Currently got this one on my work laptop. Model M terminal board with internal converter. The only layout changes I made versus a normal 102-key are that RCtrl is is a Windows key, and the four keys along the right side of the numpad are =, -, +, and the normal Enter.
Unicomp has buckling spring boards in TKL. A bit pricy, but cheaper than a vintage Model M “Space Saving Keyboard”. For 60%, the closest thing I know of is the even more expensive Model F Kishsaver layouts (adapted from an old and insanely pricy banking keyboard from ~1980). I have never tried one of their boards, but I know they exist.
Thanks, I was aware of the model F project but didn’t realize they had anything other than very large layout options. I have 4 original model M’s, (two are broken), but my desk is too small with my work and personal computers. (I tried a keyboard switch, but I gave up using it after typing to the wrong computer one too many times)
The Model Fs are far superior to the Model M. I own several original and reproductions, though I don’t own the F60 “Kishsaver” as I like having my nav cluster.
Good to know, and I believe it. The M is simply a value-engineered F, after all.
I last used Model F’s in Junior High (AT’s, IIRC, but maybe XT’s), where I would get annoyed at the layout while trying to play BurgerTime on an amber monitor after typing practice.
The layout is 100% the reason I didn’t like my F AT until I modded it. My F XT has a better layout, but it was always such a chore trying to get my home made Soarer’s converter to work right. The F77 layout is great, and thanks to the preproductions it’s actually attainable. I also got one of the new TKL layout Model Fs, but it only came in the “compact” case style (which makes sense as they was no original), and it just isn’t as nice to use as the OG style zinc case.
As lovely as they are, the XT abuses the right to use stepped keycaps. I can’t deal with that, even if I fully appreciate a desire to avoid stabilizers. 🤣