Model-M by Lexmark

[anitract]

Hey all.  I am in the process of (re)discovering clicky keyboards and want to get a model-m of some sort.  I notice that there are several models make by Lexmark (52G9700, 82G2383, 92G7453, 42H1292) and am looking for some info regarding them.   I have read that they may not be of the same high quality as the 1391401 and 1392090, can anyone confirm this (or provide any first-hand details)?  Is one particular Lexmark model better than the others?  Thanks!

[itlnstln]

I have read that they may not be of the same high quality as the 1391401 and 1392090, can anyone confirm this (or provide any first-hand details)? Is one particular Lexmark model better than the others?

This seems to be mostly myth.  Some people here actually like the Lexmarks better, but again, this seems to be more of a variation from 'board to 'board more than Lexamark vs. IBM.  There are also quite a few members that like Unicomp's 'boards more than either Lexmark or IBM (the Unicomps' keys seem to be somewhat lighter).  In any case, you can't go wrong with any of them.  Just find the layout that works for you, and go for it.

BTW, welcome to GeekHack!

[anitract]

Thanks for the reply!  The main thing I am wanting is something durable w/out major defects.  If the Lexmarks are still "good" in that respect, it works for me.

Other than the permanently attached cable and drain holes, is it documented what the physical differences are between the various models?

[itlnstln]

I am not sure about any other differences besides those, but if you want something durable w/o major defects, I would just go with a Unicomp Customizer or Spacesaver.  If you get a black one, they will also send you blank, black keycaps for an additional $20 (IIRC, you could get the keycaps with a white 'board as well, but that might look odd).  They also come with native USB connections, so you won't have to get an adapter (if that's an issue).

http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=1521&page=2 <- Check the second post down.