Best keyboard?

[Maverick2002]

So it's time for me to get a new keyboard. I'm looking for something that I can type fast/comfortably on and will still be solid for gaming. I prefer the smaller/lower height keys found on IBM computers. It needs to have a longer space bar, preferably L shaped enter key, and decent sized F1-12 keys (not tiny). Any suggestions before I go pick something with lots of reviews on Newegg?

I remember reading somewhere not long ago that there's a new mechanical keyboard akin to those oldschool IBM keyboards that is supposedly badass for typing. Anyone know what I'm talking about?

Found it: http://techreport.com/articles.x/16138

It's too pricey ($130), but is there anything terribly special about it or is it just a keyboard for fanboys?

I do a fair bit of typing on my keyboard, but also a good amount of gaming. I don't need oversized WASD keys, but they can't be tiny either. Also, those split keyboards with different sized keys (MS ergonomic) won't fly. I think Saitek makes a decent gaming keyboard?

Kinda lost, open to suggestions. TIA!

Edit: currently looking at -

Saitek Eclipse 2 - http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16823175001
Logitech G11 - http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16823126009
Logitech illuminated, smaller keys (might be a winner) - http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16823126043

 

[mpilchfamily]

Keyboard selection is very sunjective. Its all a matter of your taste and cumfort. Best recomendation anyone can give you is to go to your a local retailer and give the floor models a try. You really won't know which one works best for you till you try it.

 

[Arglebargle]

Originally posted by: mpilchfamily
Keyboard selection is very sunjective. Its all a matter of your taste and cumfort. Best recomendation anyone can give you is to go to your a local retailer and give the floor models a try. You really won't know which one works best for you till you try it.

Wise words! You can get a general idea of quality, and bits of info to narrow the choice down, but your preferences are going to be very personal. That said, I love my G11. Great for me, and the volume dial has now become a requirement for future keyboards.

 

[lxskllr]

I don't think $130 is too much for a keyboard if it's the right one for you. That's your main interface with the computer, and it doesn't make sense to cheap out on something you have a direct connection with. I'm not endorsing that particular keyboard, but I wouldn't dismiss it due to price either.

Edit:
I have a couple of old school Model M keyboards, and they are my favorite to type on. I don't do much typing though, so I'm using a Dell USB keyboard due to it's smaller footprint.

 

[nerp]

I'd recommend a Unicomp for quality and price.

The ABS M1 seems to be well liked.

I recommend heading to geekhack.org and reading up on the different switches out there and you can get a good sense of what switch provides what type of sound/feel.

Personally I wouldn't go for the DAS for a variety of reasons.

I love buckling spring boards, though some of the Cherrys are very enjoyable to use.

You can go to a retailer to try out different boards, but you're only going to be sampling inferior rubber dome boards. Unfortunatley, finding a retailer that stocks quality mechanical boards is next to impossible these days.