I have a handful of the G80-1950's and I spend my day programming. I would't use a matrix board for typing, I tried and it was slower and hurt. If you want to native program these boards (PS2) the software only runs on XP and has some limitations, such as you can't program the Win key (and thereby Command on Mac), but you can use remapping software I suppose. I'm using them for shortcut keys (one touch quick command keys with legends) which they work wonderfully for. They also are great candidates for ripping out the key board and subbing a USB controller, if you like. The ribbon header should convert to a more standard type fairly easily. FYI the keys are solder mount, not plate.
For programming the new TrulyErgonomic is the best I've found (great for text editing). Kinesis works well too, or the new ErgoDox will probably be better (see Group Buys)