IBM Model M-style Keyboard Arrives: Tactile Feedback Returns

One of the things that *does* have me smiling today is that my "new" old keyboard arrived yesterday. It's a Dell keyboard from 1998-1999 that, while it has a different mechanism, emulates the feel of the classic IBM Model M keyboard. That keyboard is pretty highly prized for its tactile feedback (definitive "click" on each keypress) and for its nigh invulnerability. I had one for a long time that disappeared somewhere along the way and I miss it more than one should miss a peripheral.

The originals were made of steel and heavy duty plastic. They were actually sturdy enough that they could have been used as a weapon should an unsuspecting geek need to defend themselves.

The site I ordered from specializes in these keyboards. Most of the *actual* Model M keyboards they have in stock are pretty spendy ($75-100). But, when I saw the Dell for $29 and the description mentioned the same feel in the keyboard, I took it as a sign and bought one.

I'm now clicking away loudly on this amazing keyboard. It's too bad that shipping weight took over as the primary design consideration on keyboards instead of the actual feel.

Of course, this thing is loud. So, yes, Ron, I'll be leaving this thing at home instead of bringing it in to bug you all day.

Hmm. If these had remained standard keyboards thoughout the 90's and into today, would we all have offices instead of cubicles to cut down on the clicking noise?