Any decent keyboard without numeric pad?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for compact keyboards that do not include a numeric pad, focusing on user experiences, recommendations, and specific models. Participants share their preferences and the challenges they face with smaller keyboards, including typing comfort and functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with minimal keyboards that lead to more typos and slower typing speeds, seeking recommendations for better alternatives.
  • Another participant shares a link to a mini keyboard they have not tried but find visually appealing.
  • A user mentions a compact keyboard similar to a laptop's, which they find suitable for a crowded workspace.
  • Questions arise about the typing feel of the recommended keyboards, indicating a concern for comfort and usability.
  • A participant recommends the Kinesis Classic QD, noting it requires adjustment but is highly regarded, and mentions the scarcity of the IBM Model M spacesaver.
  • One user describes a keyboard that omits the middle area of keys but maintains a low profile and quiet operation, suggesting it is comfortable for typing.
  • A participant shares their use of an HP Mini Keyboard USB, which is full-size without a numeric pad, as a viable option.
  • Another participant claims to have built their own keyboard, suggesting it meets the needs discussed and provides a link for reference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various models and personal experiences, but there is no consensus on a single best option. Multiple competing views on keyboard preferences and functionalities remain evident.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express specific preferences for typing feel and layout, indicating that comfort and usability may vary widely among different keyboard models. There are also references to the availability and condition of certain keyboards, which may affect choices.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals seeking compact keyboard options without numeric pads, particularly those working in limited desk spaces or with specific typing preferences.

Ulysees
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Full-size keyboards take too much space when you're on a small desk. But a minimal keyboard that I got turned out to be cap, I ended up making more typos and was unable to type fast.

So does anyone know of a decent small-size keyboard? With standard-depth, decent keys like those of a normal keyboard, that too many of those mini keyboards are missing?
 
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I use one very similair to this (http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=W9828-BLK&cat=KYB ) it still has the windows hot key but is about the size of a laptop keyboard.
I bought it for a crowded server room but it's great on a desk.
 
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Thanks.

Does yours feel like a normal keyboard, mgb_phys?
 
The one I use is the Kinesis Classic QD, now replaced by the Kinesis Advantage. Highly recommended, but unusual and takes some getting use to. You can find lightly used ones on eBay:
See http://mindprod.com/jgloss/kinesis.html

IBM made one called the Model M spacesaver. I am looking for one right now for my partner. They seem to be highly valued and highly scarce.

I have written an essay on various unusual keyboards at
http://mindprod.com/bgloss/dsk.html

I have written an essay on keyboards in general and sources at
http://mindprod.com/bgloss/keyboard.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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