I want a new keyboard

[Tu13erhead]

I've had a MS Natural Multimedia Keyboard for a while now, and I like how it types, but I'm starting to want something new. Possibly something that lights up, but more importantly I want something with a really good "feel" to it. I bought a Saitek Eclipse a few months ago but sold it because my MS Natural just felt better to type on.

I was looking at the Das Keyboard and it looks pretty cool. I like the fact that different keys are weighted differently - are there any other keyboards like this? The only thing holding me back from getting this is it's not a natural layout...

I don't need something with buttloads of extra buttons - the only ones I use on my MS Natural are the media/volume keys.

Any suggestions?

Edit: I already have an MX1000 so I'm not looking for a keyboard/mouse combo.

 

[fierydemise]

If your into gaming you might want to wait for the logitech G15 it looks awesome

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: fierydemise
If your into gaming you might want to wait for the logitech G15 it looks awesome

It does have a TON of extra features, but I'm really more concerned with the feel of it rather than the features. I'll have to try one when it hits stores.

 

[Peter]

In case you're after truly 1337 typing madskillz

http://store.ergocube.com/smartboard.html

The only halfway affordable keyboard that has a truly natural key grid (letting the fingers move in their natural directions). Plus you get very light force keys (via individual switches not cheapo rubber mat) and a narrow case that gets the mouse closer to home. The USB version has a 2-port hub and a power/sleep button on the backside.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: Peter
In case you're after truly 1337 typing madskillz

http://store.ergocube.com/smartboard.html

The only halfway affordable keyboard that has a truly natural key grid (letting the fingers move in their natural directions). Plus you get very light force keys (via individual switches not cheapo rubber mat) and a narrow case that gets the mouse closer to home. The USB version has a 2-port hub and a power/sleep button on the backside.

Have you used/owned this keyboard?

 

[Zepper]

My next keyboard will probably be one of these (but I'm weird like that) A4Tech Cordless Combos . Either the KB(S)-2548RP, -2550ZRP or the -2580RP with the number pad on the left (I'm NOT a lefty..) Let's see if anyone can fiure out why.
. I won't be using the mouse - my original Trackman Marble FX will be under my right hand until I can no longer keep it running.
. My current one is also an A4Tech (via Kensington) as they have one of the better (higher) key pressures available now and the keys aren't very sloppy. Some gravy is the unusually long reach of its RF signal.

.bh.

 

[Peter]

Originally posted by: Tu13erhead

Originally posted by: Peter
In case you're after truly 1337 typing madskillz

http://store.ergocube.com/smartboard.html

The only halfway affordable keyboard that has a truly natural key grid (letting the fingers move in their natural directions). Plus you get very light force keys (via individual switches not cheapo rubber mat) and a narrow case that gets the mouse closer to home. The USB version has a 2-port hub and a power/sleep button on the backside.

Have you used/owned this keyboard?

Yes, I actually have four of them in use - two at work for the office machine and the lab "patient", and another two at home. Once you've accomodated yourself to the "natural" key positions, you'll notice just how bad the "normal" layout actually is ...

I've been using nothing but these keyboards for three or four years now. RSI no more, no more finger cramps in the left hand either. They're worth their money.

Here's the link to its manual (old PS/2 version):

http://www.datadesktech.com/manuals/SBPCManual.pdf

It has a good high-res shot of the key layout. Notice how the keys aren't in slanted rows, but in fanned arrays for each hand. Also note how the "6" key is on the right half where it should be.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Hmm...very interesting. I'm definetly considering it.

Are there any good pages with these non-standard types of keyboards?

 

[Zepper]

http://www.Extremetech.com had some reviews of unusual input devices some time ago. I think there may also be some at http://www.hardwarecentral.com .

.bh.

 

[QuantumPion]

just get the G15.

 

[Pr0d1gy]

The Saitek Eclipse is pretty sweet.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: Pr0d1gy
The Saitek Eclipse is pretty sweet.

Like I said, I bought one and sold it soon after. It seemed quite small and I'm looking for something a bit nicer to type on. It's not an upgrade from my MS natural keyboard.

 

[Steve]

I can also speak to the SmartBoard. I bought it on the basis of Peter's advice. It feels great, I use it at home. I'm not an actual typer so I can get away with switching between it and a standard one at work. Who knows though, someday I may learn how to type and then want a second one for the office. For the record, I got mine at Solutions For Humans, who have the same price as ErgoCube but with free shipping. Their stock may not be as populated so just call their toll-free 1-800 number and check first. They and ErgoCube are about the only stores in the USA that stock this keyboard, at least that I've found.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: sm8000
I can also speak to the SmartBoard. I bought it on the basis of Peter's advice. It feels great, I use it at home. I'm not an actual typer so I can get away with switching between it and a standard one at work. Who knows though, someday I may learn how to type and then want a second one for the office. For the record, I got mine at Solutions For Humans, who have the same price as ErgoCube but with free shipping. Their stock may not be as populated so just call their toll-free 1-800 number and check first. They and ErgoCube are about the only stores in the USA that stock this keyboard, at least that I've found.

Sweet, thanks!

Can you (or Peter) notice a big difference between that keyboard and a normal natural keyboard?

 

[Steve]

Peter says he can, but that's because he's an actual typer, and there's a different feel to get accustomed too. I don't do typing proper, just my own two or three fingers per hand thing (looking sometimes, I admit), but I do notice the difference and I like the SmartBoard's feel better. Since I'm not an at-sight, double-digits WPM typer and my job doesn't need me to be, it's not as much of a stretch for me to switch back and forth. Just takes a little getting used to is all.

 

[Peter]

Originally posted by: Tu13erheadCan you (or Peter) notice a big difference between that keyboard and a normal natural keyboard?

Yes I can. Not so much when I'm using the SmartBoard, but when I'm forced to use a more normal keyboard elsewhere.
That in fact is why I have a second, USB-model SmartBoard at home. I take this one with me when I'm asked to do some typing at someone else's place.

 

[Tu13erhead]

I type properly, at about 80wpm, so I'm thinking maybe I will notice a difference. Hmm....

On another note, have either of you tried these "weighted" keyboards?

http://www.keytronic.com/home/products/specs/e03600qlps2.htm

 

[Tu13erhead]

I guess the biggest thing holding me back from buying a SmartBoard is that it's essentially paying $100 to make the keys non-staggered. True?

 

[RadioHead84]

Whats the point of that little display on the keyboard. That seems totally pointless. Who wants to look down at the keyboard while they are playing a game. No one hast time to do that in a FPS.


I want the LCD key one. when an dhow much is that gonna cost.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: RadioHead84
Whats the point of that little display on the keyboard. That seems totally pointless. Who wants to look down at the keyboard while they are playing a game. No one hast time to do that in a FPS.


I want the LCD key one. when an dhow much is that gonna cost.

 

[stlcardinals]

If you like your Microsoft keyboard, you should know that they are coming out with a new model next month. Here is an article on it.

Microsoft Ergonomic 4000

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: stlcardinals
If you like your Microsoft keyboard, you should know that they are coming out with a new model next month. Here is an article on it.

Microsoft Ergonomic 4000

Yep, I've checked it out. I'm not sure it's worth upgrading from this one, though. I'll have to try it out at Worst Buy when it comes out...see if I like it. Same goes with the new Logitech board.

As for the SmartBoard, I've decided against it because of its price. It's simply not worth $100 to line up the keys.

I think I'm going to try painting this keyboard with this paint, for now. It's cheaper and will give me that "new" feeling. I'll also paint my MX1000 to match.

http://www.duplicolor.com/products/mirage.html

 

[ZH]

Check out the Wolf Claw II. It's an excellent gaming keyboard. Quiet keys too.

<a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbar...m.sg/">http://www.wolfclaw.com.sg/</a>

 

[Tu13erhead]

Originally posted by: ZH
Check out the Wolf Claw II. It's an excellent gaming keyboard. Quiet keys too.

http://www.wolfclaw.com.sg/"><a target=_blank class=ftalternating...m.sg/">http://www.wolfclaw.com.sg/</a></a></a>

I actually had looked at that. Have you tried it? I couldn't seem to find anywhere to buy it...

 

[Steve]

Originally posted by: Tu13erhead
I guess the biggest thing holding me back from buying a SmartBoard is that it's essentially paying $100 to make the keys non-staggered. True?

$100 to be good to your hands is worth it. Give it another look. The function keys on mine are translucent blue/purple rather than what the picture shows. I think you may be able to get them with black keys too.