Are PBT key caps worth it?

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BMF96

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Sep 19, 2012
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I am looking to get a red cherry mechanical keyboard. At first I wanted to get a backlit keyboard, but then I read that pbt key caps are better than the abs, and they don't have backlit for pbt. My screen gives off enough light and I shouldn't be looking at a keyboard anyway, so I don't care about backlit. My keyboard drawer in my desk is pretty small and I don't use a numberpad, so I figured I would get a tenkeyless.

Here's my problem:

This is in stock, but it's gray, and just looks bad in the pictures. http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=412

I like the look of this one more, but it is out of stock. Though I can get it on ebay for about $155.
http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=186

Do you think it's worth the $155 for the pbt? I have always disliked gray keyboards, but I was wondering if I could change it with different keycaps. Or maybe just get an abs keyboard and buy pbt keys?

I have always used stock keyboards, so this will be my first mechanical keyboard. I chose red cherry because I'm going to use it for gaming. Though I could probably use brown if needed. I haven't actually tested any of the different switches out, so I don't really know which one I would like best.
 
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DarkSable

DarkSable

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Sep 27, 2012
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Personally, I'd get a full keyboard. I didn't think I'd use a numberpad either, but now I use it in most games - I set it up with autohotkey to be various macros / actions depending on the game.

That being said, I kind of like the looks of the first one, but if you don't like it, then don't get it. I wouldn't spend $155 for a ducky - they're very very good, but too expensive for my tastes.

Honestly, you don't really need PBT keys; I've got normal ABS plastic on mine, and it works just fine. (Also, if you think you "have to have" reds for gaming, someone was spouting BS; it comes down to personal preference. I use blacks, and love 'em; I have a friend who uses blues.)
 
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BMF96

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Thanks for the answer!

I don't think that you have to have reds for gaming. After reading what people said, it came down to blacks, browns, and reds. I decided I'd prefer a lower actuation point than the black. Then I wasn't sure if I wanted the tactile feedback or not. I finally chose the reds based on the way I type and what I think I will like best.

There's too many reasons for me not to get the numberpad. First, I have a small keyboard drawer and I don't like the idea of having to reach far to type. I don't use the numberpad anyway, and I'm getting a mouse with some extra buttons so I don't think I really need more on the keyboard.

I'm sure the ABS works fine, but I think it mostly has to do with how quickly it wears out and shines.
 
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DarkSable

DarkSable

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Sounds good; I just wanted to make sure you knew what you were getting into. :p

I don't know about other caps, but I've had my Leopold for well over half a year now. It's completely blank, and has undergone heavy use daily. Only two keys are starting to show even the slightest signs of wear or shine: the 'f' button, and where I rest my right thumb on the spacebar. Even these are completely mild and only visual.
 
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ssddx

ssddx

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May 27, 2009
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if the abs keys are painted then the color will wear off. if the symbols are painted on or are stickers then they will wear off. dyed abs plastic will become glossy and polished with use but color will not wear off. laser etched or laser engraved symbols will not wear off abs without significant use.

since mechanical keyswitches last so long this can become an issue. rubber dome keyboards are often replaced more often so it normally is not as much of an issue. i would suggest at the least not getting painted keycaps.

i've owned PBT keys (i've owned several ibm model m keyboards) and the material is as tough as they say it is. my abs keyboard is starting to gloss in a few parts but as far as function is concerned its a non issue. i use a wasd keyboard with black dyed abs keycaps with laser etched symbols.

if you plan on typing alot you do not want cherry mx red or blacks. you will want blue (preferred), brown or clear. tactile feedback and letoff is a huge improvment over the linear action of the gaming switches. overclock.net has a nice mechanical keyboard guide for you to read. you can use any keyswitch for any task but what i suggested is generally true though opinions may and do differ.

i also would buy a full keyboard not a tenkeyless. your choice of course but they are much less cramped.

i bought my wasdkeyboard for about $110. it may be abs but its built well. if you want macros and backlighting have a look at maxkeyboards. pbt keys are very nice but are not really necessary. your choice.
 
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