Which 65 - 75 percent keyboard do you recommend?

[Sonikbotnik]

Well hello there. I'm looking to join the mechanical keyboard community, and after several weeks of research, I've decided to join Geekhack. Seems like the right place to be, and mech keys is the kind of hobby I see myself getting deep into, so I'd like to start off on the right foot. I'll try to keep things brief, and outline my intentions for the post. This is similar to a recent post https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=82849.0 about 75% keyboards so I'll start by mentioning my priorities to skip some initial questions.

Of note is the fact that I've been using a Mac numpad-less keyboard for about the last 10 years. Also I currently exclusively use OS X.

What I'd like:
1st mostly interested in switches - everyone keeps talking about Cherry this, Gateron that. I've decided I'd like to start with Cherry Brown, or anything similar just not a linear switch.
2nd most interested in layout - I've gotten used to no numpad, and as a result, mouse real close to the keyboard
arrow keys included - I've been using the smaller mac keyboard long enough, and the one thing I really wish it had were full-sized arrow keys.
flush right side (full column) - I really like the function and aesthetic of something like an MK84 or Saber68, as compared to a Leopold FC660M or MagicForce 68 where there's what I'd consider wasted space.
don't care about RGB or any lighting actually
needs to be Mac compatible
I will + can do as much manual labour as necessary - soldering doesn't scare me, I just want instructions.
undecided about the function row

So, with all that info, what do you recommend? Where should I start? As you may notice I left out any mention of a budget, which was intentional. Obviously as I'm just starting out, I'd rather buy something cheap that could essentially let me test the kind of switch I want to settle on, and go from there. But if there's enough of an argument, maybe I'll spend a little more.

One of the things I don't quite understand yet is, where does custom mapping / layout software come in to play? Is this only for a DIY kit, or can you override any keyboard? And does that sit in the firmware, or some kind of software layer?

Cheers,

[Puddsy]

if the whitefox works with OS X, get one of them, that's the best you'll do i think

i think the tada68 also works with OS X, or has a version that does

i have a 65 a bit deep in the pipe if you're waiting a bit

get a switch tester from novelkeys so you can test some switches

[Harms]

if the whitefox works with OS X, get one of them, that's the best you'll do i think

i think the tada68 also works with OS X, or has a version that does

i have a 65 a bit deep in the pipe if you're waiting a bit

get a switch tester from novelkeys so you can test some switches

Those are great recommendations.

But you're releasing a 65 percent soon? Looking forward to that .

Sent from my STV100-3 using Tapatalk

[feralfoo]

If you can find one, the XD60/XD64 is a nice piece of kit, https://www.massdrop.com/buy/37939. I have one in titanium grey with cherry mx green (clicky) switches. Using it every day at work since assembly in November 2017.

For me, its the case that stands out here. Nice and heavy so it doesn't vibrate or slip around.

Then there is the Bananasplit by TheVanKeyboards - https://www.massdrop.com/talk/1855/banana-split-group-buy-live. This one is a bare bones kit so no case, but will fit most 60% cases.

Also check out the iGK64 here http://www.pc-100.com/diy-mechanical-keyboard-custom-kits-pcb/, group buy open for a few more weeks. This one also has hot swappable switches!

[RealLaugh]

Well hello there. I'm looking to join the mechanical keyboard community, and after several weeks of research, I've decided to join Geekhack. Seems like the right place to be, and mech keys is the kind of hobby I see myself getting deep into, so I'd like to start off on the right foot. I'll try to keep things brief, and outline my intentions for the post. This is similar to a recent post https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=82849.0 about 75% keyboards so I'll start by mentioning my priorities to skip some initial questions.

Of note is the fact that I've been using a Mac numpad-less keyboard for about the last 10 years. Also I currently exclusively use OS X.

What I'd like:
1st mostly interested in switches - everyone keeps talking about Cherry this, Gateron that. I've decided I'd like to start with Cherry Brown, or anything similar just not a linear switch.
2nd most interested in layout - I've gotten used to no numpad, and as a result, mouse real close to the keyboard
arrow keys included - I've been using the smaller mac keyboard long enough, and the one thing I really wish it had were full-sized arrow keys.
flush right side (full column) - I really like the function and aesthetic of something like an MK84 or Saber68, as compared to a Leopold FC660M or MagicForce 68 where there's what I'd consider wasted space.
don't care about RGB or any lighting actually
needs to be Mac compatible
I will + can do as much manual labour as necessary - soldering doesn't scare me, I just want instructions.
undecided about the function row

So, with all that info, what do you recommend? Where should I start? As you may notice I left out any mention of a budget, which was intentional. Obviously as I'm just starting out, I'd rather buy something cheap that could essentially let me test the kind of switch I want to settle on, and go from there. But if there's enough of an argument, maybe I'll spend a little more.

One of the things I don't quite understand yet is, where does custom mapping / layout software come in to play? Is this only for a DIY kit, or can you override any keyboard? And does that sit in the firmware, or some kind of software layer?

Cheers,

With regards to your question about the custom mapping or layout editing. Yes - this is usually handled at a firmware level on the PCB so you don't need software on the local machine. So if you customize any layers or layouts they are there no matter where you plug in your keyboard (be it mac, windows or smartphone OTG).

You mind letting us know which continent you live in? That might help us recommend you a kit that is easy to get in your local market.

[rich1051414]

If you want a kit where you solder in your own switches, the most customization options would come from a eepw84/xd84 keyboard. The same can also be said for the XD60/XD64 if you don't want a 75%. The firmware also supports custom keymapping. It's similar to a KBD75, but with more options and cheaper. However, you can't match the build quality of an actual KBD75, which doubles as a murder weapon, and sounds amazing for an aluminum body/plate keyboard, due to all the screws.

[zappysnap]

My favorite is the Varmilo VA68M.  Same layout as the Magicforce, but MUCH better built, with a super thick and heavy aluminum case (or magnesium if you spring for it), very solid plate, plenty of choice in assembly - can order the switches you want, case color, keycap color, LEDs, etc when ordered directly through the Varmilo rep.  You also can order it as a kit, with or without switches if you want to wire it and solder it yourself, or you can have them build it and send it to you.

Here's mine (keycaps are XDA Canvas):


The stock caps are nice too:

[nguyenhimself]

I will always recommend the TADA68 to newcomers:

1. "Novelty" 65% layout if you come from normal laptop keyboards but still have "normal" keys like arrows and home/end.
2. Nice white backlighting, configurable but not too garish like RGB.
3. Usually comes with Gateron switches, for which I recommend the Gateron Brown, as they are much smoother than Cherry Brown and also makes the board way less costly.
4. Cheaper. One can get a TADA68 from KBDFans with quick shipping for $100 or below.
5. If you decide to stick with it for the long term, there's an option to get an aluminum case with various colors (not to mention KBDFans' new plastic and low-profile aluminum case, more choices).
6. Good resale value, as some other buyers would prefer to buy directly than importing from China.
7. Great key programming software that works on all platforms and can let you do a lot more than you expect. Also supports QMK.
8. If you want to start off extra strong, you can always order a pre-assembled one from KBDFans with Zealio switches for a bit higher price.

[Leslieann]

Of note is the fact that I've been using a Mac numpad-less keyboard for about the last 10 years. Also I currently exclusively use OS X.

Avoid Drevo and Noppoo as they do not like Mac.
You are likely to find more options in the 65-68% class than you are with a 75% as they seem to be hot at the moment.

Since you have no experience, brown is a good start, but my advice is start with not just brown, but something cheap as you may decide you want something linear or more tactile. In which case, I recommend a Magicforce 68 (also look for Qisan, same thing but cheaper). It's one of the cheapest ways to get your feet wet (about $40 if you look around). While not the best keyboard, they are actually pretty good, especially for the money and they make a spectacular backup (or travel) keyboard should you move on from it.

[Sonikbotnik]

Thanks for the great info folks! You've been quite helpful. Based on your input and more contemplation of what I'd like to get out of it, I've narrowed down my options to the XD64 or the Tada68. Correct me if I'm wrong: the XD64 is a build it yourself kit, while the Tada68 comes assembled?

[floristfran]

Thanks for the great info folks! You've been quite helpful. Based on your input and more contemplation of what I'd like to get out of it, I've narrowed down my options to the XD64 or the Tada68. Correct me if I'm wrong: the XD64 is a build it yourself kit, while the Tada68 comes assembled?

Both are DIY kits but you can get them assembled as a service from kbdfans.
funny enough i was actually between the two when i was looking to build my keyboard
I went with the tada68 with the aluminum case and I love it.
overall v good quality would definitely recommend

[Leslieann]

I haven't seen a lot about the XD lineup, they seems to be decent, but I haven't seen much about them one way or another.
The Tada on the other hand, lots of info and everything I've seen on it has been positive.

Personally, given a choice of XD or Tada, unless there is something missing on it you need/want, I would go with the Tada. It's better documented, easier to get and well liked.

[b0b]

I'm kind of looking for the same type of keyboard and I'm wondering why you're not considering the Whitefox also? It would actually be cheaper than a similar speced and pre-built Tada68 and it's usb-c, which is a pretty big deal for me.

[Sonikbotnik]

Well I placed my order. I ended up going with the Tada68. And after reading the latest comments, I think that's what drove my decision, is the fact that I've seen more support around it, and just like in the software development community, it's important to have documentation and other customer's experience.

I'm kind of looking for the same type of keyboard and I'm wondering why you're not considering the Whitefox also? It would actually be cheaper than a similar speced and pre-built Tada68 and it's usb-c, which is a pretty big deal for me.

@bOb it's interesting that you mention that, because discovery of the Whitefox (on massdrop) is what led me to learning about the whole mechanical keyboard community. At this point, my decision came down to price, and the fact that there were a few variables that could only be determined through first hand experience: primarily the switches. As with all product design, and mentioned in many geekhack posts, you can get a switch tester (which I plan on) but it's still not the same as using them for 8 hours a day. The whitefox is above $200 CAD, and the Tada68 came out to about $120. As with anyone just getting into this, I'm still figuring out what I want in my keyboard, so it makes more sense to spend smaller chunks of cash over longer period of time, buying different switches, layouts etc. rather than springing for that shiny looking whitefox and thinking "maybe I should have gotten the Aria instead of Vanilla layout." That said, if you think Whitefox is right for you, go for it.

[nguyenhimself]

Also: IIRC the XD64/GK64's keymapping software is Windows-only. Depending on your OS of choice, that could be an easy dealbreaker. Meanwhile, the TADA68 simply uses a webapp and also supports QMK.