quiet compact keyboard for classroom use.

[Fiery]

So I want to get a keyboard to use at school as I'm simply fed up with my laptops keyboard! It needs to be small, fairly lightweight, and quiet. The keyboard will be used for simple text typing stuff so I don't need a numbpad, another thing to consider is that I use a nordic dvorak layout. From what I understand Topre if silenced is very quiet. So would something like a HHKB work? I have looked at the layout and hate the control placement as its now in the location where I use backspace and I don't get why removing the original placement makes any sense, wouldn't it be better to just add something else? So I don't know if I could use it. are there better options for silence? Should I go 40% (which I kinda want to), can I use o rings and lube mx switches to make them quiet enough for a classroom enviroment? And my last question, should I just not bring a keyboard in my backpack? If you need to know anything else just ask.

Inb4 HHKB/Topre evangelists arrive

Any help is appreciated

~Fiery

[berserkfan]

Your best bet is really the HHKB. That's why there are so many fans of that board.

Your second best bet is the atomic or jd40 with jailhoused switches.

[Fiery]

jailhouse switches? and also, as I said how would I be able to use control? as the way its on the HHKB its where I have backspace, and using regular backspace as control seems like a hazzle. And how would it work with nordic dvorak?

*Edit* Can I change the fn layers?

[nmur]

silenced HHKB/HHKB-S

either that or cherry tactile/linears with o-rings

[frogthejam19]

KISH Saver. ) )

[jdcarpe]

If you're using Dvorak, you probably want to go with a JD45 over a JD40. Linear or tactile switches with o-rings will be fairly quiet. You'll still have some noise from the top up of the switches, but you might be able to minimize that with keycap selection. An aluminum case, while adding some weight, will usually reduce the sound profile over a similar plastic case.

The JD45 group buy will be starting very soon, so keep an eye out for it.

[Vittra]

jailhouse switches? and also, as I said how would I be able to use control? as the way its on the HHKB its where I have backspace, and using regular backspace as control seems like a hazzle. And how would it work with nordic dvorak?

*Edit* Can I change the fn layers?

Unfortunately you cannot make any modifications to the fn layer without purchasing Hasu's controller PCB.. either the standard USB, or bluetooth/usb combo unit. It is a replacement for the stock controller the HHKB uses. It's probably still your best bet though, because any cherry mx option I can think of is going to require some changes or be a custom build to get where you need as well since you are using dvorak and the capslock position as your backspace.

[dgneo]

So I want to get a keyboard to use at school as I'm simply fed up with my laptops keyboard! It needs to be small, fairly lightweight, and quiet. The keyboard will be used for simple text typing stuff so I don't need a numbpad, another thing to consider is that I use a nordic dvorak layout. From what I understand Topre if silenced is very quiet. So would something like a HHKB work? I have looked at the layout and hate the control placement as its now in the location where I use backspace and I don't get why removing the original placement makes any sense, wouldn't it be better to just add something else? So I don't know if I could use it. are there better options for silence? Should I go 40% (which I kinda want to), can I use o rings and lube mx switches to make them quiet enough for a classroom enviroment? And my last question, should I just not bring a keyboard in my backpack? If you need to know anything else just ask.

Inb4 HHKB/Topre evangelists arrive

Any help is appreciated

~Fiery

For complete customization, you could get an HHKB and one of Hasu's Replacement Controllers, which would allow you to customize the layout to your heart's content!

I personally would recommend that route. The HHKB is a fantastic keyboard, perfect for travel, and Topre is heavenly IMO.

[Fiery]

If you're using Dvorak, you probably want to go with a JD45 over a JD40. Linear or tactile switches with o-rings will be fairly quiet. You'll still have some noise from the top up of the switches, but you might be able to minimize that with keycap selection. An aluminum case, while adding some weight, will usually reduce the sound profile over a similar plastic case.

The JD45 group buy will be starting very soon, so keep an eye out for it.

I looked at the JD45 roughly and I agree that will probably be my best bet. I haven't had time to look at the thread so what will the pricing be?

And to everyone else, the HHKB is almost out of the running with lacking the ability to customize the FN layer (it can be done but It's adding more cost to an already expensive keyboard) and not really seeming friendly to nordic layout or dvorak for that matter ( I also dont like the control placement). The 45 is also smaller without wasting space space like the HHKB does by simply removing control without adding more functionality.

[Fiery]

jailhouse switches? and also, as I said how would I be able to use control? as the way its on the HHKB its where I have backspace, and using regular backspace as control seems like a hazzle. And how would it work with nordic dvorak?

*Edit* Can I change the fn layers?

Unfortunately you cannot make any modifications to the fn layer without purchasing Hasu's controller PCB.. either the standard USB, or bluetooth/usb combo unit. It is a replacement for the stock controller the HHKB uses. It's probably still your best bet though, because any cherry mx option I can think of is going to require some changes or be a custom build to get where you need as well since you are using dvorak and the capslock position as your backspace.

An important part people are forgetting are the extra keys with the nordic dvorak layout ćřĺ, and with the added cost I would rather go with a custom build. I still need to look at some things but atm the HHKB doesn't seem like the best fit

[davkol]

What do you need to type in the classroom?

Is it for taking notes? Why don't you put a sound recorder on the desk and focus instead?

Is it for labs? Then it depends what software you need to use.

[thatllbeme]

If you're not willing to spring for a Type-S (I don't blame you, honestly), your best bet would probably be Matias Quiet Click, or O-rings on a mechanical board, with software remapping (relatively easy if you're using Linux). Check out the Matias Mini and KBP V60 (only available in ANSI I think) for Matias switches, and Poker III for MX. If you're willing to go custom (which I wholeheartedly recommend), the Planck, JD40, and Golbat would probably be right up your alley (or build it yourself).

[Fiery]

What do you need to type in the classroom?

Is it for taking notes? Why don't you put a sound recorder on the desk and focus instead?

Is it for labs? Then it depends what software you need to use.

I am mostly typing normal text based stuff, as I use tablet for writing notes in math and physics but I will still use it to write down equations and what not. And what do you mean by putting a sound recorder on the desk?

If you're not willing to spring for a Type-S (I don't blame you, honestly), your best bet would probably be Matias Quiet Click, or O-rings on a mechanical board, with software remapping (relatively easy if you're using Linux). Check out the Matias Mini and KBP V60 (only available in ANSI I think) for Matias switches, and Poker III for MX. If you're willing to go custom (which I wholeheartedly recommend), the Planck, JD40, and Golbat would probably be right up your alley (or build it yourself).

I am currently waiting for my Pok3r but I want a separate keyboard for school and other stuff. A problem for me is that it's usually very quiet in my classroom so anything louder than pen on paper is noticable, it's also a small class of about 15 people. I don't know personally how quiet a for example MX brown switch with o-rings is or the matias quiet click for that matter. How do they compare against a rubber dome laptop keyboard?


I will be trying to use my Pok3r at school with o-rings to see how loud it is

when it arrives! Getting tired of waiting

[berserkfan]

Let me sound off, I don't believe Poker with browns and o rings is quiet enough.

Since you have a poker, it is easy to do switch modding. Search for jailhouse blues mod, and there are lots of people with their own custom mod advice.

[Fiery]

Let me sound off, I don't believe Poker with browns and o rings is quiet enough.

Since you have a poker, it is easy to do switch modding. Search for jailhouse blues mod, and there are lots of people with their own custom mod advice.

I don't have my pok3r yet as Corus are taking forever, or customs or someone. It's almost been 2 months since I ordered and paid for it. And it has clears

[davkol]

What do you need to type in the classroom?

Is it for taking notes? Why don't you put a sound recorder on the desk and focus instead?

Is it for labs? Then it depends what software you need to use.

I am mostly typing normal text based stuff, as I use tablet for writing notes in math and physics but I will still use it to write down equations and what not. And what do you mean by putting a sound recorder on the desk?

It was one of the best decisions I made in undergrad, that I stopped taking notes and (1) read recommended literature instead, (2) started to use a good quality webcam to (a) take pictures of the whiteboard (a good compact camera or phone would be better) and (b) record sound in Audacity (again, a dedicated device is even better).

Seriously, if you're taking notes, you're usually just copying parts of textbooks in nearly all courses. As long as you're in STEM outside the US, you can usually get the textbook as a scanned PDF and underline some parts (with a real highlighter or a Wacom pen) if necessary.

[Fiery]

What do you need to type in the classroom?

Is it for taking notes? Why don't you put a sound recorder on the desk and focus instead?

Is it for labs? Then it depends what software you need to use.

I am mostly typing normal text based stuff, as I use tablet for writing notes in math and physics but I will still use it to write down equations and what not. And what do you mean by putting a sound recorder on the desk?

It was one of the best decisions I made in undergrad, that I stopped taking notes and (1) read recommended literature instead, (2) started to use a good quality webcam to (a) take pictures of the whiteboard (a good compact camera or phone would be better) and (b) record sound in Audacity (again, a dedicated device is even better).

Seriously, if you're taking notes, you're usually just copying parts of textbooks in nearly all courses. As long as you're in STEM outside the US, you can usually get the textbook as a scanned PDF and underline some parts (with a real highlighter or a Wacom pen) if necessary.

I can see what you mean, but currently I'm not in university, and I'm in norway aswell, a decent amount of my classes do involve reading, but I use the keyboard more to write assignments and other tasks. So it's not really for taking notes, but writing stuff in my history and norwegian classes.

[bocahgundul]

HHKB + Dvorak = perfect board

[Fiery]

HHKB + Dvorak = perfect board

nordic dvorak? caps-lock as backspace? no ability to customise layers without third-party controller. I wouldn't use "perfect", for me atleast.

[bocahgundul]

HHKB + Dvorak = perfect board

nordic dvorak? caps-lock as backspace? no ability to customise layers without third-party controller. I wouldn't use "perfect", for me atleast.

oh yeah you use a nordic dvorak
nah your best bet are search for a custom and use a gat black or cherry mx black if you want a silent board

[Fiery]

HHKB + Dvorak = perfect board

nordic dvorak? caps-lock as backspace? no ability to customise layers without third-party controller. I wouldn't use "perfect", for me atleast.

oh yeah you use a nordic dvorak
nah your best bet are search for a custom and use a gat black or cherry mx black if you want a silent board

Thats almost the plan atm, I might get a VB60 with either matias quiet's or browns/clears and lube and o-ring them. I haven't decided and I will try to bring my Pok3r when I get it mostly as a test of the sound. If it's too loud I'll have to see what I can do.

[ghostjuggernaut]

Silenced HHKB and you will never look back.

[Fiery]

Silenced HHKB and you will never look back.

I'm starting to wonder if people even read the thread. I have some issues with the layout and my preferences crash with the way it works. also the fact that I would need a third-party controller.

[ghostjuggernaut]

Silenced HHKB and you will never look back.

I'm starting to wonder if people even read the thread. I have some issues with the layout and my preferences crash with the way it works. also the fact that I would need a third-party controller.

Sorry

Based in what has been mentioned, I would personally go with a JD45. I think it will accommodate what you are looking for.

In terms of silencing, I think linear or tactile will work well enough, but I would add o-rings if you are concerned with noise. If you are open to spending a bit more, I would still recommend an HHKB with HASU's controller.

I think you will happy with either of those two options, its just a matter of how much you want to invest.

[ctm]

If you like linear switches, try Matias quite linear. They are the quietest I have ever tried (quieter than non-type-s HHKB). They are available in KBP V60.

[jamster]

I'd say that any MX (with or without O-rings) and silenced Topre are far nosier than your typical laptop keyboard.

[Fiery]

Yeah as mentioned I will try to bring a Pok3r when I have it. If the noise isn't too bad I will most likely go with a JD45 I think. Otherwise I will have to look into something else. Like I think it will be fine if it's slightly louder, but too much noise will be disturbing and I will get looks for just bringing a keyboard to school. 

Also everything might be moot as I'm a heavy typist and will make too much noise no matter what. But I really don't want to use this laptop keyboard. sorry if this post was messy but I'm quite tired

[davkol]

I actually recommend to reconsider the HHKB layout.

If you're using Norwegian variant of DSK, it means, that you already have to use a custom layout on the host computer. Here goes the suggestion: use the wide mod, i.e., shift right-hand-side symbols one column to the right. This means you get (1) more hand separation, and (2) right Shift, AltGr, Enter and Backspace closer; Backspace in the ANSI HHKB/unix position is very nice in particular. In addition, there are fewer keys pressed by the right pinkie.

[Fiery]

I actually recommend to reconsider the HHKB layout.

If you're using Norwegian variant of DSK, it means, that you already have to use a custom layout on the host computer. Here goes the suggestion: use the wide mod, i.e., shift right-hand-side symbols one column to the right. This means you get (1) more hand separation, and (2) right Shift, AltGr, Enter and Backspace closer; Backspace in the ANSI HHKB/unix position is very nice in particular. In addition, there are fewer keys pressed by the right pinkie.

I'm unsure by what you mean? do you have a picture of something like this?

[vivalarevolución]

I haven't discovered any mechanical keyboard this is actually quiet enough for classroom.  Although if typical laptops are used in your classroom, I think something with Matias quiet switches or silenced Topre will be just as quiet.  Cherry and Cherry clones switches require quite a bit of modification to get them as quiet as the aforementioned switches.

Check out the sound recordings here:  http://matias.ca/switches/quiet/

Leopold 660C also is a compact Topre keyboard with Control in the traditional location.

Also, youtube has plenty of videos of people comparing the sounds of various switches.

[jamster]

Also everything might be moot as I'm a heavy typist and will make too much noise no matter what. But I really don't want to use this laptop keyboard. sorry if this post was messy but I'm quite tired

Old school, used Thinkpad with an SSD. IMO they have good keyboards, I bought an external Thinkpad keyboard just to use with my work computer.

[Giorgio]

Uniqey keyboard - clips is the solution.

[henz]

there are some different choices, which i would consider in your situation:

most mx switches become silenced pretty good with orings(except blues). So id consider any 60% keyboard you could get a hold of, mx offers a variety of keyboards some: Gons(normal or skinny, both pretty light weight), poker, infinity,v60 etc etc


As named before, HHKB is also a good choice.

[KRKS]

I'm starting to wonder if people even read the thread. I have some issues with the layout and my preferences crash with the way it works. also the fact that I would need a third-party controller.

I know your pain. While I was looking for 75%/65% boards, I've been recommended stuff with either 1u(Neutrino, Keycool 84) or even no right Alt at all(Deck), and then asked what do I mean by "roughly a third of Polish alphabet is layered on it". Or when big brands like Logitech put German ISO boards in our shops even though we use standard ANSI.

[henz]

I'm starting to wonder if people even read the thread. I have some issues with the layout and my preferences crash with the way it works. also the fact that I would need a third-party controller.

I know your pain. While I was looking for 75%/65% boards, I've been recommended stuff with either 1u(Neutrino, Keycool 84) or even no right Alt at all(Deck), and then asked what do I mean by "roughly a third of Polish alphabet is layered on it". Or when big brands like Logitech put German ISO boards in our shops even though we use standard ANSI.

Also worth mentioning is that if you buy a hasu controller the hhkb is fully programmable.

[azhdar]

I never had issues with linears mx in classroom, but that was IT classes so

[davkol]

I actually recommend to reconsider the HHKB layout.

If you're using Norwegian variant of DSK, it means, that you already have to use a custom layout on the host computer. Here goes the suggestion: use the wide mod, i.e., shift right-hand-side symbols one column to the right. This means you get (1) more hand separation, and (2) right Shift, AltGr, Enter and Backspace closer; Backspace in the ANSI HHKB/unix position is very nice in particular. In addition, there are fewer keys pressed by the right pinkie.

I'm unsure by what you mean? do you have a picture of something like this?

Shift US QWERTY HJKL; to JKL;' (and similarly on other rows).

[appleonama]

type-s topre 

[Fiery]

Also everything might be moot as I'm a heavy typist and will make too much noise no matter what. But I really don't want to use this laptop keyboard. sorry if this post was messy but I'm quite tired

Old school, used Thinkpad with an SSD. IMO they have good keyboards, I bought an external Thinkpad keyboard just to use with my work computer.

I see your point but I already have a laptop with an ssd, and for the price of a used one and an ssd I'm spending almost as much as a HHKB

I haven't discovered any mechanical keyboard this is actually quiet enough for classroom.  Although if typical laptops are used in your classroom, I think something with Matias quiet switches or silenced Topre will be just as quiet.  Cherry and Cherry clones switches require quite a bit of modification to get them as quiet as the aforementioned switches.

Check out the sound recordings here:  http://matias.ca/switches/quiet/

Leopold 660C also is a compact Topre keyboard with Control in the traditional location.

Also, youtube has plenty of videos of people comparing the sounds of various switches.

I looked into the matias switch and the sound tests on youtube vary alot in loudness. I am considering a V60 with quiet clicks now though.

Uniqey keyboard - clips is the solution.

They aren't open or selling anything yet?

there are some different choices, which i would consider in your situation:

most mx switches become silenced pretty good with orings(except blues). So id consider any 60% keyboard you could get a hold of, mx offers a variety of keyboards some: Gons(normal or skinny, both pretty light weight), poker, infinity,v60 etc etc


As named before, HHKB is also a good choice.

I won't repeat myself to much but, I will bring my poker to test how loud it is when I get it. and The HHKB I can't justify such a cost for a layout I think I'm gonna dislike and that might just not work with nordic dvorak and caps-lock as backspace.

I'm starting to wonder if people even read the thread. I have some issues with the layout and my preferences crash with the way it works. also the fact that I would need a third-party controller.

I know your pain. While I was looking for 75%/65% boards, I've been recommended stuff with either 1u(Neutrino, Keycool 84) or even no right Alt at all(Deck), and then asked what do I mean by "roughly a third of Polish alphabet is layered on it". Or when big brands like Logitech put German ISO boards in our shops even though we use standard ANSI.

Yeah all the ansi layouts don't really help and I would need to figure something out to get it to work. So progammable layers where I could put ćřĺ would be helpful.

I actually recommend to reconsider the HHKB layout.

If you're using Norwegian variant of DSK, it means, that you already have to use a custom layout on the host computer. Here goes the suggestion: use the wide mod, i.e., shift right-hand-side symbols one column to the right. This means you get (1) more hand separation, and (2) right Shift, AltGr, Enter and Backspace closer; Backspace in the ANSI HHKB/unix position is very nice in particular. In addition, there are fewer keys pressed by the right pinkie.

I'm unsure by what you mean? do you have a picture of something like this?

Shift US QWERTY HJKL; to JKL;' (and similarly on other rows).

I think I get what your saying but it seems like alot of trouble It would work, but I don't think I can spend 200$+silencing+shipping+25%customs tax on a switch I haven't tried, from a website with no warranty in Europe, and a layout that is missing two keys and is ANSI.

type-s topre 

read the thread.


Okey so here I will put a summary. I am considering the JD45, but I am unsure how it would work with me seeing how I'm used to ISO. the same goes for all the other keyboards really, and I don't think I will get the HHKB as the price when I get one into Norway is gonna be really expensive. It also have other issues. I am also gonna test the loudness of orings on clears by bringing a pok3r when it arrives. And I think a V60 with matias quiets are atm the ones I'm leaning the most towards. So if there is a way to make

work with ANSI I will get that I think.

[vivalarevolución]

I have a lightly used V60 with Matias Quiets for sale at the moment, if you are interested. Check the link in my signature.  It is ANSI, though, not ISO.

Also, Massdrop is running the Infinity 60% group buy again,
but the estimated ship date isn't until May 20.

[Fiery]

I have a lightly used V60 with Matias Quiets for sale at the moment, if you are interested. Check the link in my signature.  It is ANSI, though, not ISO.

Also, Massdrop is running the Infinity 60% group buy again,
but the estimated ship date isn't until May 20.

that is very nice of you, but I want the quiet clicks, as I prefer a tactile feeback. and I am waiting before I decide anything. It's funny how this turned into such a thing, I thought it would be simple but there are too many factors

[vivalarevolución]

Keyboards tend to turn into "such a thing" because they are a bit of a rabbit hole. 

There seems to be a miscommunication of the type of Matias switches we are referring to.  My keyboard has the switches that are technically called Quiet Click, sometimes we call them Quiets for short. This is what I have for sale:  https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=987

[vivalarevolución]

Also I'm not sure how Norweigan Dvorak works on ANSI.  What operating system do you use? 

[Fiery]

I use Windows 8.1 on the laptop in question. I am interested in your keyboard, but for now I will wait when it comes to actually buying a keyboard

[spanyam]

If you're considering Matias, I'd also throw in a recommendation for a V60 with Matias Quiet Linears (rather than the Clicks). They're by far the most silent switch I've used and feel very smooth to type on. The V60 is also perfect for portability.

[Fiery]

I have considered it very briefly but I'm not a huge fan of linear switches. I'll have to look into it.

[vivalarevolución]

I use Windows 8.1 on the laptop in question. I am interested in your keyboard, but for now I will wait when it comes to actually buying a keyboard

Alright thanks.   This conversation has caused me wonder if an ANSI keyboard can be used with an ISO layout, from a purely "what if" viewpoint.  A brief Google search didn't answer my pondering.

Anyways, good luck in your search.

[Fiery]

I use Windows 8.1 on the laptop in question. I am interested in your keyboard, but for now I will wait when it comes to actually buying a keyboard

Alright thanks.   This conversation has caused me wonder if an ANSI keyboard can be used with an ISO layout, from a purely "what if" viewpoint.  A brief Google search didn't answer my pondering.

Anyways, good luck in your search.

Thanks, it has given me these questions aswell.