Model M vs SteelSeries

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Simkid

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#1 Simkid
Member since 2002 • 360 Posts
So I'm looking for a new keyboard at the moment, and have pretty much narrowed it down to a unicomp version of the Model M or a SteelSeries 7G. I'm mostly looking for someone's comparison of the feel of the boards... The features on the SteelSeries look nice, but I have no idea how different this is actually going to feel from the Model M I'm using now. I'd also be interested if anyone has found a noticable difference in feel between the Unicomp boards and the orignals. Right now I'm using a 1989 Mexican built Model M, but the num lock light is dead (yes, I could probably repair is) and the spacesaver wold fit my desk a lot better (I'm also starting to miss the windows key of all things with the Windows 7 start menu).
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tequilasunriser

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#2 tequilasunriser
Member since 2004 • 6379 Posts

Model M is going to be LOUD because it uses a bucking spring key switch. The 7G uses Cherry black switches, so not only is it silent but also not tactile so it's a smooth actuation all the way through the key stroke.

With the buckling spring the key will collapse and bottom out by the time the keyboard signals the keystroke. The Cherry blacks will register actuations before the keys bottom out.

I've had limited use with both but I like the feel of the Cherry black keys in the 7G, and I too am contemplating a 7G purchase. I've been waiting for it to go on sale but I have a feeling it will be phased out before I see it drop in price.

Also, I thought I'd mention that the 7G doesn't have a windows key. It has a steelseries key that has special functions like volume control, etc.

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Simkid

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#3 Simkid
Member since 2002 • 360 Posts
My understanding is that the SteelSeries does have a windows key, but only the right one. Anyone confirm that?
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tequilasunriser

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#4 tequilasunriser
Member since 2004 • 6379 Posts

My mistake, yes, it does have a windows key on the right.

Also, if you are interested in the 7G check out the Deck Legend toxic version.

http://www.deckkeyboards.com/product_info.php?products_id=54

It uses the same switches as the 7G but the keys are dye sublimated and backlit so the keyboard can be viewed at night. To me it's worth $10 extra when you are already considering spending $150 to have backlit keys.

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#5 NamelessPlayer
Member since 2004 • 7729 Posts
With the buckling spring the key will collapse and bottom out by the time the keyboard signals the keystroke. The Cherry blacks will register actuations before the keys bottom out.tequilasunriser
Not the case. The instant that spring buckles, a hammer hits a membrane and the signal goes through. There's still a bit of overtravel, but the sudden loss in resistance does make it more likely to bottom out. A lot of people like linear switches such as the Cherry MX Black or Red for gaming, mostly because riding the activation point is easier, but I personally can't get used to them-yes, even for gaming. I'd prefer MX Clears (they have an actual, noticeable tactile bump compared to the MX Browns, but still no audible click like the Blues or buckling springs), but they're harder to get a hold of (unless one feels like spending tons on a Deck Legend), so I make do with MX Blues for now, which feel pretty good except for the higher release point (and the noise isn't quite as satisfying as a buckling spring). And yes, even the MX Blues won't really feel like buckling springs. Nothing else does. But if you want proper 6-key rollover or even full N-key rollover, backlighting, media keys, that sort of thing, there are no buckling spring boards to fulfill that. Besides adding Windows keys and perhaps using softer springs, Unicomp hasn't really changed the original Model M design much.