I stumbled upon an original IBM 101 keyboard while cleaning out my basement, which brought back memories of my first computer.(yes I’m that old) Although I couldn’t truly test it since I don’t have a DIN to USB converter, I was intrigued by its tactile feedback and wanted to experience something similar in a modern mechanical keyboard.
I’ve been searching for a keyboard that captures the essence of this old model without breaking the bank. With various options available, I tested several keyboards to determine which one best fits my needs. I’m not a hard core gamer so I’m not going to get into the nitty-gritty of mechanical switch brands, colors and such. My intention here is to point out some keyboards that I have personally tried and like.
my overall pick (and now a good value)
The Mountain Everest Max – I picked one of these up for Christmas in December of 23 and it was $199. According to the latest Amazon listing its 
now going for $99. Wow 1/2 price in under a year.
Features I like:
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- Keyboard is heavy and sturdy
- Cherry MX switches (you pick the color)
- Fully addressable RGB lighting for each key
- Number pad can be on the left or the right
Stuffy I don’t like:
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- Number pad & wrist rest is held on with magnets and can easily be dislodged
- The “control” hub is a bit silly, I don’t find myself using it much or even looking at it
- Software driver is a little buggy (works but buggy)
Over all this is a great keyboard at $199 and a fantastic keyboard at $99 The typing experience is near perfect and the build quality is amazing. I highly recommend this keyboard, you will not be disappointed. Check it out here on AMAZON
good value keyboard and wireless
My employer is more than happy to provide you with any wireless keyboard you want as long as its a $30 Logitech membrane keyboard. I was so happy with the Mountain keyboard at home I wanted something to use at work but a little less expensive. I found this:
AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Why did I pick this? Two main reasons.
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- I have two computers on my desk in the office and I go back and fourth
between them multiple times a day. This keyboard features 3 Bluetooth channels and can switch between computers simply by pressing FN-1 / FN-2 or FN-3. - Keys have a nice click and feel good, keyboard has some weight to her and the battery life is excellent.
- I have two computers on my desk in the office and I go back and fourth
Stuff I don’t like:
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- At times I feel like I can type faster that the keyboard can transmit my key strokes. I have on occasion had an odd type-o and I’m not sure if it was my fat fingers, Bluetooth interference or just the keyboard not being able to keep up
- The keyboard likes to go to sleep to help preserve the battery, you have to remember to wake it up with a keystroke or the first word you type will be missing a letter.
Over all for $66 (When I bought it I paid $74) its a great keyboard. Works via 2.4ghz dongle, wired usb-c or Bluetooth. Just remember if you are connecting it to your laptop and have to type a password before windows boots you will need to use the dongle for the initial connection as BT will not be operational. Check it out at AMAZON
Super budget keyboard
Apparently one of the trends in keyboards is not having a number pad and jamming the most number of keys into the smallest package. My son wanted a
keyboard that was small and he could use it at college in his dorm. If you have ever been in a dorm room you would know just how small the desks are.
This Snpurdii 60% wired keyboard is 100% cheap, but 100% usable and fun! I paid about $34 for it, but its down to $26 and even has a 10% off coupon.
The Good:
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- Crazy low price
- Claims it has red switches (does not say want brand)
- Has preset LED back lighting configurations
- Great for a college dorm (my kid has it since 11/23 and has not complained about it yet)
The Bad:
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- Materials are not the best quality, but for $26 who cares
- Only USB-C, no wireless options
- Backlight could be a little brighter
61 total keys for $26 its a cheap Chinese knockoff, but it gets the job done. I would not recommend this to anyone that is serious about gaming. However, for a low cost keyboard that you can toss around on your desk, or drop in a backpack on the go its perfect! Pick it up at AMAZON
Summary
Since switching from a membrane keyboard to mechanical switches back in December of last year I have never looked back. Somewhere along the line of my first computer with mechanical switches to today we got lost with cheap membrane keyboards. I truly enjoy hammering out a blog post on these keyboards and each click is as satisfying as the last.
The keyboards I am recommending above are from my own personal experience. If you don’t own a mechanical keyboard, stop by a Best Buy or computer store and give one a test drive. You won’t be disappointed.
Thanks again for reading my blog.