YouEnjoyMySelf
Banned
Yea, they messed with me at the beginning, but I got used to them rather quickly. Now I never hit them.
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Lez talk mechanical keyboards
- Thread starter Scuba Steve
- Start date
Yea, they messed with me at the beginning, but I got used to them rather quickly. Now I never hit them.
Off-Kilter
Banned
This thread made me go and buy a backlit Blackwidow. Thanks a lot guys.
All right, so I'm not a lez, but I've been using for the last three days my first mechanical keyboard and I want to talk about it. 
It's a Cooler Master Quickfire Pro TK, like this:
Brown cherry mx switches and tenkeyless.
I'm overall very happy with it.
The first thing I noticed is that the action of pressing a key is now very smooth. In regular membrane keyboards, there's a plastic resistance you have to come over before the key actually starts going down. Usually I feel like the keys are somewhat wrong aligned and, when I press them, it's like they get back to their correct position and then start going down. It feels to me like a cheap plastic toy.
With the CM, I have to apply much less strength to type. I guess it's a combination of better quality keys, and the fact that it's mechanical. This is huge for me, since I tend to have tendinitis (no pun intended) in my wrists and this makes me feel a bit more relieved after a long while of typing.
The fact that it's tenkeyless is also a big pro for me, since now I can place both my arms in a straight position on my desk, without having to either move the mouse hand to too much to the right, or having to move the whole keyboard to the left to make room for the mouse at my right.
However, this CM has an unusual tenkeyless layout. It has the whole numpad, and the home/del/.../arrows as alternative functions in the numpad.
Pressing the numlock key turns the numpad on, and having it off turns the home/del/.../arrows keys on.
It'll take a while for me to get completely used to it, but it's just because I'm so used to finding the arrow keys by touch that having them surrounded by other keys is weird.
The only thing I don't like is that the + and return keys are only enabled when the numpad is on, which is inconvenient.
I don't miss much not having the numpad always avilable. It's definitely something I'm glad to trade off for a much better hand and arm position.
The backlighting is a gimmick to me, and I actually have it as turned off as I can (the arrow keys are always lit when they are active). It can be obnoxiously bright, though.
When it comes to the switches, at first I thought of getting blues (don't know if they are available for this kb), but since this is my first mechanical, that I read that browns where the ones to chose when in doubt, and the fact that I didn't want to be the "guy with the loud keyboard" at the office, I decided to go with browns.
I still have the itch to see how would blues be.
The bump (or the "tactile feedback") the browns have is veeery light (I though it would be much more noticeable).
However, I'm so not used to not "bottoming out" that I know I still have to properly learn how to type on mechanical keyboards. Maybe the "tactile feedback" will be something I appreciate better in a few week's time.
But I definitely want to try the blue switches down the road. I just don't know will I explain my family when I finally buy ANOTHER KEYBOARD, lol.
Finally, I got the keyboard from Amazon UK at a very reasonable price: 52 pounds. I had to wait for more than a month for delivery, though.
I'm extremely happy with my purchase.
I can definitely recommend anyone to get a mechanical keyboard. Out of all the mice and keyboards I have gotten during my life (which are quite a few), I'd say the mechanical keyboard is the one thing that makes the most difference compared to a regular one.
It's a Cooler Master Quickfire Pro TK, like this:
Brown cherry mx switches and tenkeyless.
I'm overall very happy with it.
The first thing I noticed is that the action of pressing a key is now very smooth. In regular membrane keyboards, there's a plastic resistance you have to come over before the key actually starts going down. Usually I feel like the keys are somewhat wrong aligned and, when I press them, it's like they get back to their correct position and then start going down. It feels to me like a cheap plastic toy.
With the CM, I have to apply much less strength to type. I guess it's a combination of better quality keys, and the fact that it's mechanical. This is huge for me, since I tend to have tendinitis (no pun intended) in my wrists and this makes me feel a bit more relieved after a long while of typing.
The fact that it's tenkeyless is also a big pro for me, since now I can place both my arms in a straight position on my desk, without having to either move the mouse hand to too much to the right, or having to move the whole keyboard to the left to make room for the mouse at my right.
However, this CM has an unusual tenkeyless layout. It has the whole numpad, and the home/del/.../arrows as alternative functions in the numpad.
Pressing the numlock key turns the numpad on, and having it off turns the home/del/.../arrows keys on.
It'll take a while for me to get completely used to it, but it's just because I'm so used to finding the arrow keys by touch that having them surrounded by other keys is weird.
The only thing I don't like is that the + and return keys are only enabled when the numpad is on, which is inconvenient.
I don't miss much not having the numpad always avilable. It's definitely something I'm glad to trade off for a much better hand and arm position.
The backlighting is a gimmick to me, and I actually have it as turned off as I can (the arrow keys are always lit when they are active). It can be obnoxiously bright, though.
When it comes to the switches, at first I thought of getting blues (don't know if they are available for this kb), but since this is my first mechanical, that I read that browns where the ones to chose when in doubt, and the fact that I didn't want to be the "guy with the loud keyboard" at the office, I decided to go with browns.
I still have the itch to see how would blues be.
The bump (or the "tactile feedback") the browns have is veeery light (I though it would be much more noticeable).
However, I'm so not used to not "bottoming out" that I know I still have to properly learn how to type on mechanical keyboards. Maybe the "tactile feedback" will be something I appreciate better in a few week's time.
But I definitely want to try the blue switches down the road. I just don't know will I explain my family when I finally buy ANOTHER KEYBOARD, lol.
Finally, I got the keyboard from Amazon UK at a very reasonable price: 52 pounds. I had to wait for more than a month for delivery, though.
I'm extremely happy with my purchase.
I can definitely recommend anyone to get a mechanical keyboard. Out of all the mice and keyboards I have gotten during my life (which are quite a few), I'd say the mechanical keyboard is the one thing that makes the most difference compared to a regular one.
This thread has failed you. Why a Razer? ;_;
You really should have read the thread a little closer... a lot of razer buyers end up returning based on this thread. but I hope you like it in any case.
It should have made you buy a corsair k70
Still a jump into mechanical keyboards is a good jump indeed!
CheesecakeRecipe
Stormy Grey
Well this sucks. My Leopold with MX Browns had the alt key just completely die on me about an hour ago. I've not even had the damn thing 7 months and it's just not working at all. Tried power cycling the keyboard, the whole computer, tested it on my laptop... it's completely dead. I thought these keyboards were supposed to be more resilient than this.
It does happen, resilient as any piece of technology is.
Only thing I'd check before falling back on your warranty would be to pop the keycap off, depress the switch itself and see if anything's gotten in there. Maybe blast the inside of the switch with compressed air briefly to see if something's preventing contact. I don't think most Cherry-based Leopold keyboards have DIP switches on the underside that could have gotten flipped.
CheesecakeRecipe
Stormy Grey
No dice. I don't see anything inside the switch when I push down, at least nothing to the sides. How can I blast the inside of the switch with compressed air? depressing the switch doesn't seem to give me very much access to the insides at all, it'd be a miracle of something fell in here somehow.
Ingueferroque
Banned
For the last couple of years I have been using the built-in Macbook Pro keyboard, and I've had enough. I need to write a lot of code each day and I'm looking to get a new Mac Pro this year. This keyboard seems like the best bet to me. I don't care so much about the price, I just want the best product.. not so much the best value.
The best bet for me seems to be the Realforce 87U. Any suggestions, thoughts, or ideas?
Realforce 87U Tenkeyless "Silent" (White/Gray)
http://www.elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rftenkeyless&pid=rf_se070s
What about this full keyboard version?
A numpad is still handy.. (and would be great to play Ecstatica in Dosbox!), but I guess they don't make a silent version of this one?
Realforce 104U (White/Gray)
http://www.elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rf104&pid=xf01t0
The best bet for me seems to be the Realforce 87U. Any suggestions, thoughts, or ideas?
Realforce 87U Tenkeyless "Silent" (White/Gray)
http://www.elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rftenkeyless&pid=rf_se070s
What about this full keyboard version?
A numpad is still handy.. (and would be great to play Ecstatica in Dosbox!), but I guess they don't make a silent version of this one?
Realforce 104U (White/Gray)
http://www.elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rf104&pid=xf01t0
I don't personally own one of the silent versions, but I've typed on one, as well as a HHKB Type S. To my ears, the Topres are one of the best sounding keyboards out there and it was almost disappointing to hear it muffed with the o-rings they install on these. They're not terribly loud keyboards to begin with so I wouldn't feel too pressured to buy a silent version, but if that's your preference they're still great keyboards.
The question of full-size versus tenkeyless is a matter of usage. If you tenkey a lot it doesn't make sense to get a tenkeyless. Especially if you are not numrow proficient. The shorter profile however is a much bigger deal than you'd first think when it comes to mouse usage and general comfort for stuff like gaming, so consider carefully. Last full-size 'board I purchased was the Das S and it hasn't been used in a long time. I personally recommend going tenkeyless unless you do some significant tenkey work; spreadsheets, accounting, that sort of thing.
Ingueferroque
Banned
Thank you so much for your great advice. I live in an apartment and often work late at night, so I have no choice but to go for the silent version. I wish I could try it out in real life though, I can only use Youtube reviews as reference.
As far as tenkey usage, there are times where I need it a lot for a small amount of time, so I guess that doesn't warrant the additional width it takes up, I am definitely more attracted to the tenkeyless version.
How are these keyboards for people with some arthritis issues? I sometimes use a wrist brace for pain relief.
These Topres are a good choice. They're basically made for industrial use; banks, airports, things like that. They're designed for people that type far more than the average person every day, which is why the original Topres have a variable weight design where keys pressed by weaker fingers require less force. All told they're a massive improvement over your traditional membrane keyboard when it comes to muscle fatigue. It will take a bit of adjustment for your muscle memory to handle the light keys (particularly pinky keys, expect to see some aaaaa strings at first as it takes very minor force to activate), but you're doing your hands a favor in the end.
As for the noise, I'm assuming you mean you live in an apartment with someone else, right? One thing to understand about these Topre 'boards is that the switch mechanisms do not make any kind of noise like a Cherry Blue switch; the noise is purely the action of keycap meeting base. It's honestly not really louder than a membrane 'board (most of which are pretty loud squealers) even without the o-rings. I wouldn't worry about noise unless you're going to need to work in the same room as someone that may be sleeping. These aren't really loud 'boards; they're essentially just "next-gen" rubber domes. This video at about 50% volume is what it sounds like when it's right in front of you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWPH7FAUfUY
Regarding the tenkey thing, it is possible to buy a separate USB tenkey if it's something you only do very occasionally. Topre even makes (expensive) versions of them to pair with their tenkeyless 'boards.
They're probably compatible, most of these keycap sets are made for Cherry 'boards with that profile. Can you link me the actual item?
Ingueferroque
Banned
Thank you so much, you've been a great help!
Sure, here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cherry-MX-S...121?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d0dfd5981
I think it should be fine too but the description from the seller is a bit lacking. Kinda bought these on a whim since it was fairly cheap and I always wanted some color on my keyboard.
Yeah, those should fit fine.
If anyone's looking for a CM Quick Fire TK red switch, Newegg has a 48 hour sale for $75.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ..._mmc=EMC-GD071013-_-index-_-Item-_-23-129-013
Promo Code: EMCYTZT3782
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ..._mmc=EMC-GD071013-_-index-_-Item-_-23-129-013
Promo Code: EMCYTZT3782
I have this. Blue switches though.
It's a great keyboard if you can get used to the key setup.
Ingueferroque
Banned
Made the decision and bought this keyboard! Can't wait.
For the last couple of years I have been using the built-in Macbook Pro keyboard, and I've had enough. I need to write a lot of code each day and I'm looking to get a new Mac Pro this year. This keyboard seems like the best bet to me. I don't care so much about the price, I just want the best product.. not so much the best value.
The best bet for me seems to be the Realforce 87U. Any suggestions, thoughts, or ideas?
Realforce 87U Tenkeyless "Silent" (White/Gray)
http://www.elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rftenkeyless&pid=rf_se070s
Anyone have experience switching from Blue to Red switches? I currently use a Rosewill with Blue switches that I like but am switching to a Corsair K70 with my new build. I am not sure if I want to wait for the Blue version or just go for the Red. I use my PC as much for work as gaming so I want to make sure I get something that works well for both. I snagged a sample switch kit from WASD keyboards but it is a little hard to decide with only one switch of each.
Ultra Magnus
Member
Would you laugh at me if I told you I was using an iZen Bamboo Keyboard?
Magna_Mixalis
Member
Just ordered one of those CM Quickfires from Newegg. Hopefully it'll last longer than my Logitec UY95 did. Loved the feel of the keys, but a $90 keyboard should last longer than a year...
ComputerMKII
Banned
I've just received my keyboard! It's the most beautiful and comfortable keyboard I've ever had. The Cherry MX Reds are incredibly light.
Welcome aboard! I totally love mine. So glad I went with my gut and got it instead of a different make/model.
While I still prefer TKL, that is gorgeous.
ComputerMKII
Banned
I can't type digits without holding Shift (unless I use the numpad) due to the AZERTY layout so Tenkeyless keyboards weren't an option.
Oh true, I didn't even notice that! Either way, that looks like a nice board.
This is my question, too. I am not sure if I want to wait for the blue or go with the red. My desk is out in the living room, for now, so maybe I should go with red due to the noisier factor of blue. I do a nice balance of writing and gaming.
Uni on Everything!
Member
Fantastic choice, you will absolutely love it. I've got keyboards with all different kinds of cherry switches but I always keep coming back to my 87U when I get tired of them. In fact I just ordered a 104U a few days ago
Koroviev
Member
The keys pop right off, should make it pretty easy to get in there and clean it. My WASD came with a key-puller for that purpose. One of the major advantage of mechanical keyboards.
As we are talking about sticky keys. What do GAF.
Posted this on Tech Support thread but didn't get it answered.
After that I removed the key caps again and used 90% alcohol and a syringe so I could get it EVERYWHERE. Used it on all keys and switches while pressing the switch down.
I let it dry out and everything still works but everything is still sticky. I'm out of options here.
Right now I can't afford another mechanical keyboard so I guess I'm out of luck.
Also to note I have Blue switches.
Posted this on Tech Support thread but didn't get it answered.
MrKnives said:
After that I removed the key caps again and used 90% alcohol and a syringe so I could get it EVERYWHERE. Used it on all keys and switches while pressing the switch down.
I let it dry out and everything still works but everything is still sticky. I'm out of options here.
Right now I can't afford another mechanical keyboard so I guess I'm out of luck.
Also to note I have Blue switches.
ComputerMKII
Banned
Watch less porn.
I'm a big fan of the Ducky Limiteds. Give this link a look for a hands-on with Ducky's up-and-coming line of Mechanicals.
Hands-on with Ducky.
Hands-on with Ducky.
I'm interested in Mini keyboards, but he just skipped right over that one ~_~ Looked like it had an ugly font, like the KBT Poker 2.
The one that's closest to my heart right now seems to be the Noppoo Choc Mini, has the function keys without a modifier and some media functionality. White version looks spiffy as heck. But brown versions catches a $200 premium over the blue, gah!
Are there any nice mini keyboards that I should check out? I've seen the versions by Leopold (very nice, except for no dedicated function keys), Filco (strange layout) and KBT (horrible font).
I just don't like the fact that it's not backlit. That's personal, though. My gaming comp needs a backlight for my tastes. I agree -- I wish he spent more time on the Mini Ducky because I've been chomping at the bit for one as well.
Happy Hacking (HHKB) has a small board to look at if cost is no object. Just google it -- tons of photos will pop up. Plenty of reviews on youtube as well.
Happy Hacking (HHKB) has a small board to look at if cost is no object. Just google it -- tons of photos will pop up. Plenty of reviews on youtube as well.
not_so_special
Banned
excuse me guys..for some reasons i need the keyboard to be wireless,there are decent ones for gaming?
The Lamonster
Member
Sexy.
Thanks, a bit too expensive though - those Topre switches must be good to catch those prices. Anyway, browsing back through the thread
this looks absolutely god damned perfect. Shit.I'll show you one better.
Not to tease..... But they don't make them anymore.
I want to try a mechanical keyboard and I was thinking to buy this one, Zalman ZM-K500. is it good? Any better options? I don't want to spend more than that.
Smushroomed
Banned
I'm looking for a new mechanical TKL.
I currently have a razor black widow, which I actually have no complaints about, I just want a TKL
I don't want anything extra like LED lighting or usb keys. I'm going to use it for gaming.
Something quiet is my only preference so I guess I'm looking for brown switches?
edit: did some browsing, any one have anything to say about this?
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=215
I currently have a razor black widow, which I actually have no complaints about, I just want a TKL
I don't want anything extra like LED lighting or usb keys. I'm going to use it for gaming.
Something quiet is my only preference so I guess I'm looking for brown switches?
edit: did some browsing, any one have anything to say about this?
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=215
MrRoderick
Member
Hey I just picked up a filco ninja 2, first mechanical keyboard. It is wonderful!
You want either Cherry brown switches, or Topre switches. These have a substantially different feel and sound. The Topre switches are quieter and generally considered to be higher quality. I use both on a daily basis and like the Topres better. The downside is that keyboards with Topres cost roughly twice as much.
For a plain, normal tenkeyless board with Cherry switches you have many good options. The Ducky you linked is one of them. Other brands I'd look at are Filco and Leopold.
You might also want to consider Leopold FC660. It's more compact and ergonomic than the typical tenkeyless layout, while still having full-size arrow keys. I'd buy one in a heartbeat if only it had dedicated function keys, but I need the function keys too much to give them up.
TheContact
Member
Love my cherry keys on my steelseries but it does have a good amount of resistance to them