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I'm looking for suggestions for a new keyboard for my PC.
Background: Over the years, I've used Teletype Model 38, DEC VT100, IBM Model M, and at least 20 other keyboards that came with whatever machine I was working with at the time.
My current, membrane, keyboard was inexpensive but after a couple years is already starting to occasionally drp out key presses and at other times rrrepeat them.
It would need to work with my current, IBM compatible, computer so a USB or wireless connection is necessary. A plus would be the ability in the future to use it with a tablet or mobile phone.
So, I'm looking for a new keyboard. I liked the Model M as there was no question when a key was pressed, but I'd prefer something quieter, and most importantly, with a much lighter touch. I am not interested in fancy lights or extra gaming keys, just a good, reasonably-priced keyboard.
I've read reports that Cherry and Razer have come out with mechanical switch keyboards but have not had an opportunity to try any of them. So, what say you fellow Soylents? Which keyboard(s) have you used and would recommend? (Ones to avoid would be welcome, too.)
(Score: 3, Informative) by martyb on Friday July 25 2014, @10:38PM
Many thanks to all who have responded already!
Unfortunately, there is no Fryes or MicroCenter near me. At best, there's BestBuy and Staples, and I'll be checking things out there. The selections there are, unfortunately, quite limited hence my query to the community.
I realize, now, that I should have been clearer in what I was seeking:
As for layout, I'm interested in the full windows 104-key layout. So, take a look at the graphic at the extreme bottom of Computer Keyboard [wikipedia.org] on wikipedia.
From the comment by Buck Feta [soylentnews.org] with a link to: keyboardco [keyboardco.com], it looks like a keyboard using Cherry Brown switches would be ideal.
Thanks again everyone and please keep the suggestions coming!
P.S. Any suggestions on connectors and future-proofing? I can use USB at the moment. My current keyboard has a USB dongle that connects the keyboard (and mouse) over 802.11b. I've not used bluetooth but have heard mixed things about them. I'd appreciate any experiences you'd care to share!
Wit is intellect, dancing.
(Score: 1, Informative) by Anonymous Coward on Friday July 25 2014, @10:51PM
> As for layout, I'm interested in the full windows 104-key layout.
In case anyone else is reading this, I really like my minimalist ~68 key "happy hacking" keyboards. [wikipedia.org] Bought 3 of them over ten years ago for various systems in my house and they are all still going strong. These are high-quality keyboards for professional programmers that take up minimal desk space and I don't miss the number pad or other keys at all.
Here's the amazon listing with reviews. [amazon.com] It's been so long I really don't remember where I bought mine from.