IBM Model M 101-key Keyboard

Aside from lacking a Windows key, this is an outstanding keyboard for typing! I'm used to typing on cheap membrane keyboards, but I sometimes mistype things due to slightly pressing other keys by accident. I recently tried a number of mechanical keyboards with various Cherry MX switches and generally hated the typing experience on every single one of them. This is the only keyboard that actually feels better to type on than a plain membrane keyboard.

Oh I love these old IBM keyboards! I was so excited when I seen this one up for sale! I had to buy it, and I am so glad I did. The absolute most reliable and most fun keyboard I have ever owned. So loud and so comfortable, IBM really knew how to make these old buckling springs sing!

Overall, this thing was [IS] amazing. I love the buckling springs. It is clean and it is exactly what I was looking for in my initial journey into mechanical keyboards. Overtime, though, I realized, they'd [very slightly and kinda] short changed me. The quote/single quote key [" '] had been replaced by with half height, no legend key cap. I'm loathe to complain because the keyboard is amazing. I realize that it's used. The half-height key works and I know what symbols it represents. Still, I'd kinda like to have the REAL [quote/single quote] key cap. But, since that is my ONLY problem with this keyboard, I'm still going to give it a 98/100. They were quick and delivered a clean, decent, used product. Just like the newspaper kid in Better Off Dead, I'm going to say that "I want my two dollars" (where two dollars actually equals the [quote/single quote] key on an IBM Model-M).

The series M is known for it's ruggedness. There are fan clubs with this guy. Got it used, but this makes no difference as these are indestructable. Have had keyboards where the home keys are worn off, the artwork is worn off (packard-bell,yeah) and have had no success with these type of interface devices until now. It is a bit noisy, but hopefully you'll be listening to music at the time and this one will cut right through and know that you've pressed a key.

Exactly what I needed. My previous one was on my IBM Computer purchased in 1993 at Radio Shack. Still works good but the keyboardf failed this past month.

In the computing world, it's almost unheard of for a piece of equipment from the 1980s to still be useful today. The IBM Model M keyboard is a notable exception to that rule. I am typing this review on a 20-year-old Model M connected to my relatively new MacBook. Why do I still use this old keyboard when newer keyboards with modern styling and fancy media keys can be found for cheap? There are a number of reasons. 1) Tactile feedback The IBM Model M keyboard uses a distinctive buckling spring technology. This was originally developed for electric typewriters, and was later included on this keyboard. It was made to allow for comfortable typing, even for those who type a lot. The way the buckling spring works is that there is an individual spring under each key. As you press down, the spring compresses and eventually it buckles to the side from the stress. This is also the exact instant when the keyboard records the key press, and there is a distinctive clicking sound and tactile feeling when this happens. Many people, myself included, greatly prefer the feeling under your fingers on a buckling spring keyboard (like the IBM Model M) as compared to a typical rubber dome keyboard. 2) Durable construction The IBM Model M keyboard was designed and built to last. The plastic case is very rugged and strong. The interior of the keyboard features a solid metal frame. It is heavy, durable, and can withstand years of heavy typing. The buckling springs last a lot longer than the typical keyboard's sheet of rubber domes, which tend to wear unevenly and become weak after a period of heavy use. This durability means the keyboard is quite environmentally friendly. There's no need to throw your broken keyboard in the landfill every couple of years when you have a Model M, because these almost never break. 3) Removable key caps Keyboards can get quite grungy after a while. The plastic key caps on this keyboard are designed to be removed easily. This makes the keyboard quite simple to clean safely. Just pop the key caps off, soak them in hot soapy water for a while, scrub them lightly, and let them dry. When you put them back on, the keyboard will look as good as new! This feature is also good for people who use alternative keyboard layouts (like Dvorak), because the keys can be easily rearranged into any pattern desired. I also like the Model M's no-nonsense, classic, professional appearance. It means business. Buy this keyboard. It should keep you typing away for decades to come.

The Model M is without a doubt one of the best keyboards ever produced. Don't let the appearance fool you; this is NOT some fragile antique. This keyboard is a proven design that dates back to the early 80s, and will last forever. If you're the kind of person who replaces your keyboard frequently, consider this. My father bought one of these with the first 386 computer we had when I was a kid, and it lasted through over ten years of daily rigorous use, including my father's heavy-handed typing and my frustrated banging of the keyboard when I was younger. Even after more than a decade of constant hard use, I sold that keyboard for $20. These boards can take almost any abuse you throw at them, and keep on working without a hitch. Consider this if you want a keyboard that will last you through multiple computers, and one that can handle nearly any punishment you can dole out.

I use my IBM M 101-key as my work keyboard. It is built to last and I love the touch (and feedback as you press each key) The only potential negatives are that it has no windows key and the clicking can be a little loud if you are in a group environment. (Neither of these is a problem for me) Note that you may also need a PS2 to USB converter.