The Mechanical Keyboards Club

[Supercrumpet]

GMMK Pro was recently announced and has been making waves:

https://www.pcgamingrace.com/blogs/news/introducing-gmmk-pro

[mouacyk]

Looks interesting... what is it?

[Supercrumpet]

12 minutes ago, mouacyk said:

Looks interesting... what is it?

 

I mean it's all on that page. tl;dr: new higher quality keyboard from GMMK to add to their lineup that previously used to just be 60%/TKL/full. It's a 75% with lots features in addition to the previous offerings.

[Mistio]

I will admit, I am impressed by this keybioard!

 

https://mountain.gg/keyboards/everest-max/

 

SPECIFICATIONS

Switch Type	Cherry MX, hot-swappable
Color	Gunmetal Gray/Midnight Black
Layout	Standard ANSI / ISO
Backlight	RGB
Key Rollover	NKRO over USB
Polling Rate	1000Hz / 1ms
Keycaps	ABS
MCU	Cortex M0
Onboard memory	Up to 5 profiles
On-the-Fly System	Through FN Function Key
Connector	USB Type-C
Interface	USB 3.2 Gen 1
Cable length	2m
Product Dimensions (LxWxH)	265x461x43mm (LxWxH)

 

 

 

Product Weight	1373g
Materials	Aluminum top cover, ABS bottom cover, keycaps & Media Dock
Media Controls	Yes, dedicated: mute, play/pause, forward and backward
Media Dock Display	RGB TFT IPS 240x204px
Media Dock keys	4: mute, play/pause, forward and backward, 1: display control
Display Keys	4: 72x72px per key TFT LCD display, 320x120px total
Palm Rest	Magnetic, covered in PU-Leather
Software Support	Base Camp™
Warranty	2 years
Included Accessories	Keycap & Switch combo removal tool USB Type-C to C cable (15cm) USB Type-A to C cable (2m) Extra Cherry MX Switch x5 Extra ESC keycap x1 Spacer / Riser feet

[Sir Beregond]

On 11/9/2020 at 5:59 AM, Mistio said:

I will admit, I am impressed by this keybioard!

 

https://mountain.gg/keyboards/everest-max/

 

SPECIFICATIONS

Switch Type	Cherry MX, hot-swappable
Color	Gunmetal Gray/Midnight Black
Layout	Standard ANSI / ISO
Backlight	RGB
Key Rollover	NKRO over USB
Polling Rate	1000Hz / 1ms
Keycaps	ABS
MCU	Cortex M0
Onboard memory	Up to 5 profiles
On-the-Fly System	Through FN Function Key
Connector	USB Type-C
Interface	USB 3.2 Gen 1
Cable length	2m
Product Dimensions (LxWxH)	265x461x43mm (LxWxH)

 

 

 

Product Weight	1373g
Materials	Aluminum top cover, ABS bottom cover, keycaps & Media Dock
Media Controls	Yes, dedicated: mute, play/pause, forward and backward
Media Dock Display	RGB TFT IPS 240x204px
Media Dock keys	4: mute, play/pause, forward and backward, 1: display control
Display Keys	4: 72x72px per key TFT LCD display, 320x120px total
Palm Rest	Magnetic, covered in PU-Leather
Software Support	Base Camp™
Warranty	2 years
Included Accessories	Keycap & Switch combo removal tool USB Type-C to C cable (15cm) USB Type-A to C cable (2m) Extra Cherry MX Switch x5 Extra ESC keycap x1 Spacer / Riser feet

 

That's an interesting concept but I wonder how often I'd actually like to change switch types to make this worth $270.

[Supercrumpet]

On 3/27/2021 at 12:56 AM, Sir Beregond said:

 

That's an interesting concept but I wonder how often I'd actually like to change switch types to make this worth $270.

 

If you're mainly interested in the switch hotswapping feature, there are quite a few budget-tier boards out these days that support it. Definitely a nice-to-have for me, though I don't do it often.

[kremtok]

Lately my go-to for both home and the office is a Ducky One 2 SF with Cherry MX Silver switches. Keycaps are stock, but I have 70A o-rings on them. I even keep a spare at home because I am paranoid about having one go bad and not being able to finish a game. That hasn't happened since I stopped using Logitech Romer G switches, though...

 

I've also got a couple extra Ducky One 2 TKL with Cherry MX Red switches. They're the backups to the backup.

[BWG]

8 hours ago, kremtok said:

Lately my go-to for both home and the office is a Ducky One 2 SF with Cherry MX Silver switches. Keycaps are stock, but I have 70A o-rings on them. I even keep a spare at home because I am paranoid about having one go bad and not being able to finish a game. That hasn't happened since I stopped using Logitech Romer G switches, though...

 

I've also got a couple extra Ducky One 2 TKL with Cherry MX Red switches. They're the backups to the backup.

 

I still am using my ocn ducky. 

[Supercrumpet]

My first board way back in the day was a Ducky Shine II. I've occasionally considered another Ducky over the years, but I usually come to the conclusion that I'm not a huge fan of the bang-for-buck as far as features go, and I don't really like the switch limitation with RGBs. If you're not super picky about switch type though, and want a nice RGB board, recent Ducky Shines are super nice.

[kremtok]

Yes I've heard the popular narrative that Cherry switches are inferior to other newer switch types, but I'm happy not knowing what I'm missing.

[Supercrumpet]

On 4/7/2021 at 7:48 PM, kremtok said:

Yes I've heard the popular narrative that Cherry switches are inferior to other newer switch types, but I'm happy not knowing what I'm missing.

 

Not what I'm saying at all - I have no issue with Cherry switches themselves and I can't really even tell the difference between a Cherry Brown and a Kailh Brown, for example. What I'm saying is if you want an RGB switch, only half (big generalization, but maybe half on average) of the switches from each manufacturer are offered on RGB boards. Cherry only offers black, brown, blue, red, and silver as RGB switches, and I'm a big fan of Cherry green and clear, so I'm out of luck.

[kremtok]

Seems I misunderstood you. Sorry about that.

[mllrkllr88]

Hey keyboard nuts!

 

My wife is about to take a hammer to my current mechanical keyboard because of the late night typing. I need a recommendation of a silent mechanical keyboard, something similar or quieter than a rubber dome one.

 

As for the budget I'd like to stay in the $75 range if possible...

[tictoc]

You could go browns with dampers.  That is pretty quiet and what I use at work.  If you're not bottoming out the keys, it is not too loud.

[nova4005]

I just got a GMMK Pro with Gateron red switches and GMMK Aura V2 white keycaps. I also still use my old Ducky Shine 3 with Cherry MX blue switches.

[pio]

Okay, so I think we need a writeup or a mech keyboard guide if you will.....

Personally, I'm using an ajazz full keyboard with MX Brown switches.  Was super cheap off Amazon, like 40 bucks.  I'm not complaining, for the price its been a fantastic cheap POS keyboard.  I also use a Redragon 60%? (10 keyless but otherwise full sized) board with MX Blue switches on it on my test bench.  Really REALLY miss my old OCN Ducky, but the USB plug on it came unsoldered and I stupidly tossed it years ago.

Anybody got any recommendations on another good board?  I love the MX Blue feel, but I dislike the noise.  I was hoping these browns would be close, but they're just not.  Not at all lol.  Full sized preferred, wireless would be even better if there's any good wireless ones.  Been looking for a while, might buy a new one after Christmas.

[Supercrumpet]

On 23/12/2021 at 00:50, pioneerisloud said:

Okay, so I think we need a writeup or a mech keyboard guide if you will.....

Personally, I'm using an ajazz full keyboard with MX Brown switches.  Was super cheap off Amazon, like 40 bucks.  I'm not complaining, for the price its been a fantastic cheap POS keyboard.  I also use a Redragon 60%? (10 keyless but otherwise full sized) board with MX Blue switches on it on my test bench.  Really REALLY miss my old OCN Ducky, but the USB plug on it came unsoldered and I stupidly tossed it years ago.

Anybody got any recommendations on another good board?  I love the MX Blue feel, but I dislike the noise.  I was hoping these browns would be close, but they're just not.  Not at all lol.  Full sized preferred, wireless would be even better if there's any good wireless ones.  Been looking for a while, might buy a new one after Christmas.

 

So you're thinking the crispness of a blue clicky switch but without the noise? Not sure what to suggest to be honest lol, I always prefer heavy switches, tactile or clicky. Never been one for subtle keyboards in that regard.

 

There are some really nice Bluetooth boards, my personal favorite is the Vortex Tab90. Technically not fullsize, but it does have all of the keys, just slightly more compact. Officially called the 1800 layout, or a 96%.

 

Fullsize has all keys, TKL is just missing numpad, 60% is missing numpad, arrow keys and the 9 keys above the arrow cluster, as well as the F row. There are other less common layouts like 40% and 75% as well.

[pio]

9 hours ago, Supercrumpet said:

 

So you're thinking the crispness of a blue clicky switch but without the noise? Not sure what to suggest to be honest lol, I always prefer heavy switches, tactile or clicky. Never been one for subtle keyboards in that regard.

 

There are some really nice Bluetooth boards, my personal favorite is the Vortex Tab90. Technically not fullsize, but it does have all of the keys, just slightly more compact. Officially called the 1800 layout, or a 96%.

 

Fullsize has all keys, TKL is just missing numpad, 60% is missing numpad, arrow keys and the 9 keys above the arrow cluster, as well as the F row. There are other less common layouts like 40% and 75% as well.

Ahh okay, so then my Redragon is a TKL MX Blue board.  My ajazz Chinese board is a fullsize with MX Browns.

Yes, I do absolutely love the "crispness" as you called it.  The MX Brown board is fine, but I'm constantly just pounding keys because I can't tell by touch when they actuate.  The MX Blues I can feel the switch click.  Maybe I should be looking for a fullsize wireless MX Blue board, and maybe just put some o-rings on it?  Wireless is because I'm planning on a swinging monitor mount on my 49" here in the next few months, so that way I can move my setup on my L desk to suite my needs of the day.  I fully understand wired is better, but I hate being tied down to one spot on my desk.

I'll look into the Tab90, sounds like a neat board regardless.  Dunno if I'll buy one, I'm clumsy enough on a full size lol.  I've seen a lot of people run slim boards though, and not gonna lie....they are attractive.

[Supercrumpet]

On 26/12/2021 at 01:50, pioneerisloud said:

Ahh okay, so then my Redragon is a TKL MX Blue board.  My ajazz Chinese board is a fullsize with MX Browns.

Yes, I do absolutely love the "crispness" as you called it.  The MX Brown board is fine, but I'm constantly just pounding keys because I can't tell by touch when they actuate.  The MX Blues I can feel the switch click.  Maybe I should be looking for a fullsize wireless MX Blue board, and maybe just put some o-rings on it?  Wireless is because I'm planning on a swinging monitor mount on my 49" here in the next few months, so that way I can move my setup on my L desk to suite my needs of the day.  I fully understand wired is better, but I hate being tied down to one spot on my desk.

I'll look into the Tab90, sounds like a neat board regardless.  Dunno if I'll buy one, I'm clumsy enough on a full size lol.  I've seen a lot of people run slim boards though, and not gonna lie....they are attractive.

 

Do you think a heavier tactile switch (like the brown) would do the trick, just so you could feel the actuation more? Browns are definitely on the lighter side. Heavier tactile switches would include MX Clears (which I have on my Tab90, absolutely love that combo), along with many other less common switches.

 

As far as wireless goes, most, if not all, wireless boards are also wired-capable, just in case you ever feel that need. I've found though that running wireless creates zero tangible difference as far as response time or anything like that, so I wouldn't feel bad or worry about it too much.

 

What do you mean by slim boards? Floating key style with low profile switches and/or slim keycaps? Not quite my style, but I can see the appeal. They've definitely gotten rather popular over recent months.

[Supercrumpet]

Just edited the OP to include the membership sheet I made when I started this thread with the relatively new Google Docs suite embed features. I updated my info for a couple boards (will try to post pictures before too long), but everyone else should take a look over it to update info or add pictures.

 

@nova4005 I just saw your thread and above post, not sure how I originally missed it. Looks good! I've been vaguely interested in a GMMK Pro since I enjoy their previous boards, and the Pro looks really nice, but I just don't like the layout enough.

[EHW Ai]

Varmilo Sword 2-87 Flying Tigers White LED TKL Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard:

 

 

Doesn't help me play games any better ( @The Pook ), nor type faster, but it's my favorite. The wrist rest is "Purple Heart" wood. 

 

I also have a SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard on my desktop. That one's connected to my bench setup.

 

These are sitting in the backroom:

• ErgoDox EZ Glow Standalone with: Thick Gold switches, Kailh Copper (RGB) / Modifier keys, and Altitude keycaps;
• An OCN Ducky keyboard I bought from E a while back.

Edited December 27, 2021 by iamjanco

[The Pook]

1 hour ago, iamjanco said:

Doesn't help me play games any better ( @The Pook ), nor type faster

 

then you need a new keyboard 

 

send me that one and pick out a new one 

[EHW Ai]

1 hour ago, The Pook said:

 

then you need a new keyboard 

 

send me that one and pick out a new one 

Sure, I'll ship it with the 3090.

 

Just as soon as my 4090ti is on its way.

[Supercrumpet]

4 hours ago, iamjanco said:

Varmilo Sword 2-87 Flying Tigers White LED TKL Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard:

 

 

Doesn't help me play games any better ( @The Pook ), nor type faster, but it's my favorite. The wrist rest is "Purple Heart" wood. 

 

I also have a SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard on my desktop. That one's connected to my bench setup.

 

These are sitting in the backroom:

• ErgoDox EZ Glow Standalone with: Thick Gold switches, Kailh Copper (RGB) / Modifier keys, and Altitude keycaps;
• An OCN Ducky keyboard I bought from E a while back.

 

I've seen that Flying Tigers board before, interesting design but a bit much for me lol. The wrist rest is really nice though. What switches do you have on it?

 

I toyed with the idea of getting a Moonlander split keyboard for months, so I tried a friend's Ergodox out for a couple weeks and I just couldn't get used to it. Biggest issue I had was that I use my left hand to hit the "y" key (my fingers are pretty long so I can do that comfortably) but on most split keyboards it's on the right half. Relearning years of muscle memory proved to be too much of a hassle so I decided it wasn't worth that trouble, plus the premium price of a split board. They're super cool though.

 

That's right, I forgot you ended up with the OCN Ducky. I thought about buying it, but that wouldn't have been the best use of my money at the time haha. Glad it ended up in good hands.

 

All three boards (plus the pic) added to the membership sheet, minus the switches for the Varmilo.

[The Pook]

I've been wanting something smaller than a TKL that has:

a) full size right shift

b) dedicated arrow keys

c) dedicated DEL key

 

but my options are slim  

 

I like the Shurikey Hanzo (001 and 002, the 003 is a bit much) but it's continually OOS and I always miss the group buys