I like my IBM model M keyboard, 26 years in and it still is going strong. I did replace the PS/2 and AT cables with a USB cable and it is missing the "-" key on the numeric part though...
The IBM model M was one of the best keyboards. Too bad these are no longer manufactured. Cherry MX blue based keyboards are what I've used the most though...
The Model M is actually still being manufactured in Lexington, KY by Unicomp. I think they purchased the IP from Lexmark/IBM and manufacture them to the same spec.
That's because all of the costs of these mechanical keyboards are in the switches. I dunno, I like functionality myself, which is why I'll probably buy another G19 when my current one gives up the ghost.
If Logitech would bring back the LCD screens built into keyboards, instead of forcing you to use your own smartphone and run their app on it aka "Arx Control", I'd be interested in something like the G910. Oh, and the fact that they don't support Windows Phone is just dumb.
Well, no one supports Windows Phone, tbh. I only know a couple of guys using WP and both of them are looking at Android because many apps simply don't have a WP version. Displacing Android and iOS today is like trying to displace http: no matter how many critiques you may have and no matter how much better the alternative is, they are just too entrenched.
My expensive Logitech keyboard is in pieces, wholly not usable because the plastic caps they use to hold onto those "expensive" switches shred over time - a very short time.
@bug77: "I have an el-cheapo $10-15 keyboard that comes with an USB port and a headset jack. Both incredibly useful and both missing from all $100+ keyboards."
Took about 15 seconds on Newegg to find. I'm sure you could find more. If I recall correctly, the Corsair K90 had USB pass through. Granted, you'd have to put up with the razor software registration requirements, use third party software, or do without macro keys, but it still meets your criteria. The two USB option is quite viable as there is enough noise introduced on the analog pass through lines to make a USB headset from Corsair, Creative, Logitech, etc. sound just as good as an expensive analog set.
You're assuming I have access to newegg. And I will not touch Razer on principle. But yes, you're right, you can find those features at least on some models.
What you talking about like half the gamer keyboards have a usb port. Like my G710+ does.
As for the headphone jack, we live in an age of usb headsets and quality headphone amps on soundcards and motherboards, the low end headphone keyboard port is simply obsolete.
When I read the title I was expecting a new variant of the Romer-G switch. The existing Romer-G is light and tactile, therefore similar to the Cherry MX Brown. I was hoping this meant a linear version of the Romer-G would also be produced. Kinda disappointed now. I hope they will eventually release linear (Red) and clicky (Blue) versions.
"it must be hard to compete against the weight of the Cherry MX name"
I would say it is a lot harder to compete against the volume pricing of the Cherry switches. IIRC, these are significantly less expensive than similar keyboards using in house Romer keyswitches.
I liked my Logitech mechanical keyboard but I like to keep it clean. Some keys just broke under normal usage situations. The plastic mounting under the keys can be fairly brittle and will break off. Logitech refuses to stock or issue replacement keys for mechanical keyboards. Thankfully Amazon took mine back after a year of usage where Logitech decided not to help.
Something I look for in a keyboard (after seeing the last image in the article) are super solid forward feet or even a base that runs along the front underneath of the keyboard, the number of keyboards I have rage slammed (im trying to learn patience with video games sir honestly) a keyboard and watched those little plastic feet go flying off in different directions...
My wrists love a good comfortable rest too Logitech :)
Yea, love my model M it was built on planet krypton and is indestructible, in use however it scares cats and small children and miserably fails the wife acceptance test :/
The number pad should be (for ALL) on the LEFT side.
The keys should be farther apart than most of these keyboard realize.
Keys should not be the same size for every single person - some with bigger hands will need keys set apart and larger. Many with tiny hands need keys farther apart and SMALLER.
As far as Logitech - they are the most RICIDULOUSLY bad mechanciale keyboard producer ever.
My 710+ lasted a whole four months before the keys (over two DOZEN of them) broke underneath form REALLY BAD PLASTIC CAPS.
Keyboards are essential until we have complete voice control, which seems we were lied about about four times now.
My $19 keyboard at least is WASHABLE and the keys aren't breaking.
I'm still using my original Maxi (maxiswitch) keybrd from 1989 -- I haven't found anything as nice. Had to change the cable to PS/2 and it has the old full size layout with the large "L" return key which I wish was now standard.
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jerem43 - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
I like my IBM model M keyboard, 26 years in and it still is going strong. I did replace the PS/2 and AT cables with a USB cable and it is missing the "-" key on the numeric part though...SeleniumGlow - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
The IBM model M was one of the best keyboards. Too bad these are no longer manufactured.Cherry MX blue based keyboards are what I've used the most though...
calculagator - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
The Model M is actually still being manufactured in Lexington, KY by Unicomp. I think they purchased the IP from Lexmark/IBM and manufacture them to the same spec.bug77 - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
I have an el-cheapo $10-15 keyboard that comes with an USB port and a headset jack. Both incredibly useful and both missing from all $100+ keyboards.The_Assimilator - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
That's because all of the costs of these mechanical keyboards are in the switches. I dunno, I like functionality myself, which is why I'll probably buy another G19 when my current one gives up the ghost.If Logitech would bring back the LCD screens built into keyboards, instead of forcing you to use your own smartphone and run their app on it aka "Arx Control", I'd be interested in something like the G910. Oh, and the fact that they don't support Windows Phone is just dumb.
bug77 - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
Well, no one supports Windows Phone, tbh. I only know a couple of guys using WP and both of them are looking at Android because many apps simply don't have a WP version.Displacing Android and iOS today is like trying to displace http: no matter how many critiques you may have and no matter how much better the alternative is, they are just too entrenched.
Moirraine - Friday, March 18, 2016 - link
My expensive Logitech keyboard is in pieces, wholly not usable because the plastic caps they use to hold onto those "expensive" switches shred over time - a very short time.BurntMyBacon - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
@bug77: "I have an el-cheapo $10-15 keyboard that comes with an USB port and a headset jack. Both incredibly useful and both missing from all $100+ keyboards."I submit for your consideration:
Razor Black Widow Ultimate
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N8...
Razor Black Widow Chroma
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N8...
These have two usb ports and could be used with a USB headset.
Logitech G710
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N8...
Logitech G19
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9S...
$100+ - Check
USB - Check
Headset Jack - Check
Took about 15 seconds on Newegg to find. I'm sure you could find more. If I recall correctly, the Corsair K90 had USB pass through. Granted, you'd have to put up with the razor software registration requirements, use third party software, or do without macro keys, but it still meets your criteria. The two USB option is quite viable as there is enough noise introduced on the analog pass through lines to make a USB headset from Corsair, Creative, Logitech, etc. sound just as good as an expensive analog set.
bug77 - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
You're assuming I have access to newegg. And I will not touch Razer on principle.But yes, you're right, you can find those features at least on some models.
Chaitanya - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
You are forgetting Roccat Ryos MK series of keyboards. they all also have USB passthrough and headset ports.bug77 - Friday, March 18, 2016 - link
I'm looking at the official page (and linked reviews) and it doesn't seem like they have either. Maybe you were thinking of a different model?Sttm - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
What you talking about like half the gamer keyboards have a usb port. Like my G710+ does.As for the headphone jack, we live in an age of usb headsets and quality headphone amps on soundcards and motherboards, the low end headphone keyboard port is simply obsolete.
Chaser - Friday, March 18, 2016 - link
My $100+ KB has both and more.alexvoda - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
When I read the title I was expecting a new variant of the Romer-G switch.The existing Romer-G is light and tactile, therefore similar to the Cherry MX Brown.
I was hoping this meant a linear version of the Romer-G would also be produced.
Kinda disappointed now. I hope they will eventually release linear (Red) and clicky (Blue) versions.
guidryp - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
"it must be hard to compete against the weight of the Cherry MX name"I would say it is a lot harder to compete against the volume pricing of the Cherry switches. IIRC, these are significantly less expensive than similar keyboards using in house Romer keyswitches.
Sttm - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
OMG finally a mechanical keyboard with dedicated media keys and no bulls%$t. Clean and functional. Though a little pricey.HomeworldFound - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
I liked my Logitech mechanical keyboard but I like to keep it clean. Some keys just broke under normal usage situations. The plastic mounting under the keys can be fairly brittle and will break off. Logitech refuses to stock or issue replacement keys for mechanical keyboards. Thankfully Amazon took mine back after a year of usage where Logitech decided not to help.WatcherCK - Thursday, March 17, 2016 - link
Something I look for in a keyboard (after seeing the last image in the article) are super solid forward feet or even a base that runs along the front underneath of the keyboard, the number of keyboards I have rage slammed (im trying to learn patience with video games sir honestly) a keyboard and watched those little plastic feet go flying off in different directions...My wrists love a good comfortable rest too Logitech :)
Yea, love my model M it was built on planet krypton and is indestructible, in use however it scares cats and small children and miserably fails the wife acceptance test :/
Moirraine - Friday, March 18, 2016 - link
Keyboards are made improperly.The number pad should be (for ALL) on the LEFT side.
The keys should be farther apart than most of these keyboard realize.
Keys should not be the same size for every single person - some with bigger hands will need keys set apart and larger. Many with tiny hands need keys farther apart and SMALLER.
As far as Logitech - they are the most RICIDULOUSLY bad mechanciale keyboard producer ever.
My 710+ lasted a whole four months before the keys (over two DOZEN of them) broke underneath form REALLY BAD PLASTIC CAPS.
Keyboards are essential until we have complete voice control, which seems we were lied about about four times now.
My $19 keyboard at least is WASHABLE and the keys aren't breaking.
Logitech can't even match THOSE specs.
dananski - Friday, March 18, 2016 - link
Glancing through my AT RSS feed, "brown onion, red onion... wait what?"Looks promising. Cherry MX browns are my preference and I like fairly spartan (but complete) key layouts like this. Already got my qpads though.
tomluoma - Saturday, March 26, 2016 - link
I'm still using my original Maxi (maxiswitch) keybrd from 1989 -- I haven't found anything as nice. Had to change the cable to PS/2 and it has the old full size layout with the large "L" return key which I wish was now standard.