Author Topic: Original Model M vs Unicomp  (Read 2171 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline TheSven

  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 64
Original Model M vs Unicomp
« on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 11:39:09 »
More Model M stuff :p.
So, having never used anything apart from a rubber dome and the Razer green switch in a shop (found them very soft), I have decided to get a Model M for around Christmas. My options are the IBM 1391406 (UK layout, £81) and the Unicomp Ultra Classic (UK layout, £95). Which do you think would be better for a fist time user. I think actually owning a IBM Model M would be better and then get the Unicomp SSK if it ever comes out. I am in the UK but the Unicomp would come from thekeyboardco.com, which already have the Unicomp, whereas bluegoosesystems.co.uk are getting the IBMs back in stock hopefully this week.
Any help is appreciated,
TheSven.

Offline shut up

  • Posts: 65
Re: Original Model M vs Unicomp
« Reply #1 on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 11:54:27 »
It really doesn't matter that much to be honest. I'd personally get the original, to get a feel for the keyboard and get a Unicomp a little later down the line once you've already experienced the original, but that's just me.
IBM Model M 42h1292 (Bolt mod, but still broken Yaaaayyyy) | Adesso Mkb-125b MX blues | Alienware Tactx (D0me5.)

Offline hwood34

  • underwater squad
  • * Exalted Elder
  • Posts: 5909
  • Location: USA
  • #1 CL stan
    • Keyboard Illuminati
Re: Original Model M vs Unicomp
« Reply #2 on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 11:55:57 »
The model M, especially if it's cheaper. The build quality is just better on the originals (and I think they look much better)
IV KWK Info Thread & KBK Info Thread IV (out of date)

Old GBs: Gateron Switches (2015) | CF-LX R1 (2015) | CF-LX R2 (2017) | CF-LXXX (2017) | Gen.s Gem Caps (2015)

"Under no pretext should arms and ammunition be surrendered; any attempt to disarm the workers must be frustrated, by force if necessary"

Offline fohat.digs

  • * Elevated Elder
  • Posts: 6565
  • Location: 35°55'N, 83°53'W
  • weird funny old guy
Re: Original Model M vs Unicomp
« Reply #3 on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 11:59:01 »
You will be happy either way. You may have seen complaints about Unicomp quality control, which is lower than IBM's was, back in the day, but isn't everything like that nowadays?

I love the heavy old retro ones, because I am a crusty old-timer, but a fresh new product with new springs, thin latex blanket, warranty, choice of color, Windows keys, native USB, becomes very appealing.
"We are on the precipice of signing an agreement to advance talks with Iran that preserves the good parts of former President Barack Obama’s Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) while amplifying its flaws.
Mr. Obama came to an agreement that did not involve America’s most precious treasure, the lives and limbs of our soldiers.  The 1.7 billion dollars of frozen Iranian assets released by Obama pales in comparison to the 300 billion being floated as a rebuilding fund.
So far, speculation that Iran will be free in the future to continue its nuclear program is the opposite of Trump’s stated goal for the war and in direct opposition to what Mr. Obama negotiated.
"
- Bill Roberts 2026-06-17

Offline 0100010

  • Posts: 1127
  • Location: DFW, TX, US
  • Not Sure
Re: Original Model M vs Unicomp
« Reply #4 on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 11:59:35 »
Tough choice.  New Unicomp vs old IBM.  Do you know where the ISO Model M was manufactured?

If it is from Greenock, then maybe get the Unicomp.  If it is from somewhere in the US, then not withstanding the need for a potential bolt mod, get the IBM.
  Quoting me causes a posting error that you need to ignore.

Offline ezrahilyer

  • Posts: 110
Re: Original Model M vs Unicomp
« Reply #5 on: Sun, 09 November 2014, 12:37:11 »
More Model M stuff :p.
So, having never used anything apart from a rubber dome and the Razer green switch in a shop (found them very soft), I have decided to get a Model M for around Christmas. My options are the IBM 1391406 (UK layout, £81) and the Unicomp Ultra Classic (UK layout, £95). Which do you think would be better for a fist time user. I think actually owning a IBM Model M would be better and then get the Unicomp SSK if it ever comes out. I am in the UK but the Unicomp would come from thekeyboardco.com, which already have the Unicomp, whereas bluegoosesystems.co.uk are getting the IBMs back in stock hopefully this week.
Any help is appreciated,
TheSven.

Don't discount the rise in value of the original Model M, over time they will increase in value as they continue to get harder and harder to find, that should at-least enable you to recoup your investment if you find that the Model M isn't for you, or you get tired of it after some time.
A Unicomp will hold less of its value over time.