What is a good inexpensive mechanical keyboard? No funky keys (media control nor power sleep etc.), just a normal layout and good crisp key feel.
Anything in $50 range?
Get one from the Geekhack classifieds. That's where I got mine. And be sure not to go into the group buy section, lest your wallet be raped big time.
there are some hardcore keyboard guys. I feel a bit dirty now, but it's awesome stuff
CM storm tenkeyless, red, /thread
Any experience with them?
Depends. Do you have a wife? Do you like having sex with her? If so, you probably want to avoid any buckling spring keyboard...
I've tried one out, and I loved the feel of the springs. I couldn't get past the noise, though. My Cherry browns already make enough as it is. People over at Geekhack usually have good things to say about the Customizers. You could always check ebay for a better deal, I almost bought an Endurapro for $36 shipped until I realized I had no use for it.
Leopolds and Filcos > Das. Leopolds start at $90, check elitekeyboards.What if I expand my budget to $130 range? Das the best at that price? Opinion of them?
geekhack disagrees w youCrisis averted. I forgot everyone wants less of a keyboard, with an inferior build quality, for the same price as other options.
Edit: Sorry for getting dragged off topic. Damn hipsters.
Leopolds and Filcos > Das. Leopolds start at $90, check elitekeyboards.
Noppoos are not standard USB and do not work with Macs, so I haven't bought one. Otherwise very attractive boards. I would prefer a board which was that compact, but am stuck with Topre tenkeyless width.+1
If you want a tenkeyless the Noppoo Choc Mini isn't bad at all.
Thanks. In reading reviews, I came across these: http://pckeyboards.stores.yahoo.net/keyboards.html
Unicomp, current owners of the IBM M keyboard design, make a buckling spring keyboard almost exactly like the IBM M. And it is made in the USA. It is $80. Any experience with them?