It is now time to buy a new keyboard.

So far I’ve looked at…

1. Das Keyboard II, $89.95. Even though I’ve been touch typing ever since I was 12, the blank keys are creepy. Although, it uses Cherry key switches, so those shouldn’t wear down… ever.
2. Unicomp SpaceSaver, $69. Unicomp is the old IBM PC keyboard division that made the classic Model M keyboard that is so famous. This model is a modernized PS/2 style version that works like the original Model Ms including the same clicky key switches, which like the Cherry switches, they should never wear out.
3. One of the more interesting entries, the Kinesis Advantage, $299, is one of those new age anti-RSI keyboards that are supposed to decrease wear on your fingers while increasing usefulness. I actually like the way this keyboard is designed, but I’d like to use one before buying one.
4. Fujitsu’s Happy Hacking series, the Professional version at $259 (uses clicky switchs), and the new Lite2 version at $69 (uses dome switches). I don’t like how they aren’t full keyboards, but they’re well respected and I know a few people who own them. Both Pro and Lite2 are available in versions with and without blank keys.
5. Logitech G15, $99.99. Uglier than sin, virtually useless LCD screen, and the keys light up. It may not be possible to find a more riced up keyboard. The G11 is the same thing but without the LCD. The only thing that this keyboard series has that is useful is the macro keys, but if they don’t send actual keysyms (instead performing the function in the keyboard hardware) then those are useless. I most likely will not buy the G11 or G15.
6. Matias Tactile Pro 2, $149, a keyboard based on the old Apple Extended Keyboard using clicky switches. Honestly, I like the idea of the optimizer function Matias has on their keyboards, but I’d rather implement it in software by hijacking the caps lock key as the modifier instead. I probably won’t buy it because of the unconfigurable optimizer mode.

So, my readership, which keyboard should I get? Suggest one not on the list, and I’ll consider it as well.