Completely Lost in Finding Keyboard

[Brown]

I'm fairly new to the mechanical keyboard market and I've researched some up such as the Ducky Shine II, Das keyboards, WASD Keyboards, Deck, etc.  I've ran into so many different specifications and all of that and I can't seem to find the right keyboard for me.  I've already done the "First Mechanical Keyboard" questionnaire and still have a hard time finding out what's the right thing for me.  I've went to a CanadaComputers near me and have tested out several keyboards on display.  So far I've really liked the feel of the Das Keyboard w/ Blue switches and I also liked the Azio Levetron Mech4 black switches.  However, the Cherry MX Blues are a tad loud as I tend to game with friends on Skype and it can get really loud.  The reason I don't like the Mech4 is due to its unorthodox key layout.  I've tried the Cherry MX Browns on the CM Quickfire TK (I think that's the one) and it just felt too light for me, I also didn't get a good enough feedback on the supposedly "tactile bump".  In addition, I would really prefer media keys and numberpad as I own a Logitech G110 right now and can't stand typing on it but I can't use my computer w/o some sort of media controls.  The reason I want the numpad is because I plan on doing some CAD work in university and I also use the numpad all the time at work and it's really handy.  A backlight would also be nice as well. I've also set a budget of around ~$120.  In summary this is what I am looking for:

• A keyboard for both gaming and typing (I mostly play MMOs)
• Budget is ~$120 (CAD)
• Fullsize keyboard layout
• Preferably Cherry MX Black/Clear/Blue/Maybe Brown
• White LED Backlight preferred (mostly for aesthetic purposes)
• Media Keys preferred

It's alot to ask for but I'm really critical on purchasing a keyboard this expensive.  Thanks for helping me out in advance!

[tp4tissue]

they're all the same...

buy based on how it looks...

there's no difference between gaming or typing...

anyone that says otherwise is just "inventing" their own reason to justify spending money...

[Brown]

Any good keyboards you would refer?

[inteli722]

Really, this is based on personal preference. From your preferences, I would probably say to get a Ducky Shine II.

However, if you bump up your price range a bit, you have 2 more options: A) wait for the WASD V2, or B) get a Logitech G710+. Neither one is in clears, though. I think the Shine II is your best bet at this price range.

Not in Clears, but in Blacks with a White LED, full size, and with Media Keys. A bit expensive (and shipping might be expensive) for your budget, but it fits your bill almost perfectly.

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=159

Can't comment on Canadian availability, though.

tp4tissue's our resident troll here in the general forums (I'd say TotalChaos is the troll in the Ergonomic forums), so take his opinion with a grain of salt.

[PointyFox]

QuickFire Rapid with MX Black switches and a separate number pad.  Or even a keyboard with scissor switches and media keys.

[Amarok]

they're all the same...

buy based on how it looks...

there's no difference between gaming or typing...

anyone that says otherwise is just "inventing" their own reason to justify spending money...

Damn people and their personal preferences.

[Brown]

I was about to buy a ducky with white LEDs and blue switches off kijiji for 120 but I was still iffy of the switches.  The seller referred me here.  There is a site calle tigerimports that ships to Canada but it costs 170 with taxes.  Anything good about the Nighthawk X8?  Also what is new with the WASD V2?

[tp4tissue]

Really, this is based on personal preference. From your preferences, I would probably say to get a Ducky Shine II.

However, if you bump up your price range a bit, you have 2 more options: A) wait for the WASD V2, or B) get a Logitech G710+. Neither one is in clears, though. I think the Shine II is your best bet at this price range.

Not in Clears, but in Blacks with a White LED, full size, and with Media Keys. A bit expensive (and shipping might be expensive) for your budget, but it fits your bill almost perfectly.

http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=159

Can't comment on Canadian availability, though.

tp4tissue's our resident troll here in the general forums (I'd say TotalChaos is the troll in the Ergonomic forums), so take his opinion with a grain of salt.

You see how this guy's just throwing "preferences" at you...

Any keyboard at all is beyond human capacity to utilize, that is to say, we can't improve the "spoon" much further....


And it is also true that most of us just throw money into this hobby because it simulates a sense of "progress" and movement in life... materialism that is... and that is really all that's left in the keyboarding hobby....

[Hyde]

Mmmmmmmm there really isn't too many choices that matches ALL your preference.

So number 1 choice that matches ALL your preference would be Ducky, since you can pick any colour LED and any switch type.

Choice number 2 would be Thermaltake MEKA G1, although it doesn't have white LED but it's MX black full size and cheap.  http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=274&item_id=038596  If I remember correctly it's also OEM by Costar (They make a lot of good quality keyboards).

Choice number 3 would be Deck Legend Frost which uses MX Clear with white backlight.  But it might be outside your price range also some people find the font super ugly.  http://www.deckkeyboards.com/product_info.php?products_id=95

Nighthawk X8 is MX Brown with white LED option, while a lot of people doesn't like the OEM manufacture for this keyboard.  A lot of user review has indicated good quality.  So I'd say it's a viable choice if you don't mind MX Brown but price might be a bit high on this one.

WASD V2 will come out with any switch choice + white backlit.  It is also OEM by Costar (Again good quality manufacture).  Also you'll have a choice to pick keycap colour.  But you might have to wait till March for this to be available.

So I guess you have a few choices here but Ducky seems to be the only one that fit ALL category.

[joules]

And it is also true that most of us just throw money into this hobby because it simulates a sense of "progress" and movement in life... materialism that is... and that is really all that's left in the keyboarding hobby....

Money makes the world go round la la la..whats that you say aah?

[vivalarevolución]

to make this search easier, you must introduce fake parameters into your search. For example, I only buy Alps boards or ergonomic boards with tactile switches these days. That cancels out most of the other choices other there, and I have less stress.

[aviphysics]

If your not sure which key you would like and none of them are carried locally, I recommend ordering the sampler from WASD. It is $8 including shipping and includes the 4 most common cherry MX keys (red, blue, brown and black), a sampler of the O-ring dampeners WASD carries and some key caps. I think this is probably the cheapest way to physically try a variety of key types and really figure out what you like best.

[TheSoulhunter]

they're all the same...

buy based on how it looks...

there's no difference between gaming or typing...

anyone that says otherwise is just "inventing" their own reason to justify spending money...

- Put MX-Clears or something that's nice for typing under arcade pushbuttons
- Try to play something that needs accurate fast actuation or rollovers
- Realize you were wrong

All switches used in such scenarios are very low resistance, mostly linear,  short travel, and that for a good reason!
For fast paced gameplay "flicking" or simply resting on the buttons instead of pushing em has to be enough...
You can get close to that with MX-Reds (tho the travel is still somewhat too long),
but they are not that easy to type on without bottoming out.

[samwisekoi]

I'm fairly new to the mechanical keyboard market and I've researched some up such as the Ducky Shine II, Das keyboards, WASD Keyboards, Deck, etc.  I've ran into so many different specifications and all of that and I can't seem to find the right keyboard for me.  I've already done the "First Mechanical Keyboard" questionnaire and still have a hard time finding out what's the right thing for me.  I've went to a CanadaComputers near me and have tested out several keyboards on display.  So far I've really liked the feel of the Das Keyboard w/ Blue switches and I also liked the Azio Levetron Mech4 black switches.  However, the Cherry MX Blues are a tad loud as I tend to game with friends on Skype and it can get really loud.  The reason I don't like the Mech4 is due to its unorthodox key layout.  I've tried the Cherry MX Browns on the CM Quickfire TK (I think that's the one) and it just felt too light for me, I also didn't get a good enough feedback on the supposedly "tactile bump".  In addition, I would really prefer media keys and numberpad as I own a Logitech G110 right now and can't stand typing on it but I can't use my computer w/o some sort of media controls.  The reason I want the numpad is because I plan on doing some CAD work in university and I also use the numpad all the time at work and it's really handy.  A backlight would also be nice as well. I've also set a budget of around ~$120.  In summary this is what I am looking for:

• A keyboard for both gaming and typing (I mostly play MMOs)
• Budget is ~$120 (CAD)
• Fullsize keyboard layout
• Preferably Cherry MX Black/Clear/Blue/Maybe Brown
• White LED Backlight preferred (mostly for aesthetic purposes)
• Media Keys preferred

It's alot to ask for but I'm really critical on purchasing a keyboard this expensive.  Thanks for helping me out in advance!

As an admin here, I'll start with an apology for any unhelpful responses.  Some people get personal satisfaction by being unhelpful.  I don't, and you were sent here for some advice, so let's make sure you get some.

First, welcome to GeekHack.  We can help with information and experience, as well as let you know what is really up to what you and your fingers like.

So keyboards.  If you are going to spend $120CAD on a keyboard, you should get one that will last AND enable you to do some of the customizing that many of us do.  You should also get one that helps you do the things you like to do.  Sadly, DAS has started reducing the quality of their keyboards, presumably to increase profit.  Specifically, they have switched to a cheaper manufacturer in China for their new models.

The Azio is "special".  The only people I can recall posting about them have been people who wanted to add nicer keycaps and make other changes, only to discover that they could not because the Azio was non-standard.  Some of those posters just gave up and sold the Azio and bought another keyboard.

Looking at switches, the fact that you can tell the difference between the feel of Cherry MX Browns and the feel of Cherry MX Blues shows that (at least) your brain and fingers can tell them apart.  On my desk at home I have a Leopold tenkeyless (TKL = no keypad) with Cherry MX Browns and a WASD 104 (with keypad) with Cherry MX Blues.  I like the feel of Browns, and my family finds the Blues too loud, so I can't use it late at night or on Sunday morning.

It sounds like you would like MX Clears, but that restricts your choices.  Cherry MX Black is probably the choice for you if you want to just buy and use a keyboard.

That makes your choices easier.

This would be the "Silver Standard" for you:

Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja Cherry MX Black Switch 104 Key Mechanical Keyboard Black  $139.99  CAD
http://www.ncix.ca/products/?sku=70725&vpn=FKBN104ML%2FEFB2&manufacture=Filco#sthash.7QmuPpZ4.dpuf

Or you could try:

Rosewill Mechanical Keyboard RK-9000BL with Cherry MX Black Switch   $75 USD
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823201045

Cherry G80-3800 Black Switch MX-BOARD 2.0 104 Key Mechanical Keyboard Black   $69.99  CAD
http://www.ncix.ca/products/?sku=75698&vpn=G80%2D3800LUBEU%2D2&manufacture=Cherry#sthash.JMtKr2e7.dpuf

Noppoo Choc pro Full Size 104 Cherry MX Black Switch Gaming Mechanical keyboard   $89.99 USD (Buy It Now)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Noppoo-Choc-pro-Full-Size-104-Cherry-MX-Black-Switch-Gaming-Mechanical-keyboard-/230878777028?pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item35c1728ec4

Ducky 2108 Mechanical keyboard Cherry MX Black switches W/Black body      $95.99 USD (Buy It Now)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ducky-2108-Mechanical-keyboard-Cherry-MX-Black-switches-W-Black-body-/300842159615?pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item460b970dff

WASD V1 104-Key Semi-Custom Mechanical Keyboard      $119.99 USD
http://www.wasdkeyboards.com/index.php/wasd-v1-semi-custom-mechanical-keyboard.html

All of the above meet your needs.  Me personally, if I wanted Cherry MX Blacks, I would (and have) bought the Filco.  They are hard to get in the US, but easy to get in Canada.

The list above is just what I found in 20 minutes on Google, and every one of those keyboards has its fans and detractors here.

I hope that helps.

Also, since you are here, take a look around.  Discover that the keyboard has a bunch of switches, and that those switches have plastic keycaps that also have differences, fans and foes.  I am in front of a keyboard 12 hours every day, so I want it to be right for me.

And again, welcome to GeekHack!

 - Ron | samwisekoi


p.s.  Anyone who has been previously warned or muted should think carefully before trolling this thread any further.

[jabar]

If you must go backlit, Ducky is your best bet. However, expect to spend $150 shipped for a new full-size Ducky Shine II board, if MechanicalKeyboards even has them in stock.

Unless you must have a full-size keyboard, I would recommend TKL and lower for gaming. Switch type really depends on your personal preference; I have successfully gamed on every common switch type and I like them all except for Blacks and Greens (Greens make for terrific typing keyboards).

[1839cc]

For switch type think about how much resistance you want to deal with and whether you want a tactile bump or not. Look at the force diagrams and imagine how each one would feel based on those. That's a starting point.

If you decide on clears like I did, they are out there, but the boards they come in tend to be quite large. I found a Cherry G80-8113HRBUS (about $60 shipped at the time) and used it for a year or two until I got a special edition Leopold FC200R with clears and reclaimed my desk. I haven't bought another keyboard since.

There is also Deck, which as mentioned has white backlight available and is well built, but expensive.

Ducky might offer them too, but I'm not really in the loop anymore.

[tp4tissue]

they're all the same...

buy based on how it looks...

there's no difference between gaming or typing...

anyone that says otherwise is just "inventing" their own reason to justify spending money...

- Put MX-Clears or something that's nice for typing under arcade pushbuttons
- Try to play something that needs accurate fast actuation or rollovers
- Realize you were wrong



All switches used in such scenarios are very low resistance, mostly linear,  short travel, and that for a good reason!
For fast paced gameplay "flicking" or simply resting on the buttons instead of pushing em has to be enough...
You can get close to that with MX-Reds (tho the travel is still somewhat too long),
but they are not that easy to type on without bottoming out.

So you can throw up a niche argument.

Sure.. EVERYONE plays IIDX....

I play 8key stepmania myself... fairly competent..

And I know ALL about actuation from piano... the key makes VERY little difference, because the action is "pre-empt"

[fohat.digs]

I get a chuckle out of these threads.

Like any sane shopper, the poster writes a long wish list of desired features and asks "What keyboard meets all these criteria?"

Answers often look like "Well, there are only (2 or 1 or 0) keyboards that satisfy all of your requirements, but .... "

My (completely random) path has been to keep my eyes and ears open, and grab (a ridiculous and preposterous number of) keyboards whenever I stumble across them (at yard sales and thrift stores that always means $5 or less, and bored people often give them away for the asking) and use them for a while to get a feel for them.

Yes, I have paid $50 or $100 or more a few times, but only when I felt sure that I knew what I was getting.

And I have bought a lot of filthy junk, hoping, that I could bring it back to life.

So, when threads come up asking "Are you a keyboard addict?" I reflect for a moment and decide that I am a "hobbyist" and that I am just in it for the fun.

Therefore, I have a "daily driver" (one of my heavily modded F-122s) and half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE and rotate in and out of use regularly (ie an hour or more, at least, once every 2 months) for continued updates on how I feel about them. Additionally, I have another half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE that I keep lovingly boxed in the basement, and may not have touched in a year or more.

Then I have half a dozen "crap" keyboards laying around awaiting the executioner's song, and, finally, at least another half a dozen keyboards scattered in pieces awaiting the day when I have the time and energy to bring them back to the real world.

There is also a "graveyard" of parts and a "collection" of keycaps that deserve mention, for some reason.

My advice to you, OP, is to buy one nice keyboard, full-size or without the numpad, MX brown switches, PBT keycaps, and forget that you ever saw this forum.

[zoolzoo]

Oh, hey. Welcome to keyboard hell...where you never really know what you want, except for that you kinda think you might want all of the above.

[TheSoulhunter]

So you can throw up a niche argument.

How is it niche? Its not about playing a certain type of game or whatever you try to imply...
Switches solely made and used for gaming differ greatly from switches that are made and used for typing, that's a fact!

[Brown]

I've narrowed my choice down to the following keyboards:

• WASD V1 (Don't know what's the difference from V2)
• Ducky Shine II (White LED)
• Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja
• Noppoo Choc pro Full Size

Also, what is the general consensus on the Cherry and KBT keyboards?  Are they good because I see some people in my area selling some second hand. 

[CPTBadAss]

I've narrowed my choice down to the following keyboards:

• WASD V1 (Don't know what's the difference from V2)
• Ducky Shine II (White LED)
• Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja
• Noppoo Choc pro Full Size

Also, what is the general consensus on the Cherry boards?  Are they good because I see some people in my area selling some second hand.

Here's some WASD V2 info for you. I would highly recommend the Filco. I have that board and its really really nice. Good build quality and the plate makes it ultra solid.

[tp4tissue]

So you can throw up a niche argument.

How is it niche? Its not about playing a certain type of game or whatever you try to imply...
Switches solely made and used for gaming differ greatly from switches that are made and used for typing, that's a fact!

They may "differ"

But in terms of raw performance, the only hinderance is the "USER"....

For example... some of the greatest piano people I've come across are from impoverished Russia... They have the WORST equipment...  Like half of the key is missing, and the other half has an edge that's sharp and can cut you..

YET.... they're amazing players...


In gaming, and keyboarding, this comparison is especially true...

Boxer would own you with a ball mouse. and non-topre rubber dome. wha'dov

[Brown]

I was looking for the it's in the mail forum today.  I made a separate thread before finding this one..so below is a repost. 

Got a limited edition race kb today.  I acquired it in a trade transaction.  White case, white keycaps, white leds, white PCB...looks damn sexy imo.

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

This is looks amazing, I'd probably be willing to give up the numpad for it...  :eek:
Or even a black version with white LEDs.

[OnTheBrink]

Ducky Shine 2.

I've been like their advocate lately, lol. I was ultra surprised at the quality, the LED options are a ball and out of the box is better quality than Filco in my opinion (better key quality at the very least).

[zoolzoo]

Filco 104 key, MX Brown...and you're done.

[aviphysics]

I've narrowed my choice down to the following keyboards:

• WASD V1 (Don't know what's the difference from V2)
• Ducky Shine II (White LED)
• Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja
• Noppoo Choc pro Full Size

Also, what is the general consensus on the Cherry boards?  Are they good because I see some people in my area selling some second hand.

Here's some WASD V2 info for you. I would highly recommend the Filco. I have that board and its really really nice. Good build quality and the plate makes it ultra solid.

That looks an awful lot like a Filco TKL or Quickfire Rapid.

[Brown]

I was really leaning towards the Filco, but I was wondering what would I be able to do with it in the future, customization-wize compared to a Ducky Shine II?  I saw the aluminum case for the Filco and loved it.  I was wondering overall, what's the keyboard that can be easily customized with stuff like that case?

[aviphysics]

I was looking for the it's in the mail forum today.  I made a separate thread before finding this one..so below is a repost. 

Got a limited edition race kb today.  I acquired it in a trade transaction.  White case, white keycaps, white leds, white PCB...looks damn sexy imo.

This is looks amazing, I'd probably be willing to give up the numpad for it... 
Or even a black version with white LEDs.

That would look even better in a 50% gray instead of white.

If you like that layout, you might also want to take a look at the Noppoo Choc Mini.

Sorry, I couldn't find any superb glamor shots of it with the backlight on but this should give you a general idea.
http://i.imgur.com/aqsIQgm.jpg

[Brown]

I'm really digging the aluminum look on keyboards, just found the MKC GeekKey 87 and it blew me away, sadly the price did as well.  Here's a link to the topic: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=39592.0

Anyone know any similar keyboards or keyboards compatible with aluminum cases?

[OnTheBrink]

I'm really digging the aluminum look on keyboards, just found the MKC GeekKey 87 and it blew me away, sadly the price did as well.  Here's a link to the topic: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=39592.0

Anyone know any similar keyboards or keyboards compatible with aluminum cases?

The boards with aluminum cases are custom and will run way over your budget. I was in the same boat as you not too long ago before become pretty well versed due to other member's kindness and personal trial and error.

I have the Ducky Shine 2 with white LED and I must say it is gorgeous. Great out of the box quality with keys unlike some other popular brands like Filco. If your budget is dead set on $120 then I would look at the the Ducky Pro since it has a PBT option and some cool lighting. Not as advanced as the shine 2 but you can get PBT stock which is a nice penny saver and starter board. These boards also have media keys as well.

Also, if you are gaming with the board I STRONGLY recommend a TKL as having the mouse closer to my center has been by far my favorite upgrade and something you can only appreciate by experiencing yourself. I did a short video comparing Filco to DK Shine 2 and also WF has a real descriptive video on the board as well.

That would be my recommendation and sorry to anyone annoyed that I keep recommending Ducky lol.

[Burz]

http://matias.ca/quietpro/

If you like the feel of MX blues but don't like the sound then you should be checking Matias out. They make their own switches and are getting excellent reviews.

[OnTheBrink]

I get a chuckle out of these threads.

Like any sane shopper, the poster writes a long wish list of desired features and asks "What keyboard meets all these criteria?"

Answers often look like "Well, there are only (2 or 1 or 0) keyboards that satisfy all of your requirements, but .... "

My (completely random) path has been to keep my eyes and ears open, and grab (a ridiculous and preposterous number of) keyboards whenever I stumble across them (at yard sales and thrift stores that always means $5 or less, and bored people often give them away for the asking) and use them for a while to get a feel for them.

Yes, I have paid $50 or $100 or more a few times, but only when I felt sure that I knew what I was getting.

And I have bought a lot of filthy junk, hoping, that I could bring it back to life.

So, when threads come up asking "Are you a keyboard addict?" I reflect for a moment and decide that I am a "hobbyist" and that I am just in it for the fun.

Therefore, I have a "daily driver" (one of my heavily modded F-122s) and half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE and rotate in and out of use regularly (ie an hour or more, at least, once every 2 months) for continued updates on how I feel about them. Additionally, I have another half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE that I keep lovingly boxed in the basement, and may not have touched in a year or more.

Then I have half a dozen "crap" keyboards laying around awaiting the executioner's song, and, finally, at least another half a dozen keyboards scattered in pieces awaiting the day when I have the time and energy to bring them back to the real world.

There is also a "graveyard" of parts and a "collection" of keycaps that deserve mention, for some reason.

My advice to you, OP, is to buy one nice keyboard, full-size or without the numpad, MX brown switches, PBT keycaps, and forget that you ever saw this forum.

Wtf? How did you turn a recommendation thread into your life story?

And why are you advising someone away from this forum? I find the information I've gotten from here invaluable.

[fohat.digs]

And why are you advising someone away from this forum? I find the information I've gotten from here invaluable.

Clearly I forgot to turn on the sarcasm switch. This is wallet hack, after all.

[tp4tissue]

I get a chuckle out of these threads.

Like any sane shopper, the poster writes a long wish list of desired features and asks "What keyboard meets all these criteria?"

Answers often look like "Well, there are only (2 or 1 or 0) keyboards that satisfy all of your requirements, but .... "

My (completely random) path has been to keep my eyes and ears open, and grab (a ridiculous and preposterous number of) keyboards whenever I stumble across them (at yard sales and thrift stores that always means $5 or less, and bored people often give them away for the asking) and use them for a while to get a feel for them.

Yes, I have paid $50 or $100 or more a few times, but only when I felt sure that I knew what I was getting.

And I have bought a lot of filthy junk, hoping, that I could bring it back to life.

So, when threads come up asking "Are you a keyboard addict?" I reflect for a moment and decide that I am a "hobbyist" and that I am just in it for the fun.

Therefore, I have a "daily driver" (one of my heavily modded F-122s) and half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE and rotate in and out of use regularly (ie an hour or more, at least, once every 2 months) for continued updates on how I feel about them. Additionally, I have another half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE that I keep lovingly boxed in the basement, and may not have touched in a year or more.

Then I have half a dozen "crap" keyboards laying around awaiting the executioner's song, and, finally, at least another half a dozen keyboards scattered in pieces awaiting the day when I have the time and energy to bring them back to the real world.

There is also a "graveyard" of parts and a "collection" of keycaps that deserve mention, for some reason.

My advice to you, OP, is to buy one nice keyboard, full-size or without the numpad, MX brown switches, PBT keycaps, and forget that you ever saw this forum.

Wtf? How did you turn a recommendation thread into your life story?

And why are you advising someone away from this forum? I find the information I've gotten from here invaluable.

His points are valid...

Collecting keyboards and keyboard components is kinda stupid.. most of it just sits there like Stamps and you would never bother to use it..

[do_Og@n]

I'm going to skip the facts of life and go straight into a good way to get into mechanical keyboards.

Before you go out and buy an expensive keyboard I would look at any local thrift stores and search their shelves for a good, cheap mechanical keyboard (Mine started with an FK-2001 and a WYSE EPC). If you don't like it turn around and sell it for a decent profit on ebay and then go back to the thrift store and look for more.

After doing this for about two years my original purchase of $10 has turned into a hobby and a source of income for my keyboard collection. I have also learned what switches I like, what brands I like, and of course keyboard modding (+1 for switch harvesting).

If you still want to buy a more expensive board off the bat I would go for one with a more popular switch type (blues, BROWNS, and sometimes blacks [reds aren't to popular]). That way if you decide you don't like it and want to sell it you will be able to sell it quicker and for close to the same price.

[OnTheBrink]

I get a chuckle out of these threads.

Like any sane shopper, the poster writes a long wish list of desired features and asks "What keyboard meets all these criteria?"

Answers often look like "Well, there are only (2 or 1 or 0) keyboards that satisfy all of your requirements, but .... "

My (completely random) path has been to keep my eyes and ears open, and grab (a ridiculous and preposterous number of) keyboards whenever I stumble across them (at yard sales and thrift stores that always means $5 or less, and bored people often give them away for the asking) and use them for a while to get a feel for them.

Yes, I have paid $50 or $100 or more a few times, but only when I felt sure that I knew what I was getting.

And I have bought a lot of filthy junk, hoping, that I could bring it back to life.

So, when threads come up asking "Are you a keyboard addict?" I reflect for a moment and decide that I am a "hobbyist" and that I am just in it for the fun.

Therefore, I have a "daily driver" (one of my heavily modded F-122s) and half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE and rotate in and out of use regularly (ie an hour or more, at least, once every 2 months) for continued updates on how I feel about them. Additionally, I have another half a dozen keyboards that I REALLY LIKE that I keep lovingly boxed in the basement, and may not have touched in a year or more.

Then I have half a dozen "crap" keyboards laying around awaiting the executioner's song, and, finally, at least another half a dozen keyboards scattered in pieces awaiting the day when I have the time and energy to bring them back to the real world.

There is also a "graveyard" of parts and a "collection" of keycaps that deserve mention, for some reason.

My advice to you, OP, is to buy one nice keyboard, full-size or without the numpad, MX brown switches, PBT keycaps, and forget that you ever saw this forum.

Wtf? How did you turn a recommendation thread into your life story?

And why are you advising someone away from this forum? I find the information I've gotten from here invaluable.

His points are valid...

Collecting keyboards and keyboard components is kinda stupid.. most of it just sits there like Stamps and you would never bother to use it..

No one is saying his points aren't valid...

[majestihack]

This is good, my first post is to try to help someone else who is new. Take it for what it's worth, Brown.

I started with a Happy Hacking Lite 2 more than 10 years ago. After reading at this site for a few months I ordered a Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja with browns. After using it for half a year I like it a lot, especially after recently removing the braces rubber bands that I'd put on right after getting the board. Something was bugging me, took me a while to figure out it was the mushy landing feel. Now it seems like I'm typing faster, using a softer touch rather than depending on rubber bumpers. And the sharp clack sound tells me when I bottom out.

I got the Tenkeyless Filco because I don't want to reach far for the trackball. Wouldn't want to go back to a number pad, though on the left side I keep a Logitech G13 gaming keypad whose keys can be programmed for anything. You mention needing the media keys, you can remap Filco keys and probably the other brands easily. I replaced the keys I wasn't using with Vol Up, Vol Down, Pause/Play and Mute. Used the program KeyTweak.

[PointyFox]

This is good, my first post is to try to help someone else who is new. Take it for what it's worth, Brown.

I started with a Happy Hacking Lite 2 more than 10 years ago. After reading at this site for a few months I ordered a Filco Majestouch 2 Ninja with browns. After using it for half a year I like it a lot, especially after recently removing the braces rubber bands that I'd put on right after getting the board. Something was bugging me, took me a while to figure out it was the mushy landing feel. Now it seems like I'm typing faster, using a softer touch rather than depending on rubber bumpers. And the sharp clack sound tells me when I bottom out.

I got the Tenkeyless Filco because I don't want to reach far for the trackball. Wouldn't want to go back to a number pad, though on the left side I keep a Logitech G13 gaming keypad whose keys can be programmed for anything. You mention needing the media keys, you can remap Filco keys and probably the other brands easily. I replaced the keys I wasn't using with Vol Up, Vol Down, Pause/Play and Mute. Used the program KeyTweak.

As was said you might want to mod the keyboard sometime. I'm about to try my first mod, some PBT keys, two sets of blanks. Having two colors might help me get used to using a blank board.

The Filco Multicam has media keys.  Same with the Cooler Master boards.  CM is coming out with some nice new boards shortly.

[Abacus1234]

I do not think cooler master is beatable for the money. I also don't think the Quickfire TK gets enough love. I really enjoy the design. I prefer the tenkeyless form factor, but sometimes miss the convenience of the number pad. Best of both worlds. And they build quality is solid. The only thing I've not liked about it is that the keycaps don't feel as nice as my Rapid.

[deazncy]

I can vouch for the Nighthawk X8. Just got mine today and I'm loving it. Build quality is very good and backighting is bright and even. But CM keyboards are really good also. You can't go wrong with either.

[OnTheBrink]

I do not think cooler master is beatable for the money. I also don't think the Quickfire TK gets enough love. I really enjoy the design. I prefer the tenkeyless form factor, but sometimes miss the convenience of the number pad. Best of both worlds. And they build quality is solid. The only thing I've not liked about it is that the keycaps don't feel as nice as my Rapid.

I have the opposite opinion. Their keys are trash and to change them out is going to cost as much or more than alternatives that either include PBT keys, better ABS and far less branding.

[Michael]

I do not think cooler master is beatable for the money. I also don't think the Quickfire TK gets enough love. I really enjoy the design. I prefer the tenkeyless form factor, but sometimes miss the convenience of the number pad. Best of both worlds. And they build quality is solid. The only thing I've not liked about it is that the keycaps don't feel as nice as my Rapid.

I have the opposite opinion. Their keys are trash and to change them out is going to cost as much or more than alternatives that either include PBT keys, better ABS and far less branding.

Most of the new CMQF's don't have branding. A set of PBT's can be had for $35

[Brown]

I will be most likely getting a new set of keycaps anyways.  Anyways I'll probably see if I can get my hands on a GH60, I love building computers so building a keyboard sounds just as fun.

EDIT:  I'm still trying to find a switch that will feel good, something like the Cherry MX Blues without the tactile feel. 

[eth0s]

p.s.  Anyone who has been previously warned or muted should think carefully before trolling this thread any further.

LOL'd when I read this.  A real belly laugh.  Not a chortle, chuckle or snicker.

I wanted to call a fool a fool, but that would be just trolling a troll, so I didn't.

@OP: My advice is that MX Browns are best all-around switch for gaming and typing.  Also I would strongly recommend TKL size over Full-size.  And I would recommend against LED back-lighting, because you will need painted keycaps, and the paint wears off, and the painted caps don't feel that great.  So Filco with MX Browns will not disappoint. 

[PointyFox]

p.s.  Anyone who has been previously warned or muted should think carefully before trolling this thread any further.

LOL'd when I read this.  A real belly laugh.  Not a chortle, chuckle or snicker.

I wanted to call a fool a fool, but that would be just trolling a troll, so I didn't.

@OP: My advice is that MX Browns are best all-around switch for gaming and typing.  Also I would strongly recommend TKL size over Full-size.  And I would recommend against LED back-lighting, because you will need painted keycaps, and the paint wears off, and the painted caps don't feel that great.  So Filco with MX Browns will not disappoint. 

Browns do disappoint if someone either can't feel the bumps well or finds them to feel "gritty".  I can feel the bumps, but not when I'm typing at a moderate pace. 

[Brown]

I can't feel them, at least on a CM Storm board.  I tried some in store and it didn't feel right.  I'm looking for a linear switch that is lighter than black but heavier than reds.  I was thinking about swapping springs out of another switch and putting them in some reds, however I don't really know which ones to do.

[Burz]

I can't feel them, at least on a CM Storm board.  I tried some in store and it didn't feel right.  I'm looking for a linear switch that is lighter than black but heavier than reds.  I was thinking about swapping springs out of another switch and putting them in some reds, however I don't really know which ones to do.

In that case, put some thick O-rings on regular MX black switches and they should become a bit lighter and perhaps feel a bit more accurate by reducing the amount of key travel.

[deazncy]

Or you can go for a kb with the Kailh Reds switches

Apparently they're in between reds and blacks.

[OnTheBrink]

I do not think cooler master is beatable for the money. I also don't think the Quickfire TK gets enough love. I really enjoy the design. I prefer the tenkeyless form factor, but sometimes miss the convenience of the number pad. Best of both worlds. And they build quality is solid. The only thing I've not liked about it is that the keycaps don't feel as nice as my Rapid.

I have the opposite opinion. Their keys are trash and to change them out is going to cost as much or more than alternatives that either include PBT keys, better ABS and far less branding.

Most of the new CMQF's don't have branding. A set of PBT's can be had for $35

I haven't seen a TK without branding.

Besides, $100 + $35 = $135 for a QF with after market PBT. $10 more expensive than a Ducky pro with PBT or the same price for a Ducky Pro full.

Either way, I don't understand your point.

is going to cost as much or more than alternatives that either include PBT keys, better ABS