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IBM Model M The awesome name of the great high father of modern computer keyboards, aka The One True Keyboard, is an extremely impressive thing to people who know computer keyboards. These Reagan–era behemoths dominated the industry for years, and now, nearly 3 decades after their introduction, are still loved and used and cherished by multitudes of the faithful, around the world. As a further vote of confidence, the patents and manufacturing components have been bought and sold twice since IBM spun off its keyboard business, and a very similar product is still being built, first by Lexmark, then by Unicomp, and sold today. This awesome product has changed over the years, (devolved, some may say) with the metal back plate going from 3 pounds to 2 pounds to 1 pound, and the plastic case becoming lighter. The later models from Lexmark and Unicomp weigh at least a couple of pounds less than the original 1980s Model Ms. To me, they seem to have a lighter touch as well as a lighter sound, that I would describe as more of a “sproing” than a “ping” but it may be my ears. In truth, the change, whether for better or for worse, is incremental and small. There are modifications to be done to this beast, the most popular being the “nut–bolt mod” where the plastic rivets holding the interior components together are cut off, drilled out, and replaced by tiny bolts. This makes for a much more secure connection that can be adjusted as well as disassembled. By tightening or loosening the screws, the touch and the sound of the keyboard can be adjusted. I prefer them rather looser for a lighter touch and “pingier” sound, but you can torque them down for a tighter feel. On the other hand, the music/noise may be annoying to yourself and/or to others, and, fortunately, there is a way to cut the sound in half without appreciably affecting the feel. This is by “flossing” or inserting a short section of the fluffy type of dental floss into the center of each spring. The click remains, but the ringing resonance is dampened. If I lived alone I would probably use my non–flossed M, but with a wife and kids I use my flossed one most of the time. So, my recommendation for shopping on ebay, is to search “Model M” and buy a good working piece to get your feet wet. The Unicomps and Lexmarks will be cheaper than the older IBMs, and may well give you a better product since they will have sustained less use (ie damage) being newer. Curmudgeons will seek out crusty old fossils on the idea that the older ones (pre-1989) are better because they are heavier, or that the 1391401 is the “kosher” version, but the jury is out on all that. If you are curious about these things, buy one that is tested and works. If you buy one from me, it will work properly, and I will have priced it fairly. After using it for one minute or one day, you will know – this is the ultimate best keyboard – or – this is a lame old thing for esoteric weird–o’s.Read full review
There are many model M keyboards by IBM, and most of them are clicky (some aren't). This particular model # 42H1292 is clicky and I absolutely love it. You know when a key has been pressed because you can feel it in your typing. The keyboard itself quite large and very heavy, which is a good thing. Long story short: I can't believe I went this long without owning a modem M keyboard. I have been using computers for over 30 years and nothing compares to a vintage model M keyboard. I've owned well over 10 keyboards in my life and this one takes top prize. PS: a great site to check out model #s is clickykeyboards dot com - note that I am not affiliated this site. They are a great resource because they have listed every model M keyboard listed and have detailed info, including whether or not a particular model M keyboard has the buckling spring (which makes they keyboard clicky).Read full review
Wonderful keyboard. Absolutely destroys any competition with pretty much any modern mechanical keyboard on the market. It's so staisfying to type on it, even after the few weeks I've owned it. Takes a little getting used to and it sticks out like a sore thumb, but for an active typist like myself, it is pure gold.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Can't say enough about this keyboard. I remember the cacophony of noise in grade school computer labs, as 25+ people learned to type simultaneously. It's not until now that I finally appreciate how good these keyboards are. The tactile response you get from a buckling spring key switch is unlike any other. While I still prefer my DasKeyboard Professional III, with Cherry MX Blue mechanical key switches, for gaming (and for aesthetics), I'll take a Model M when it comes to typing any day of the week. The fact that people are still buying and selling Model M keyboards nearly a decade after IBM stopped manufacturing them, is proof that they're the most durable keyboard ever made.
Had an accident years ago and lost much feeling in hands, especially fingers. The usual "mushy" key boards left me unable to be sure I was on home base. I remembered the old IBM keyboards that were so comfortable and started looking for one. I checked on so many and finally found just what I wanted. The board had been all reconditioned and I have not found one thing I do not like about it. I feel comfortable typing for the first time since the accident. Imagine someone with arthritis would benefit from these items too.
No surprises, nice condition, good, solid, clicky keyboard goodness. Thanks!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Will buy again
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Old school cool, love the clicks!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
As a high volume typist I need a good heavy keyboard and I also need to "hear" myself typing. Nothing can compare to the old fashion IBM PC keyboards with the clicky sound and this one fits the bill. Thank you.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Since I have an intense dislike for modern soft keyboards, I appreciate the old IBM "clickety-clunk" keybaords, and I'm glad they are still available. This one came quickly and has worked without any problems. I hooked it up to my HP Windows 7 computer to the PS2 port and it worked fine.