Thread: Keyboards - Split from "Do you touch-type or hunt-and-peck"

I use one of those funky split "ergonomic" keyboards. Started b/c they were what you had to use at a place I worked, and I grew to really like them. This is what I use-

Amazon.com: Logitech 967692-0403 Cordless Desktop Comfort Laser (Black): Electronics

Originally Posted by Rajagra

I just found a page debunking the Dvorak vs QWERTY war:
Typing Errors: The standard typewriter keyboard is Exhibit A in the hottest new case against markets. But the evidence has been cooked. - Reason Magazine
If you skim past some boring stuff there's some strong evidence that the benefits of the Dvorak layout have been (ahem) exaggerated.

I was toying with the idea of trying it. I'll put it on hold.

I had never actually heard an argument about accuracy - I thought it was more about speed and the reduction of repetitive motion injuries. While I do like to point out that some common errors (such as teh) are far less frequent in Dvorak, I assume the actual errors and frequency of those errors has just as much, if not more, to do with the typer (typist?) as the layout.

All I can really say is that, personally, I type faster on Dvorak than I did on QWERTY, and that includes the time it takes to proofread.

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

Just wanted to write a bit about my previous keyboard, the Logitech G15 (first Gen).

That's the one I had. I bought it mostly for the 18 programmable macro keys (54 macros with the 3 shifted states.) Although they are great, the layout doesn't really lend itself to gaming, they are more useful for Photoshop or something like that. Key feel was good for a membrane keyboard, but nothing special.

Originally Posted by jockeys

I use a Das Keyboard and a Nostromo N52 (orange and black one, few versions old)

I have that version too. Only reason I "upgraded" was that the scroll wheel on the old one kept going offline due to a driver problem. Believe it or not some people rip out the electronics from the old N52 and put them into the N52te case. That way they get 4 shift states instead of 3 and the superior older software, but in the new casing that feels slightly improved.

Originally Posted by Pete_S

From what I've read about Dvorak, alot of the appeal is that its alot more comfortable to use, not just accuracy.

Good point.

Originally Posted by Rajagra

I have that version too. Only reason I "upgraded" was that the scroll wheel on the old one kept going offline due to a driver problem. Believe it or not some people rip out the electronics from the old N52 and put them into the N52te case. That way they get 4 shift states instead of 3 and the superior older software, but in the new casing that feels slightly improved.

hell, i don't even use the drivers, i just treat it as a normal usb keyboard. i bought it because it was more comfortable for long twitch-fps sessions.

If anyone's interested, you can get a bargain Dell clicky keyboard for $20 on ebay today. Not quite an IBM Model M, but close.
Some info on that model here.

I would get it myself if it wasn't for the $48.50 shipping to the UK.

Originally Posted by Rajagra

My ideal input device would be similar to having two N52s side-by-side, one for each hand. Each would have 18 keys for the fingers in a 6x3 pattern, making them all insanely easy to reach from the central 4 home keys. Add in 2 or 3 buttons for each thumb.

Hmm, looks like something along those lines already exists.
And you get change from a grand! (Until you add postage.)

geekhack forums - Powered by vBulletin is to keyboards what SRP is to razors.

Originally Posted by Rajagra

Hmm, looks like something along those lines already exists.
And you get change from a grand! (Until you add postage.)

geekhack forums - Powered by vBulletin is to keyboards what SRP is to razors.

I don't remember where or why, but I found a site of a guy that took an egro keyboard, hacked it it half, and put one half on each arm of an arm chair. It was all wired up and fully functional. Looked pretty cool, especially if you're trying to avoid RMI's and shoulder stress.

I'm using whatever keyboard comes free with my computer. This one happens to be from an ACER. I never knew anything like the Dvorak existed. The history and thought behind it intrigues me. However, I'd rather not have to re-learn typing, as it was a rather tedious class in highschool. I would love to own something like this, though:

This is a custom, home-made art-deco style keyboard. I recently found out about steampunk, and while I'm not as skilled as some of these folks, I can appreciate what they do. This particular one was made for a video store. The tend to use antique type-writer buttons, for an added vintage appeal. Anyone else like this sorta thing?

I've seen that guy's page, the one who makes the custom keyboards. I do agree that they look really cool, but unless I had a whole setup that went along with the same style, I wouldn't want just the keyboard.

Yeah those steampunk keyboards are impressive - but if I made one I would have a proper carriage return lever.