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Question

Best current mechanical keyboards for typists?

Dec 29, 2014 7:06AM PST

After too many years of wearing out membrane-type keyboards (the rubber domes become mushy-feeling after a few months of heavy usage) I've decided to treat myself to a high-quality mechanical keyboard. The problem is, I'm a touch-typist who uses a keyboard to write, while most of the mechanical keyboards I've seen are designed for gamers. I want a full-size (including numeric keypad) keyboard that's designed for professional typists, and preferably one without loudly-clicking keys. (I can live with a little clickiness.)

Until recently I probably would have just bought a Das Keyboard Model S Professional and be done with it; but I've seen recent user reports of quality issues (mainly with the spacebar) that seem to be related to one of Das Keyboard's suppliers. Are these problems overblown? Have they been resolved? Or should I look elsewhere for a top-quality keyboard?

Secretaries and wordsmiths, what keyboards do you use and recommend?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Keyboard
Dec 29, 2014 10:49PM PST

Go get yourself a Logitech 710 wireless keyboard and mouse kit and have done with it...IF you are not happy with what you purchased, take it back...again, the BEST systems, for the money, IMOP are Logitech..I have used them for years and have YET to have a failure. I take that back, I toasted one years ago by spilling a pop in it on a very hot day...it became a gooey mess..

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Not bad, but keys feel wrong
Dec 30, 2014 7:55AM PST

I've tried the Logitech MK710, and found two things I don't care for. First, the tops of the keys don't have the "sculpted" feel I like, the rounded edges make them feel wrong to me. (I prefer the typing-touch of the much less expensive Logitech K120, at least until the rubber domes get mushy.) Second, it appears the keyboard uses membrane/rubber-dome keyswitches instead of the mechanical switches I'm looking for.

But thanks for the recommendation.

Googling "Logitech 710" also took me to the G710+ gaming keyboard, which might actually meet my needs. The gaming features would be overkill, but I might give the keyboard itself another try.

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Answer
I can't give you a model # but you might want to look into
Dec 29, 2014 10:59PM PST

full sized keyboards made by Cherry. I'm using one right now but it's a 16" and you probably want something in the 19" range. Unfortunately, you won't find these in big box or office supply stores and you'll find it's best to actually type on something. My Cherry board just happens to offer the resistance I like and the sound of the keys when hitting bottom. It's not a membrane type but each key is its own switch. Also, the keys don't wobble around much under light pressure. I have two such keyboards on different machines and they've served well for several years. Mine were made in Germany but who knows where they come from now. Good luck in your search.