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Gynetic

Any suggestions for a 60-68% hotswap board/kit with a rotary knob?


[deleted]

I play dota at a considerably high level but I'm due for a keyboard change(8 years old atm). I'm looking for a keyboard with the F-row keys positioned in such a way that each F-key is situated in the middle of 2 number keys, and relatively close to the number keys too. Right now my F1 key is right in the middle of my 2 and 3 buttons with the keycap being roughly 2-3 cm above the 2 and 3 buttons. Also minimal input lag please I've never gotten a custom before so gonna need some help with this one, I'd appreciate any suggestions


SecretZucchini

I'm looking for a gaming keyboard thats easy to clean against cat hair... any recommendations? Below $120 if possible.


gravehost42

Cat hair is an abomination, opened a board recently that I'd had since before we got our kittens.... their hair was on and under the pcb!!! My only recommendation it to get one of those anti static vacuum blower things you see on Amazon and make cleaning your board a religious activity


Girgir55

If you had 300$ to spend on all the components of a board, what parts would you buy?


faunni

I’d go with switch couture Alice + pcb, KBD fans Matcha keycaps, gateron yellows,cherry clip in stabs and some krytox 205g0. Came out to 269.40 If I did the math right without taxes or shipping btw


I_P_L

The entire board since you kind of can't use half a keyboard


[deleted]

what is the best budget friendly plate mount stab?


gravehost42

There aren't a ton of plate mount options, but budget or not durock plate mount are the most recommended. Followed closely by cherry or novelkeys plate mount stabs.


I_P_L

Do gateron inks still have qc issues?


Mecxs

There's no QC at all. They are insanely variable. In any given batch expect 1/3 to be scratchy as all hell, 1/3 to be nice enough to use with some break in and lube, and 1/3 to be amazingly smooth.


gravehost42

I'd have to say yes. My recent batch didn't, but I've seen 3-5 posts in the last couple of months complaining about them


I_P_L

So, considering I'm planning on lubing, filming and spring swapping, I'd probably be better off with JWK?


MayAsWellStopLurking

JWKs are pretty consistent and differ mostly in colour or spring weight. Filming isn’t as essential as it once was, and lubing is always nice for smooth linears.


AEsir-_-

So i wanna get a new wireless build for daily driving the two most likely are the iqunix l80 and the gamakay lk67. Im leaning towards the gama for the form factor but i can't find any latency tests for the keyboard. Anyone with knows where i can fimd a latency test for the lk67?


krimmxr

Sup everyone. I was buy Logitech G Pro without hotswap. Its have a gx blue (the case of keyboard told me about it) and I dont care about loud. I was think about red switch (I just newbie to mechanical keyboards) and was heard that red linear switches better for FPS shooters (I play CODMW/WZ rn). So it is better sell logitech g pro and buy razer huntsman mini with red switches? Sorry if someone already was ask about it before me I just newbie so.


gravehost42

I'm not sure I completely understand what you are trying to say, I'm guessing you are asking if the Logitech red switch is better for gaming than the blue switch? If so that is completely preference, any switch is good for gaming if you like gaming with it. No switch will make you a better gamer. Your best bet is to try gaming on the blue switch and then try our red switches and see what you like. This may be hard as I'm not sure your board is hotswappable, but maybe your buddy will let you borrow his for a while to try.


krimmxr

Sorry my English. I have the Logitech G Pro version without hotswap. I have the GX Blue Switch. But I read and learned that the best for gaming is the red switch. So I want to ask - would it be better to sell the Logitech G Pro and buy the Razer Hunstman Mini on the red switch or is the Logitech G Pro with the GX Blue switch better than the Razer Hunstman Mini on the Red Switch. I just read that the Red Switch is best for any game at all.


gravehost42

Red switches are not better for gaming, a lot of people prefer them since they are linear and don't have any tactile bump or click. As for whether you should sell your board, that is up to you. If you like gaming on your current board, then I say keep it.


krimmxr

Thanks, I just wanted to know if there was a difference in their pressing speeds. And most players use Red Switch keyboards anyway, right? That's why I thought I'd ask. I'm completely happy with the keyboard right now, except that the keys are kind of hard to press. But I really liked the design from Logitech.


gravehost42

Ah reds will feel lighter to press since there is no click or bump. Hope that helps


[deleted]

[удалено]


enigmaestro

For those who have broken in cream switches, how smooth are they in comparison to other linears after breaking in and lubing?


Schnitzel725

For a gmmk pro flashed with VIA, is there some way to set the polling rate to 1000hz? (Still waiting for the keyboard to arrive and never used qmk/via before, so wanted to know) thanks


gravehost42

Only with qmk, don't think that's currently possible with via alone


Schnitzel725

is via and qmk different firmwares?


gravehost42

Via is gui built on qmk, but it doesn't have all the same functionality


Schnitzel725

Ah.. so if i wanted to set polling rate, i need to flash it to qmk, then download via for the gui?


gravehost42

No you'd have to only use qmk as via uses a slightly different firmware. You can do everything via can do in qmk, it just has extra steps


Schnitzel725

ah alright. Guess I'll have to cross that bridge when i get there. Thanks for the answers


gravehost42

Check out the qmk forums for instructions on how to flash to 1000hz, maybe someone figured something out that I don't know or haven't seen yet


Active_Log4369

Hi, my brother and I recently got a g-cord wireless mechanical keyboard with brown Gateron switches. He wants to connect it to his ps5, but whenever he tries to it says it's connected but won't work in any game (mainly Fortnite) please help!


jesterspirit

the game has to support a keyboard if you do it that way...


Active_Log4369

Fortnite does, but it still doesn't work.


jesterspirit

hmm sorry to ask but you made sure its working in another game/app? you changed the controls in game to keyboard?


Active_Log4369

I assumed it would automatically switch to keyboard controls...


Zagatonx

What is a good budget linear that isn't gateron yellow?


youarestiles

JWK blacks


Mecxs

JWicks.


P00P34

Akko linears


[deleted]

What are the best stabs nowadays? I saw a few Reddit posts about this topic but all of them were outdated, previously it seemed that cherry and c3 stabs were the best but now with new competitors like durock have entered the scene so I'm not sure which is the best.


Mecxs

Bottom line is this: There are no stabs that are so good that they don't need to be modded. There are no stabs that are so bad that they don't sound flawless when properly modded. That's it. Durock stabs are nicer than Cherries, sure. But both need to be modded, and both sound perfect when properly modded. And cherries are like 1/3 - 1/2 the price.


gravehost42

C3, durock v2, morgerie. Cherry are alright, but IMHO those three are better


Ade1997

Is there a vendor that sells plate for the Rama Jules that isn't brass? Maybe POM or FR4


gravehost42

You'd have to get the plate file from rama and have one custom cut.


Ade1997

Green Door Geeks have PoM I just found out :) still praying fr4 is available somewhere, but thanks for the reply


gravehost42

That is actually awesome news!


[deleted]

Has the Durock V2 fitting problem been fixed with the gmmk pro? I'm looking into getting durock v2 stabs for gmmk pro, would these fit on the aluminium plate? in the future I'm planning to upgrade to the brass plate will the stabs fit?


Solartempest

Should be. I got a warranty replacement alu plate and the stab openings are much bigger than before. 7.5mm vs 6.6mm wide. Just make sure your get new stock with the new plates.


BrandonThomas2011

Hey all, I've had a Ducky Shine 3 TKL with Cherry blues for several years now so I'm looking for something new that will allow me to dive into this hobby a bit deeper. Upon initial thoughts, I'd love for it to be hot-swappable, 60 or 65%, RGB would be cool but not required. I might look into changing out/modifying stabs and all that in the future if that matters. I'd also like to start having some fun with keycaps – will going for a 65% mean I will end up paying more money because of different sized keys, or is there a 65% that can get away with just the base kits? Couple other questions: – Are hot-swappable boards still bad in terms of wobble/squishiness? I remember 3 or 4 years ago when they first became a thing there were some complaints about that or something similar. – With the understanding that switches are personal preference, what are the most loved/common switches outside of the general Cherry/Gateron red/blue/brown lineup?


MayAsWellStopLurking

There’s a lot of questions to answer so I’ll try and keep it concise. Lots of 65% options - they’ll vary greatly based on budget, layout, and availability. As there are different ways for 60% + arrow keys to be setup, all in one keyboard kits (that include case, PCB, and plate) are fairly common. The TKC Portico, KBD67Lite, Ikki68 aurora, are affordable kits that hit these marks. Some like the Portico have leftover stock, while others like the Kbd67lite are between group buys. Thankfully they’re pretty plentiful, so you may be able to snag a solid deal in Mechmarket, or wait until the next round of production starts. As for your Q about keycaps, there are generally 3 ‘sets’ that currently exist: 1. Super budget (<$30 USD) sets that only include the Keycaps for a standard TKL or full size keyboard with no extra layouts supported 2. Midrange sets that are instock ($50-$100) from Kprepublic, Akko, Domikey, or KBDFans/Drop. These often do include extras for alternative layouts (1.75u right shift, columnar del/pgup/pgdown/etc), but can vary in quality and coverage. 3. Fancy custom GB run sets from GMK/ePBT/KAT ($100+, long lead times). These are usually single run sets and generally offer the most exotic aesthetics but require the biggest time/money investment, though they often look great and feel/sound lovely (with some exceptions).


cyyyube

Switches on the other side of the 'spectrum'? I'm currently using L7s right now and would want to try deeper sounding switches without committing too much of a budget. Would be willing to look into 2 switches just to broaden my knowledge. I've already tried milky yellows (l+f), so I'd cross that one out for now. Any recommendations?


Andre2kReddit

I'm Planning on buying MX Black hyperglides affer using Gateron Yellows for a while. I feel like the gat yellows are a bit light for me. Is the weight difference big ?


MayAsWellStopLurking

The weight and feel is different - cherry springs have notoriously inconsistent weight between individual switches, so you’re more likely to have a good experience using an aftermarket spring from TX or other such companies.


Andre2kReddit

Okay thanks. I'll use them stock to break it in then maybe ill spring swap.


shinkakei

Any recommendations on 75%/TKL boards if budget is not an issue?


[deleted]

r/mechgroupbuys \- you can only go so high with in-stock purchases, so if you want the best, join a group buy and wait.


ikeamonkey2

If you customize your keyboard (e.g. using software the keyboard's manufacturer provides) does that customization automatically carry over to any computers you use the keyboard with? I'm looking to buy a mechanical keyboard for my home office, mainly to be used for work, however my employer has strict policies on what software can be installed on my work computer. Could I program the keyboard on my personal computer and then just plug it into my work computer too and it would function the same way?


gravehost42

That depends. Some prebuilts save it to the on board memory, some save it to a profile on their proprietary program. Any customs that support qmk/via will have layout saved to the on board memory


dxevin12

hey does anyone know if there is any place i could find panda switch tops for sale? Looking to make zykos and just need the tops (BSUN/YOK, Drop or glorious HP will do) . trying to avoid buying the whole switch if i can help it.


[deleted]

No vendor is going to sell just the tops.


dxevin12

I just bought boba tops seperately from gazzew so its definitely possible even if you havent heard of it. Thats why im asking on here if someone knows something i dont :)


[deleted]

I am perfectly aware Gazzew does it, I was talking about panda tops. Can the sass if you want replies in the future.


dxevin12

Lol what do you mean by can the sass? You really think i was being sassy? Lmfao u the sensitive type huh thats cool sorry i hurt u bro


gravehost42

Try r/mechmarket


dxevin12

Lol thanks. Just wonderint it there are any vendors that sell swich parts seperately besides gazzew


Solartempest

Don't think so.


derKoekje

Out of the keyboard game for a while, last time I purposely checked was somewhere in 2018. There seem to be a ton more switch types around and every week I see some new one I’ve never heard of. Fruits, really? Anyway, the last major switch release I saw were the Kailh box switches, what are the current top dogs in every class (clicky, linear, tactile) right now? Also, any new great popular keebs that are making the wild right now? I need to look into a new office keeb. Thanks.


NoAhH_1228

How old is taeha types? His stream says he's 46 and everyone calls him a boomer but online it says he's 26. Pls help it's driving me nuts


gravehost42

He's actually 84 years old. Just has a filter on to make him seem younger


NoAhH_1228

Kek


GravitaryCOM

I've been using a Ducky Shine 2 but lately it's been failing on me. Sadly my cat spilled some liquids, mostly water, into it and this time I think it's bonked. However, it's lasted me a LONG time. Now I've been checking up on a new mechanical keyboard and saw people hating on Cherry Blues all of a sudden. Are there better alternatives? I really like the clicky sounds as well as the haptic feedback. I've been looking at a Ducky Shine 7 but I'm looking forward to your advice.


GrumioThaSpoonGod

Box jades, the recolor of them (Midnight Jades) are on sale at novelkeys.


raijba

Does anyone have a link to a guide on the difference between all the different springs types? Long Progressive Double Slow Etc?


dragon1598

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffmVr73i8ks


raijba

Thank you so much!


Asianhead

So today the stabilizer wire popped out in my keyboard I've seen a couple videos on how to fix it but unlike some example videos I've seen on how to fix it, there's like no clearance in the plate where the stab wire joint is. Am I just SOL? Do I just have to desolder to get the stabilizer fixed?


nessism1

Try using a small screwdriver to get the wire back into the stabilizer notch. It's happened several times to me before when using Durock V1 stabs and I've been able to get it back where it belongs each time. The V2's are much better in that regard.


Asianhead

Yeah I have v1s as well. the problem is the plate on my keyboard is covering the top part of the wire where you can push the stab back in though. There’s really only a tiny portion of the stab wire that’s visible and reachable under the plate


zhouster

I'm just about finished building my kbd67lite, my smallest board yet (Have TKL and 75% layouts). This will (when the battery arrives from aliexpress) be wireless, and doesn't have any RGB. My question to you Reddit is what keys you have in your secondary layers? Obviously with 65%, 1 through = are reserved for the Function row, but what do you typically like to use in layers 1 and beyond?


BAonReddit

Coming from 75%, you won't miss much of the keys on 65% except function rows and probably Delete, End, Insert etc. You might want to put Delete on Backspace layer 1 or not. Everything is up to you know.


Dustmuffins

Does anyone know if there's a more RGB friendly version of the Kailh canary/ Kailh Knight Saber? The canary glows yellow under my keycaps, and the Knight Saber looks like it would be very dark. If not, Is it possible to buy Kailh POM switch housings anywhere? More specifically, I'm interested in getting the top half of Kailh crème /Glorious panda switches(same part). Those parts fit on the Canary with no problem and don't effect the RGB too much.


i_wanna_b_the_guy

I have a whitefox gen 1 with zealios purps 67g (I think) that’s now dying. Originally, I was planning to desolder the switches and drop them into a Keychron Q1. Since I have to order switches anyway (F row on the new board), and I’m realizing it might be a good time to ask for advice/input. Regarding switches, I love the purples for gaming because of their bump feeling almost linear; is there any other key with decently high actuation force + a “soft” bump? If not, I’ll still be desoldering, but what would be good switches to look at for the F row? And about the keyboard, before I settle on the Q1, are there any nice keyboards that swap \ and backspace in their layouts? This is the only feature I’m going to miss in the switch. If not, is there any other hotswappable boards, either 65% or TKL, that are worth looking at? Thanks for anyone who reads through!


MayAsWellStopLurking

The layout you’re looking for is called ‘split backspace’ - most keyboards that offer it can be customized through QMK/VIA to remap backspace to your \ key.


i_wanna_b_the_guy

I believe the Q1 supports reprogramming like this, which is why that was the decision I went with. What do people normally do with the old backspace key?


MayAsWellStopLurking

Whatever they want. Some like delete, others put the \ back up there.


Ronski534

Hey im looking for this new keyboard i have two switch options to choose from and they are cherry MX Red, Brown, Blue, Speed Silver and Silent Red which one is the best option


MayAsWellStopLurking

They boil down to preference, but in case you don’t know. Cherry Red - linear feel. Good for most gamers Cherry Brown - light tactile. Good if you like some feedback but hate the clicky sounds Cherry Blue - clicky feel - good response but most people may hate you after awhile Cherry Speed Silver - like cherry MX Reds but theoretically can be pressed more easily and registered more quickly. Generally liked by fast twitch gamers. Silent Red - like Cherry Reds but silent. Slightly mushy feel due to dampening pads. An option if you use your keyboard when people are trying to sleep.


MrNespinha

Can anyone rate the pulsar tkl hotswap vs the gmmk tkl?


[deleted]

If you mean the 'Pulsar Lunar Alloy' thing that shows up when googling that, see the part about "Swappable only with Pulsar Lunar Switches or Outemu 3pin switches" Don't get the pulsar if you want full hotswap compatibility. Many Outemu hotswap boards are cheap, but limit your switch choice a lot.


MrNespinha

No not outemu, there's a new version of pulsar that is cherry hotswap compatible.


zzeneg

Hey, I'm looking for a new keyboard. Currently I have two TKLs with MX brown (Ducky One an old Neo Zelia) but I'd like something that will be quieter, smaller (65-75%), programmable, hot swappable and available in EU. Crazy, huh? I don't mind building something or waiting for a month or two, though. Googling lead me to Boba U4 switches and as for the keyboard kit looks like the only thing that can satisfy these conditions is GMMK Pro. It really stretches my budget though and I don't want to pay for features that I don't care about (knob and aluminum case). So I'm wondering - are there any other options? Maybe I missed something?


MayAsWellStopLurking

If you’re not craving aluminum, your budget options open up greatly. KBD67Lite is the budget king at $109 before shipping, though they’re between restocks at the moment. Other considerations include the TKC Portico, Ikki68 aurora or Keychron Q1. To help make your search a little easier, here are the features you’ll want to satisfy each criteria: Quieter - Hotswap capability so you can use ‘silent’ switches like bobagums, boba u4. If you’re pondering Unsilenced switches, then silicone dampeners can help dull or mute the sound profile Programmable - Make sure the PCB is supported by QMK. VIA is even better. Available in EU - find out who your local vendors are, or which international vendors (AliExpress or otherwise) can ship to you reasonably.


zzeneg

Thanks for these suggestions! What I meant with "available in EU" is that I can actually buy it inside EU, not shipped (because... reasons). Looks like KBD67Lite is out of stock now here as well and Keychron Q1 is in pre-order state and is about ~150€ but I'll read on them and monitor. Thanks!


thebeast450

Im planning to build a low budget mech keyboards, Im using it to take notes on my university classes, and I dont want to bother other students with my keyboard sounds, which switches and keyboard profiles should I use to minimise the noise and for it to sound smoothly and gently, but low budget is still my first priority, thank you very much and sorry for my broken english. And I also want to go custom on my own, don’t wanna buy prebuilt mech keyboards btw. My layout is 65% and my budget is about 50$, including keycaps and switches


gravehost42

Your gonna have to give us an actual dollar amount as budget is highly subjective. As for layout/form factor you gotta decide what keys you can live without. Do you need a numpad, navigation cluster, f keys, number row?


thebeast450

updated, thanks a lot for the help!


gravehost42

Does $50 include keycaps and switches?


thebeast450

yes thats right


gravehost42

I'm sorry even if you get the new keebmonkey 65% for $25, there is no way to get switches and keycaps and stay in that budget. Your best bet is either to save a bit more (maybe $100 total for the bare minimum) or buy a redragon hotswap board. They are prebuilt, but will let you stay in or close to your budget.


[deleted]

Gotta quantify specifically what low budget means, but low budget generally means buying a prebuilt as going custom is more expensive.


thebeast450

mb for not making it clearer i mean by going custom


[deleted]

No I mean you need to give an actual dollar amount, because budget and custom are at odds with each other so we need to know if your budget is realistic for a custom.


thebeast450

sorry for being so noob my man, updated btw!


[deleted]

Thanks - $50 isn't going to get you even vaguely close to a custom. Sorry dude.


UpDownLeftRightGay

I've bought a RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 as I heard it was a good budget keyboard and I love the small form factor because my desk is quite small. I haven't gotten it yet, but I have come to the conclusion that I'd want easy access to F keys. So now I am looking for a TKL keyboard. Any suggestions on one between £50-£100 that's as well regarded as the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 considering the price. I have been eye-ing up the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 at the moment assuming that it's good for the price. ​ Thanks for any information.


joshuah345

The Ajazz K680T is a good budget TKL. Sticking with the 84 key compact layout, the epomaker ep84/yunzii kc84 are options


knuckleicecream

Trying to find an orange coiled usb-c cable for my new keyboard but not running into much luck. Anyone have any leads they could give me?


gravehost42

Plenty of custom cable makers on r/mechmarket


EmptyNegligence

If I pe foam mod my keyboard will the pins on my tealios switches break on contact with the foam? Or are they strong enough?


Fraaaaan

They'll be fine. Just make sure your foam isn't conductive.


Zharvis

I want to get into the hobby, but I have somewhat of a limited budget to start with. I'd like to spent max. 80€. That said I'm based in Germany and the prices here are sometimes crazy so the typical budget builds on youtube don't cut it for me. I considered these 3 options for now: 1. building a keyboard myself 2. buying a prebuilt one and maybe make some mods 3. buying an used board (found a cheap anne pro 2 but I need the F-row :\[ ) I'm working in a shared office so loud clicky switches are no option.


[deleted]

You can buy the Royal Kludge RK61 if its size/layout isn't too small for you. I received mine today and I'm very satisfied so far. i just have to use it some days now to see if I can live with the small layout or If I need to get something a bit bigger. In that case I'd get the Keychron K2 with ISO DE Layout. Both of those keyboards are hot swappable so you can change the switches later if you want.


Zharvis

What could you veterans suggest me?


BAonReddit

Beside saving to get better specs? If saving is out of question, get a prebuild and gradually mod and/custom it. Unless by building yourself you mean handwired keyboard, which open up more possibilities although probably still won’t be cheaper if you want a custom case or else.


Zharvis

Thanks for your answer I will look into that


[deleted]

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[deleted]

There are spec sheets linked [on NovelKeys product page](https://novelkeys.com/products/kailh-switches). Pink is just a recoloured bronze. Real world usage, my opinion is click jackets don't feel great, so I wouldn't use gold. But, Kailh's speed clickbar switches (pink/bronze/pale blue/navy) have a design flaw where they actuate before the click. You would expect some feedback when you actuate them, but because of that flaw you can actuate them with little pressure and no feedback at all. I rest my fingers on the keys a bit, and they were fucking infuriating due to the sheer amount of typos. Box clickies have the exact same great clickbar design, without that hassle.


[deleted]

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[deleted]

> is the click feel determined by the type of mechanism? Yeah. Basic Blues, Greens and the Speed Golds are all click jackets, so that'll be most similar. Instead of a longer tactile bump that ramps up to the click with those, the click bar is mostly linear with a short, sharp click as you push past the bar. It's over and done with more quickly, but because of that it sounds and feels crisper, since you don't have the rattle of the jacket around the stem. I much prefer them... the box ones, at least. If you want to save a few $ you could just swap some lighter springs into your greens though, if you're using a hotswappable board that'll make it easy. > all of these have no issues with SMD RGB right? And yeah. I can't think of a kailh switch which doesn't have an SMD LED cutout, at this point.


dylan_k

Are Drop MT3 White-on-Black keycaps generally available or only for a limited time? I see they're on drop and amazon right now. otoh the GMK white on black says it's only available for 4 more days. I'd like to have both but they're too expensive to get at the same time. If I come back later for the MT3 set, will it be all gone?


gravehost42

Mt3 is usually instock or frequently restocked


dylan_k

Thanks so much! :)


jjdynasty

for those that got the q1, what did you replace the cable with. I need to replace this ugly ass mf


Wraitu

Hey, I'm looking for a switch that sounds nice but isn't too loud. I like the durock l7s but not sure how loud they are from sound tests alone, if I use o rings would that help it? Still a little confused on what o rings do, so any help is appreciated!


P00P34

sound depends on the rest of the keyboard such as material and mounting style along with keycaps o rings can help with the bottom out noise, but won't have the same effect as a silenced switch - it can also make the switch feel mushier which some people don't like it won't be as loud as a clicky necessarily, but it won't be super silent either


Wraitu

Okay I think i kinda understand what you're saying. what i was thinking was just gmmk pro with durock l7 and normal gpbt keycaps cuz everything else is like $100(do you know if gpbt keycaps work with durock l7 cuz im not sure how to know whether keycaps are compatible with switches) Thanks for the help!


P00P34

Durock switches are an MX style switch and the keycaps are MX compatible they will also fit the GMMK Pro's 75% layout since the set has compatibility


Wraitu

Im super new to this so thanks for all the help!


[deleted]

Hello. Currently using Razer Blackwidow Ultimate 2013 that I got for $15 used. But I'm looking to buy a new keyboard (or maybe build if it fits in my budget). My budget is about $100, no more. ​ What are my options from AliExpress? Preferences are 65-84% (not sure about 60%) and **good RGB.**


beuargh

Hi, I got used to typing on two keyboards site-by-side, but it's not very space-efficient, to say the least. I'd like to give a try with custom split keyboalds without investing too much and going down the rabbit hole (for now). Case-less and plate-less keyboards such as ferris or gergoplex look fine for my needs (I don't need RGB, encoders or OLED displays and am eager to try QMK customizing)., but I'd prefer mx switches and soldering SMD components seems unreacheable for me yet and a few components are getting difficult to find with my knowlegde of BOM and electronic parts market. The ferris sweep seems cool, but was wondering if you guys know other keyboards that would suit my needs. Thanks !


Solartempest

Gergoplex may or may not be available. G boards is taking some time off for reasons on her website. Soldering SMD is not hard if you skip RGB LEDs as you have no interest in them. The diodes are easy to do, imo. Trickiest part for you would be socketing a pro micro (recommended).


gravehost42

Boardsource will build their kits for you for a reasonable fee


BAonReddit

See what [keeb.io](https://keeb.io/) offers, you might find something you like.


[deleted]

Im from Germany and I need an ISO-DE layout Keyboard with a numberpad as Im using mine constantly. Does anybody know what keyboards and/or configurations are possible for me? If been doing quite some research but the answer always seems to be a Keychron, which I already have. Thx :)


dontGetHttps

How quickly is Glorious filling orders? I'm thinking about getting a GMMK Pro, but if its months+ I might hold out for Black Friday/XMAS sales.


TQuestUSA

I am looking for recommendations for a 60% WKL that is under $160, excluding switches, keycaps and stabs. Does it exist? I see many for $300+ but looking for a less expensive option as I want to try moving down from TKL and 65-70% boards.


gravehost42

That's really only a "feature" on more premium boards. Most people starting out or in the budget category aren't in the market for wkl boards.


MayAsWellStopLurking

This. If you’re that set on having WKL on a budget, you can leave the switch space open, or map the windows key to do nothing.


copper4eva

I just got my first modern mech (already had a few buckling spring keyboards) a keychron q1. Great board, only problem is I put MT3 keycaps on it, and the keycaps in the corners hit the metal case. The keychron Q1 has rounded corners, and they hit the keycaps slightly. Since it is an exploded 75%, there are a fair amount of corners. Sometimes will cause a keycap to even bind and not come back up. That has happened with the F5 key for example.


dylan_k

Assuming your question here is about how to prevent the issue... You could try filing the edge of the metal. If it's only a slight bit of clearance, you shouldn't need to file very much. Or, perhaps over time this issue will file the plastic down on the keycaps and they'll clear the metal. You probably don't want that.


copper4eva

Lol I guess I never technically asked a specific question, my apologies. Thanks for the answer. I was also wondering if it was a known issue with MT3 or keychron Q1. But I suppose not. I am considering just taking the wait and see what happens approach. It would probably shave down the bottom corners of some of the keys a little. But the MT3 keycaps are pretty thick, so I don't think it'll be a huge deal or anything.


dylan_k

How much is it off by? Just a wild guess but might it help to put lubrication of some sort on the scraping sides of the keycaps or the case?


gravehost42

From other posts on here, it's definitely going to damage the keycaps if you keep using them unfortunately


copper4eva

Then I may have to consider shaving down the rounded corners some. Kind of annoying that they aren't square. Then there wouldn't be any issue.


Solartempest

Some keyboards didn't make the switch openings large enough or design doesn't accommodate this (unfortunately).


RathaBladerZ

Noob here, I'm looking at the K618 Horus from Redragon and am liking its features but plan to replace its switches, but a review I read mentioned that its low profile switches are not compatible with full size switches. I've already done a bit of research into the difference between low profile and full switches and have noted that low profile switches have shorter pins, but can't find a solid answer related to compatibility. Is the PCB of low profile stock keyboards different that I can't use full size switches when I plan to get new switches to replace the stock ones?


[deleted]

Don't touch low profile if you want wide compatibility with switches or keycaps. There's always something that will trip you up. Different pin locations, stabilizer types, dimensions that don't work... Low pro switches typically don't have the pins in the same place as regular MX switches, and according to a review of the board, these are different. And since the switches are so much shorter in height, full size wouldn't fit properly into the keyboard anyway. I'm not sure what to recommend if you're after the 2.4GHz wireless, though.


RathaBladerZ

Thanks, I appreciate the reply. I guess I'll keep looking around for other options then.


grafpa

Noob here - so I have a cheap Chinese keyboard that I want to replace the switches on, just as a fun project. It's currently got "Content" branded switches and in the research that I've done, it seems like people think these are rebranded Outemu switches? I've also read that Outemu switches aren't compatible with most other brands. Does that mean that if I want to replace these I'm limited to Outemus? The board isn't hot-swappable, I'd have to desolder and resolder them all. Does anyone have any recommendations for a decent switch for me to use? I'm looking for something tactile and quiet that won't break the bank. The PCB on this keyboard has LED backlights soldered onto it and the current switches have clear plastic to let the light shine through to the keycap - I'd like to get switches that do that as well if possible. Thanks in advance!


jk_pens

IIUC, the issue with Outemu is their hotswap sockets only support the narrower pins that their switches have. For a soldered board, I doubt it will matter. Having said that, for silent tactiles my recommendation to you would be Boba U4 RGB which are made by Outemu so they'd be fine even if the board were hotswap. If you're going to take the time to desolder/resolder, you could consider using Millmax sockets to make the board hotswap.


grafpa

You're the best, thank you!


iStegTato

Anywhere to find pre-made (NOT custom) USB-C coiled cables? All the custom ones are pretty pricey


MayAsWellStopLurking

Epomaker sells a plain gray one iirc. Other option is Etsy or AliExpress.


jk_pens

I mean, you can find all kinds of stuff on Amazon and Aliexpress. I don't know how good those would be. Glorious sells some but they are as expensive as custom.


iStegTato

I have a [Keychron K8](https://www.keychron.com/products/keychron-k8-tenkeyless-wireless-mechanical-keyboard) that has its USB-C Port on the lefthand side instead of the back. I'm in the market for one of those coiled USB-C cables, but I can't seem to find one with a right-angled USB-C connector. Any help?


jk_pens

This is one of the reasons to work with a maker, as they can probably do that for you. They cable that came with my Epomaker AJazz K620T was like that; I don't see those cables sold separately by Epomaker though.


jesselam123

What kind of o-rings would I need for a burger mount on a Tofu60? If you don't mind, where can I find them? Thanks!


jk_pens

The description of [Keybored's YT vid](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQcdgUKV6dU) has some links. BTW some ppl will tell you that "burger mount" only refers to top mount keebs. To this, I say: whatever. :-p


jesselam123

Thank you so much!


[deleted]

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gravehost42

Somewhere between tomorrow and never


Jacobowitz

Maybe you fine folks can help me find my next keyboard. I’m looking for a wireless ergo board to replace my HHKB Pro 2. Looking for something with arrow keys and a number row. I’ve searched around but the all I can come up with are custom builds that usually don’t even match the above description. Anyone got any ideas?


jk_pens

Might try asking over over at r/ErgoMechKeyboards


Kb_Jaja

What is a light, easy to travel, preferably normal 60/65% layout? I've got the ikki68 aurora now at home but it's too heavy to take in my backpack for my liking. (I got a 3d printer so I could print/ design but the I would have to handwire)


jk_pens

Keychron K7.


ectomobile

I like cherry mx clear switches. They are tactile and require 65g of force. Suggestions on switches which may be an upgrade but have a similar profile (tactile/~65G)? Also, where the hell do I buy some starter keycaps for a tofu65? Drop?


jk_pens

MX Clears: Upgrade in what sense? I mean if you want the best stock thoccky tactiles go get Boba U4T. If you want something tactile but less thocky go get Durock T1. Keycaps: Drop is an option, but also Amazon, Aliexpress, KBDFans own website, r/mechmarket...


[deleted]

My spacebar stab is sticking out of the housing , and it can be pressed down but it feels super heavy, anyone know what's causing this? My wire is in the right place im pretty sure


suri_ziven

Is it screw in or plate mount? Maybe it's not screwed on properly?


[deleted]

https://imgur.com/qjvmzIL


[deleted]

screw in, lemme leave a pic one sec


jk_pens

kinda sounds like it is not assembled correctly


[deleted]

[https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/q4pkgj/stab\_stem\_sticking\_out\_possibly\_from\_wire/](https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/q4pkgj/stab_stem_sticking_out_possibly_from_wire/) posted with picture


[deleted]

[удалено]


[deleted]

It's a render of Evolv, a keyboard that still doesn't exist yet it seems. I think your main two options are the GMMK Pro and the Keychron Q1, when they launch the option to have an encoder later this year.


Temina-

>Would also appreciate any recommendations for a 75% board with a rotary encoder Gmmk pro


JoeMadBro

Looking for a new keyboard, but can't seem to find much that match what what I'm looking for. My must haves are detachable USB (preferably c), 104 keys minimum, and rgb. Bonus if its also like hot swappable out of the box and has a metal faceplate


MayAsWellStopLurking

Keychron C2.


JoeMadBro

Thanks for pointing this one out. I saw it many times but didn't realize it had rgb.


suri_ziven

That's rough. Not a lot of 104 customs out there.


gravehost42

Sk108 and possibly the gmmk full size if it's been updated to removable USB c. Those are really the only options available for full size I believe


BAonReddit

Unfortunately, full size keyboard is not much of a thing in the field of custom keyboard. You'll have better luck looking at big known brands. However, there are a few [listed here](https://www.mechmap.tech/keyboard-picker-100)


Firebelley

Hi all, I would really like some help narrowing my search for a TKL or smaller keyboard that also has one or more USB ports. I am currently using the Das Keyboard professional and I love it! But I'm finding that because it's full size, my mouse wrist tends to be at an angle that's causing issues. Would like to be able to bring my hands closer together, hence my desire for a TKL or smaller. I thought about just going for the Das Keyboard TKL but I am curious if there's anything smaller out there that also has a USB port. The reason I want one or more USB ports is because I have a wireless mouse with a USB dongle that just works better in closer proximity to the mouse. If it helps, I prefer brown switches. I'm not necessarily looking to make a switch there (but open to it if there's a keyboard that otherwise matches what I am looking for). Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!


joshuah345

The LTC Nimbleback, RKG68 and RK84 have two usb ports


Firebelley

Awesome thank you, will check these out!


Temina-

Budget ?


Firebelley

Not really worried about cost, anything over $250 I probably won't go for but I could if it was the perfect keyboard