In my view, the top keyboards are the vintage Lenovo/IBM models that come ready to use.
In my view, the top keyboards are the vintage Lenovo/IBM models that come ready to use.
This keyboard stands out because it was designed by IBM and offers a modern rubber domed look similar to an older model. It feels heavy, likely because of the metal plate inside. The keycaps come in multiple colors and it can hold pens or pencils. The cable has space for gutters and flip-out feet. It’s affordable and often looks worn. With modern lubricant on the rails and metal axles, it feels quite good.
There’s a slim down MK 2 version that seems to share similar construction based on the keycaps.
What other vintage prebuilt keyboards and mice do you think are great?
Have you recently come across buckling spring keyboards? The model M is considered one of the finest keyboards ever produced, and you can now purchase modern versions for around $200.
Well, not everyone possesses such funds. Probably in the US or other western countries, people just discard them. Yes, the latest USB models from Unicom are among the older OEMs.
Sorry, I wasn't clear about which keyboards you're referring to—Lenovo or IBM. There are many options available, some new and others older. The USB modified models from 15 to 10 years ago are quite common, especially the older IBM versions with PS2. It's hard to find the newer MK 2 board in white in Russian, but it's not easy to get here in my country. Even the model M 101 is quite pricey, so I prefer buying parts instead of buying the whole thing now.
Yeah, I enjoyed the Lenovo keyboards, but I also have a soft spot for membrane units. I really trust them. Just a simple rubber dome with the standard large enter key.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/256423017193
Fellowes' current offerings are available at most major US stores, though they opted for a slightly smaller keyboard and refined the layout.
One of my favorites that I still own is because of its big enter key:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/405023245112
The older IBM models from the late 90s to early 2000s are also solid choices. Those Gateway 2000 keyboards were decent too.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/175674827028
Ebay is helpful for finding images of these vintage models.
Holy scat, I wasn't sure if there was still a cheap Alps board available. If I were using a modern PC, it would need a PS2 to access all the classic games. These probably cost less to bring in than buying a Keychron. It’s also better with the beige and double shot keys. I don’t like mecha boards because they feel too light. I prefer the softer feel, even though everyone has their own preference. Sad that Ebay is so expensive where I live—it’s better to shop on local sites like Shopee or Ebay. There are many versions of these old Lenovo keyboards. They were originally designed by IBM, making them direct descendants of the Model M. It’s nice to find different versions and colors. A vintage Gateway case or any old case from the beige era would be great. Also, the silver and black Y2K style is worth looking for, but it’s hard to find now since most have been discarded along with stuff from the DDR1 and DDR2 periods.