a thoughtful web.
Good ideas and conversation. No ads, no tracking.   Login or Take a Tour!
comment by StJohn
StJohn  ·  4130 days ago  ·  link  ·    ·  parent  ·  post: The CODE keyboard, The Perfect mechanical keyboard?

You tempt me! I went out of my way to get a Dvorak-layout Model M (the one with the clicky buckling-spring keys) but I sometimes feel like the force required to activate the keys is just a bit too much. Still, $150 is a lot of money to fix a very small complaint. Has anyone got one of these CODE keyboards?





lobsters  ·  4129 days ago  ·  link  ·  

I've done projects with MX clears before, they're pretty cumbersome to type on for extended periods of time. For reference, buckling spring can vary from 60-80cN activation force, with the MX clear at a slightly lighter 55cN (peaks at 65cN).

It's funny that they're advertising standard features as unique selling points. 6KRO+modifiers is straight from the HID standard, and you'll find a dual layer PCB and plate mounting in practically any $100+ board. However, the backlighting and DIP-switch options are very, very nice. WASD is solid, reputable vendor as well.

If your main complaint is fatigue, I'd recommend opting for a much lighter switch like the MX reds or browns.

StJohn  ·  4129 days ago  ·  link  ·  

The DIP switches for changing keymaps is a brilliant idea. I also quite like the backlight. I don't know, I probably won't invest the $150 just to try it out, but I'd be curious to demo one.

YourMatt  ·  4129 days ago  ·  link  ·  

The $150 isn't too bad, considering that your "cheap" mechanical with Cherry switches will run about $100. That extra $50 is paying for a more durable product, with more attention to detail. A quality buy-it-for-life keyboard can go up above the $400 level, so $150 doesn't look so bad in comparison. My one complaint with the CODE is that they're using ABS caps, which will take on a shine over time.

zaphar  ·  4130 days ago  ·  link  ·  

I'm a kinesis guy myself. the code keyboard looks interesting but I like the arrangement of the keys on a kinesis better. My wrists wouldn't like the Code keyboard. 150 is way less than 300 though so it sounds like a bargain to me :-)