Right then...
So, following the untimely demise of my DK1008XM, the time has come for me to select a new keyboard. This keyboard will be used for soul-destroying quantities of typing, plus general computer use, plus gaming across many genres-- including FPS, RTS, MOBA, and old-fashioned keyboard-only shooters where rollover might actually matter; no MMO though, because those are pointless. I also seem to radiate a Mystical Disintegration Field and have no machine-fixing abilities at all, so durability without maintenance relative to cost is a big priority; if it's going to break the first time I have to decapitate a zombie with it, it needs to be very economical-- I'll even consider a rubber dome if it's the only way I can get a decent ratio of damage resistance to cost, though I really hope I won't have to resort to that. Keyboard must be compatible with OSX and Windows, though if the keyboard can be configured on one OS and then be fully functional on either without drivers (thanks to internal memory), that would be fine, as I have ready access to both operating systems; OSX is my main OS, so a Mac layout would be a plus. Interestingness and rareness are positives (which might have something to do why why Filco isn't on the list at present). Must have US English layout or something very close to it-- I don't have any problem with a large enter key, though it should be noted that the larger it is, the harder I will hit it when finishing a particularly difficult paragraph. Must connect through USB. Actuation force should probably be on the high side.
Here's the current short list:
RealForce 103U
Why it's on the short list: Switch feel may degrade over time, but it seems, intuitively, like basic functionality ought to be very long-lasting. My life might benefit from a feeling of oneness with cup rubber.
What I'm worried about: It's expensive. Domes might wear out. Potential for lasting long is not the same thing as having good resistance to damage, where the latter is much more important to me. Keys might be too light for me.
Unicomp Customizer
Why it's on the short list: It's based on the Model M, which is supposed to be extremely tough, and good for typing. It can be had with a Mac layout. It's not super-expensive. It's American, which is useful from a support perspective.
What I'm worried about: I've read that Unicomp keyboards might not be up to the quality standards of their ancestors. Buckling springs and low rollover may make it inadequate for my gaming purposes.
Deck Legend
Why it's on the short list: It's supposed to be tough. It's American, which is good for support purposes. It's not half bad-looking (to me). It can be had with Mac keys.
What I'm worried about: For some reason, I have trouble envisioning Cherry switches not breaking. Even the tactile clear switches might not be adequate for the quantities of typing that I expect to have to do.
Tesoro Colada G3NL
Why it's on the short list: It seems to be armor-plated, which is a big plus for me. I probably won't use the macro keys for gaming, but I might use them for workflow-streamlining purposes. Not many people have one (this is a positive for me).
What I'm worried about: Mac compatibility not verified. Once again, will the Cherry switches be able to survive a typing style somewhat akin to orbital bombardment? Not yet available. Limited information available.
Thoughts?