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Cherry's New Keyboard Switches Emulate IBM Model M Feel

Posted by timothy on from the color-me-green-with-skepticism dept.

crookedvulture writes "Slashdot has already covered the four main flavors of Cherry MX mechanical key switches: red, black, blue, and brown. Now, there's a green MX variant that emulates the feel of the buckling spring switches in old-school IBM Model M keyboards. The green switches combine tactile feedback, an audible click, and a stiff spring that requires 80g of actuation force. They're a stiffer version of the MX blues that more closely matches the characteristics of IBM's buckling spring design. Previously reserved for use with space bars, the green switches have now taken over an entire Cooler Master keyboard. And, unlike the old Model M and contemporary copycats, the new CM Storm Trigger has modern conveniences like an integrated USB hub, LED backlighting, and programmable macros." I've had my hopes raised and then dashed by some other keyboards whose makers promised Model M feel, so I'll believe it when I feel and hear it.

4 of 298 comments (clear)

  1. Ok now how about an ergo version by dickens · · Score: 5, Insightful

    I would dearly love buckling spring keys but still the "bend" of my MS "natural" that I have gotten so used to. I can still type faster on a model M - I have several, but the ergo keyboards are so much better for my beat up wrists.

  2. As opposed to actual Model Ms which are still made by maztuhblastah · · Score: 5, Informative

    As opposed to actual Model Ms which are still made. With the same switch design. By many of the same workers. On the same machines.

    http://www.unicomp.com/

    Why bother "emulating" the buckling spring feel when you can get a brand new keyboard with real buckling springs. Oh, and it's made in the USA too!

    (Also, they have keyboard layouts that offer the Ctrl key in the correct location. 'cause it's about damn time...)

    --
    The real litigious bastards...
  3. The switch is not new... by Leslie43 · · Score: 5, Informative

    It's been used in spacebars on Cherry Mx Blue keyboards for a while, just not an entire keyboard.

    This is a Cherry Mx Blue switch with a stiffer spring, nothing more. Enthusiasts have been making keyboards like this for a while now (which is where Cooler Master got the idea), and it most definitely does not replicate a model M feel or sound.

    If you want a Model M, buy a Model M or a Unicomp.

  4. Re:So... by K.+S.+Kyosuke · · Score: 5, Informative

    I also have a cast iron pan in my kitchen, am I emulating the second century BC or just using a good tool?

    No, you're not, unless you're Chinese. Only the Chinese had cast iron in the second century BCE.

    --
    Ezekiel 23:20