), I'm excited to get some buckling spring action!

You will love it. Gets a bit of getting used to if you are used to light switches, but it totally beats the green and blue sound. The tactility is amazing as well. Just takes up a whole lot of desk space which is a bit of a problem since you really gotta reach for your mouse, but it is just an amazing board.

I went from HHKB to Model M )

You could always go for SSK.  Or even BS 60% ...

[nilpt]

I just ordered a 1391401 today (definitely not because I saw this thread ), I'm excited to get some buckling spring action!

You will love it. Gets a bit of getting used to if you are used to light switches, but it totally beats the green and blue sound. The tactility is amazing as well. Just takes up a whole lot of desk space which is a bit of a problem since you really gotta reach for your mouse, but it is just an amazing board.

Glad to know you enjoy your M.
I miss my Model M days   
TKL got the better of me, and SSK is too big anyway...
MX red / brown crusher today as blues feel too cheap after BS.
Maybe Topre TKL next.

[Findecanor]

I just got my first "real" Model M a couple of hours ago. I have had a couple of M2's and a broken M that I couldn't use.
I can't say that I am a fan of it, though. The keys are too high, too loud, require too much force and ... in the case of my keyboard, the keys are too scratchy. Because I am used to a higher actuation point, I tend to sometimes not press  down deep enough. The Space Bar is not heavier than other keys, which sometimes gives me double characters instead of one.

The Model M's keys are known to be smooth, so the scratchiness issue seems to be just on my keyboard. I have noticed that each spring is seated a little bit to the right of centre inside its shaft. What can I do about that?

[fohat.digs]

I just got my first "real" Model M a couple of hours ago.

The Model M's keys are known to be smooth,

What?

You have been using a Model F, haven't you? Of course an M will feel scratchy and mushy at the same time, in comparison to the King.

[czarek]

I agree, nothing feels like an old Model F. Although I can't use either Model F (due to the layout, even AT Model F doesn't cut it for me) or Model M (too heavy for longer work days).
I'm currently using Filco with MX Blue (and PBT caps) and I must say it's a good substitute for BS. Of course it's nowhere as nice but it kind of reminds me Model F as it's springy and sparkling.
I have ordered ErgoDox with MX Blues too. Hopefully this will be a sweet spot between ergonomics and keyboarding fun.

[Hypersphere]

The IBM Model M SSK is the sweet spot for me. Smaller than a full-size Model M, but it still has the buckling springs. In addition, the SSK has two-tone dye sub PBT keycaps and an embedded numerical keypad.

However, if you want to go with a contemporary board, I have found the CoolerMaster QuickFire Stealth TKL with Cherry mx green switches to be the best I have tried with Cherry switches. If you prefer Alps-type switches, the Matias Mini Quiet Pro and Mini Tactile Pro are worth a look. Finally, tonight I am trying out a Keycool 84 white body with laser-etched PBT keycaps and Cherry mx blue switches. Because of the low price and relative lack of attention on the forums as a serious board, I did not expect to like the KC84, but I am liking it. I intend to post a brief review in the near future.

[TimIsABat]

The IBM Model M SSK is the sweet spot for me. Smaller than a full-size Model M, but it still has the buckling springs. In addition, the SSK has two-tone dye sub PBT keycaps and an embedded numerical keypad.

However, if you want to go with a contemporary board, I have found the CoolerMaster QuickFire Stealth TKL with Cherry mx green switches to be the best I have tried with Cherry switches. If you prefer Alps-type switches, the Matias Mini Quiet Pro and Mini Tactile Pro are worth a look. Finally, tonight I am trying out a Keycool 84 white body with laser-etched PBT keycaps and Cherry mx blue switches. Because of the low price and relative lack of attention on the forums as a serious board, I did not expect to like the KC84, but I am liking it. I intend to post a brief review in the near future.

Can't wait to see your reviews. I am actually thinking of getting the Stealth TKL with greens one day. It is a maybe. I really want a SSK just because of the small form factor. I find myself really reaching with my Model M for the mouse, but I like it as my only full-size board.

[Hypersphere]

The IBM Model M SSK is the sweet spot for me. Smaller than a full-size Model M, but it still has the buckling springs. In addition, the SSK has two-tone dye sub PBT keycaps and an embedded numerical keypad.

However, if you want to go with a contemporary board, I have found the CoolerMaster QuickFire Stealth TKL with Cherry mx green switches to be the best I have tried with Cherry switches. If you prefer Alps-type switches, the Matias Mini Quiet Pro and Mini Tactile Pro are worth a look. Finally, tonight I am trying out a Keycool 84 white body with laser-etched PBT keycaps and Cherry mx blue switches. Because of the low price and relative lack of attention on the forums as a serious board, I did not expect to like the KC84, but I am liking it. I intend to post a brief review in the near future.

Can't wait to see your reviews. I am actually thinking of getting the Stealth TKL with greens one day. It is a maybe. I really want a SSK just because of the small form factor. I find myself really reaching with my Model M for the mouse, but I like it as my only full-size board.

The reviews of the CM QF Stealth TKL with Cherry greens and the KC84 White PBT with Cherry blues have been posted on GH. Each of these keyboards is worthy in its own way, but I keep coming back to my IBM SSK as the best all-around combination of form factor, build quality, typing feel and sound, typing accuracy and speed, keycap legibility and feel, and overall appearance. Added bonuses include the fact that the SSK has an embedded numerical keypad and that the keyboard works just fine with Mac OS X, Windows 7, and Linux. The IBM SSK is my go-to machine when I need to get real work done.

[dgreekstallion]

I found my main when I am not on the go.

Wait until you try a Model F

Thanks to you, this will certainly be a reality for me soon. I am beyond stoked.

[evolveS]

First impressions:

-This board is huge! And heavy! No need to worry about this thing sliding around on my desk.
-I bottom out way more easily than on any cherry switch. That being said, it's not that tiring to type on.
-Man, does it sound good.

[dgreekstallion]

[/quote]Wait until you try a Model F
[/quote]Oh how much I underestimated this until I experienced it for myself.

[TimIsABat]

First impressions:

-This board is huge! And heavy! No need to worry about this thing sliding around on my desk.
-I bottom out way more easily than on any cherry switch. That being said, it's not that tiring to type on.
-Man, does it sound good.

Right!?