Help needed choosing a keyboard

Discussion in 'Hardware' started by Fingers66, 26 Sep 2017.

  1. Fingers66

    Fingers66 Kiwi in London

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    Hi all,

    I have read through the various keyboard related threads but there are still too many choices for me to decide so I need some assistance.

    I have had a Corsair K60 for a few years that looks like it now has a faulty cursor key, it might simply need a clean but the keyboard does get a hammering so I think getting a replacement may be in order.

    I use the keyboard for work (I work from home) and for a little gaming (a few hours a week).

    What I love about the K60 is the solidity - the solid aluminium plate means no flex or movement when typing. In addition, I love typing on the mechanical keys.

    I am looking for a replacement, I do not want (or like) all those RGB gaming tricks although backlit keys are great, I think mechanical keys are needed and from what I have read, cherry red or browns are suited to me best (my current K60 has reds). The keyboard needs to be full size for work requirements and being able to take it apart to clean it easily would be a bonus.

    What is there for under £100 without all the stupid gaming bells and whistles or am I dreaming?

    I was reading a bit-tech review of the Masterkeys L PBT which sounded good but I want some other opinions.
     
  2. MadGinga

    MadGinga oooh whats this do?

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    I'd recommend the Ducky Zero if you're ok with single backlit.
     
  3. Fingers66

    Fingers66 Kiwi in London

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    How solid is the Ducky? I don't want to experience any flex or movement when typing.

    Also, if I get a faulty key (like I have with my K60), can I replace it easily or is it a solder job?
     
  4. MadGinga

    MadGinga oooh whats this do?

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    I use two ducky zeros for work (1 per PC, don't ask) and I don't experience and flex at all. Picking it up and trying to twist it gives almost no movement.

    FWIW I have been using them for daily use for ~1.5yr and have had issues.

    Key-wise, All key caps are obviously removable as they are standard cherry MX stem compatibles. But I assume you mean switch? If so I'd guess at soldering required - don't really know how to check/confirm...

    EDIT: Google indicates that soldering is required, and the switches are plate mounted.
     
  5. Fingers66

    Fingers66 Kiwi in London

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    Thanks for that.

    Yes I mean the switches. I might actually look as seeing if I can desolder the faulty switch on my K60 and replace it first... where would I buy a single Cherry red swich from?
     
  6. MadGinga

    MadGinga oooh whats this do?

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    Fixing what you've got is probably worth it if you've got the kit and skills.
    Most retailers only sell switches in bundles, but there might be some denizens on here that could provide a single one... @Margo Baggins for one, but there might be others...
     
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  7. Fingers66

    Fingers66 Kiwi in London

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    Cool, I need to find out what is exactly wrong with mine first, that sounds like a more economical plan than simply replacing it right away, the cursor key isn't exactly misssion critical for work at present.

    Thanks for your help mate.
     
  8. MadGinga

    MadGinga oooh whats this do?

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    No probs!
     
  9. akshat1984

    akshat1984 What's a Dremel?

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    Just look at the new Hyperx alloy fps keyboards. They comes in red, blue and brown switches and have great build quality and performance.
     
  10. [ZiiP] NaloaC

    [ZiiP] NaloaC Multimodder

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    Of absolutely no use to you, but I'm still using my 12-year old Logitech G15 Gen. 1 membrane and haven't seen anything yet to make me want to change.

    An ergonomic mechanical might tempt me, but the little display screen this has is something I actually find useful.
     
  11. GeorgeK

    GeorgeK Swinging the banhammer Super Moderator

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    What's wrong with the cursor key? Does it not work at all or is it just a tempramental issue? Swapping a switch is dead easy - I might (should) have some reds lying around if you want one for a couple of quid? (No guarantee but I'd be amazed if I didn't have one somewhere)
     
  12. Fingers66

    Fingers66 Kiwi in London

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    Forgot to update this thread, the cursor key started working again, must of been dust or something like that, panic over but I am still considering a replacement when funds allow.
     
  13. Vault-Tec

    Vault-Tec Green Plastic Watering Can

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    If a key stops working you replace it for like £2. It's really not worth buying another board unless your controller dies. Unless of course you just want new shiny. There are plenty of guys on here who would replace the switch for nothing, just pay to and fro postage.
     

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