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4.7 star rating
0
What is the best alternative to KB Paradise v60?
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Vortex KBC Poker II
All
5
Experiences
Pros
3
Cons
1
Specs
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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Doesn't take much space
The Poker II takes less space than most keyboards, since it's tenkeyless.
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Top
Pro
Great quality
The materials and overall design is of good quality.
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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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$110
53
3
Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2
All
19
Experiences
Pros
8
Cons
10
Specs
Top
Pro
Compact & minimalistic
This keyboard uses a 60% layout that forgoes unneeded keys and merges the extra set of keys into the Fn layer. This mimics the behaviour found on most laptops due to size restrictions. Despite this, the more commonly used keys are left intact so that one does not feel too unfamiliar with the more compact layout. In addition to reducing the keyboard's size, it makes accessing virtually every key on the keyboard a breeze.
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Top
Con
The USB hub only has 100 mW power
The USB hub on the HHKB only has 100 mW of power, so it might struggle to power some devices.
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Top
Pro
Very well built
The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is a very well built keyboard that uses materials that give it a tough body resistant to bending.
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Top
Con
No dedicated arrow keys
The HHKB Pro JP is the only version that has dedicated arrow keys. On the HHKP2 , these functions have to be used via the Fn key.
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Top
Pro
Easily programmable and highly modifiable
This keyboard comes with the standard DIP switches to modify key behavior, but you can also completly swap out the controller board or even fork the TMK firmware to make your own keybindings in the firmware. Also available is the TMK controller board custom made for HHKB users.
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Top
Con
The traction feet are weak and the height feet are short
The traction feet do not actually provide much traction just as the height feet do not add that much height.
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Top
Pro
Designed to keep you in home row
Eiiti Wada (a Japanese computer pioneer), the co-developer of this keyboard, is a UNIX user and wanted to make life easier for programmers, particularly vim and emacs. He aimed for a keyboard layout that allowed fingers to stay in the home row most of the time. For example, he placed the Control key where the Caps Lock traditionally is. Most *nix users and general power users know that Control is used more often than Caps Lock for various shortcuts. Therefore, this key repositioning makes sense, since it makes access easier, using the pinky fingers while keeping one's hand on the "home row" of keys.
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Con
Lacks versatility outside of typing
The Pro 2’s design focus on typing and coding results in compromises that hinders other kinds of uses. It’s not an ideal keyboard for gaming: many games use the Function and arrow keys extensively and with the Pro 2, that requires double strokes or completely reconfiguring the key binds to fit the layout. Also, when it comes to crunching numbers and spreadsheet work, the absence of the arrow keys and a dedicated number pad makes this keyboard completely cumbersome and inefficient to use.
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Pro
Fluid key feel with Topre switches
This keyboard’s keys use Topre switches, which have a smooth, interesting feel: each key’s resistance is quickly lost once it starts being pressed. This sensation is accompanied by a unique and pleasantly organic “thock” sound. These hybrid switches have both a rubber dome and a spring which create the initial tactile bump feel and subsequent continuous action. If you want, these switches can be silenced, either by the manufacturer before purchasing or by following some DIY steps (easy to do, but time-consuming).
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Con
Expensive
There are many potential reasons as to why this keyboard is as expensive as it is, like the use of certain materials or the remarkable build quality. However, at the end of the day, its price is still quite higher than what most people are willing to spend on a keyboard.
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Pro
The keycaps are made from PBT and the inscriptions are dye-sublimated
PBT plastic is a very brittle material that is able to withstand high temperatures, doesn't yellow or wear out easily. The dye sublimation process ensures the inscriptions don't wear off easily (compared to pad printed ABS, for example). This process usually requires keycaps to withstand high amounts of heat for the ink to transfer from one material to the other, something that's not possible with other commonly used plastics, like ABS. Dye-sublimated inscriptions are also better than laser, etched, or engraved inscriptions in the sense that they don't get dirt or dust as easily.
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Con
Manufacturer warranty is only valid under certain conditions
The warranty conditions specifically imply that the one year manufacturer’s warranty is only valid within Japan or if bought within the US from elitekeyboards.com. For all other countries, the warranty is considered void by default.
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Top
Pro
Contributes to a more ergonomic workspace
The positioning of the numpad on traditional keyboards forces users to keep the mouse far on the right-hand side. With this keyboard's compact layout, a more ergonomic workspace can be created by allowing the mouse to be placed closer.
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Top
Con
It's popular because it is ridiculously overpriced, even though it's underfeatured
This keyboard's price is much too high for the features it offers.
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Top
Pro
The arrow keys, the page up/down keys and the media keys, among others, are easily usable via the Fn key, comfortably within reach
Even though there aren't dedicated keys for these functions, they can be easily used by pressing an easy-to-reach Fn key, placed just below Enter. Functions accessible via the Fn key are printed on the front of the keycap.
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Con
none
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Top
Con
No metal backplate
The HHKB lacks a metal backplate. Most decent mechanical keyboards have a metal backplate that is usually mounted to the underside of the PCB. The inclusion of such a plate, aside from increased build quality, adds more stability by dampening vibration during use.
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Con
Lack of keycap/switch customization options
Due to the nature of the Topre switch, customization is very limited. On other keyboards, like those with Cherry MX switches, it is easy to swap switches. With Topre switches, this is only possible if a keyboard with the right set of rubber domes/cups is bought. This leads to a higher customization cost.
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Specs
Weight:
1.17 lbs. (0.53 kg.)
Dimensions:
11.6×4.3×1.6 in. (29.4×11×4 cm.)
Warranty:
1-year (purchased in Japan/from elitekeyboards.com only)
Available Switches:
Topre
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Experiences
$348
145
17
CODE Keyboard
All
20
Experiences
Pros
11
Cons
8
Specs
Top
Pro
Available with 4 different kinds of Cherry MX switches
The CODE keyboard uses Cherry MX mechanical key switches, regarded as top-quality switches. They have impressive levels of durability and consistently pass, with high marks, all the performance tests they are subjected to. There are 4 kinds to choose from: Blue, Brown, Green or Clear. The MX Blues are the most common kind. They are responsive, but soft, and quite noisy. The MX Browns feel similar to the Blues, but slightly less noisy. The MX Greens are often described as heavy Blue switches. They still make the click sound and offer tactile feedback, however the activation force is 80g (for the Blue switches, it's 50g). The MX Clear switches have medium stiffness and a tactile response but are non-clicky (similar to Brown switches but heavier and with a greater tactile feedback). It's characteristics make it fantastic for general typing in office environments.
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Top
Con
Expensive
Compared to alternatives which offer RGB lighting, USB passthrough or other features, this keyboard is pretty expensive.
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Top
Pro
Solid construction
This keyboard is built solidly, using sturdy parts made of robust materials. It's mounted on a solid steel backplate, weighs over 2 pounds and has a dual layer PCB board. In this aspect, it’s comparable to other keyboards renowned for their build quality, such as those from the Ducky series.
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Top
Con
MX Blues are extremely loud
Not suitable in a space with other people.
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Top
Pro
Full white backlighting
The CODE keyboard comes with backlighting that feels similar to the one found on Apple products. You can pick from seven brightness levels and the onboard memory saves your lighting preferences. They also have gone to a lot of trouble getting the backlighting even by painting the backplate white and positioning the key symbols just right.
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Con
Sculpted keys make switching to Dvorak difficult
Dvorak is a keyboard layout that's an alternative to the commonly used QWERTY layout. While QWERTY was designed in the early days of typing, Dvorak is a more comfortable, modern layout which is technically superior. It is designed to have more flow than QWERTY, where the left hand does most of the work. Here, keys are strategically placed to spread the typing out more evenly. This creates better flow (left hand types a letter, then the right hand, then back to left and so on). In this keyboad, the keycaps are sculpted for the QWERTY layout, which means that, when you switch the keys around, each of the keys is at a slightly different angle than the one next to it.
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Pro
Minimalistic design
The CODE keyboard has a textured finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. It has no stickers or logos and the back-lighting is very clean and elegant.
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Top
Con
No wireless connection
CODE keyboards connect via USB. No Bluetooth or any other form of wireless connection is available.
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Top
Pro
Media control
Even though there aren't any dedicated media keys, the navigation cluster has secondary media control functions. To access these functions, the keys should be pressed in combination with the Fn key.
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Top
Con
Spare parts and keycap sets can only be obtained from third parties
The manufacturer doesn’t sell spare parts or keycap sets, so if users want to change the layout, they have to get these components from a third party.
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Pro
Removable/replaceable USB cable
Many keyboards come with a permanently attached cable, meaning that if it gets damaged, you need to get it fixed or replace the whole board. CODE keyboards come with removable cables, which means they're easy to replace if broken. This also has the added benefit of allowing for more customization options: braided cables, different coloured cables, or longer/shorter cables for different setups without having excess cables hanging around.
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Top
Con
Too small for some, particularly those with big hands
This keyboard's small size may prove difficult for some people to get accustomed to.
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Top
Pro
Highly configurable
DIP-switches on the back of the keyboard can be used to disable the Windows key, switch Caps Lock with Ctrl, swap Alt with Command (if you're on macOS), and change to QWERTY, Dvorak, or Colemak layouts.
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Top
Con
Lacks numpad
This is a tenkeyless keyboard which means that it doesn't have the numpad.
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Top
Pro
Available with or without a numeric keypad
Users can choose between versions that have and don't have a numeric keypad.
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Top
Con
It's hard to source the MX Clear version
The version of the CODE keyboard that comes with the MX Clear switches is constantly out of stock.
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Top
Pro
Consistent design
FN labels are on the front of the keycaps (i.e. media labels). This improves the user experience. A consistent design is an outstanding aspect in this keyboard.
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Top
Pro
Saves time with complex key combos
Key combos can be configured, supporting combinations of up to six keys. However, Ctrl, Alt and Shift don't count to this total. As a result, using these keys actually increases the combo key limit to nine.
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Top
Pro
Very portable
This keyboard’s detachable cable, dimensions, and weight make it extremely easy to carry around.
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Specs
Weight:
87-key: 2 lbs. (0.9 kg.); 104-key: 2.42 lbs. (1.09 kg.)
Dimensions:
87-key: 14.3×5.6×1.2 in. (36.3×14.2×3 cm.); 104- key: 17.5×5.6×1.2 in. (44.5×14.2×3 cm.)
Warranty:
2-year limited (mechanical/electrical defects)
Available Switches:
Cherry MX (Green/Clear/Brown/Blue)
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Experiences
$180
233
27
Truly Ergonomic 209
All
4
Experiences
Pros
4
Top
Pro
Blank keys look sly
The 209 comes with blank keycaps, which looks great. It also helps learning how to touch type.
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Top
Pro
Comfortable and ergonomic
The 209 is designed ergonomically, so it fits user's hands naturally, making it comfortable to use.
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Top
Pro
Non-staggered keys for easier typing
This keyboard's keys are arranged in a non-staggered way. This allows for a more efficient, easier typing process.
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Top
Pro
Key layout customization
The 209 key layout can be altered: users can move functions between keys as they please. Settings are firmware-saved, so they apply even if the keyboard is moved to a different computer.
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$249
5
2
Apple Wired Keyboard with Numeric Keypad
All
10
Experiences
Pros
7
Cons
3
Top
Pro
Less typing fatigue
The low profile is comfortable and the traveling distance is short. The keys are light to press, leading to less typing fatigue.
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Top
Con
Feels like a laptop keyboard
This keyboard feels like a laptop keyboard, since it's too flat. This isn't ideal for coding and makes this a pointless option for laptop owners who want an external keyboard.
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Top
Pro
Solid construction
Thanks to its thin aluminum enclosure, this keyboard is sturdy.
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Top
Con
Lacks feedback
Compared to other keyboards, it lacks a tactile feel when typing.
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Top
Pro
Aesthetically impressive
Nothing really comes close to the Apple device's aesthetic flair.
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Con
Easy for fingers to slide off the keys
Due to the keys having no concavity, it's easy for fingers to slide off the keys.
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Pro
Two USB ports
Handy for device connection
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Top
Pro
Widely available
Since this keyboard is mainstream, many big companies have it. So, if working at a big company, it is likely it is quickly available and for "free".
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Top
Pro
Ergonomic and good for fast typing
The low-profile, short-travel construction makes this keyboard more ergonomic than previous Apple keyboards and allows for fast typing because keys have only a small distance to go before registering.
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Pro
Portable
This keyboard is very light and can be easily carried around.
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Experiences
$48.49
21
10
Apple Wireless Keyboard
All
12
Experiences
Pros
8
Cons
4
Top
Con
Uncomfortable typing experience
Like the other Apple chiclet keyboards, it is not meant for touch typing: the switches are mushy and lack the tactile feedback, the keycaps are flat and so is the keyboard profile (not DSA or DCS, just plain ... flat).
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Top
Pro
Aesthetics
Visually more appealing than your typical all-black keyboard.
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Top
Con
It's missing some useful keys
It doesn't have dedicated Insert, Home, End, Page Up or Page Down keys.
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Top
Pro
Solid, but compact
Achieves a solid feel without feeling heavy or bulky.
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Top
Con
Tenkeyless
This keyboard doesn't have a numeric pad.
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Pro
Takes up little space
A small keyboard means your mouse and/or trackpad can be closer to you, while having your keyboard right in front of you.
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Top
Con
Works well only with Apple gear
It doesn't work properly with hardware that's not from Apple.
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Top
Pro
Wireless
Being wireless makes it easy to carry around in your backpack and also means less wire clutter on the desk.
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Top
Pro
Very lightweight keys
The easy-click keys allow minimum effort when typing.
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Top
Pro
Fully compatible with any MacBook series keyboard
You will be instantly familiar with MacBook keyboards.
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Top
Pro
Tenkeyless
this keyboard is compact since it doesn't have the numpad.
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Pro
Works with iPad
This keyboard can be used with iPads.
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Experiences
$139.99
39
19
Truly Ergonomic 227
All
8
Experiences
Pros
7
Cons
1
Top
Con
Cable hassle when carrying around
Since this keyboard's USB cable is not detachable, there's always cable mess to deal with when transporting it.
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Top
Pro
Comfortable and ergonomic
The 227 is designed ergonomically, so it fits user's hands naturally, making it comfortable to use.
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Top
Pro
Key layout customization
The 227 key layout can be altered: users can move functions between keys as they please. Settings are firmware-saved, so they apply even if the keyboard is moved to a different computer.
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Pro
Non-staggered keys for easier typing
This keyboard's keys are arranged in a non-staggered way. This allows for a more efficient, easier typing process.
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Pro
Detachable palmrest
The 227 keyboard has a detachable palmrest, for hand support during use. This helps reduce harmful strain.
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Pro
High quality mechanical switches
The 227 uses Cherry MX Brown switches, which are very reliable and accurate. They're quiet, soft and give a nice tactile feedback.
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Pro
Version with blank keys looks sly
There's a version that comes with blank keycaps, which looks great. It also helps learning how to touch type.
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Pro
Large Alt keys
This keyboard has large Alt keys, which is useful for key combinations that use Alt.
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Experiences
$250
5
4
Noppoo Choc Mini
All
3
Experiences
Pros
3
Top
Pro
5-Key rollover
Registers up to 5 keys pressed simultaneously.
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Top
Pro
Portable
This is a compact keyboard, so it's very portable.
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Top
Pro
Good quality mechanical switches
The Choc Mini uses Cherry mechanical switches, know for their durability and reliability.
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$100
7
0
Logitech K810
All
6
Experiences
Pros
5
Cons
1
Top
Pro
Rechargeable
And it can operate while charging!
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Top
Con
Price
But no other keyboard has all of the K810 qualities.
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Top
Pro
Premium build
Steel, keys mechanism, everything feels like a top of the notch product.
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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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Compact format
Perfect to gain a lot of space on your desk.
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$76.11
4
0
Model M
All
12
Experiences
Pros
6
Cons
6
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.
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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.
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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.
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Top
Con
Very hard to acquire
Out of stock for decades.
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Top
Pro
Solid construction
Quality construction, good materials.
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Top
Con
Ugly as hell
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Top
Pro
Clear separation of key groups
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Top
Con
Some driver issues with USB-only computers
Using a PS/2 to USB adapter can kill rollover.
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Top
Pro
Attitude
Clearly signals that I'm serious about what I do and how I do it.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Experiences
$150.00
47
3
Leopold FC660C
All
7
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
3
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.
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Top
Con
Can suffer from squeeky "plastic on plastic" rubbing with the case
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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).
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Top
Con
Very expensive
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Experiences
$642.60
91
5
TypeMatrix 2030
All
8
Experiences
Pros
6
Cons
2
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.
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Top
Con
The skins won't last forever and are expensive to replace
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Top
Pro
The HOME, END, ARROW keys and PG UP, PG Down are close together and on a nice spot on the keyboard.
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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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Skins
Numerous skins are available, making it simple to keep the keyboard clean and even quieter. They also allow for multiple layouts.
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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.
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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.
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Experiences
$76
13
1
Logitech ERGO K860
All
13
Experiences
Pros
11
Cons
2
Top
Pro
Full-size keyboard
Heavily keyboard-addicted touch typists will like that it has a full-size layout but is still very compact.
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Top
Con
No backlight
To save battery life, there is no backlighting.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Media Keys
Pro: it has media keys Con: you have to decide between media and F-keys or press the fn-key.
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Top
Pro
Dedicated calculator key
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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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Looks damn beautiful
It has a very futuristic and minimalistic style with the dark-gray body and its rounded corners.
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Top
Pro
Very quiet, top option for office environment
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Pro
Common layout
With this keyboard, it's easy to switch between ergonomic and non-ergonomic keyboards.
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Experiences
129.99
3
0
Realforce 87U Tenkeyless
All
6
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
2
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.
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Top
Con
Tenkeyless design
This keyboard lacks numpad.
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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.
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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.
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Top
Pro
Key caps feel wonderfully silky
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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.
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$239.00
11
1
Kinesis Freestyle2 w/ VIP3
All
6
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
2
Top
Pro
Ergonomic design
The Freestyle 2 has an ergonomic design, aimed to promote healthier and more comfortable typing.
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Top
Con
Not very solid
This keyboard's construction is not very sturdy and it feels flimsy.
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Top
Pro
Reduces wrist pain
The wrist support offered by this keyboard alleviates wrist strain.
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Top
Con
Bad for spreadsheet work
Since it has no numeric pad, the Freestyle 2 is not convenient for spreadsheet work.
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Pro
Encourages "proper" touch typing
By splitting the left and right hand of the keyboard and leaving out a numeric pad it encourages users to use the home row numbers as typically taught in American English typing classes.
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Pro
Flexible positioning
The left and right side of the keyboard can be positioned independently and tilted as desired.
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$134
19
2
Topre Realforce 104UB
All
8
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
3
Specs
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Specs
Available Switches:
Topre
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Experiences
$222.90
43
4
Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch
All
8
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
3
Specs
Top
Pro
Cherry stabilizers
The Leopold Tenkeyless Tactile Touch uses Cherry stabilizers on all of its keys.
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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.
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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.
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Con
Easily bends
This keyboard easily suffers from a bit of flexing, something other keyboards in this price range don't suffer from.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Specs
Available Switches:
Cherry MX (Brown)
Layout:
Ten key-less
USB Hub:
No
Key backlighting:
No
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Experiences
$89.00
50
5
Unicomp Ultra Classic White
All
6
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
2
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.
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Con
It's heavy
This is a heavy keyboard, well over three pounds.
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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.
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Con
Heavy action
You have to press down harder than with modern keyboards.
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Pro
Retro look
It has a somewhat retro look, since it looks a bit like an Amiga.
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Top
Pro
More comfortable for big hands
Because it has more space between keys than a modern keyboard.
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$84.00
26
3
Azio Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
All
6
Experiences
Pros
4
Cons
2
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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$70
8
1
ErgoDox EZ
All
18
Experiences
Pros
12
Cons
6
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Pro
Open source
The ErgoDox has an open design, so if you want to modify anything at all, you can fork the Github repository.
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Top
Con
Tends to move around during use
Due to its split structure and lack of sturdiness, it tends to move during use.
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Top
Pro
Many easily accessible keys for touch typists
There are more keys which are easily accessible for touch typists than on common keyboards.
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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.
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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.
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Con
Hard to use with small hands
Because of its size, it's hard to use for those who have small hands.
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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.
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Pro
Firmware updates
Because of the nature of ErgoDox, within an open source community, there are advancements in firmware being made continuously.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Pro
Small to carry
You can put the keyboards together, making it very easy to carry around.
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Experiences
$270.00
69
7
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