Looking to buy an IBM Model M

[Jalberstone]

I really want to buy a Model M, but I don't know where to buy one and if it is a trustworthy source. Could anyone tell me where to look? Also is it possible to buy a Model M with a USB connector instead of PS/2? Thanks!

[tehsprayer]

Ebay has a few.

[lcs]

Only PS/2, but you could buy an Unicomp with USB. But with an Adesso adapter everything works fine.

Craiglist has some as well.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

If you have patience they eventually will have one. It'd be more expensive, but it'll be trustworthy.

[Wall Street]

If you want a new board with a USB connector, you can buy a Unicomp.  Their Unicomp Classic model is a new buckling spring keyboards based on the original IBM design.  Some people say the build quality is worse than IBM, however some of the Model M keyboards aren't exactly in the best shape either.  I am trying on a Unicomp right now and it definitely has the feel of what I remember from the keyboard of my youth.

[PadawanGeek]

I'd gotten a Lexmark Model M (1993) in near mint condition, except that the three LED indicators on the top right of the KB aren't working. It feels awesome typing on it, a tad loud though but that's part of its charm. I'd originally wanted an IBM branded one, but saw some that were not in the best of condition, this Lexmark Model was in the best shape, so I'd jumped on it.

[rowdy]

Most Model M are PS/2.

If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1

If it has a non-removable cable, you could get a separate PS/2 to USB adaptor.

[PadawanGeek]

Most Model M are PS/2.

If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1

If it has a non-removable cable, you could get a separate PS/2 to USB adaptor.

What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors. The one I'd gotten had that, so I simply got a cheap AT to PS/2 adapter (about 4USD) and it works perfectly.

[1391406]

Some people say the build quality is worse than IBM, however some of the Model M keyboards aren't exactly in the best shape either.

I'd take a dirty Model M with a few missing key caps over a brand new Unicomp any day, but that's me.

[rowdy]

Most Model M are PS/2.

If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1

If it has a non-removable cable, you could get a separate PS/2 to USB adaptor.

What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors. The one I'd gotten had that, so I simply got a cheap AT to PS/2 adapter (about 4USD) and it works perfectly.

The older ones are AT, most are PS/2 (as far as I know).  Both of mine are form the 90s and both are PS/2 (one SDL and one not).

Some people say the build quality is worse than IBM, however some of the Model M keyboards aren't exactly in the best shape either.

I'd take a dirty Model M with a few missing key caps over a brand new Unicomp any day, but that's me.

I'll take a couple of keycaps from a dirty Model M any day

[fohat.digs]

If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1

What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors.

I second the recommendation of the Orihalcon-made cables. They are clean and fresh and work great.

The very early Model Ms (1390120, most 1390131s, and some 1391401s) had black coiled AT-style cables, after about 1987 they were gray coiled PS/2 cables, either long (5' aka "short") or ultra-long (10' aka "long").

[Jalberstone]

So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?

[1391406]

So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?

If the quality of the keyboard case isn't necessarily of major importance to you then a Unicomp is an acceptable substitute for a Model M, as the typing experience is relatively the same. The build quality of Unicomp cases, however, is another story.

[smknjoe]

Someone mentioned that the Ms were made of PVC (which contains lead.) Isn't PVC pretty stable and therefore the lead not really a concern?

Are the Unicomps less durable because of different materials or thinner materials or both?

[fohat.digs]

Are the Unicomps less durable because of different materials or thinner materials or both?

Unicomp Model Ms are modern Model M keyboards made in the same factory on the same equipment as Model Ms from decades ago.

There have been minor changes in the plastic composition of the cases, other little corners have been cut here and there, and most people agree that quality control has slipped from the IBM days, but they are true Model M buckling spring keyboards in every way. Period.

And they can be bought in different footprints, also in black, and with native USB cables. They are a good buy, do it.

[tricheboars]

Are the Unicomps less durable because of different materials or thinner materials or both?

Unicomp Model Ms are modern Model M keyboards made in the same factory on the same equipment as Model Ms from decades ago.

There have been minor changes in the plastic composition of the cases, other little corners have been cut here and there, and most people agree that quality control has slipped from the IBM days, but they are true Model M buckling spring keyboards in every way. Period.

And they can be bought in different footprints, also in black, and with native USB cables. They are a good buy, do it.

i agree with this man fully. i would also add that i believe most love for the 80's era boards have to do with appearance and nostalgia.   dont get me wrong i love my 80's IBM Model M but i have also typed on a few unicomps and they really do feel just as nice. however if you plan on going with an 80's style one, be sure to get an Adesso Active USB converter, and dont expect NKRO.

However, if you want to talk about IBM Model F AT.... well there is no comparison. 

[smknjoe]

I realize they are the same exact design made on the same exact machines, but it keeps getting repeated over and over and over that they aren't as good. So, the only thing that could possibly be different is the materials used. I was just curious. Never have used a Unicomp but I would guess that it's the same as my IBM models.

Edit: and I also realize that many people like to offer opinions when they have no personal experience. Just the experience of others that they repeat.

[tricheboars]

it is just model m owners spreading the seeds of jealousy. model m boards are hard to get and expensive, or they are in terrible condition. unicomps are reasonably priced, available, and mainstream.

the model m is the hipster of keyboards (along with hhkb). they are cool because you cant buy one in a store NIB.

the true test would be to blindfold a unicomp nay-sayer and let him type on both.  my guess is very few of us model m owners could tell the difference without our eyeballs.

[rowdy]

Not quite the same design any more - they just altered the layout of the bottom row of keys.

[0100010]

Not quite the same design any more - they just altered the layout of the bottom row of keys.

Only on the 104 key models, the 101 key units are the same.

[1391406]

it is just model m owners spreading the seeds of jealousy. model m boards are hard to get and expensive, or they are in terrible condition. unicomps are reasonably priced, available, and mainstream.

Model M's aren't hard to get(they're all over eBay), aren't expensive compared to other mechanical keyboards, and can be found in good condition without too much trouble.

the model m is the hipster of keyboards (along with hhkb). they are cool because you cant buy one in a store NIB.

No, they're cool because they're built like tanks, feel good to type on, and last forever.

the true test would be to blindfold a unicomp nay-sayer and let him type on both.  my guess is very few of us model m owners could tell the difference without our eyeballs.

I can absolutely distinguish between a Unicomp and Model M in a blind taste-test on a few levels without actually seeing either board any day of the week via:

1) Physically handling the case
2) Feel - typing on one
3) Sound when being typed on

[1391406]

I realize they are the same exact design made on the same exact machines, but it keeps getting repeated over and over and over that they aren't as good. So, the only thing that could possibly be different is the materials used. I was just curious. Never have used a Unicomp but I would guess that it's the same as my IBM models.

Edit: and I also realize that many people like to offer opinions when they have no personal experience. Just the experience of others that they repeat.

The plastic composition is different, which explains why Unicomp cases are more flexible and creak when flexed, however there's the issue of quality control in the form of flashing around some of the key caps. It's also been pointed out that there are cosmetic defects on the surface of the case which tend to look like smudge marks.

[h2gofast]

I would be willing to take the blindfold test.  Model M's are out there, just be patient,

[1391406]

Model M's are out there

They are, and a lot of those listed on eBay right now appear to be in good condition:

[wcass]

i have both, use them every day (Unicomp at work and IBM at home) and enjoy them both. that said, there is a difference. the older the keyboard, the thicker (stiffer) the steel back plate. and the plastic has changed over the years from thick and brittle (model F), to medium thick and resilient (old IBM model M), to thinner. but if you are looking for native USB and a Win key, your best bet is a (newer) Unicomp.

the older boards often need some semi-skilled work to bring them into the 21st century. classic Ms might need a bolt mod and an active USB converter; terminals need a USB converter/remapper (like Soarer's converter - i prefer to put the adapter in the keyboard case) and maybe an ANSI conversion if ISO is not your thing.

[bazemk1979]

So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?

Or if you really want an IBM board that  will out live you, customized to some degree, bolt modded, extra set of black keycaps pm me then.

[noisyturtle]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

[rowdy]

So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?

Or if you really want an IBM board that  will out live you, customized to some degree, bolt modded, extra set of black keycaps pm me then.

Black keycaps?

Are they from Unicomp?

[1391406]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

[1391406]

the older boards often need some semi-skilled work to bring them into the 21st century. classic Ms might need a bolt mod and an active USB converter; terminals need a USB converter/remapper (like Soarer's converter - i prefer to put the adapter in the keyboard case) and maybe an ANSI conversion if ISO is not your thing.

I'm sure bolt modding can only help when needed, although I will say I've owned more than a few IBM Model M's (1391401) that were never bolt modded and worked fine with a Bluecube adapter straight up. Almost all of them (except for two) were eBay purchases. ANSI vs. ISO is obviously a personal preference.

[bazemk1979]

So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?

Or if you really want an IBM board that  will out live you, customized to some degree, bolt modded, extra set of black keycaps pm me then.

Black keycaps?

Are they from Unicomp?

yes

[TimIsABat]

since we are kinda on the topic. Do the Unicomp caps work on any Model M?

[1391406]

since we are kinda on the topic. Do the Unicomp caps work on any Model M?

Check out this discussion.

[TimIsABat]

since we are kinda on the topic. Do the Unicomp caps work on any Model M?

Check out this discussion.

shpanks

[Hypersphere]

Currently, the most consistently reliable source for IBM Model M keyboards is clickykeyboards.com.

[omegatony]

Currently, the most consistently reliable source for IBM Model M keyboards is clickykeyboards.com.

Just received mine from there. They do a great job.

Edit: Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.

[fohat.digs]

Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.

ebay

$150-200

at least once a month

[smknjoe]

Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.

ebay

$150-200

at least once a month

Yeah, fohat is right. Just do a search for ibm ssk and then hit the Sold Items filter to see what they have gone for. There has been at least 15 or more sell in the last 3 months. Many more have come up on the market recently than I have seen in the past couple of years.

[omegatony]

Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.

ebay

$150-200

at least once a month

Yeah, fohat is right. Just do a search for ibm ssk and then hit the Sold Items filter to see what they have gone for. There has been at least 15 or more sell in the last 3 months. Many more have come up on the market recently than I have seen in the past couple of years.

I was watching one last night on eBay. Somebody bought it 3 mins before me for $250. If anyone knows somebody selling, give me a shout 

[Toasty_Ohs]

Had good luck with these guys on ebay:

http://myworld.ebay.com/itblowoutllc?_trksid=p2047675.l2559

Model M buy it now $50.

The first one I got did not work, I called them, they sent me an RMA and make a swap.  Best part, the keyboard was new in box when I opened it.

Using it right now in fact.

[smknjoe]

Nice Toasty!

[omegatony]

Had good luck with these guys on ebay:

http://myworld.ebay.com/itblowoutllc?_trksid=p2047675.l2559

Model M buy it now $50.

The first one I got did not work, I called them, they sent me an RMA and make a swap.  Best part, the keyboard was new in box when I opened it.

Using it right now in fact.

10/10 im jelly

What year is your Model M?

[Jalberstone]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

[omegatony]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

[1391406]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

Show Image

Show Image

There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.

[omegatony]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

Show Image

Show Image

There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.

Very cool. I should try one out some day

[Jalberstone]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

Show Image

Show Image

There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.

I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?

[rowdy]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

Show Image

Show Image

There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.

I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?

I'm waiting to find this out myself - a SDL to USB adaptor is in the mail.  Then I can see if my second Model M works (on my Mac).

Following that I hope to get a PS/2 to USB adaptor so I can use my first Model M on my Mac and/or other computers.

[Jalberstone]

Why get a model M when you can get a model F?

Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.

What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?

I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMO

Show Image

Show Image

There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.

I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?

I'm waiting to find this out myself - a SDL to USB adaptor is in the mail.  Then I can see if my second Model M works (on my Mac).

Following that I hope to get a PS/2 to USB adaptor so I can use my first Model M on my Mac and/or other computers.

When you get your adapter, please let me know how everything works out.

[rowdy]

I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?

I'm waiting to find this out myself - a SDL to USB adaptor is in the mail.  Then I can see if my second Model M works (on my Mac).

Following that I hope to get a PS/2 to USB adaptor so I can use my first Model M on my Mac and/or other computers.

When you get your adapter, please let me know how everything works out.

I might forget this thread, but I will post details to my Model M thread, so please feel free to subscribe to that and you should receive updates.

At the moment the project is on hold pending delivery of the SDL/USB cable.  Once that arrives, I will know how many keycap sets I need to order.

After that I might bolt mod one of them - see how it goes.