ErgoDox round 3 GB is ON at Massdrop!

[Bullveyr]

I wish I could touch type.

[daerid]

It's way worth it to spend the time to learn, especially with the entrenchment of computers in every day living

[ksm123]

I wish I could touch type.

So stop whining, take the most tactile of your keyboards, a set of blank keycaps and follow a touch-typing tutorial. You should get the basics in two weeks, just remember to do your exercises twice a day, half an hour in the morning and half an hour in the evening, any thing more than an hour in one session is wasted time.
Before you start, spend an hour or two researching proper posture, position of the hands etc.
And one more thing, mechanical keyboards are superior to cheap RD because they actuate way before switch is depressed all the way. Make use of it while you're learning, its easier to learn proper technique from the beginning than to unlearn bad habits later on.

[Bullveyr]

I know me well enough that I won't pull threw it anyway.
I don't type that much, neither at my job nor in my private life, so it isn't that important to me atm.

So, "being able to touch type would be nice" is better phrased.

[tp4tissue]

I wish I could touch type.

So stop whining, take the most tactile of your keyboards, a set of blank keycaps and follow a touch-typing tutorial. You should get the basics in two weeks, just remember to do your exercises twice a day, half an hour in the morning and half an hour in the evening, any thing more than an hour in one session is wasted time.
Before you start, spend an hour or two researching proper posture, position of the hands etc.
And one more thing, mechanical keyboards are superior to cheap RD because they actuate way before switch is depressed all the way. Make use of it while you're learning, its easier to learn proper technique from the beginning than to unlearn bad habits later on.

I learned to type by typing starcraft codes.....     food for thought

[Bullveyr]

I'm more of a FPS gamer, outside the WASD cluster I'm not very proficient.

[CommunistWitchDr]

It took me like a week to get colemak to a useable speed coming from two finger qwerty.

It's not that hard, just do it.

It helps to keep a printout of your layout handy too.

[MOZ]

Possible to get a pair of PCB only?

[agodinhost]

Possible to get a pair of PCB only?

I'm in the same boat.
I think you will have to wait and see IF they are going to sell the PCBs again. I'm not quite sure of it.

Question for you guys:
They are saying at the MassDrop site that there are 3 days left.
It is a deadline date? Or I'll be able to buy it AFTER these 3 days?
The thing is that I'm not at the best moment in my credit card finances and I'm trying to avoid an violent death at the hands of my dear wife ...

[tp4tissue]

Possible to get a pair of PCB only?

I'm in the same boat.
I think you will have to wait and see IF they are going to sell the PCBs again. I'm not quite sure of it.

Question for you guys:
They are saying at the MassDrop site that there are 3 days left.
It is a deadline date? Or I'll be able to buy it AFTER these 3 days?
The thing is that I'm not at the best moment in my credit card finances and I'm trying to avoid an violent death at the hands of my dear wife ...

sell something...

[flc]

I'm on the fence on this one and hope your feedback will help me decide.

I'm a computer programmer who has always used whatever keyboard was available. However, a few months ago I embarked on a quest to find an ergonomic keyboard to avoid future problems. After hours of research on ergonomics I found that I wanted a split, programmable keyboard with a matrix layout that could be tented. To my surprise the closest thing I found that appealed to me was the Kinesis Freestyle 2. However, it is not programmable and has a staggered key layout.

Just as I was about to give up on my search I came across the ErgoDox and subsequently this site. Now that its become available again I am considering getting it but have some doubts. I'm still wondering if I should just get the Freestyle 2 and live with the limitations or splurge on the ErgoDox.

Here are my questions:
1. I'm a complete noob. Before finding geekhack I hadn't even considered mechanical keyboards and don't think I have never used one. This is probably the wrong forum to ask but are mechanical switches really that much better - thus justifying the higher cost?

2. I also saw videos of people lubricating the keys. Is this just a matter of preference or does it have to be done at least once?

3. This is probably very subjective, but if I were to get ErgoDox which switches do you recommend?

4. Being that this would really be my first ergonomic keyboard would you suggest I start out with something like the Freestyle 2 despite its shortcomings?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

[CommunistWitchDr]

1. Yes

2. You don't have to

3. Totally subjective, order a wasd sampler

4. Edox is a fine start, don't waste time with the overpriced membrane board

[kurplop]

I'm on the fence on this one and hope your feedback will help me decide.

I'm a computer programmer who has always used whatever keyboard was available. However, a few months ago I embarked on a quest to find an ergonomic keyboard to avoid future problems. After hours of research on ergonomics I found that I wanted a split, programmable keyboard with a matrix layout that could be tented. To my surprise the closest thing I found that appealed to me was the Kinesis Freestyle 2. However, it is not programmable and has a staggered key layout.

Just as I was about to give up on my search I came across the ErgoDox and subsequently this site. Now that its become available again I am considering getting it but have some doubts. I'm still wondering if I should just get the Freestyle 2 and live with the limitations or splurge on the ErgoDox.

Here are my questions:
1. I'm a complete noob. Before finding geekhack I hadn't even considered mechanical keyboards and don't think I have never used one. This is probably the wrong forum to ask but are mechanical switches really that much better - thus justifying the higher cost?

2. I also saw videos of people lubricating the keys. Is this just a matter of preference or does it have to be done at least once?

3. This is probably very subjective, but if I were to get ErgoDox which switches do you recommend?

4. Being that this would really be my first ergonomic keyboard would you suggest I start out with something like the Freestyle 2 despite its shortcomings?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

I should first say that I have an ErgoDox and I don't think I will ever go back to a conventional keyboard again. http://flic.kr/s/aHsjFazJhh

While I enjoy using a mechanical keyboard and they are certainly more durable, I don't think they are necessary for improved ergonomics. You should look up Gerk's posts from about Jan. through April of this year. He is also a programmer who finally found  that the Goldtouch V2  suits his needs and is quite happy with the relief he has experienced. Unlike you, he didm't want stacked columns just better hand orientation.

Whatever you decide, welcome to geekhack and I wish you success in your search.

[daerid]

F**K IT. I need another one of these, and I'm willing to part with my beloved AE for it.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45193.0

[agodinhost]

Awesome hand work kurplop!
Congrats!

[agodinhost]

Possible to get a pair of PCB only?

I'm in the same boat.
I think you will have to wait and see IF they are going to sell the PCBs again. I'm not quite sure of it.

Question for you guys:
They are saying at the MassDrop site that there are 3 days left.
It is a deadline date? Or I'll be able to buy it AFTER these 3 days?
The thing is that I'm not at the best moment in my credit card finances and I'm trying to avoid an violent death at the hands of my dear wife ...

sell something...

Already doing it bro ...
However I still don't know if they will continue to sell it after these 3 days ...
Please?
I never used the massdrop site before - that's why I'm asking.

[daerid]

They might. That 3 days means that this current group buy ends in three days and you will not be able to purchase one until they start another group buy.

[Glod]

not going to join the round 3 because i already have 3 edox (1.5 not built), but i am contemplating joining that DCS blanks GB that closes in 24 hours. i wish it $45 was unlocked; my money be thin right now.

[daerid]

Do it. DCS on the ErgoDox (with DSA for the thumb clusters and verticals) is PURE SEX ON YOUR FINGERS

[Glod]

i don't man, i really committed to this DSA thing. http://flic.kr/p/eCtCEd and i joined the dolch thing.

it would be like me admitting that a hundred posts i made on geekhack were total bull****.

but the truth is i know DCS is better, and the DSA/DCS combo is amazing

my previous setup before Retro was SP doubleshot DCS for all the keys except the thumbs and 1.5x

almost makes me want to run DSA group buys not for a full set but to make it so that you can use CnG, Klaxon, Raindrop, etc work with the ErgoDox. Oh look i'm being hypocritical again; we were talking about blanks

[Jagriff]

Maybe we should have a DCS/DSA combo group buy in a different color (maybe whlte blanks).

[Glod]

maybe....i imagine it would be expensive though to have a ergodox specific GB, especially DCS

however in their blank inventory they do have over a 1000 row 1,2,3,4 1x ABS WA-Bright White blanks right now in stock for a dollar each with discounts available for bulk orders, they just don't have the 2x and 1.5 DCS or DSA.

[flc]

1. Yes

2. You don't have to

3. Totally subjective, order a wasd sampler

4. Edox is a fine start, don't waste time with the overpriced membrane board

Thank you for your input. Regarding the wasd sampler, it would mean missing out on the current (and perhaps last) group buy while I wait to get it.

http://flic.kr/s/aHsjFazJhh

I just have to say... WOW!

Thank you for your feedback and mentioning that mechanical keyboards are not necessary for improved ergonomics. Perhaps I should post in the ergonomics forum instead. I will take another look at the Goldtouch.

[Larken]

Well, with all the keycaps sets that most geekhackers have, one could probably just use DSA on mods and thumb cluster and grab the alpha keys off a normal DCS set to use on the ergodox. I did that for a while before I went with full DSA.

pic before I went with dsa retro.



that said, I'm probably not going to use the DCS sets I have on my doxes as I don't really have an issue with DSA, also the main reason why I'm not very interested in the DCS buy at massdrop (not to mention that I think they don't have homing bumps/deepdishes in the set).

I'm never going back to a normal layout again either But I have to say that the layout is a commitment. I have problems using normal stagger layouts nowadays with all the hours I'm spending on the ergodox.

[daerid]

I'm never going back to a normal layout again either But I have to say that the layout is a commitment. I have problems using normal stagger layouts nowadays with all the hours I'm spending on the ergodox.

Unfortunately, I think I'm in the same boat. The vertical layout of the ErgoDox really does spoil you once you become used to it, and normal staggered layouts feel just....weird.

I hope to god they do a round 4, not so sure I'll be able to make it into R3

[Larken]

Unfortunately, I think I'm in the same boat. The vertical layout of the ErgoDox really does spoil you once you become used to it, and normal staggered layouts feel just....weird.

I hope to god they do a round 4, not so sure I'll be able to make it into R3

exactly. there was a moment when I dusted off the old filco, and tried to type on it, just to keep in practice. Less than 5 minutes later, I was actually thinking this - 'wow, this is quite uncomfortable'; this referring to the close together wrist positions along with 'mm, why am I torturing my wrists?'

I then proceeded to replace the dust cover on the filco, and since then, passed a few of my extra boards to friends and relatives, keeping the few that I know I'll miss. It also keeps me off the topre train (which I admit I was tempted to try, but have since lost interest as there isn't a topre board in this particular layout).

The demand seems to be going strong though. I didn't expect it to go past r2 due to how niche the product was, but clearly I was wrong (also the reason why I got 2 in the first round, for fear there won't be another round). But it looks like the demand is definitely there

[grips]

Unfortunately, I think I'm in the same boat. The vertical layout of the ErgoDox really does spoil you once you become used to it, and normal staggered layouts feel just....weird.

I hope to god they do a round 4, not so sure I'll be able to make it into R3

exactly. there was a moment when I dusted off the old filco, and tried to type on it, just to keep in practice. Less than 5 minutes later, I was actually thinking this - 'wow, this is quite uncomfortable'; this referring to the close together wrist positions along with 'mm, why am I torturing my wrists?'

I then proceeded to replace the dust cover on the filco, and since then, passed a few of my extra boards to friends and relatives, keeping the few that I know I'll miss. It also keeps me off the topre train (which I admit I was tempted to try, but have since lost interest as there isn't a topre board in this particular layout).

The demand seems to be going strong though. I didn't expect it to go past r2 due to how niche the product was, but clearly I was wrong (also the reason why I got 2 in the first round, for fear there won't be another round). But it looks like the demand is definitely there

Hi, Larken. I have ordered an ergodox this round, partly due to seeing your typing video and keyboard. I'm curious how you went about getting the center of your board elevated to produce your slight vertical angle.

[Larken]

Hi, Larken. I have ordered an ergodox this round, partly due to seeing your typing video and keyboard. I'm curious how you went about getting the center of your board elevated to produce your slight vertical angle.

I used a pair of kinesis v3 lifters suggested by Glod.

http://www.amazon.com/Kinesis-Corporation-Ac730-blk-Freestyle-Accessory/dp/B003F8MDPY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372340971&sr=8-1&keywords=kinesis+v3

It requires sawing off a small part of the lifters, and a method of fastening the lifters to the bottom of the board. I used 3m plastic fasteners (basically velcro). When I'm less busy with work and have better light for pictures, I'll take a few pictures to make for a guide if needed (though its pretty simple).

[grips]

Hi, Larken. I have ordered an ergodox this round, partly due to seeing your typing video and keyboard. I'm curious how you went about getting the center of your board elevated to produce your slight vertical angle.

I used a pair of kinesis v3 lifters suggested by Glod.

http://www.amazon.com/Kinesis-Corporation-Ac730-blk-Freestyle-Accessory/dp/B003F8MDPY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372340971&sr=8-1&keywords=kinesis+v3

It requires sawing off a small part of the lifters, and a method of fastening the lifters to the bottom of the board. I used 3m plastic fasteners (basically velcro). When I'm less busy with work and have better light for pictures, I'll take a few pictures to make for a guide if needed (though its pretty simple).

Thank you! Some pictures would be helpful. That angle looks comfortable as hell.

[Dgsbllx]

I'm diving in. Am I ordering Classic or Full hand? 

[flc]

I was asking myself the same question. I like the look of the Classic much better but I hear that if you want to tent it you should get the Full Hand.

[flc]

Which switches were you looking to get? I've never tried any of the but I am leaning towards the clear. It seems that they are quieter and will be used mostly for work and not gaming.

[SeriouSSpotS]

Ohhh tempting.

[daerid]

@flc I've heard the exact opposite: The classic is apparently much easier to do the tenting on.

I have a full hand right now, and put in an order for a classic in R3. Not sure if I'll be tenting it, it's more for portability. But it will be interesting to compare the two side by side.

[Dgsbllx]

I'm getting it with no switches as I've got loads of blues and browns hanging about that can go on there for now. Portability isn't too much of an issue for me and I don't usually use wrist rests anyway so I'm thinking Classic. First world problems 

[flc]

@daerid

Now I'm more confused about the case. Here is another opinion...

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44940.msg935340#msg935340

[daerid]

Maybe I've got it backwards! I don't tent my board though (I've always typed with my wrists curved), so take my input with a grain of salt

[Glod]

highly recommended trying tenting sometime, not guaranteed you will like it but it is worth trying.

[longweight]

Ordered! I just hope that the wait for clear switches isn't too long!

[daerid]

There's a wait for Clears?!?

[Glod]

if they got them from the same source they got their switches previously I doubt there will be a delay. round 2 was super quick, I bet round 3 will be just as quick

[daerid]

Ok good. 4 weeks is long enough!

[llovro]

This is tempting but I think acryllic plate kills it for me :S
Oh, and also I've seen that they're not shipping to slovenia

[Glod]

they will ship like almost anywhere in the world, you just have to contact them by chat or email to get a quote on the shipping, the countries they have listed are those in which they have gotten quotes for.

[longweight]

This is tempting but I think acryllic plate kills it for me :S
Oh, and also I've seen that they're not shipping to slovenia

What is wrong with the plate? Make your own!

[llovro]

This is tempting but I think acryllic plate kills it for me :S
Oh, and also I've seen that they're not shipping to slovenia

What is wrong with the plate? Make your own!

well, I heard that acryllic plates make the keyboard feel cheap. Also making an aluminium ergodox plate would cost a lot of money

[longweight]

I really don't think that it would, it is just two CNC cut plates.


Are there CAD files available for the 5 sheets that make up the case?

[Glod]

the acrylic is really solid, the plate layer does not bend. it is super thick in fact so thick through hole diodes cannot be used because the plate actually touches the PCB

i just hate the acrylic because its clear and glossy, but the design is solid.

[daerid]

Yeah you really need something to cover up the acrylic, it's worse than the Das Keyboard when it comes to picking up fingerprint/dust/oils/etc...

... Something like Glod's super sexy carbon fiber mod!

[mcbonz]

Glod, I just wonder if you made your awesome wooden wrist rest yourself?
They are just the most beautiful thing!
Also make the aluminium case look very attractive to me...
What kind of wood is that?

seriously... amazing!