This is a bit geeky but I couldn’t resist. I recently picked up at a tag sale a nearly new condition old IBM Model M ‘clicky’ keyboard (this particular one is from 1991) and it’s the best keyboard I have ever typed on:

Since this keyboard comes with a PS/2 plug, you can use a special PS/2 to USB adapter to connect it to your current computer, whether it be a Mac (like me) or a Windows or Linux machine. Re-map the Alt/Control/Caps Lock keys in your keyboard control panel to work how you like them and it works like a charm! And it evokes a certain caché with a cool yet familiar old-school retro look and feel:

This keyboard has a real cult following and I can see why-the keyboards that come with computers these days feel like total mush. I would highly recommend this keyboard (or the modern day roughly-equivalent one from a company called Unicomp in Lexington Kentucky), to anyone who writes, programs or just uses their computer a lot, which is practically everyone these days isn’t it? You can find them on eBay, and at thrift and computer surplus shops. If you want one with USB built in or one in black, Unicomp would be the place to get that although the build-quality is not quite as good and sturdy as the originals.

The IBM Model M is the best keyboard ever!

For more, check out to this NPR radio story.

UPDATE (April 1, 2010): I’m now using the Space Saver IBM Model M which does not include the number keypad on the right. It’s quite a bit smaller on the desk, which is nice. Having the mouse closer in to the keyboard is surprisingly more ergonomic and quicker as well. It’s my new favorite!

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