UK Keyboard advice Das/Filco/WASD

[naxtek]

Hi!

I'm looking for a new keyboard for work.  I'm a programmer.

I've decided my new keyboard should:

• Have brown Cherry MX switches
• Have proper UK 105-key layout
• Ideally not have a Windows key (I'm an Ubuntu user)
• Be nice to look at (I'm a minimalist, so things like blank keys appeal)
• Be full-size

I've narrowed it down to three possibilities which fit my requirements:

Das Keyboard Ultimate Model S
Pros:

• Available in UK
• Blank keys (look cool IMHO and no Windows key)
• Cheapest
• USB hub built in
• Media functions

Cons:

• Searching seems to suggest the Das might not be great quality?
• People seem to say the gloss finish shows up finger prints
• Bezel is thicker than some others

Filco Ninja Majestouch-2
Pros:

• Available in UK
• Blank-ish keys (look cool, but not as nice as the Das IMHO)
• Reasonable price
• Seems to get good reviews

Cons:

• Not as nice to look at as the Das IMHO
• Windows logo (bleurgh) although it is discreet on the Ninja

WASD v2
Pros:

• Customisable so can have whatever I like - blank keys or anything
• Seems to get good reviews
• I like the media key arrangement best
• Option to have a nice Ubuntu logo on the super key

Cons:

• Have to ship from US (delay)
• Nearly twice the price of the others when shipping & import tax is added on

I was just wondering what your opinions were?  Are there any others I should consider?

[BlueBär]

You seem to have informed yourself quite well about your options - great!

The gloss on the Das attracts fingerprints and also gets dirty fairly easy. Quality-wise, they switched manufacturers and it used to be better, so it depends on what version you get.
Filco is a good option that is often recommended, always a good choice. You can get replacement blank keycaps fairly cheap if it bothers you.
With WASD, I really think after taxes etc. the higher price compared to the Filco isn't worth it.

[naxtek]

Thanks, have gone for the Filco Ninja!

[kansas city shuffle]

Thanks, have gone for the Filco Ninja!

A very wise decision, sir!

[longweight]

Here you go


http://www.keyboardco.com/product/ubuntu-logo-windows-keys-2-keycaps-for-cherry-mx-switches.asp


Ah balls just realised that you have gone for a Ninja board.

[nereme]

Filco Ninja Majestouch-2 I happily vote for this as I have had one for just over a year and love it

[matt303]

Hope you enjoy the Filco, got that one myself but with blues, the Win logo is not so noticeable on the Ninja.