WASD/Code Keyboard quality vs Duscky Shine Green MX Switches

[pchatterjee]

So im considering getting the WASD/Code or Ducky Shine 3 with Green MX switches.

My preferences is for as close to the feel of buckling spring M as possible in a modern keyboard design.  Does the WASD/Code keyboard have better quality than the Ducky's or are they about the same?

The WASD/Code keyboard uses a a steel backplate which I think makes a difference and hence is making me lean that way over the Ducky.

Both use ABS keycaps and case that I do not like (are there good case replacements for either, metal is preferred with numbpad space).  Help with the questions above would be much appreciated.

I am currently using a CM Stealth with greens (I have various model M -- just sold a SSK, and black label M that does have a better stiff feel than any Unicomp) that I really like but I want the ten key (and steel backplate if it makes a difference).

[AKIMbO]

Get the WASD solely to support an awesome vendor/small business.

[BlueMica]

Ducky also uses plate mounting and the software included on the keyboard is pretty impressive. Ducky included a special feature called "Repeat Acceleration" which adjusts the repeating duty cycle of a key when held down, which WASD who sponsors RTS/MOBA teams lacks in the key feature that I view is very valuable to RTS/MOBA players. WASD is pretty barebones and I don't view it anymore special than a Filco released in 2008. These two brands are pretty close based on price and both are solid choices, but the Ducky beats it with its modern features. From my ownership the Ducky faults are porous cheap key cap puller, weak sidewall on spacebar (broke the non-snake version), and stiff stabilizers.

[pchatterjee]

Thanks this is pretty helpful.  Any good replacement caps -- that would still show the LEDs?

Also when you say plate mounted -- is it a steel plate?

[tp4tissue]

this doesn't make sense, if you're looking for "as close to buckling spring as possible". they still "make" buckling spring..

AND  the ssk is now confirmed in the works....

[BlueMica]

Yes, I would guess steel (anodized black) as aluminum is too weak at this kind of gauge. Most non Ducky keycaps will end up looking like the Ducky Yellow, so if you want blank PBT you wouldn't have a problem.

[Psybin]

Good luck finding a Code, those are going for stupid prices on eBay.

[pchatterjee]

this doesn't make sense, if you're looking for "as close to buckling spring as possible". they still "make" buckling spring..

AND  the ssk is now confirmed in the works....

Already have buckling spring -- if you read my original post -- I said in a modern case/design.  Green switches come close to the feel I like -- they still make an unpleasant noise compared to buckling springs.

Also if you understood my original post -- I said I already owned an SSK which I sold (so I dont want another one really) -- i prefer to have something with the numpad.

[moogle]

Good luck finding a Code, those are going for stupid prices on eBay.

there will be a new batch of code keyboards w/ green switches available next month according to the latest updates @ codekeyboards.com

[pchatterjee]

Good luck finding a Code, those are going for stupid prices on eBay.

They have new WASD v2 (almost same as code without lights) available with green switches and the Code will supposedly come out in January with MX Greens as well.  So they are basically available - I am not talking about the Clear switches.

[terran5992]

Thanks this is pretty helpful.  Any good replacement caps -- that would still show the LEDs?

Also when you say plate mounted -- is it a steel plate?

There are plenty of backlit compatible keycaps like the max keyboard keycaps

And yes it is a steel plate

[jabar]

huh, so WASD does finally have MX Greens...

Basically, two options here: do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

If no, I would recommend finding a replacement non-ABS keycap set. All WASD keycaps are ABS. Ducky does offer PBT keycaps, but PBT keycap sets for standard 104 ANSI keyboards can be found here. However, if you are seeking MX Greens, you are rather limited.

Backlit MX Green options:
Ducky Shine 3, blue or white $169
Code when it comes out (I am going to guess around $170 for MX Greens)

Normal MX Green options:
Ducky G2Pro MX Green w/ PBT: $144
WASD barebones: $120 + a keycap set
WASD w/ custom ABS keycaps: $170
Cooler Master QFR, Trigger, XT, $100 - 120 IIRC

[1pq]

Although they are probably the mx switch closest in feel to BS, the experience of typing on a mx green board will be very different than a model m. If you enjoy BS, you should just wait for the unicomp SSK.

[tp4tissue]

this doesn't make sense, if you're looking for "as close to buckling spring as possible". they still "make" buckling spring..

AND  the ssk is now confirmed in the works....

Already have buckling spring -- if you read my original post -- I said in a modern case/design.  Green switches come close to the feel I like -- they still make an unpleasant noise compared to buckling springs.

Also if you understood my original post -- I said I already owned an SSK which I sold (so I dont want another one really) -- i prefer to have something with the numpad.

then why not the unicomp?

[rowdy]

"Modern" mechanical keyboards tend to have either MX or Topre switches.  Some form of Alps in Matias keyboards, but I understand that they are striving towards making their keyboards silent, which is the opposite of your goal.

Topre is pretty quiet - not much like BS at all.

Of the MX switches, green is probably closest to BS in that it clicks and is fairly stiff.  But the sound is completely different.  The feel is somewhat different too.

But probably the closest you will get.

[pchatterjee]

this doesn't make sense, if you're looking for "as close to buckling spring as possible". they still "make" buckling spring..

AND  the ssk is now confirmed in the works....

Already have buckling spring -- if you read my original post -- I said in a modern case/design.  Green switches come close to the feel I like -- they still make an unpleasant noise compared to buckling springs.

Also if you understood my original post -- I said I already owned an SSK which I sold (so I dont want another one really) -- i prefer to have something with the numpad.

then why not the unicomp?

Already had a Unicomp and I still like the original Models Ms more if I had to choose..  I don't think you are getting my point.  I want something with a more modern aesthetic.  I am pretty satisfied with my array of of Model Ms,

If a company could take BS keyboards and put them in metal housing (maybe with backlights) I would be pretty happy and not have it look.  As long as Unicomp owns these patents, it doesnt seem like we will ever get a true successor to the original Ms except the cheap knockoffs from Unicomp (which actually feel even worse that the lexmark ones).  Anywho, don't want to make this about Model Ms and my wishlist about them.

Want to find a modern equivalent that has more features. 

[pchatterjee]

"Modern" mechanical keyboards tend to have either MX or Topre switches.  Some form of Alps in Matias keyboards, but I understand that they are striving towards making their keyboards silent, which is the opposite of your goal.

Topre is pretty quiet - not much like BS at all.

Of the MX switches, green is probably closest to BS in that it clicks and is fairly stiff.  But the sound is completely different.  The feel is somewhat different too.

But probably the closest you will get.

Yeah that's what I figured.  Just to let you know I have had/have both Matias' (quiet and non quiet  too) -- and I dislike them compared to the Apple AEK II (which I like quite a bit, the white/cream alps are an awesome switch).

Good to have what I have researched so far or bought confrimed.

[pchatterjee]

huh, so WASD does finally have MX Greens...

Basically, two options here: do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

If no, I would recommend finding a replacement non-ABS keycap set. All WASD keycaps are ABS. Ducky does offer PBT keycaps, but PBT keycap sets for standard 104 ANSI keyboards can be found here. However, if you are seeking MX Greens, you are rather limited.

Backlit MX Green options:
Ducky Shine 3, blue or white $169
Code when it comes out (I am going to guess around $170 for MX Greens)

Normal MX Green options:
Ducky G2Pro MX Green w/ PBT: $144
WASD barebones: $120 + a keycap set
WASD w/ custom ABS keycaps: $170
Cooler Master QFR, Trigger, XT, $100 - 120 IIRC

This is the conclusion I had come to as well.  Trying to figure out if the backlight is important to me.

I would really like a metal case which neither of these offer.  So far thinking WASD greens and find some metal caps from Feng.

Didnt like the look of the keycaps on the Ducky Pro G2 even thought the keys are PBT doubleshot.

[bazemk1979]

huh, so WASD does finally have MX Greens...

Basically, two options here: do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

If no, I would recommend finding a replacement non-ABS keycap set. All WASD keycaps are ABS. Ducky does offer PBT keycaps, but PBT keycap sets for standard 104 ANSI keyboards can be found here. However, if you are seeking MX Greens, you are rather limited.

Backlit MX Green options:
Ducky Shine 3, blue or white $169
Code when it comes out (I am going to guess around $170 for MX Greens)

Normal MX Green options:
Ducky G2Pro MX Green w/ PBT: $144
WASD barebones: $120 + a keycap set
WASD w/ custom ABS keycaps: $170
Cooler Master QFR, Trigger, XT, $100 - 120 IIRC

This is the conclusion I had come to as well.  Trying to figure out if the backlight is important to me.

I would really like a metal case which neither of these offer.  So far thinking WASD greens and find some metal caps from Feng.

Didnt like the look of the keycaps on the Ducky Pro G2 even thought the keys are PBT doubleshot.

who told you that the keys are PBT doubleshots?

[terran5992]

Ducky pro g2 are PBT dyesub but not doubleshot

[jabar]

This is the conclusion I had come to as well.  Trying to figure out if the backlight is important to me.

I would really like a metal case which neither of these offer.  So far thinking WASD greens and find some metal caps from Feng.

Didnt like the look of the keycaps on the Ducky Pro G2 even thought the keys are PBT doubleshot.

Metal cases are a premium. Even aftermarket ones are mostly TKL or 60% ones, unless that's what you want. The Shine 3 YOTD is a full CNC aluminum case but it doesn't come with Greens.

[pchatterjee]

This is the conclusion I had come to as well.  Trying to figure out if the backlight is important to me.

I would really like a metal case which neither of these offer.  So far thinking WASD greens and find some metal caps from Feng.

Didnt like the look of the keycaps on the Ducky Pro G2 even thought the keys are PBT doubleshot.

Metal cases are a premium. Even aftermarket ones are mostly TKL or 60% ones, unless that's what you want. The Shine 3 YOTD is a full CNC aluminum case but it doesn't come with Greens.

Looked at these do you know where they are still available?  They are all out of stock at mech keyboards I think.

How hard is it to replace these with MX Greens ?  that would be pretty close to ideal for me.  Is there a member who can do those things?  I have not really tried soldering if that's what it involves.

[riotonthebay]

This is the conclusion I had come to as well.  Trying to figure out if the backlight is important to me.

I would really like a metal case which neither of these offer.  So far thinking WASD greens and find some metal caps from Feng.

Didnt like the look of the keycaps on the Ducky Pro G2 even thought the keys are PBT doubleshot.

Metal cases are a premium. Even aftermarket ones are mostly TKL or 60% ones, unless that's what you want. The Shine 3 YOTD is a full CNC aluminum case but it doesn't come with Greens.

Looked at these do you know where they are still available?  They are all out of stock at mech keyboards I think.

How hard is it to replace these with MX Greens ?  that would be pretty close to ideal for me.  Is there a member who can do those things?  I have not really tried soldering if that's what it involves.

It's not very hard, but it involves soldering and finding enough greens in the first place. Check out the Professional Service Directory for people who could do it for you.

[Grendel]

[..] do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

Unfortunately Ducky's BL sucks arse for doing actual work or even gaming w/ it. Their low frequency PWM driven LED's are annoying as hell to me, couldn't stand it longer than a few minutes. Hopefully WASD did it right, ie. the way Deck Legends are -- current limiting. Or use a PWM frequency in the 8kHz range.

Until I find out I'll stick to my CM QFXT MX Green w/ GMK caps...

[pchatterjee]

[..] do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

Unfortunately Ducky's BL sucks arse for doing actual work or even gaming w/ it. Their low frequency PWM driven LED's are annoying as hell to me, couldn't stand it longer than a few minutes. Hopefully WASD did it right, ie. the way Deck Legends are -- current limiting. Or use a PWM frequency in the 8kHz range.

Until I find out I'll stick to my CM QFXT MX Green w/ GMK caps...

I have CM Quickfire Stealth with MX Greens now that I like -- just thinking about aesthetics at this point.  I like having the 10 key so I might pick up the stealth with the tenkey unless I can find something with MX green in a metalk case like some of the limited editions from ducky -- I can't find anything for sale that is MX Green + metal case.

Going to get the zinc metal keys from feng if he still has them (he's on holiday and not answering emails).

[jonjonjon]

[..] do you want backlighting? If yes, Ducky has the most impressive array of options (colors and switches) as well as functionality.

Unfortunately Ducky's BL sucks arse for doing actual work or even gaming w/ it. Their low frequency PWM driven LED's are annoying as hell to me, couldn't stand it longer than a few minutes. Hopefully WASD did it right, ie. the way Deck Legends are -- current limiting. Or use a PWM frequency in the 8kHz range.

Until I find out I'll stick to my CM QFXT MX Green w/ GMK caps...

i'm planning on getting a shine 3 and noticed their latest firmware updates say it increases the PWM frequency. not sure if you still have the keyboard but if it's a DK9087 or DK9008 and doesn't have the lastest firmware you might want to give it a shot. what causes the lower frequency LED to be annoying? can you see the LED's pulsing?

http://www.duckychannel.com.tw/en/firmware_updater.html

01. Increased LED backlight PWM frequency.

[Grendel]

i'm planning on getting a shine 3 and noticed their latest firmware updates say it increases the PWM frequency. not sure if you still have the keyboard but if it's a DK9087 or DK9008 and doesn't have the lastest firmware you might want to give it a shot. what causes the lower frequency LED to be annoying? can you see the LED's pulsing?

http://www.duckychannel.com.tw/en/firmware_updater.html

01. Increased LED backlight PWM frequency.

Thanks, last time I checked that FW wasn't there. I'll give it a shot and see if it makes a difference. Stay tuned.

I can see the lights flicker in the corner of my eyes when looking across the monitor. This is very annoying since instinctively this is interpreted as movement  in your peripheral vision and you involuntary will look at it in most cases.

[Grendel]

Updated it, seems a little better but still very visible flickering to me.

[Grendel]

Addendum: after updating you have to reset the board (press & hold the two windows keys for 3s+) for the changes to take. After that the frequency does go up. Not high enough to eliminate stroboscopic effects, but definitely better.

Waiting for the CODE...

[SpAmRaY]

Duscky that's better than Thorpe.

[rowdy]

Duscky that's better than Thorpe.

I prefer Thorpe