Ducky, Das, Filco, or Model M?

[dandanflake]

Hello, I've been browsing keyboards for some time. The two Keyboards that I'm most on the fence with are the IBM Model M and the Ducky Shine 4 with MX Blues. I've also looked at the Das Keyboard 4's and some of the Filco and see them as nice options. I really like the backlighting on the Shine and that was the initial thing that got me keyboard shopping is I wanted backlighting. I also like the fact that it's super easy to change keycaps. However I seem to really like the look and sound of the Model M. In all honesty I would get the Model M without a second thought if it weren't for the lack of a Windows Key and the 2-KRO.
I play a lot of games. I played WoW for 7 years, I play mostly RPGs, strategy games. I occasionally play an FPS. So Idk if the 2-KRO would even be an issue. I use a Razer Naga for my mouse (the only good Razer product I've found) and I bind a lot of keys to that so I feel like the 2-KRO wouldn't be too much of an issue. Also I hear people say bucking spring is hard for gaming due to the amount of pressure you need to push down on the keys.
I feel like I'd be happy with the Shine or the Model M. I'd appreciate any advice or suggestions. Thanks
Also of note if I get the Model M I would get an authentic IBM one, and not a Unicomp.

[Snowdog993]

Really?  I have several IBM keyboards and I am typing on my Unicomp 103 with the Windows and Menu keys on it.  I'm liking it more and more.  Feels the same as my other ones.  The price is right too.  Up to you.  I think the only other member that has the Unicomp 103 is Touch_It.

[hwood34]

While the original IBM build quality was certainly better, Unicomp has still done a pretty solid job and are definitely worth looking into. As for the whole gaming thing, it really comes down to what you feel most comfortable with. If you want an MX board that will be closest to BS, something with greens would be your best bet, though I think only the V60's are made standard with greens. The Shine is one of the best stock boards with backlighting and if you can find one with the right switches that would be a great option

[faceyourfaces]

Personally, I value key feel over any other feature a keyboard can have so I would go with the Model M. I've never used a Das or a Filco but I'm sure they're solid boards, although I'm not the biggest fan of Cherry MX switches. I also don't like Ducky much either, as the two Shine 3s I owned both had dying LEDs, but that's just my bad luck and I know many people have had good experiences with their keyboards. I've never owned a real Model M keyboard, but the Unicomp I have feels nice to type on. The build doesn't exactly scream quality . however, but I'm sure the original Model M would.

[Puddsy]

KÛL?

[rowdy]

Yes.

Also consider Unicomp as a more or less winkey M (although they revised the layout last yearish and it's not quite as some feel it should be).

[Snowdog993]

Yes.

Also consider Unicomp as a more or less winkey M (although they revised the layout last yearish and it's not quite as some feel it should be).

104 key, blecch!  103 key, PERFECT!

Edit: One thing that comes to my mind is since they did the change to the 104; has anyone tried putting a full-size spacebar and removing the spring from the right windows key?  I'm curious.
BTW guess what?  I just looked under my spacebar.......

[Snowdog993]

It was off topic.  New thread.

[Defect]

If you're going to go for a clicky switch...

I recommend buckling spring and SKCM ALPS over MX.  My first mech was one with blues. 

After using ALPS and Buckling Spring boards I can't use Blues anymore.

[Snowdog993]

Confirmed!  The 103 is just the 104 with the right Windows key removed, and a regular 101 spacebar put on.  I paid $10 more for this?!?  Uh ok.
It was off topic.  New thread.

[Snowdog993]

Off topic.

[hwood34]

I should make a new post about that discovery!

Maybe you should instead of making 4 off topic posts

[Touch_It]

I'm loving my Unicomp M 103 key.  Windows keys + USB + brand new = a pretty good deal IMO.  I find myself posting on the forums more, just as an excuse to type lol.

Very interesting that they charge 10 more for the 103 key when they are the same board.  Pretty meh but whatever.

I guess as of note.  I've been playing battlefield BC2 and BF3 and haven't seen any issues with 2KRO, but I'm by no means competitive, though you wouldn't know it from my yelling. 

[Xonar]

It really depends on what you want out of a keyboard. If you want the ultimate tactile typing experience, then you should consider the Model M. I don't do much gaming, so I can't tell you how well it works for gaming, but I know that some gamers use them. If you need more than 2KRO, want something smaller, and want lighter and quieter Cherry switches, the Ducky is your best bet. I just bought a Shine 3 with browns, and I really do love it almost as much as my Model Ms. Good luck with whatever you get!

[osman99]

oops

[Snowdog993]

I should make a new post about that discovery!

Maybe you should instead of making 4 off topic posts

I was replying to Rowdy kinda on topic but NVM. 

[supamesican]

What keyboard are you using now? If you're using a rubber dome or scissor switch you are already stuck on 2kro.  Unicomp bought the rights and tooling to model M and makes updated ones with the windows key.  I'm using one right now, I haven't had much time to game on it heavily, but so far its working just fine for everything for me.

[dandanflake]

What keyboard are you using now? If you're using a rubber dome or scissor switch you are already stuck on 2kro.  Unicomp bought the rights and tooling to model M and makes updated ones with the windows key.  I'm using one right now, I haven't had much time to game on it heavily, but so far its working just fine for everything for me.

Yea. ATM I'm just using a Generic Logitech that came with the comp.

[Paranoid Android]

Just my opinion, but I think you should go with the Unicomp Ultra Classic 104.
I was going to say 103 but I see that the people in this thread have discovered that a 103 is a 104 with a higher price..
While it is true that Unicomp's quality is nowhere near the quality of the original Model M keyboard, I will say that it is still absolutely robust and reliable. It's like comparing a BMW e30 to a Toyota Corolla. A little different, but they are both very, very reliable. Besides, while the lack of a Windows key may sound fine at the moment, it will be something you likely will regret later.
I'm against Cherry MX Blues because they feel more ticky than clicky, though a Model M/Unicomp is more a thwop with the occasional spring vibration. Depends what you like more. Besides, for me a Cherry MX Blue is like the Honda Civic. It's good, but it's really common and doesn't really feel that special.

On the Ducky vs Das vs Filco debate should you choose to go MX (perhaps because of the much wider variety of available keycaps?), I would recommend that you go with Ducky. This is because I remember that Das has changed their manufacturer to iONE or something, and apparently their quality is not worth the price of the Das. The Filcos are good boards but I hear that their caps are relatively crap. Of course this doesn't matter if you plan to get new keycaps for it anyways, but just saying. The problem with Ducky, however, is that depending on where you are in the world, it may be a bit hard to get hold of one and it may be overpriced. For example in Canada where I live, the local computer store has Das keyboards, but no filcos, Unicomps, or Duckys (though a store that is further away has Ducky Shines). My recommendation for MX switches then would be Ducky or CM Storms, as in my experience CM Storms are easiest to find in local stores. Again depending on where you are in the world.

So to summarize, I think you should go between a Unicomp (I think it's the best value for money), a Ducky (good quality I hear), and CM Storms (perhaps not the absolute best quality but still good and is typically the most common in local stores).

I hope this helps you decide which keyboard to get... I hope I'm not too biased. 

[faceyourfaces]

The Filcos are good boards but I hear that their caps are relatively crap. Of course this doesn't matter if you plan to get new keycaps for it anyways, but just saying.

The thin ABS keycaps on my Ducky Shine 3 felt downright awful compared to my Unicomp so I don't think that should be a huge factor when deciding between that and a Filco if one was to buy an MX board.

[Paranoid Android]

But then again, the Unicomp caps are basically Model M caps so.....

[dandanflake]

Just my opinion, but I think you should go with the Unicomp Ultra Classic 104.
I was going to say 103 but I see that the people in this thread have discovered that a 103 is a 104 with a higher price..
While it is true that Unicomp's quality is nowhere near the quality of the original Model M keyboard, I will say that it is still absolutely robust and reliable. It's like comparing a BMW e30 to a Toyota Corolla. A little different, but they are both very, very reliable. Besides, while the lack of a Windows key may sound fine at the moment, it will be something you likely will regret later.
I'm against Cherry MX Blues because they feel more ticky than clicky, though a Model M/Unicomp is more a thwop with the occasional spring vibration. Depends what you like more. Besides, for me a Cherry MX Blue is like the Honda Civic. It's good, but it's really common and doesn't really feel that special.

On the Ducky vs Das vs Filco debate should you choose to go MX (perhaps because of the much wider variety of available keycaps?), I would recommend that you go with Ducky. This is because I remember that Das has changed their manufacturer to iONE or something, and apparently their quality is not worth the price of the Das. The Filcos are good boards but I hear that their caps are relatively crap. Of course this doesn't matter if you plan to get new keycaps for it anyways, but just saying. The problem with Ducky, however, is that depending on where you are in the world, it may be a bit hard to get hold of one and it may be overpriced. For example in Canada where I live, the local computer store has Das keyboards, but no filcos, Unicomps, or Duckys (though a store that is further away has Ducky Shines). My recommendation for MX switches then would be Ducky or CM Storms, as in my experience CM Storms are easiest to find in local stores. Again depending on where you are in the world.

So to summarize, I think you should go between a Unicomp (I think it's the best value for money), a Ducky (good quality I hear), and CM Storms (perhaps not the absolute best quality but still good and is typically the most common in local stores).

I hope this helps you decide which keyboard to get... I hope I'm not too biased. 

This did help me TY. I had taken the Unicomp boards off of the table but now I think they're back on. How is there quality overall? The Windows key is a big thing I think I'd miss. Ik there are programs so I could dedicate a key on an original Model (or any board for that matter) to a Windows key but I don't particularly like that idea for the long run. So right now I'm between Ducky and a Model M (IBM or Unicomp).
See I've always wanted back lighting and that's what got me on this search for a new keyboard. In all honesty now though. I don't really care all that much. I want the best board. I've never owned a Mechanical keyboard. I've tested out some ****ty Razers mechanical boards I've found in the store. I have no idea what kind of MX switch they are. They're all colored Razer brand green (I'm assuming they're reds). I liked the feel but I have nothing to compare it too. I've never used a buckling spring (that I can remember). I don't know anybody who has one either. It would be a lot easier if I knew what to expect from a buckling spring.

[Snowdog993]

Fixed.

[rowdy]

Just my opinion, but I think you should go with the Unicomp Ultra Classic 104.
I was going to say 103 but I see that the people in this thread have discovered that a 103 is a 104 with a higher price..
While it is true that Unicomp's quality is nowhere near the quality of the original Model M keyboard, I will say that it is still absolutely robust and reliable. It's like comparing a BMW e30 to a Toyota Corolla. A little different, but they are both very, very reliable. Besides, while the lack of a Windows key may sound fine at the moment, it will be something you likely will regret later.
I'm against Cherry MX Blues because they feel more ticky than clicky, though a Model M/Unicomp is more a thwop with the occasional spring vibration. Depends what you like more. Besides, for me a Cherry MX Blue is like the Honda Civic. It's good, but it's really common and doesn't really feel that special.

On the Ducky vs Das vs Filco debate should you choose to go MX (perhaps because of the much wider variety of available keycaps?), I would recommend that you go with Ducky. This is because I remember that Das has changed their manufacturer to iONE or something, and apparently their quality is not worth the price of the Das. The Filcos are good boards but I hear that their caps are relatively crap. Of course this doesn't matter if you plan to get new keycaps for it anyways, but just saying. The problem with Ducky, however, is that depending on where you are in the world, it may be a bit hard to get hold of one and it may be overpriced. For example in Canada where I live, the local computer store has Das keyboards, but no filcos, Unicomps, or Duckys (though a store that is further away has Ducky Shines). My recommendation for MX switches then would be Ducky or CM Storms, as in my experience CM Storms are easiest to find in local stores. Again depending on where you are in the world.

So to summarize, I think you should go between a Unicomp (I think it's the best value for money), a Ducky (good quality I hear), and CM Storms (perhaps not the absolute best quality but still good and is typically the most common in local stores).

I hope this helps you decide which keyboard to get... I hope I'm not too biased. 

This did help me TY. I had taken the Unicomp boards off of the table but now I think they're back on. How is there quality overall? The Windows key is a big thing I think I'd miss. Ik there are programs so I could dedicate a key on an original Model (or any board for that matter) to a Windows key but I don't particularly like that idea for the long run. So right now I'm between Ducky and a Model M (IBM or Unicomp).
See I've always wanted back lighting and that's what got me on this search for a new keyboard. In all honesty now though. I don't really care all that much. I want the best board. I've never owned a Mechanical keyboard. I've tested out some ****ty Razers mechanical boards I've found in the store. I have no idea what kind of MX switch they are. They're all colored Razer brand green (I'm assuming they're reds). I liked the feel but I have nothing to compare it too. I've never used a buckling spring (that I can remember). I don't know anybody who has one either. It would be a lot easier if I knew what to expect from a buckling spring.

"Best" is entirely subjective.

I like stiffer springs, so I use MX greens at work and sometimes alternate between MX blacks and buckling spring at home (also my HHKB, which is 45g, but has a different feel).

MX greens are closest to buckling spring, although you don't get quite the same feedback with a tiny plastic slider clicking against the bottom of the switch housing as you do from a spring physically buckling.

[JDorfler]

Aren't Das and Filcos basically made by costar?  I checked costar's website and there is a nice picture of a Das http://www.costar.com.tw/index.php?option=com_flexicontent&view=items&cid=52%3Amechanical-keyboard-or-keyboard-moduleoemodm-&id=61%3Acst104das&Itemid=87&lang=en.  Or do they just make the parts and the individual companies put them together piecemeal?
 

[Snowdog993]

You won't be disappointed with a buckling spring keyboard at all.  As a matter of fact, I've used them for a long time.  Longevity is another word that comes to mind with the Model M.  It's very comfortable, and the tactile keys actually make you feel like you can keep typing away forever.  You actually know every single letter you type and the board itself "rings" as you type.  (I think that's an accurate description.)
It's so unlike a computer keyboard and more like a serious typewriter.  After all, it's a keyboard.

[Snowdog993]

Just my opinion, but I think you should go with the Unicomp Ultra Classic 104.
I was going to say 103 but I see that the people in this thread have discovered that a 103 is a 104 with a higher price..

I hope this helps you decide which keyboard to get... I hope I'm not too biased. 

I was gonna say you can order the 104 and order a large spacebar from them for $3 if you don't have a spare spacebar.
http://pckeyboard.com/page/Buttons/SB

Why not have both a 103 and 104 in one?  I still personally like the 103 design much much better.

[Chromako]

KÛL?

x2- check out Keyed Up Labs if you are interested in something without a numpad (many people here prefer that form as it brings the mouse closer to the keyboard, improving ergonomics for right-handed people who don't use numpads often). Their build quality is top notch. Then again, they are available in pretty much everything except MX Green.


Then again, Filco, Das (Costar), and Ducky's build quality is nothing to sniff at, nor is IBM/Unicomps. All are good.


Here's my addition: While you might like the model M/Unicomp best for general typing, the 2KRO is helpless with gaming (or at least with the games I play- if it weren't for that I'd have settled on an IBM SSK and lived happily ever after). The Clicky Cherry switches (blue and green) can have issues with gaming as well, as the reset point is above the actuation point (making double taps more of a matter of hope than expectation). The non-clicky Cherry switches don't have that issue, but then again, if you like Model M's, you probably like the click.


Might I suggest, instead, a vintage Alps keyboard, such as the excellent Northgate Omnikey (it is gotten easily on eBay- they made many of them), or a new one by Matias (they have several models and are built well)? You'd get your click, your 6KRO+, and I don't think clicky Alps/Matias switches have the same hysteresis problem (reset point mismatch) that clicky Cherries do.


As with all things, you do give up something with Alps, and that would be the ability to find aftermarket Alps-compatible keycaps, if that's something you care about.

[fierran123]

I only have experience with a few keyboards, but out of the ones I tried the Das Professional with reds has been my favourite. Had it for a year + now and it's working just as well as it did when I first got it. The build quality feels extremely solid, compared to the cheaper CM quickfires which felt gritty and rigid. Overall, I strongly recommend it if you're willing to pay a bit more ^^ whatever you go with, enjoy!

[berserkfan]

But then again, the Unicomp caps are basically Model M caps so.....

Not quite. Model M caps have generally been of the same consistently good quality throughout. I am not an expert, but I have owned many Ms and Fs before and followed all the news about them. They are solid.

Unicomp has gone through various cost saving phases as well as they have the same machines except older. Their quality is very inconsistent and some batches of keycaps have been very poor. The current colored legends batch also seems to be less than totally satisfactory.

I will always say go for IBM versus Unicomp. You'll save money and get more quality.

[Snowdog993]

But then again, the Unicomp caps are basically Model M caps so.....

Not quite. Model M caps have generally been of the same consistently good quality throughout. I am not an expert, but I have owned many Ms and Fs before and followed all the news about them. They are solid.

Unicomp has gone through various cost saving phases as well as they have the same machines except older. Their quality is very inconsistent and some batches of keycaps have been very poor. The current colored legends batch also seems to be less than totally satisfactory.

I will always say go for IBM versus Unicomp. You'll save money and get more quality.

.... and so you want to put down the company that still has the same manufacturing equipment in the first place?  Shame on you.  They are the very best source when it comes to repairing your "original" IBM keyboard.  Never mind barrels or membranes or essential things you're not even considering.

[Paranoid Android]

Fixed.

I only have the pre-product update Ultra Classic 104, and therefore I can't tell you about the quality of the post-product update Unicomps. However, as you see in this thread apparently the post update keycaps are pretty decent, while the coloured ones are crappy.
As I said before I was shocked because in the product announcement photo the keycap printing was absolutely terrible, misaligned and all. But perhaps they've fixed that.

Anyways, I guess there is a bit of an issue because Unicomps are best bought directly from pckeyboard.com and they are not as common in stores where you are actually able to try the keyboard out before buying as other brands, such as CM Storm. I would try to describe it to you, but with something as personal as choosing a mechanical switch and a keyboard to go with it, I can't say my feelings and think that it would be yours. Perhaps there's someone willing to do a try before you buy? I don't know if Geekhack has it, but I'm pretty sure Deskthority has it. With the nature of buckling springs however, I'm not sure it's possible to have an individual switch like it is possible to do with MX switches.

[Paranoid Android]

But then again, the Unicomp caps are basically Model M caps so.....

Not quite. Model M caps have generally been of the same consistently good quality throughout. I am not an expert, but I have owned many Ms and Fs before and followed all the news about them. They are solid.

Unicomp has gone through various cost saving phases as well as they have the same machines except older. Their quality is very inconsistent and some batches of keycaps have been very poor. The current colored legends batch also seems to be less than totally satisfactory.

I will always say go for IBM versus Unicomp. You'll save money and get more quality.

But the Windows key.
That is the only reason I went Unicomp, really, besides the bother of having to look through the classifieds.

[Paranoid Android]

Aren't Das and Filcos basically made by costar?  I checked costar's website and there is a nice picture of a Das http://www.costar.com.tw/index.php?option=com_flexicontent&view=items&cid=52%3Amechanical-keyboard-or-keyboard-moduleoemodm-&id=61%3Acst104das&Itemid=87&lang=en.  Or do they just make the parts and the individual companies put them together piecemeal?
 

That's odd, I just remember reading somewhere that Das had moved to iONE as the builder of their keyboards...

[Snowdog993]

Fixed.

Perhaps there's someone willing to do a try before you buy? I don't know if Geekhack has it, but I'm pretty sure Deskthority has it. With the nature of buckling springs however, I'm not sure it's possible to have an individual switch like it is possible to do with MX switches.

First person to try....  They keep it.   There goes that idea.

[Xonar]

But then again, the Unicomp caps are basically Model M caps so.....

Not quite. Model M caps have generally been of the same consistently good quality throughout. I am not an expert, but I have owned many Ms and Fs before and followed all the news about them. They are solid.

Unicomp has gone through various cost saving phases as well as they have the same machines except older. Their quality is very inconsistent and some batches of keycaps have been very poor. The current colored legends batch also seems to be less than totally satisfactory.

I will always say go for IBM versus Unicomp. You'll save money and get more quality.

.... and so you want to put down the company that still has the same manufacturing equipment in the first place?  Shame on you.  They are the very best source when it comes to repairing your "original" IBM keyboard.  Never mind barrels or membranes or essential things you're not even considering.

...It's totally true, though. Yes, Unicomp is great, and they're an invaluable source for Model M parts and replacements, but if you've convinced yourself that new Unicomp boards are of the same quality as older Model Ms, you're delusional. My 122 key Unicomp feels utterly fragile in comparison to my Gray and Blue label Model Ms. dorkvader's teardown of it is also worth reading, as it really shows the poor internal quality of the board.

Don't get me wrong, I still love it, but it's really not the same as the old ones in overall quality. No one's bashing on Unicomp. Their molds are ancient and they need to take some cost cutting measures to stay afloat. Anyone who is buying a Unicomp knows and understands this. Shame on you, as a Unicomp owner, for clearly not understanding this.

[Snowdog993]

...It's totally true, though. Yes, Unicomp is great, and they're an invaluable source for Model M parts and replacements, but if you've convinced yourself that new Unicomp boards are of the same quality as older Model Ms, you're delusional. My 122 key Unicomp feels utterly fragile in comparison to my Gray and Blue label Model Ms. dorkvader's teardown of it is also worth reading, as it really shows the poor internal quality of the board.

Don't get me wrong, I still love it, but it's really not the same as the old ones in overall quality. No one's bashing on Unicomp. Their molds are ancient and they need to take some cost cutting measures to stay afloat. Anyone who is buying a Unicomp knows and understands this. Shame on you, as a Unicomp owner, for clearly not understanding this.

I know what you're getting at, but not all of them are like that at all.  I am impressed with the build of this keyboard, and have no complaints to be honest.

[Xonar]

...It's totally true, though. Yes, Unicomp is great, and they're an invaluable source for Model M parts and replacements, but if you've convinced yourself that new Unicomp boards are of the same quality as older Model Ms, you're delusional. My 122 key Unicomp feels utterly fragile in comparison to my Gray and Blue label Model Ms. dorkvader's teardown of it is also worth reading, as it really shows the poor internal quality of the board.

Don't get me wrong, I still love it, but it's really not the same as the old ones in overall quality. No one's bashing on Unicomp. Their molds are ancient and they need to take some cost cutting measures to stay afloat. Anyone who is buying a Unicomp knows and understands this. Shame on you, as a Unicomp owner, for clearly not understanding this.

I know what you're getting at, but not all of them are like that at all.  I am impressed with the build of this keyboard, and have no complaints to be honest.

Hence the quality of Unicomp keyboards being described as "inconsistent." Some really are much better than others depending on the batch and year. I think the 101-104 key versions tend to be better than the 122 key versions, in general. On my 122 key, the flimsy case is mostly what bugs me. Keycaps are pretty good.

[Paranoid Android]

Fixed.

Perhaps there's someone willing to do a try before you buy? I don't know if Geekhack has it, but I'm pretty sure Deskthority has it. With the nature of buckling springs however, I'm not sure it's possible to have an individual switch like it is possible to do with MX switches.

First person to try....  They keep it.   There goes that idea.

Ah. S***. Unicomp should start doing more marketing and putting their keyboards in stores....

[dandanflake]

After all of this, and my own research I've come to the conclusion that I'd be happy with the Ducky Shine 4, the IBM Model M, or a Unicomp. If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy. My girlfriend was supposed to get me a Model M for Christmas, but alas that never happened. I pretty much figured that's what I was getting. It's free. It's an amazing keyboard. I'll be happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

[Snowdog993]

If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried.
 I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig.

Heck yeah! I'll take one for free too!  Send them my way!  To be honest with you, it's all your choice.  Not mine, or anyone else.  Good luck whatever you decide.

[hwood34]

After all of this, and my own research I've come to the conclusion that I'd be happy with the Ducky Shine 4, the IBM Model M, or a Unicomp. If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy. My girlfriend was supposed to get me a Model M for Christmas, but alas that never happened. I pretty much figured that's what I was getting. It's free. It's an amazing keyboard. I'll be happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

Well the difference between Mx and BS is purely a personal decision. But between Unicomp and IBM, the two big deciders there are build quality and the windows key. While Unicomp has a windows key and can come in black (but you can still paint a model M), you'll probably be able to find a Model M a little cheaper and the build quality on the IBMs is unrivaled.

[rowdy]

After all of this, and my own research I've come to the conclusion that I'd be happy with the Ducky Shine 4, the IBM Model M, or a Unicomp. If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy. My girlfriend was supposed to get me a Model M for Christmas, but alas that never happened. I pretty much figured that's what I was getting. It's free. It's an amazing keyboard. I'll be happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

Well the difference between Mx and BS is purely a personal decision. But between Unicomp and IBM, the two big deciders there are build quality and the windows key. While Unicomp has a windows key and can come in black (but you can still paint a model M), you'll probably be able to find a Model M a little cheaper and the build quality on the IBMs is unrivaled.

Except that due to the age of Model M keyboards many of the plastic rivets might have fallen off, which will then require a bolt mod.

At least the Unicomp should be safe from needing that for a good few years.

[hwood34]

After all of this, and my own research I've come to the conclusion that I'd be happy with the Ducky Shine 4, the IBM Model M, or a Unicomp. If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy. My girlfriend was supposed to get me a Model M for Christmas, but alas that never happened. I pretty much figured that's what I was getting. It's free. It's an amazing keyboard. I'll be happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

Well the difference between Mx and BS is purely a personal decision. But between Unicomp and IBM, the two big deciders there are build quality and the windows key. While Unicomp has a windows key and can come in black (but you can still paint a model M), you'll probably be able to find a Model M a little cheaper and the build quality on the IBMs is unrivaled.

Except that due to the age of Model M keyboards many of the plastic rivets might have fallen off, which will then require a bolt mod.

At least the Unicomp should be safe from needing that for a good few years.

True. But if you do end up needing to do a bolt mod, you'll get a really nice end product without have to do too much work

[supamesican]

I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

Try thrift stores for a model m, and maybe swap meets.   Unicomp aren't at all bad, I must say, I'm using one now and love it. Case is fine build quality just fine for me, better than I expected from reading about it on the Internet.  There are a couple places where you can tell they are using old molds, but thats all. My keys are just fine, I got a set of custom blank black keys so that may be part of it. Don't be afraid to try unicomp.

[Paranoid Android]

After all of this, and my own research I've come to the conclusion that I'd be happy with the Ducky Shine 4, the IBM Model M, or a Unicomp. If somebody were to come to my door with one of those three and give me it for free I'd be perfectly happy. My girlfriend was supposed to get me a Model M for Christmas, but alas that never happened. I pretty much figured that's what I was getting. It's free. It's an amazing keyboard. I'll be happy.
I am seriously looking at the Unicomps again now. the build quality issues I've been hearing from the posts I've read here has me a little worried. I'd like the Windows keys, I also like that I can get them in black to match my rig. I also feel like I'd rather dig up an old Model M in my grandmas attic or at a yard sale or something, not just buy one on Ebay. So Idk. I'm still not a 100%. I might go looking around hole in the wall electronic stores and some junk stores to see if I can maybe snag a Model M.

I don't get why everyone on the internet is ranting about the build quality of Unicomps. In my experience at least, Unicomps have a few rough edges cosmetically, and while the case may not be the most solid (push down on the sides, there's a bit of creak), but it will be like that for many many years.
The people who are complaining about Unicomp quality are only considering the cosmetic qualities. Which I agree aren't the best.
Besides, I feel like I hear more stories of Cherry MX keyboards having defective keys than Unicomps on this forum. I don't know if it's just me though.

[Hypersphere]

My first mechanical was an IBM Model M from clickykeyboards.com. Then I got interested in more compact keyboards and was lucky to find an IBM Model M SSK for a reasonable price. Wanting to see if there were contemporary boards that I liked, I started sampling TKLs (Ducky Shine 2 mx brown, Filco MJ2 TKL Ninja mx blue, Kul ES87 mx clear and mx red). Among the Cherry mx, I ended up with a WASD V2 87 mx brown "barebones" (no keycaps), on which I installed some dye-sub PBT caps from geek_feng. WASD has wonderful customer support and the keyboard is solid and reliable thus far. I also really like the feel of the Costar-style stabilizers in the WASD.

Then I discovered Topre. My favorites boards with Topre switches are the HHKB Pro 2, which I love for its 60% form factor and intuitive/efficient layout, and the RF 87ub 55g, which I like for the solid sound and feel of the plate-mounted switches.

More  recently, I encountered IBM capacitive buckling spring switches, which are used in Model F keyboards. I refurbished and converted an XT keyboard, which I really like for its excellent tactile and auditory feedback. An interesting thing about Model F keyboards is that they are inherently NKRO, whereas Model M boards are 2KRO.

Currently, I am using a KBP V60 Matias Click keyboard. The Matias switches are better than any Cherry mx I have tried (and I have tried blue, green, red, black, brown, and clear). The Matias switches have excellent aural/tactile feedback that coincides with actuation, and the force required to continue pressing the key after actuation decreases, which I like very much. I've also tried the Matias Quiet Click switches, which I like almost as much as the clicky ones.

I hope that these observations might help you with your selection.

[dandanflake]

More  recently, I encountered IBM capacitive buckling spring switches, which are used in Model F keyboards. I refurbished and converted an XT keyboard, which I really like for its excellent tactile and auditory feedback. An interesting thing about Model F keyboards is that they are inherently NKRO, whereas Model M boards are 2KRO.

Currently, I am using a KBP V60 Matias Click keyboard. The Matias switches are better than any Cherry mx I have tried (and I have tried blue, green, red, black, brown, and clear). The Matias switches have excellent aural/tactile feedback that coincides with actuation, and the force required to continue pressing the key after actuation decreases, which I like very much. I've also tried the Matias Quiet Click switches, which I like almost as much as the clicky ones.

I hope that these observations might help you with your selection.

I've considered Model F's but the dated key layout kind of turns me off. Also I'm not sure if I like the more metallic sound of the keys from what I've heard on YouTube. I'd like to try one before I bought it.

[Snowdog993]

Dan, why don't you check out your local thrift shops and garage sales in your area?  You may find what you want with a bit of effort.

[dandanflake]

Dan, why don't you check out your local thrift shops and garage sales in your area?  You may find what you want with a bit of effort.

It's winter in my area now so there a shortage of garage sales. As for the thrift shops I'll definitely go looking at some. I have several in my area. I also have some small business video game store's around that I know have a lot of old electronics laying around.