What is the best alternative to Kinesis Freestyle2 w/ VIP3?

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score 68 · Answer 1

ErgoDox EZ

Top Pro

Ultimate customizability

You can map any key to any position easily using a simple GUI, including making hardware key layers. And, since the firmware is open source, you can modify it to do anything you want. Many of the hardware components can also be altered/replaced by equivalent parts. See More

Top Con

Expensive

Getting a complete kit from Massdrop costs about $400. Sourcing each part individually ends up a bit under $200. You can get a preassembled keyboard from ergodox-ez.com from 270$ with 2 year warranty See More

Top Pro

Split design lets you optimize positioning

You can arrange each side of the keyboard to match your hand positions. Helps keep your body straight and improve your posture. See More

Top Con

Firmware has some hiccups sometimes

Usually this doesn't get in your way, but sometimes it does. The repository is actively developed, so errors should be resolved within no time, or at least you get decent help. See More

Top Pro

Comfortable for those with broad shoulders and large hands

Because of its split design, the ErgoDox lets you optimize the positioning of its halves according to what's best for your body shape, even if you have broad shoulders and large hands. See More

Top Con

Needs to be assembled

This can be fun, but some people just want a working keyboard without having to spend three hours with a soldering iron. It's tricky to find pre-assembled ErgoDoxes, and they're not mass-produced. It is also possible to commission an enthusiast to build one up as well. Some Massdrops of the ErgoDox kit did came with an option allowing one to choose whether to have it pre-made or not. However, you can order and ErgoDox EZ preassembled here. See More

Top Pro

Open source

The ErgoDox has an open design, so if you want to modify anything at all, you can fork the Github repository. See More

Top Con

Tends to move around during use

Due to its split structure and lack of sturdiness, it tends to move during use. See More

Top Pro

Many easily accessible keys for touch typists

There are more keys which are easily accessible for touch typists than on common keyboards. See More

Top Con

Difficult to source individual components

You have to either source the individual components and build it yourself or wait for a Massdrop group purchase. However, you can order it preassembled here. See More

Top Pro

More actions for the thumb

Unlike other keyboards, like the Lexmark M15 and Cherry G80-5000, where the only action performable by the thumbs is punching the spacebar, ErgoDox has extra keys placed near the spacebar, within thumb reach. This prevents the thumbs from being a bit redundant. See More

Top Con

Hard to use with small hands

Because of its size, it's hard to use for those who have small hands. See More

Top Pro

Key rows are aligned

Almost all the keyboards have a small row offset (for example, on a standard QWERTY keyboard, the A key is not directly below the Q key. On the ErgoDox, this isn't the case: keys form straight columns. Together with the movability of the two parts you can stretch your fingers straight on, not slightly sidewards. This helps with touch typing, since you just need to stretch your fingers straight onward to reach the key above, rather than stretching it onwards and sideways. See More

Top Pro

Firmware updates

Because of the nature of ErgoDox, within an open source community, there are advancements in firmware being made continuously. See More

Top Pro

Customization settings saved on the keyboard

With most programmable keyboards, you have to use their software in order to save and reuse your customizations. Using such keyboards on other systems "degrades" them to their default setting. Since with the ErgoDox the settings are saved directly on the keyboard, no matter the system where you're using it, your macros, tap dances and layers are always available. See More

Top Pro

Split design forces correct hand position

The Ergodox doesn't allow you to reach over the centerline to hit T and H with a single finger, or whatever other bad habits you might have. The split design forces you to keep your hands in the right position. See More

Top Pro

ErgoDox EZ offers a 2-year warranty

The pre-assembled version offers an extensive 2-year warranty, provided you haven't taken it apart or physically broken it. See More

Top Pro

Small to carry

You can put the keyboards together, making it very easy to carry around. See More

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68 7

score 48 · Answer 2

Ultimate Hacking Keyboard

Top Pro

Ergonomic design

The UHK has a split design, since two keyboard halves result in a more natural typing posture. The halves are connected by a bridge cable, which expands and contracts as needed, occupying minimal desk space. The halves can be merged together as one, which is useful for transportation purposes or if you happen to prefer a one-piece keyboard. See More

Top Con

Has a learning curve after moving from full-sized keyboard

As with other 60% keyboards, a learning period is required for adjusting to the non-letter key positions. See More

Top Pro

Programmable

Through the use of an app called Agent, users can configure the UHK to their liking. See More

Top Con

Hard to use in parallel with standard keyboards

If you have multiple work environments (such as Home & Office) with different keyboards, the unique layout of this keyboard requires constant adjustments between the environments. See More

Top Pro

Feature customization via add-on modules

You can attach trackpoint, trackball, trackpad and additional key clusters to the board. This allows for extensive feature customization, for increased productivity and convenience. See More

Top Pro

No need to leave the home row

For maximum touch-typing productivity, one's hands should not leave the home row frequently. With conventional keyboards, this is not the case when navigation and function keys need to be used. On the HKB, via a thumb key press, several function layers can be activated, turning the home row keys into function keys. See More

Top Pro

Modular and disassembly friendly

The UHK is modular and has disassembly instructions embossed onto components and even printed on the circuit board. It records use data, so when key switches have reached the end of its lifespan, users can replace them. See More

Specs

Weight:1kg

Cable:180cm, removable

Length:left: 13.5cm, right: 15.4cm, combined 28.9cm

Available Switches:Kailh (Blue, Brown, Red, Black), Cherry (Green, Clear)

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48 6

score 83 · Answer 3

Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000

Top Pro

Ergonomic and comfortable

The 4000 keyboard is designed to be more comfortable to type on than regular rectangular keyboards. Its key rows curve to match the human hands’ angled resting position, eliminating the wrist strain that happens with regular keyboards. This is an important factor in reducing the risk of injury. See More

Top Con

The space bar is hard to press

While it's new, the space bar needs quite some force to be pressed down. See More

Top Pro

Great value for money

With a retail price of $39.04, this keyboard is considerably more affordable than most ergonomic keyboards on the market. It doesn’t have the same caliber as more premium keyboards, but it’s a top option for those on a budget who are looking for a good ergonomic option. See More

Top Con

No mechanical switches

The 4000 keyboard uses the same traditional rubber dome switches found on common keyboards, unlike the mechanical switches found on many other good programming keyboards. Rubber dome switches are inconsistent and always need to be bottomed out with each key press. They are also not especially durable, lasting about a quarter of the time their mechanical counterparts last. It should be noted this switch option is one of the main reasons why this keyboard is so affordable. See More

Top Pro

Can be used with a negative tilt

While the 4000 keyboard can be raised at the back like conventional keyboards, it also comes with a detachable platform that raises the front of the keyboard. This creates a negative tilt more natural to the arm-hand alignment. See More

Top Con

Key printing gets erased after a short time

After 2 or 3 months of use, the most used keys loose their printed symbols. See More

Top Pro

Ergonomic wrist support

Foam cushions support one’s wrists while typing, preventing “hanging hands,” which can cause fatigue over extended periods. See More

Top Con

Not very portable

With external dimensions of 19.8’’ x 10.3’’ x 3.26’’ (503 mm x 262 mm x 82.8 mm) and weighing 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg), this keyboard is not easy to carry around. See More

Top Pro

Great for people with big hands

Due to its size, this keyboard is great for those who have big hands. See More

Top Con

Noisy

Despite not using mechanical switches, the 4000 keyboard is quite noisy, so it’s not the best pick for those looking for a silent option. See More

Top Pro

Several additional, personalizable keys

This keyboard has hotkeys for things like media control, zoom or launching applications. The function keys also have secondary functions, activated by an F-lock key. Some of them are customizable via a companion app (for Windows and macOS) that ships with the keyboard. See More

Top Con

Key layout is hard to reconfigure

It's hard to reconfigure the 4000's default key layout. Some users would like to have the option of moving a few keys around, which is very difficult with this keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Key swapping for macOS

On macOS, users have the option of swapping the Windows and Alt keys, so they match the Option and Command key order found on standard Apple keyboards, even if no alternate keycaps or stickers are provided for use with this OS. See More

Top Con

No USB ports

Can't connect any external devices, since there aren't any USB ports. See More

Top Pro

Standard ancillary key layout

The number pad, the arrow keys, Insert, Home etc. are all in their standard positions which is not common on Ergonomic keyboards. See More

Top Con

Almost all the keys are hard to press

The keys can feel too rigid due to the force needed to press them down. This hinders the typing process, making it less fluid. See More

Top Con

Most of the extra functionality keys are not supported on macOS

This keyboard has a lot of extra functionality keys useful for daily tasks, like media controls or back/forward keys. Unfortunately, most of them are not supported on macOS, even after driver installation. See More

Top Con

Only solves some RSI problems

While this does help with many RSI problems, it still has the ergonomic disadvantages of a standard keyboard layout. See More

Top Con

No right hand Windows key

There is no right hand Windows key. See More

Specs

Weight:1.3 kg / 2.9 lbs

83 14

score 108 · Answer 4

Kinesis Advantage2

Top Pro

Clusters of keys under each thumb means less reaching

Having multiple keys under the thumbs lets you keep the rest of your hands still, and helps prevent reaching. For example, the backspace key on a regular keyboard is way in the top right corner, while on the Kinesis keyboard it's under the left thumb. So, to hit the backspace button you just need to move your thumb while on regular keyboards you need to move your whole right hand and stretch your pinky to reach it. See More

Top Con

Can be a bit flakey at times

The downside of this keyboard is that it can occasionally act up. The biggest problem is that the up-event for a key occasionally gets lost and then some key will auto-repeat until you press it again. Or even worse, it's a key that has no visible effect like an Alt key, and then you have to figure out which key it is that is in the virtual down position, and press it again. It has had this same problem for the last 20 years. You learn to live with it for the sake of your hands. See More

Top Pro

Optimised, ergonomic shape that significantly reduces the risk of RSI

This keyboard is sculpted to fit the curvature of your hand more naturally than regular flat boards. This helps reduce the risks of suffering repetitive strain injuries. See More

Top Con

Not great for gaming

This keyboard is amazing for typing, but not great for gaming. Many games make intensive keys such as the Arrow keys or the Alt, Control and Shift keys. With this keyboard, it's not very comfortable to use them so frequently. See More

Top Pro

No need to constantly move hands sideways

One of this keyboard's best features is that the keys are vertically aligned in straight columns, so that you're not constantly exercising the muscles to move your fingers slightly to the left or to the right. It makes a huge difference. See More

Top Con

Proficiency means overcoming a learning curve

Becoming an expert at using this keyboard’s optimized design needs time and patience, since it’s so different from what most people are used to. Some of its drastic layout changes can be disorienting at first. For example, the four arrow keys are separated: up and down on the right side cluster; left and right on the left side cluster. It’s also built to enforce healthier hand posture and movements, that may feel weird at first. For instance, the keyboard trains you (using a deactivatable key feedback) to press keys smoothly instead of smashing down, which reduces hand strain. Usually, it takes between two to four weeks of regular use to feel completely comfortable at using this keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Comfortable palm rests

The large, raised palm rests provide comfort while typing. See More

Top Con

Not for heavy shortcut users

Top Pro

Prepared for macOS, Windows and Linux

Besides the option of easily changing between pre-programmed layouts of these 3 systems, extra OS-specific keycaps come with the keyboard. See More

Top Con

Different switches for the function keys

The functions keys are not build with the same switches than the other keys: they use Cherry ML switches instead of Cherry MX Brown switches. Because of their shorter travel distance, the ML feels quite different. It's awkward to have such different sensations for different parts of the keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Very programmable

This keyboard has several programmable options, like Macro recording, key remapping or keyboard layout (the keyboard can be changed from QWERTY to Dvorak with the touch of a button). See More

Top Con

Quite bulky, therefore not very portable

As a direct consequence of its unconventional ergonomic shape, the Advantage2 is quite bulky. At 16.5 in’ x 8 in’ x 2.88 in’ (419 mm x 203 mm x 73 mm), it's not the most portable keyboard. See More

Top Pro

No undesirable movements

Because of its size, this keyboard stands firmly on the desk and doesn't suffer from unwanted movement during use. See More

Top Pro

Dvorak built in

The keyboard has the dvorak layout built in, so you can switch with a keypress. See More

Top Pro

Tweaked layout that saves your hands

This keyboard has numerous ergonomic advantages over a keyboard with a standard layout. Some of them are obvious and some are subtle, but they are synergistic and result in a typing experience that places far less stress on the hands. Learning a tweaked keyboard layout is a small price to pay to avoid RSI (repetitive strain injury). See More

Top Pro

No thumb conflict over the spacebar

On common keyboards, both thumbs rest over the spacebar, meaning they can knock against each other. On the Advantage 2 keyboard, only one thumb can press the keyboard, eliminating this problem. See More

Top Pro

Good for learning how to touch type

This layout, because of its uniqueness, is perfect to learn touch typing. Even for those that were never able to learn it with common keyboards. It still requires practice to get proficient, of course. See More

Specs

Weight:2.2 lbs. (1 kg.)

Dimensions:16.5 x 8 x 2.9in. (42 x 20 x 7.3cm.)

Warranty:3 years

Available Switches:Cherry MX Brown

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108 18

score 43 · Answer 5

Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard

Top Pro

Ergonomically shaped

Our hands naturally rest angled when in front of us, and this keyboard has been built to conform to that, rather than having us awkwardly trying to straighten our hands on a regular flat keyboard, putting strain on our wrists. The keyboard is also curved into a dome shape, which contributes to its ergonomic shape. See More

Top Con

Functions keys are not easy to use

The function keys are too small. See More

Top Pro

Quiet

Thanks to the scissor switches used, this keyboard is very quiet. See More

Top Con

Bad separation of key clusters

The Page Up, Page Down, Home, Insert, End, Delete and Arrow keys are squeezed together, right next to Enter, right Shift and right Control, without any physical barrier/marker to separate the two key clusters. Since this is not an usual layout, it is disorienting for users. See More

Top Pro

Low impact keys

The Sculpt's keys absorb impact quite well, avoiding injuries related to repetitive movements. See More

Top Con

Less durable than flat keyboards

Because of its shape and thin design, this keyboard will break more easily than the typical, flat rectangular keyboards. This makes it less portable, unless you're very careful. See More

Top Pro

Cushioned palm rest

This keyboard has a comfortable, cushioned palm rest. See More

Top Con

The key switches used aren't ideal for long typing sessions

The switches used are scissor switches, which are the ones used in many laptops. They provide shallow keystrokes which don't give the same feedback as a mechanical keyboard. These keys need to be bottomed out in order to activate, which creates some strain on your finger's joints as they are constantly hitting the bottom of the stroke. Scissor switches are also known to be less accurate than other keyboards. See More

Top Pro

Clean look and flexible positioning due to wireless connection

This keyboard connects wirelessly to the computer. This offers many benefits, such as a clean, tidy look (no cable mess) or a flexible positioning (greater use range). On top of that, it doesn't occupy one of the ports. See More

Top Con

Some keys aren't very reliable

Some keys (like Backspace or Enter), if not pressed perfectly perpendicularly, hit the shelf of the frame and get blocked on their way down. This means the stroke isn't registered and, on top of that, feels awkward. On the (slightly) bright side, this awkward feel acts as feedback that the key wasn't fully pressed. See More

Top Pro

Number pad can be placed where it is more convenient

Since the number pad is a separate part from the main keyboard, its position can adjusted and it can be moved out of the way when it isn't being used. This allows for a more ergonomic mouse use, since it can be placed closer to the keyboard, just like in a tenkeyless design. See More

Top Pro

Very comfortable

Using this keyboard with vim bindings you can sometimes nearly forget there's a keyboard between you and the editor. See More

Top Pro

Slider switch for special functions

Rather than the usual Fn key that needs to be pressed in combination with other keys to activate said key's secondary functions, the Sculpt has a slider switch that does this. This makes it easier to default to those functions. See More

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43 12

score 4 · Answer 6

Logitech K810

Top Pro

Rechargeable

And it can operate while charging! See More

Top Con

Price

But no other keyboard has all of the K810 qualities. See More

Top Pro

Premium build

Steel, keys mechanism, everything feels like a top of the notch product. See More

Top Pro

Wireless keyboard with automatic backlight

There are not many products that propose both wireless and backlighting. Plus on the K810 backlight is handled automatically, and it's working like a charm. See More

Top Pro

Shortcuts

Home/End/PageUp/PageUp with Fn+arrow, contextual menu with Fn+Right Ctrl, etc. The keyboard is small but not a key is missing. See More

Top Pro

Compact format

Perfect to gain a lot of space on your desk. See More

4 0

score 3 · Answer 7

Logitech ERGO K860

Top Pro

Full-size keyboard

Heavily keyboard-addicted touch typists will like that it has a full-size layout but is still very compact. See More

Top Con

No backlight

To save battery life, there is no backlighting. See More

Top Pro

Front-located feet

You can lift the keyboard at the front to match your natural arm position instead of the common feet at back of the keyboard. See More

Top Con

Bluetooth only, no cable

You can not wake your computer up with the keyboard anymore and have to push the power button, because there is no Bluetooth connection while the computer is suspended. See More

Top Pro

Cross-platform key labels

Instead of printing a Windows logo on the key caps, they labeled the keys with PC and mac commands. This works also well for Linux users. See More

Top Pro

Multiple device connections

You can connect the keyboard to up to three devices. For example, your Android Phone, iPhone and your computer and easily switch between the profiles. See More

Top Pro

Media Keys

Pro: it has media keys Con: you have to decide between media and F-keys or press the fn-key. See More

Top Pro

Dedicated calculator key

Top Pro

Dedicated lock key

In the top right corner, it has a lock key, so you don't have to press win+L to lock your screen at the office. See More

Top Pro

Feels very solid

There is no slipping on the desk and is has a pleasant durable overall feeling when typing or carrying around. See More

Top Pro

Looks damn beautiful

It has a very futuristic and minimalistic style with the dark-gray body and its rounded corners. See More

Top Pro

Very quiet, top option for office environment

Top Pro

Common layout

With this keyboard, it's easy to switch between ergonomic and non-ergonomic keyboards. See More

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3 0

score 7 · Answer 8

Noppoo Choc Mini

Top Pro

5-Key rollover

Registers up to 5 keys pressed simultaneously. See More

Top Pro

Portable

This is a compact keyboard, so it's very portable. See More

Top Pro

Good quality mechanical switches

The Choc Mini uses Cherry mechanical switches, know for their durability and reliability. See More

7 0

score 53 · Answer 9

Vortex KBC Poker II

Top Pro

Easily customizable (both programmatically and with new keys)

It has a 100% standard ANSI layout and you can program keys to perform media control functions if desired. See More

Top Con

Suffers from side flex

Since it doesn't have a faceplate, the Vortex KBC Poker II suffers from a bit of flex on its sides. See More

Top Pro

Doesn't take much space

The Poker II takes less space than most keyboards, since it's tenkeyless. See More

Top Pro

Great quality

The materials and overall design is of good quality. See More

Specs

Platforms:Windows, Mac, GNU/Linux

Dimensions:11.6×4×1.5 in. (29.5×10.2×3.8 cm.)

Warranty:1-year

Available Switches:Cherry MX (Black/Blue/Brown/Red)

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53 3

score 47 · Answer 10

Model M

Top Pro

Tactile and "clicky" buckling-spring key switches

Buckling-spring switches are hardly used anymore, but they give some of the best tactile response when activated. See More

Top Con

Noisy to type on

Floss mod is available for the Type M to make the keyboard a little more quiet. However, since it's still a mechanical keyboard, it will be noisy. This keyboard will not be appreciated in the office. See More

Top Pro

Very sturdy

Although heavier than a modern keyboard, this keyboard is built like a tank. There is no flex, and the components were built to last. See More

Top Con

Very hard to acquire

Out of stock for decades. See More

Top Pro

Solid construction

Quality construction, good materials. See More

Top Con

Ugly as hell

Top Pro

Clear separation of key groups

Top Con

Some driver issues with USB-only computers

Using a PS/2 to USB adapter can kill rollover. See More

Top Pro

Attitude

Clearly signals that I'm serious about what I do and how I do it. See More

Top Con

Very large

Measuring nearly 20'' x 8.5'' x 2" ( 50 x 21.5 x 5 cm), this is a very big keyboard. It will be hard to fit into a minimalistic styled desk setup, and might even be too big for some smaller desks. See More

Top Pro

Removable / replaceable keycaps.

With a hook beneath the caps that you have to get to, you can detach those keycaps and replace them with others. See More

Top Con

Lacks some modifier keys

The Model M lacks both of the meta/super/cmd/Windows (depending on the OS in question) keys and a menu key. See More

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47 3

score 91 · Answer 11

Leopold FC660C

Top Pro

Topre switches at a good price

Topre switches are a high end switch which typically cost a hefty premium. They have mechanical components protected underneath a rubber dome which makes them more durable. See More

Top Con

Can suffer from squeeky "plastic on plastic" rubbing with the case

Top Pro

Solid construction

The Leopold FC660C is a solid and well-build mechanical keyboard. In fact, it's heavier than the HHKB (Happy Hacking Keyboard). See More

Top Con

Very expensive

Top Pro

Topre switches are plate mounted

This board's keys don't feel bouncy thanks to it's topre switch design. Since the torpe switches are mounted directly on the plate, the board feels much stiffer overall. See More

Top Con

Non standard key sizes

Non standard key sizes means your aftermarket keycap options are limited to non-modifiers. This issue also exists with virtually every other keyboard that utilises the Topre switch. See More

Top Pro

Compact and portable footprint

If you love your keyboard enough to want to use it everywhere, it should be portable, especially if it's as expensive as this one is. The FC660C is very compact and easy to carry around. See More

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91 5

score 13 · Answer 12

TypeMatrix 2030

Top Pro

Ergonomic keyboard

The matrix layout reduces the travel distance of fingers. The keys feature membrane switches with double-scissor substrate, which are quite comfortable and very quiet. See More

Top Con

The skins won't last forever and are expensive to replace

Top Pro

The HOME, END, ARROW keys and PG UP, PG Down are close together and on a nice spot on the keyboard.

Top Con

Unusual layout

The central position of the Enter and Backspace keys, on top of the matrix arrangement, requires some time to get used to. See More

Top Pro

Compact

This keyboard has a small footprint, only 324 by 133 mm. This not only leaves more room on the desk, but also and mainly reduces the lateral travel distance of the right hand to grab the mouse. It still offers a good numeric keypad thanks to the matrix layout. See More

Top Pro

Skins

Numerous skins are available, making it simple to keep the keyboard clean and even quieter. They also allow for multiple layouts. See More

Top Pro

Increased typing accuracy

This keyboard's matrix layout allows for increased typing accuracy. It gets rid of the typewriter keyboard legacy in favor of a more logical layout. See More

Top Pro

BÉPO and Dvorak layouts

These layouts are not easy to find, especially the first one. While they don't necessarily increase the typing speed, they greatly reduce the travel distance of the fingers, and have a much better distribution of the keys than regular AZERTY or QWERTY layouts. See More

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13 1

score 11 · Answer 13

Realforce 87U Tenkeyless

Top Pro

Pleasant tactile feeling

This keyboard is equipped with mechanical Topre switches that offer a pleasant tactile experience that resembles playing the piano thanks to their complicated mechanical design. Additionally, Topre switched doesn't feel loose or wobbly since the mechanism is actually attached to a rigid plate that is placed above the printed circuit board. See More

Top Con

Tenkeyless design

This keyboard lacks numpad. See More

Top Pro

Doesn't produce much noise

You will not draw your colleagues and members of household insane while working with this keyboard since the Topre switches produce less noise than the traditional mechanical switches like the Cherry MX-Red or MX-Brown. See More

Top Con

Cable position is inconvenient

This might not be the best option for those who's workspace is limited since the keyboard's cable connector is located on the right side of the Realforce 87U - just at the place where you would typically place a mouse. See More

Top Pro

Key caps feel wonderfully silky

Top Pro

Compact

Thanks to its tenkeyless design the Realforce 87U is very compact and, therefore, doesn't take up too much space in a bag. See More

11 1

score 43 · Answer 14

Topre Realforce 104UB

Top Pro

Uses Topre key switches

Topre switches are a mix between mechanical switches and rubber dome switches. They have mechanical components, however they are covered beneath a rubber dome which protects the switch. They bring a mechanical feel, and mix it with the durability of a rubber dome switch. See More

Top Con

Generally not cheap

When the keyboard is not sourced directly from Japan the price may vary (usually higher). At the same time, sourcing directly from Japan may only save one a couple of dollars here and there (after including the forwarding/proxy costs). Ideally, the best solution is to shop around and do one's homework, to see what is more viable in the long run. See More

Top Pro

Variable key weights

Variable weights under each specific groups of keys was done in a bid to prevent RSI (repetitive strain injury). For instance, the groups of keys that the pinky finger hits are much lighter/softer than the rest of the groups of keys that are pressed by the rest of the fingers. Variable weights are achieved by having either heavier or lighter rubber domes. Whilst this idea is very useful for normal typing, for gaming it's not so great: for instance, when dealing with First Person Shooter games that requires WASD keys, those sets of keys feel very light when fingers other than the pinky are used to actuate them. See More

Top Con

Lack of customisation available

As is the case with virtually every Topre based keyboard, the 104UB comes with the disadvantage of lacking customisation options. This is mitigated by the fact Realforce generally sells a wide range of coloured keycaps for their keyboards. See More

Top Pro

Silenced option are available

Silenced Topre switches are designed for those who do not particularly like the sound of keyboards being tapped on or for those who may be concern over disturbing others when using a noisy keyboard. Silencing is done mainly by placing a material that absorbs the sound of the slider when it makes contact with the slider housing. This thereby prevents excessive noise when the key has been released after it has been actuated. The overall effect of a silenced Topre is quite astounding as it may give the impression one is on a cheap keyboard (obviously, the reality is actually the opposite). See More

Top Con

Keys can occassionally chatter

It's pretty rare (maybe once every 3 months), but Realforce keyboard keys can "chatter" (at least on the Realforce 87u and 103u keyboards). The key is not physically stuck in the keydown position, but nevertheless, the input will continuously and endlessly repeat as if the key was being held down. Further keyboard input is ignored until you unplug the USB cable. It's an uncommon annoyance, however an annoyance nonetheless. See More

Top Pro

PBT keycaps

PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps last longer than other keycap materials, and are more durable. They are more expensive than ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), which is why they are less commonly found. See More

Specs

Available Switches:Topre

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43 4

score 0 · Answer 15

Goldtouch Go!2 Mobile Keyboard

Top Pro

Tilt and angle are adjustable for maximum comfort and ergonomy

The height of the middle section is adjustable. The two halves can be angled up to 15 degrees so that your hands can stay at a comfortable, natural angle while typing. See More

Top Pro

Lightweight

Weighing only 1.3 pounds, this keyboard is light. See More

Top Pro

Very portable

This keyboard folds in half, which is nice, since it makes it conveniently smaller for transportation. Since it folds inwards, the keys are protected from external elements. See More

0 1

score 50 · Answer 16

Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch

Top Pro

Cherry stabilizers

The Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch uses Cherry stabilizers on all of its keys. See More

Top Con

No backlighting makes night-time use harder

Backlighting is common among high-end keyboards, but the Leopold doesn't have this feature. While most users looking for a mechanical keyboard will be able to type without looking at the keys, sometimes the special characters can still be hit or miss. In the dark, it might take a few tries before getting the intended special character. See More

Top Pro

Grainy keycaps

This Leopold keyboard ships with PBT (short for "polybutylene terephthalate") keycaps which have a grainy texture that some might prefer as it helps prevent fingers from slipping. They are also known to withstand wear well. See More

Top Con

Easily bends

This keyboard easily suffers from a bit of flexing, something other keyboards in this price range don't suffer from. See More

Top Pro

High quality components for a low price

The practical design of this keyboard is typical of high-end mechanical keyboards, only differing in the details. The matte black chassis has rounded corners and a simple design. This keyboard uses Cherry MX switches, common among keyboards that cost significantly more than the Leopold. See More

Top Con

No extra features (such as macros or USB passthrough)

This is an affordable board, therefore it lacks some of the more premium features found on more expensive boards. It doesn't have any macro capabilities which can be useful for heavy users (macros are recorded key sequences which can be activated with a single button press - these can be used in games to automate some tasks, or in other programs to get repetitive tasks done quicker). There's also no USB passthrough option. Some keyboards let you plug your mouse or a USB key right into the keyboard, which helps keep cables looking tidier, while being more accessible. See More

Top Pro

Removable USB cable

While this might not seem like a big deal, having to replace your beloved keyboard because the cable has been broken through frequent wrapping can be frustrating. See More

Specs

Available Switches:Cherry MX (Brown)

50 5

score 26 · Answer 17

Unicomp Ultra Classic White

Top Pro

Similar feel to the Model M

The Unicomp Ultra Classic White uses the same buckling spring keys as the famous IBM model M keyboard. See More

Top Con

It's heavy

This is a heavy keyboard, well over three pounds. See More

Top Pro

Satisfying tactile feel

In terms of tactile feel, this keyboard is very satisfying and communicative. There are never doubts on whether the switch registered or not. See More

Top Con

Heavy action

You have to press down harder than with modern keyboards. See More

Top Pro

Retro look

It has a somewhat retro look, since it looks a bit like an Amiga. See More

Top Pro

More comfortable for big hands

Because it has more space between keys than a modern keyboard. See More

26 3

score 8 · Answer 18

Azio Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Top Pro

RGB model available under $100 as well

While the RGB model costs $80, it provides full per-key RGB lighting complete with different effects. While this doesn't offer any extra functionality, it adds some flashiness to your build. See More

Top Con

Uses knockoff switches

This keyboard uses the Kailh switches instead of the more common Cherry MX switches. Kailh switches are made in China instead of Germany where the Cherry MX switches are made. The Kailh switches don't last as long, and the quality testing isn't as vigorous as Cherry's. The switch naming scheme is very similar, however Kailh switches are typically heavier than the comparable Cherry switches. See More

Top Pro

White backlight has adjustable brightness levels

The base model of the keyboard offers a white backlight (no RGB), and the brightness of the backlight can be adjusted to suit the ambient lighting. See More

Top Con

Not adjustable/programmable, and no macro support

Other than brightness levels (and lighting modes for the RGB model), this is a basic board. It doesn't support macros, and there are no profiles you can adjust. This will be fine for most users, however heavy users will miss these features. See More

Top Pro

Choice of brown or blue switches

There are two switches to choose from: Kailh blue or Kailh brown. The blue switches offer a bump at the activation point as well as a click, while the brown switches offer a bump without the click. These switches are slightly heavier than the corresponding Cherry MX switches, but are similar in the way they act. See More

Top Pro

Minimal, sleek looking design

The bezels of the keyboard are small, and the design of the board is minimal instead of gaudy gamer-focused designs. It has a volume roller in the top right accompanied by the mute button which makes the board feel more premium than it's price point would suggest. The keys also appear to be floating - while most keyboards have their keys recessed behind the casing, these ones aren't. this leaves their side exposed, and makes for a more unique design than other boards. See More

8 1

score 121 · Answer 19

Filco Majestouch-2

Top Pro

Great build quality

Filco keyboards are renowned for their fantastic build quality. The keyboard weighs nearly 3 pounds and is built like a tank with virtually no flex in the backplate. See More

Top Con

Not backlit

The Filco does not come with key backlighting. This makes it harder to use in the dark (especially when hunting for special characters) and also isn't as flashy as RGB models. See More

Top Pro

Compact and simple design

The overall aesthetics of this keyboard are very clean and simple. The finish is not prone to fingerprints and the printing of the key labels on the side of the keycaps (on the ninja version) makes the keyboard look minimalistic while still being easy to see which keys are where. See More

Top Con

ABS keycaps aren't as durable as other materials

Some alternative keyboards have keycaps made from PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) which are more durable, have a nicer texture and generally are of better quality. Many Filco keyboard users switch out the default ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) keycaps for PBT caps, but this is going to cost you an extra ~$60. See More

Top Pro

Uses Costar stabilizers

Filcos use Costar stabilizers, which are generally preferable for people who prefer a "snappy" feel to their keyboards. See More

Top Con

Has no number pad

Some users require a number pad as it makes number crunching in spreadsheets much quicker, easier, as well as more accurate. See More

Top Pro

Key labels don't fade out

The ninja version has the key labels printed on the front of the keys to avoid them fading out over time. See More

Top Con

No calculator button

Unlike some other keyboards, the Majestouch-2 doesn't have a calculator shortcut button. See More

Top Pro

Highly moddable

There are a lot of mods available for this keyboard, including rounded keycaps or colored cases. See More

Specs

Available Switches:Cherry MX (Blue/Red/Brown/Black)

121 14

score 115 · Answer 20

Ducky Shine 3

Top Pro

Great build quality

The Shine 3 has a dual layer PCB, plate mounted switches, as well as laser printed & UV Coated keycaps. Ducky also has the reputation of having some of the highest quality boards on the market. See More

Top Con

No calculator button

There's no calculator shortcut button. See More

Top Pro

Highly customisable backlighting

The Shine 3 comes with fully programmable LED lights under each and every keycap. There are 6 backlight patterns to choose from: Full (100%), Breathing, Wave Marquee, Snake Marquee, Reactive mode, and Ripple mode. When you buy the Shine 3 you have the option of picking the color of the backlighting LEDS from Red, Green, Blue, White, Magenta & Orange. See More

Top Con

Keycaps error (in AZERTY at least) and no contextual menu key

Two little quirks in the layout: 1) The < and > keys are inverted (not a huge deal, but a bit annoying for a high end keyboard); 2) Even though most of the "interesting" special functions are on the right hand, they put the Fn key on the right, removing the contextual menu. Fortunately there is a duck key (for the right Windows key), which can be reprogrammed by creating a new driver. See More

Top Pro

Cherry MX switches

The mechanical Cherry switches have been known for 5 decades for their tactile quality and robustness. With the Shine 3, users can choose between Brown, Blue, Black or Red. See More

Top Con

No numpad

This keyboard lacks numpad. See More

Top Pro

On board memory for profile/setting storage

The Ducky will remember all your customization settings for the lighting and other profile settings even if you turn it off or use it on another computer. See More

Top Con

1 year only warranty

The warranty is limited to 1 year. See More

Top Pro

Uses Cherry Stabilizers

Some people prefer the design of the Cherry Stabilizers over the Costars as they are arguably quieter (no rattle and less sound when you bottom out). They are also better for frequent keycap swapping as it's easier to remove/add keys. On the other hand, they can be described as "mushy". See More

Top Con

Text on the ABS Keycaps can fade

The keycaps in the Ducky Shine are made from ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) so that backlighting is possible, however this material is known to quickly fade out after prolonged usage. To keep your keyboard looking like it's in top notch condition, you may need to replace the keycaps periodically. See More

Top Pro

USB cable is detachable and replaceable

The USB cable is detachable and comes with cable routing guides to let you control where the cable comes out of the keyboard. See More

Top Pro

Compact tenkeyless design

Without the numpad it takes up less space and allows you to place the keyboard and mouse closer together in a more natural position for your body which can help avoid injuries for people using it all the time. See More

Top Pro

Unique "logo" on spacebar to celebrate Chinese zodiac signs

The spacebar features a unique logo from the year when the keyboard was manufactured to celebrate various animals on the Chinese zodiac. Pictured is the YOTS variant or known as Year Of The Snake. The Ducky comes with a replacement spacebar with no design if you don't like the snake version. See More

Specs

Available Switches:Cherry MX (Blue/Red/Brown/Black)

115 14