I've been using my DAS Keyboard Ultimate for a long time, in fact, I had to repair it a couple of times by soldering a few replacement Cherry MX Brown switches. I've gotten a lot of use out of it, and it still works fantastic, but I've been really wanting to try a Topre keyboard.
I originally got the DAS Keyboard Ultimate because of the Cherry MX Brown Switches and the blank keycaps. Most keyboards keys are a membrane switch which is kind of like a plastic button. Most programmers or heavy computer users prefer mechanical keyboards, with real mechanical switches.
Membrane Switch
Mechanical Switch
Although the membrane switch is fairly obvious how it works, the mechanical switch is fairly hard to visualize how it works.
A mechanical switch gives you a more responsive keyboard that allows you to type faster with fewer mistakes. I've loved my DAS Keyboard Ultimate but I knew there was better, especially since DAS Keyboard quality has declined only the models made in the Germany factory had good space bars that were not squishy. I also chose the Ultimate because Cherry MX Brown switches are supposed to have a good feel but also be quiet and the model was still built in their original factory. Anyone who has heard me speak on the radio shows or in a hangout knows that's bullshit, my keyboard is loud af.
There are six common Cherry MX switches that vary in how much pressure you have to give them to actuate and how much noise they make. I used to have a Cherry MX Black keyboard prior to this one, and only switched to Browns for the noise reduction when choosing my next keyboard.
A Topre keyboard is in a totally different league for keyboard enthusiasts. They typically range from $200 to well over $1,000 and are very hard to get.
Topre Switch
What makes Topre a superior switch is the speed at which it can respond, and the feedback you get from pressing them. In just a few days I have noticed I have been able to type even faster than my typical 130 WPM and make fewer errors.
I can't say I am exactly thrilled with the look, it's very vanilla looking keyboard, and doesn't look like it is worth $254. But I am very happy with how it performs.
I want to find a place where I can order a custom set of blank keycaps to change the look to something like this:
I know of a lot of places that do quality double shot caps for Cherry MX switches but still trying to find one for Topre. I don't typically care about looks, but if I'm going to use this keyboard for years, might as well do it now.
I really wanted to get a Happy Hacking Keyboard Pro, as I hear people rave about them being the best keyboard ever made. I just don't think I can ever get used to a 60% keyboard as I am left handed and depend on the keypad.
Still going to take some time to get used to it, and really form an opinion but within five minutes I was already happy.
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