Some Filco & Mionix questions

[Amr0d]

I want to buy a new keyboard and decided to get a mechanical one either a Filco or a Mionix Zibal 60 (because of the backlit keys)

Currently I am using a Sidewinder X4 from Microsoft and some questions occur before buying a new kb:

Filco:

- Is it possible to get the FN Keys (like the Majestouch 2 Camo has) on a normal Majestouch 2?
- Where can I buy Filco keyboards with German layout? I contacted the Keyboard Company (they told me that they won't sell the Majestouch 2 Camo with German layout.)
- If I want to get custom keycaps, which ones will fit (height, material, profiles etc.)? (Read the ripster guide but couldn't find such information, maybe I was to fast and missed that part.)
- Are you missing the backlit keys after you switched from any kb like the X4 to a normal one like the Filco without backlit keys?
- Any (dis)advantages when compared to the Mionix?

Just in case I searched for another brand which had the feature of shiny backlit keys and I found the Mionix Zibal 60 (found some others aswell but didn't like the design and price )

- Can I use custom keycaps on this one aswell?
- Quality? Any reviews in this forum?

What would you buy and why? I want Cherry browns (preferred) or blacks. I don't really want an overloaded Gaming keyboard like the logitech ones, but its nice to have a key where you can turn off sound or lower the volume. I am not really sure what to do. Is it even possible to compare those two kb's?

[Amr0d]

Even if I really appreciate your work on all the wikis and my deepest respect as the #1 keyboard dude in the world it would be a real pleasure for me if you could answer my questions and since you're the keyboard king it shouldn't be a problem for you

Oh, everyone else is invited to answer aswell

[noodles256]

im content with not

[Trueepower]

Even if I really appreciate your work on all the wikis and my deepest respect as the #1 keyboard dude in the world it would be a real pleasure for me if you could answer my questions and since you're the keyboard king it shouldn't be a problem for you

Oh, everyone else is invited to answer aswell

Comparing the two from a shear quality stand point is easy to me, the Filco is better. The design of the case is much more slim line, and the board even though it's not back lit just looks and feels better than the Mionix. The Mionix case is the same as the WASD case, which some people like (actually a lot of people like it). I happen to appreciate the case of the Filco, and overall the plastic case of the Mionix seems cheap to me. That is really what stands out between the two. If you like the case of the Mionix, and are looking for a back lit board it might be something you will like. I would just recommend considering how much you will really need a back lit board. If it's really high on your list then obviously the Mionix is worth a shot. I would make sure you can RMA the board if possible before purchasing. Keep in mind that customization of keys with a normal board (non-back lit board) can really make up for a lot of the loss of back lighting. Back lighting can ultimately limit your customization options. Also, make sure you want a black switch before purchasing. Most prefer lighter keys. Good luck!

[Bubu]

- Are you missing the backlit keys after you switched from any kb like the X4 to a normal one like the Filco without backlit keys?

I came from a Saitek Eclipse II with backlight. I think that the lack of backlight will improve your typing skills since you will need to type without looking at the keyboard. I've had my Filco for about 3 weeks now and I don't miss my Saitek at all.

What would you buy and why? I want Cherry browns (preferred) or blacks. I don't really want an overloaded Gaming keyboard like the logitech ones, but its nice to have a key where you can turn off sound or lower the volume. I am not really sure what to do. Is it even possible to compare those two kb's?

It really depends on what you play. I play mainly FPS and blue switches are fine for that type of game. I can see how they could be a problem for RTS or any games that requires double tapping.

[Amr0d]

I play FPS aswell and a lot of typing HTML/CSS/Word. I like the click on the blueswitches even if its a bit to loud for me. I would take browns I think.

I had non-backlit keyboards before and if you don't miss it I will go for the Filco with browns I think.

Do you know where to get them with German layout & maybe FN keys? Keyboard Company won't sell them.