Questions about the IBM Model M.

[TheQsanity]

I hear people say the older ones are better than the newer ones. Do they mean the one's from the 80's?

Are They any different from Unicomp's keyboards?

What would be the best Buckling Spring keyboard to get for the price?

Thanks

[Ascaii]

Well, springs do wear out. I much prefer a set of new springs from unicomp over a worn out vintage model M.
Ive had enough NIB Model M boards from the 80s to say that those do feel "better", but again, that might be personal preference and subujective.

[TheQsanity]

Hmm, The Unicomp do look nicer too.. They NIB IBM May cost a lot, but the old ones are much cheaper yet dirtier. I think I'll try to snag a SpaceSaver from Unicomp when it pops up on ebay.

[Ascaii]

One thing that is relatively easy to do is snag a cheap, used model M and just buy a set of new springs from unicomp.
It will take some time to do the full cleaning and switching of the springs, but it will leave you satisfied when you first type on the board. Also, it takes a LOT of use to wear out the prings...most used model M boards still feel good and only need a cleaning. Ive had about 50-60 IBM boards wander through my hands, and ive had 3, maybe 4 that were worn out.

[Icarium]

I prefer softer, worn out springs.

[1391401]

Are They any different from Unicomp's keyboards?

Both keyboards look practically identical, however IBM manufactured Model M's weigh more, don't have the flashing issues that Unicomp models have, and don't creak. On the flip side, Unicomp boards are practically ping free.

What would be the best Buckling Spring keyboard to get for the price?

The original Model M and Unicomp variant are both good boards, however finding a working Model M in really good condition is a bit of a crap shoot on eBay and for what you'll pay at Clickykeyboards, you can buy a brand new Unicomp. That said, I personally prefer the original Model M's, namely because they feel sturdier to me, and there's just something about the nostalgia of owning an original.