Great Chyrosran22! This is a wonderful video! In reply to your comment about keycap suppliers, I ordered brand new molds for everything including the keys, barrels, flippers, and cases, as well as brand new tooling for the custom stamping tools (see my Google NYC Tech Talk on Bringing Back the Model F Keyboard for photos of this and the other tools and molds). Getting the tolerances right on these parts was extremely difficult, took years longer than expected, and the earlier factory making the key molds actually gave up trying to meet IBM's 1980s decade part tolerances standards and we had to start over with another factory. Like all the other new parts, everything is exclusive to the new Model F project as opposed to me buying from a supplier that sells to various companies. There is one major exception and that is the MX compatible double-shot keycaps for the Brand New Beam Spring Keyboard Project; they were bought from a supplier that was already selling the keys.
Found this video at random. Absolutely love your style of presenting, REALLY like the keyboard, going to check it out. This is what YT was originally ment for. Thumbs up and sub, keep doing what you do, mate
I hope you don't run into any issues with these. I got ripped off by them pretty hard when I bought the B104, the compact beam spring board they had a while ago. The quality control on it is abysmal, so pretty much every single key sits at a different height, the spare replacement switches it came with don't even match the ones that were in the chassis, and to add insult to injury, the controller basically doesn't work. You're lucky if the controller works flawlessly for an hour without completely locking up requiring a power cycle. If I recall, that board cost me nearly 400 USD a year ago and I can't even use it in its current state.
@ I don’t remember what the terms were by this point. I just remember that support was more or less nonexistent, with the site telling you to use Deskthority or some other similar message board and otherwise, you were just on your own to figure out issues.
@@TerminalHeatSink No, there are no refunds or warranties if I'm not mistaken. So be quite careful purchasing from model F labs. Personally wouldn't touch the beamsprings tbh. Plate spring switches are notoriously very finicky. IBM are about the only ones I'm aware of to make them very reliable with the OG beamspring. Alps has a plate spring switch too, but I believe they are prone to breaking. The model F's sold by ellipse are not bad though. Although I do like my real model F's more.
I bought a New Model F77 and New Model F15 Split Ergo from Joe about a year ago. I love both of them. The NMF15 SE is my daily driver. My favorite keyboards ever.
Great unboxing reel. I appreciate your frankness of unconcealed feelings.👍I can't wait to watch the full keyboard test with you struggling against VIAL firmware customisations.
Joe's doing awesome work! I have one of the F77s and love it, and I'm anxiously awaiting the Round 2 Beamspring, but my daily driver has been the Ergodox-style Model F.
I'm saving this for your future Q&A: Would you ever make your own Keyboard brand based on all the keyboards you like and their favorite features? Or maybe collaborate with Wooting with conceptualizing a Chyrosran edition keyboard?
The variety of textures in the kislux bags is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there is something for everyone. I was also attracted by it. The price is not expensive, which is very attractive!
This board in black was a first day purchase for me when the sales opened up. The waiting was agony, but the board is absolutely my end-of-the-road, final fight, holy grail keyboard so it was worth it. I really, really wish that all the boards came pre-assembled like yours did... but understand that it would be cost prohibitive, so I'm just glad it was available at all.
All keyboards come preassembled except for the keycaps and extras which the user has to install. There is no option to preinstall and set up the keyboard beforehand as it would be time and cost prohibitive as you mentioned. Feel free to email me so I know to replace it with the next shipment! Obviously as a one off I preinstalled the keys for Chyrosran22 but everyone still has to go through the full setup process even if the keys were installed, because keys and springs do fall out of place during rough shipping and handling (even when preinstalled) which sadly is the norm rather than the exception these days.
Mine came in yesterday. For Dutch viewers thinking about ordering these: the “Dutch” keycap set is the rarely used one from the 1980s, the “Dutch Modern” is probably the one you want (order separately). That was an expensive mistake to make on my part.
@@kimslawson “Dutch” swaps a few keys around (eg. ‘(‘ and ‘)’ are on 8 and 9 instead of 9 and 0 as on “Dutch Modern” and US-International) and adds some other characters and diacritics. I’m 40+ and have never actually had to use this layout.
@@_irdc Yes, I think we spoke over email about this issue. I noted that both key sets are available to check the legends before ordering; see the Full Key Set product page. Some of my Dutch layout users request one layout or the other by sending me an email or adding an order note, if they have a preference.
I've had mine for about two months now. Apart from a few initial hiccups with the default NKRO toggle and some fixable key binding, it's been a real treat. Definitely see this being my endgame board and IMO; worth every penny. Looking forward to your full thoughts!
Typing this on my January 1986 U.S.-made 1390120 model M (weighs 2278 grams without the heavy black cable, or just over 5 megadumplings in Imperial, and has pink sublegends on the numpad
I am happy that you got everything setup ok! Maybe you could reply and share your setup experience? Did it take more than an hour or two? Some people might worry that it is too difficult when that is not at all the case. Was the step by step setup video and manual easy enough to follow or are any changes recommended?
@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards The setup experience was straightforward enough, assembly of the board was simple and (when the board is tilted back) each key clicked and registered with a wonderful light snap. So long as you have a reference board/picture for the layout it was easy and took less than 45 minutes. For anyone worried, THE BOARD IS PLUG AND PLAY, after assembly if you do not wish to mess with any settings or want to change the layout, you can just plug and go (on whichever Windows 11 build was most recent a month ago). No faffing about with software if you wish not to, which is lovely compared to when I first heard about these boards. One thing I would recommend is higher priority of the stabilizer install section of the video, as I incorrectly installed the wrong numpad “+” vertical stabilizer support. I haven’t disassembled it to fix the problem, but plan on it when the blue set of keycaps I ordered arrive (Canadian, so our postal workers are having a grand old time striking). Pre-installation of these supports would probably fix that issue for the layman, however with the variety of custom key options you do I can see why that would be a logistical nightmare. I had a few issues with some keys not registering, but as typical with this style of switch, it was nothing lightly tugging at the spring and reinstalling the switch didn’t fix. After about a month of break in she works every time without fail!
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards Of course! The setup process was quite straightforward, simply requiring assembly of the keys onto the main board and the decal for the lock lights. For the concerned, THIS IS A PLUG AND PLAY BOARD, if you do not feel like faffing about with software, the default firmware is suitable for daily use, imo. Any key weirdness you get might just need a simple re-installation of the key and perhaps a gentle tug of the spring to get the tension right. Once you get everything dialed in it is quite the board to experience. I am coming from a '96 Lexmark Model M and the difference is night and day in terms of build quality and switch feel. I was skeptical, especially waiting as long as I did, but typing on it and using it every day for around 3 weeks now has been a joy, and I implore anyone who is on the fence about getting one to pull the trigger. A suggestion for the setup video would be priority of the stabilizer install section, or a larger warning in the packaging as to pay attention to the video before installation. My numpad "+" key has the wrong stabilizer installed as a result of my stupidity. I am waiting on a blue keycap set to match my case at which time I will dissassemble and fix the error, however that is no fault of your own. Thank you again for endavouring such an ambitious project over all these years, and I plan on using this board for decades to come!
The setup experience was quite simple and straightforward, as someone used to the Model M, having owned one for a long time beforehand, using that board as a key reference was like looking at a mirror. The only physical difference I could spot topically was the material seperating the numpad/nav row from the main section are slightly slimmer on the repro case. For the wary, THIS IS A PLUG AND PLAY BOARD!! If you do not wish to faff with settings or anything, the firmware out of the box should be sufficient to run the keyboard for daily use, as I have since getting it almost 3 weeks ago. (For reference, my model 446 was manufacteured on the same day as Thomas' own) Big suggestion I would give to you would be prioritizing the stabilizer install as very important, as I incorrectly installed a horizontal stabilizer on my numpad "+" key, of which I am waiting on my blue keycap set to arrive to dissassemble the board and fix the issue. So far I am quite impressed with its performance, and am looking forward to keeping it in good shape and using it for decades to come! :)
Hey Thomas, great unboxing video. Brings me back to the year 1988-1989 where I learned programming on an IBM PC with a Model-M keyboard. Does these guys also related to Unicomp keyboards ? or a total separate company ?
It actually is, I own a version from Joe (the F-62) and they do use usb-c cables plugged into the controller, you just need to take the case of the keyboard off to unplug it, so if you wanted to swap to a type-c to type-c cable for a different PC setup, you could pretty easily. It really doesn't matter anyways, this keyboard is too heavy to lug around, so a detachable cable for that purpose wouldn't help you much.
The ultimate "What if someone made it ?" shower thought keyboard made real. The form of an M with the heart of an F: One bad MFer of a board. Review anticipation increased :-)
@10:09 It's for sure the prettiest I'd say. What can compete with that? Video on your most beautiful keyboards, please :) Interestingly, the sticker above the numpad there on that Model M says "Rollen" on its right-most block, so it's not an original US or UK English one. Also resent the non-original Delete and Insert caps. But that keycap set does have those Blue and Green and dimmed gray colors where they should be. Plus the Silver-on-Black IBM square, the industrial gray of course, and even the thick, spiralled, shiny black cord, gorgeous! PS. Looking forward to the review of this "Modern Model F"!
I bought a Kishsaver from Joe about 2 and a bit years ago, its been great, but the layout is a bit irritating. I wish I waited until the standard layout versions like the F104 and the SSK came out. Along with the sales that he has offered since. It sounded like the project was going to end a few years ago, so i jumped into it.
I have lately been thinking about it, obtaining one for a permanent position on my desk. Considering the rest nowadays are for youngsters and kids. Thus I just watched the video and heard again the spring pinging of terrorism. Sadly, Unicomp sounds like this too. And I wanted so much to try one, similar to topre switches.
I really wanted one of these, but the position of the Alt Gr key is a deal breaker for me, because I use it a lot for typing various symbols. My muscle memory would just screw me over. I understand they did it like this so it can use the same mold of as the 101 model, but unfortunately that means this isn't a standard 104 layout.
You can get these boards with a smaller space bar and an additional 1.25U key to the right of the spacebar if needed. Also, the keyboards are fully reprogrammable with Vial, so you can remap the keys.
I have one of these and it's completely worth it; you won't be disappointed. I used to think the Model Ms were the king of IBM boards but the F is _so_ much nicer to type on!
Interesting, I've had a F104 for about 3 weeks now, do the later boards arrive pre assembled in somewhat decent packaging, or is it just the review units that get special treatment? Mine rocked up in a wet cardboard box and the tape had come apart, somehow the keyboard survived without any major scuffs, at the end of the day I wanted a replacement for my aging model M that was essentially, a "model M on steroids" and that's exactly what I received, but the packaging documentation and pretty much non existent customer support/warranty paints a foul picture of this keyboard for me. Its just little things like the US ANSI layout gets a full width caps lock and the palm rest is 2 millimeters thicker then an original model M and the keyboard seems to sit on a different angle compared to the original and that takes a bit to get used to, I cant recommend this keyboard to anyone, I have a love hate relationship with it on one hand it types like divine intervention yet it sounds like industrial machinery falling down a staircase, the build quality is almost impeccable yet it comes in a broken box without any real warranty, for the price point, the latter is unacceptable..
The box is the same box for all of these keyboards. In fact these keyboards do come with a one-year limited warranty, as noted in the included product booklet printout. A printed manual is not included but a full manual and hour-long comprehensive step by step setup video is available on the project web site. My apologies that the shippers damaged the box in transit. Did they deliver to an uncovered area when it was raining? If you wanted a stepped caps lock that is available to order on the Extra Keys page.
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards I live in Australia, unfortunately all parcels from USPS Fedex DHL etc all go through Couriers Please once they get here, they are well.. just look up the opening scene of Ace Ventura Pet Detective and you will have a pretty clear image of how Couriers Please operates. I happened to be home when the Parcel was delivered, between the doorbell ringing and opening the door was less then 30 seconds however when I opened the door nobody was there and the keyboard was laying on the grass in the rain! Clearly the box got ruined thankfully there was no damage to either the keyboard or the spare foam, I understand that his parcel was plastic wrapped to hold both the boxes together, but if mine was plastic wrapped it could have prevented any potential water damage from happening in the first place, and I was unaware that you could get stepped caps lock keys for these boards, thanks for clarifying that. Setting up my keyboard was very troublesome the F8 keys stem was damaged in shipping and I had to break part of it off with pliers just make it use usable, it takes about 15 to 20 tries of seating that damaged key cap to get it working correctly, heaven forbid I have to remove it in the future. I also had 3 keys that wouldn't register at all or simulate a constant key press, no matter the key caps used and I tried all the troubleshooting steps, in the end the only thing that fixed it was doing a complete tear down and replacing the 3 offending flippers with ones from the first aid kit, all in it took almost 3 hours of tinkering to get the keyboard fully operational and the fact the warranty card in the box explained very clearly that the warranty does not cover the faults with my unit and If I wanted a replacement F8 key I will be paying the shipping, mind you that could cost me $60AUD for a single key cap! I hope this explains my frustration, I don't recommend this keyboard to anyone because there's a chance someone could receive a dud and the “if its DOA but it can be fixed by the end user with parts they may or not have no warranty!” support you offer really just added to my frustration. For me to recommend this keyboard here's 3 things I’d like to see changed, firstly I want to see a video about flashing and configuring the keyboards firmware that contains up to date information, secondly I feel that if someone gets a keyboard and there's damaged components in the box when delivered that you should cover the shipping costs of the replacement parts, I even emailed Unicomp and asked them if they cover shipping for RMA and they do! Lastly let the Internet archive save your website it really rubs me the wrong way, that you have excluded it from the wayback machine.
I almost bought one of these before deciding to refurbish an original. I bought some spare parts from them, so I appreciate what they're doing. I use a TinkerBOY DIN-USB adapter on my original F and it works flawlessly, including multi-layer reprogramming in VIAL. I'm glad to hear these repros have VIAL, too, as that gives such a good experience. Edited to correct an outdated assumption.
The originals are great and I am glad you are helping to keep them running! I am not sure what you are referring to; these keyboards do not have any controller issues. The controller works fine right out of the box with zero programming or adjustment needed. Just plug it in. Years ago there were some issues regarding the ease of reprogrammability of these controllers (QMK vs. xwhatsit original) but these controllers have now been used for 10 years on thousands of new and original Model F keyboards and now run off open source Vial which can be updated offline.
@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards thanks for the info. Yes, you referenced what I was referring to. I'm glad to hear it's no longer an issue and VIAL is working! That's such a huge quality of life improvement. I've edited my original comment accordingly. Looking forward to seeing more about the beamspring revival :)
LUCKY, bought mine in early 2023 and i got the wrong damn one and now im trying to send it back but the address didnt work round one and now im trying to figure out were my no number pad model is.
As we discussed over email, I sent the model that you ordered but you changed your mind and we are doing an exchange. I don't want anyone to get the wrong idea.
I have an F 77 with the zinc case. Works well, apart from an issue I haven’t been able to solve where the spacebar transposes itself with other keystrokes. I wonder if anybody else has this issue?
Yes, the fix for issues with keys including this issue is mentioned in the manual. It's all about reseating, flipping upside down, or replacing the affected springs that may have fallen out of place or become damaged.
Nice. But IDK why (when it adds "Windows" keys) it has to be so faithful to the original as to have two misshapen keys, or have all the fluff around it, or needs a numpad. Nice that you can get them in other colors than beige, but a standard US Ansi TKL with blue alps and without the case would be interesting. It takes up too much desk real estate as is.
It needs a numpad because people sometimes need numpads? I need one to do my job so I don't buy keyboards without them. Thankful to Joe that he offers this full-size option now. I do wish I could have gotten it without the extra keys though as my ancient Model M dust cover would have fit perfectly.
The boards are decent replicas, but the owner of the project is a greedy scumbag, expect little to no support from him if you run into any issues. He relies on other people on forums to fix issues, and even tried talking these people into giving him money so he can buy Deskthority despite him profiting from these sites.
I emailed Joe (the owner) for help with ordering, maybe 3 years ago, and when he responded, his messages were... rude and aggressive and like, "You're wasting my time." I responded by saying, your website says EMAIL US FOR HELP ORDERING (or language similar to that), and THAT'S WHAT I DID, to which he replied that I was some kind of helpless simpleton (I have a Ph.D. in physics). Was totally baffled and put off by the experience, and thus decided never to buy anything from him. He sells crap on eBay that he actually ships in a timely manner (this according to a keyboarding friend who buys from him on eBay), but if you buy accessories (parts, kits) on his website (where he's under no obligation to ship in a timely manner), he will take... his... sweet... time.
Great Chyrosran22! This is a wonderful video! In reply to your comment about keycap suppliers, I ordered brand new molds for everything including the keys, barrels, flippers, and cases, as well as brand new tooling for the custom stamping tools (see my Google NYC Tech Talk on Bringing Back the Model F Keyboard for photos of this and the other tools and molds). Getting the tolerances right on these parts was extremely difficult, took years longer than expected, and the earlier factory making the key molds actually gave up trying to meet IBM's 1980s decade part tolerances standards and we had to start over with another factory. Like all the other new parts, everything is exclusive to the new Model F project as opposed to me buying from a supplier that sells to various companies. There is one major exception and that is the MX compatible double-shot keycaps for the Brand New Beam Spring Keyboard Project; they were bought from a supplier that was already selling the keys.
Found this video at random. Absolutely love your style of presenting, REALLY like the keyboard, going to check it out. This is what YT was originally ment for. Thumbs up and sub, keep doing what you do, mate
Cheers mate :D .
I got the compact F77 last year, great keyboard, the smoothness and tactile feedback is unmatched in anything else i used
I hope you don't run into any issues with these. I got ripped off by them pretty hard when I bought the B104, the compact beam spring board they had a while ago. The quality control on it is abysmal, so pretty much every single key sits at a different height, the spare replacement switches it came with don't even match the ones that were in the chassis, and to add insult to injury, the controller basically doesn't work. You're lucky if the controller works flawlessly for an hour without completely locking up requiring a power cycle. If I recall, that board cost me nearly 400 USD a year ago and I can't even use it in its current state.
They don't allow refunds?
@ I don’t remember what the terms were by this point. I just remember that support was more or less nonexistent, with the site telling you to use Deskthority or some other similar message board and otherwise, you were just on your own to figure out issues.
Keyboard enthusiasts either
1. Have way too much money
2. Are way too irresponsible with their money
@@TerminalHeatSink
No, there are no refunds or warranties if I'm not mistaken. So be quite careful purchasing from model F labs. Personally wouldn't touch the beamsprings tbh. Plate spring switches are notoriously very finicky. IBM are about the only ones I'm aware of to make them very reliable with the OG beamspring. Alps has a plate spring switch too, but I believe they are prone to breaking.
The model F's sold by ellipse are not bad though. Although I do like my real model F's more.
@@copper4eva damn OK, thanks for the insight. I'll keep a closer eye on the local market places for a real model f then
I love my "old" F77 repro but I just might have to get that F122. Decisions decisions.
I bought a New Model F77 and New Model F15 Split Ergo from Joe about a year ago. I love both of them. The NMF15 SE is my daily driver. My favorite keyboards ever.
Great unboxing reel. I appreciate your frankness of unconcealed feelings.👍I can't wait to watch the full keyboard test with you struggling against VIAL firmware customisations.
Joe's doing awesome work! I have one of the F77s and love it, and I'm anxiously awaiting the Round 2 Beamspring, but my daily driver has been the Ergodox-style Model F.
Very happy with my F77, gonna need to check one of these out
Wow, this is the keyboard I've been waiting for. Might have to treat myself to one in the new year.
I'm saving this for your future Q&A:
Would you ever make your own Keyboard brand based on all the keyboards you like and their favorite features?
Or maybe collaborate with Wooting with conceptualizing a Chyrosran edition keyboard?
The variety of textures in the kislux bags is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there is something for everyone. I was also attracted by it. The price is not expensive, which is very attractive!
This board in black was a first day purchase for me when the sales opened up. The waiting was agony, but the board is absolutely my end-of-the-road, final fight, holy grail keyboard so it was worth it.
I really, really wish that all the boards came pre-assembled like yours did... but understand that it would be cost prohibitive, so I'm just glad it was available at all.
All keyboards come preassembled except for the keycaps and extras which the user has to install. There is no option to preinstall and set up the keyboard beforehand as it would be time and cost prohibitive as you mentioned. Feel free to email me so I know to replace it with the next shipment! Obviously as a one off I preinstalled the keys for Chyrosran22 but everyone still has to go through the full setup process even if the keys were installed, because keys and springs do fall out of place during rough shipping and handling (even when preinstalled) which sadly is the norm rather than the exception these days.
F to pay respects ❌
Pay respect to the F ✅
Mine came in yesterday. For Dutch viewers thinking about ordering these: the “Dutch” keycap set is the rarely used one from the 1980s, the “Dutch Modern” is probably the one you want (order separately). That was an expensive mistake to make on my part.
What is the difference between the two?
@@kimslawson “Dutch” swaps a few keys around (eg. ‘(‘ and ‘)’ are on 8 and 9 instead of 9 and 0 as on “Dutch Modern” and US-International) and adds some other characters and diacritics.
I’m 40+ and have never actually had to use this layout.
@@_irdc Yes, I think we spoke over email about this issue. I noted that both key sets are available to check the legends before ordering; see the Full Key Set product page. Some of my Dutch layout users request one layout or the other by sending me an email or adding an order note, if they have a preference.
Love the stepped caps lock. All caps locks should be stepped, I’ve no idea why other keyboard manufacturers won’t do that.
I've had mine for about two months now. Apart from a few initial hiccups with the default NKRO toggle and some fixable key binding, it's been a real treat. Definitely see this being my endgame board and IMO; worth every penny. Looking forward to your full thoughts!
10:06 not usually a fan of these retro keyboards but this one in grey looks particularly stunning.
Been wanting one of these for a while, glad to see you made a video about it!
I have an F77 with industrial gray case and Mopar keycaps, it's such an amazing keyboard!
Enjoy you're new keyboard, I'm awaiting mine looking forward to you're review.
Just received my F104 too! How did I survive all these years without a solenoid??
I've never seen Thomas so happy throughout an entire video!
Waiting for my F122 to arrive...
The new F122 boards are finishing up assembly at the factory and should be going out next year!
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards This is so exciting! I'm waiting for mine too, great to have an update!
I'm glad to see more Model F clones coming out. For a while, companies just stopped giving Fs.
Wow. It feels like Santa has decided to bring some Christmas gifts early this year. 🎉
still waiting for you to get a modelfkeyboards' Beam Spring Round 1/2 keyboard!!
Me too xD .
5:55 - 6:04 is super high grade meme gold...also you sure sleep with those boards, don't ya? you little pörv
The F-104 is the Starfighter, in German called "widow maker", isn't it?
Typing this on my January 1986 U.S.-made 1390120 model M (weighs 2278 grams without the heavy black cable, or just over 5 megadumplings in Imperial, and has pink sublegends on the numpad
I feel a good UI overhaul would definitely give a sales boost. I thought the same thing looking at it when I was contemplating buying one.
now i wish i got a white one... that looks amazing!
I'm in love. I also don't have $400+. I'll have to save my sheckles.
That keyboard Looks Beautiful and may have a home on one of my desks 🤤
It's gorgeous :') I bought one of his F77s and haven't looked back since
Typing this on ID No. 446! Fucking love this board, can't wait to hear your thoughts on it!
I am happy that you got everything setup ok! Maybe you could reply and share your setup experience? Did it take more than an hour or two? Some people might worry that it is too difficult when that is not at all the case. Was the step by step setup video and manual easy enough to follow or are any changes recommended?
@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards The setup experience was straightforward enough, assembly of the board was simple and (when the board is tilted back) each key clicked and registered with a wonderful light snap. So long as you have a reference board/picture for the layout it was easy and took less than 45 minutes.
For anyone worried, THE BOARD IS PLUG AND PLAY, after assembly if you do not wish to mess with any settings or want to change the layout, you can just plug and go (on whichever Windows 11 build was most recent a month ago). No faffing about with software if you wish not to, which is lovely compared to when I first heard about these boards.
One thing I would recommend is higher priority of the stabilizer install section of the video, as I incorrectly installed the wrong numpad “+” vertical stabilizer support. I haven’t disassembled it to fix the problem, but plan on it when the blue set of keycaps I ordered arrive (Canadian, so our postal workers are having a grand old time striking). Pre-installation of these supports would probably fix that issue for the layman, however with the variety of custom key options you do I can see why that would be a logistical nightmare.
I had a few issues with some keys not registering, but as typical with this style of switch, it was nothing lightly tugging at the spring and reinstalling the switch didn’t fix. After about a month of break in she works every time without fail!
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards Of course! The setup process was quite straightforward, simply requiring assembly of the keys onto the main board and the decal for the lock lights.
For the concerned, THIS IS A PLUG AND PLAY BOARD, if you do not feel like faffing about with software, the default firmware is suitable for daily use, imo. Any key weirdness you get might just need a simple re-installation of the key and perhaps a gentle tug of the spring to get the tension right. Once you get everything dialed in it is quite the board to experience.
I am coming from a '96 Lexmark Model M and the difference is night and day in terms of build quality and switch feel. I was skeptical, especially waiting as long as I did, but typing on it and using it every day for around 3 weeks now has been a joy, and I implore anyone who is on the fence about getting one to pull the trigger.
A suggestion for the setup video would be priority of the stabilizer install section, or a larger warning in the packaging as to pay attention to the video before installation. My numpad "+" key has the wrong stabilizer installed as a result of my stupidity. I am waiting on a blue keycap set to match my case at which time I will dissassemble and fix the error, however that is no fault of your own. Thank you again for endavouring such an ambitious project over all these years, and I plan on using this board for decades to come!
The setup experience was quite simple and straightforward, as someone used to the Model M, having owned one for a long time beforehand, using that board as a key reference was like looking at a mirror. The only physical difference I could spot topically was the material seperating the numpad/nav row from the main section are slightly slimmer on the repro case.
For the wary, THIS IS A PLUG AND PLAY BOARD!! If you do not wish to faff with settings or anything, the firmware out of the box should be sufficient to run the keyboard for daily use, as I have since getting it almost 3 weeks ago. (For reference, my model 446 was manufacteured on the same day as Thomas' own)
Big suggestion I would give to you would be prioritizing the stabilizer install as very important, as I incorrectly installed a horizontal stabilizer on my numpad "+" key, of which I am waiting on my blue keycap set to arrive to dissassemble the board and fix the issue.
So far I am quite impressed with its performance, and am looking forward to keeping it in good shape and using it for decades to come! :)
Any chance of checking out his new beam springs? I've been massively interested, but there don't seem to be any in-depth reviews yet :/
It's not out yet! Though I should be getting one when it releases :D .
@@Chyrosran22 Yes I would really like that! I just approved production and assembly this past week, so they should wrap up some time next year!
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards Awesoooome :D .
Hey Thomas, great unboxing video. Brings me back to the year 1988-1989 where I learned programming on an IBM PC with a Model-M keyboard.
Does these guys also related to Unicomp keyboards ? or a total separate company ?
Nope, he's completely separate.
wish the cord was detachable usb-c....
It actually is, I own a version from Joe (the F-62) and they do use usb-c cables plugged into the controller, you just need to take the case of the keyboard off to unplug it, so if you wanted to swap to a type-c to type-c cable for a different PC setup, you could pretty easily.
It really doesn't matter anyways, this keyboard is too heavy to lug around, so a detachable cable for that purpose wouldn't help you much.
@@devackroyd thank you for the info; looking at another one of their offerings; delicious stuff!
I do have the smaller version of the 104 and that one has the detachable USC-C
The ultimate "What if someone made it ?" shower thought keyboard made real. The form of an M with the heart of an F: One bad MFer of a board. Review anticipation increased :-)
Thomas! You gotta help me here. FSSK OR F104!?!
fullsize > smallsize :D
@Chyrosran22 thanks!
I'm currently waiting on my Model F 122! can't wait to crush my desk with it.
Are you gonna do a review of a reproduction beamspring keyboard? Would love to see your take on it!
Yeah I should be getting one when it releases :D .
@Chyrosran22 Been waiting for the review for 2 years hahahaha, I think it'll be worth the wait.
10:43 nice industrial edition!
@10:09 It's for sure the prettiest I'd say. What can compete with that? Video on your most beautiful keyboards, please :)
Interestingly, the sticker above the numpad there on that Model M says "Rollen" on its right-most block, so it's not an original US or UK English one. Also resent the non-original Delete and Insert caps. But that keycap set does have those Blue and Green and dimmed gray colors where they should be. Plus the Silver-on-Black IBM square, the industrial gray of course, and even the thick, spiralled, shiny black cord, gorgeous!
PS. Looking forward to the review of this "Modern Model F"!
I might do a video on my prettiest keyboards if there's demand for it, I think :) .
@@Chyrosran22it has to be that symbolics replica that i still dream about !
@@Chyrosran22 Yes please!!
Lovely looking keyboard.
Since this case in the form of a Model M, can you test the key rollover?
F has inherent NKRO.
How did you get it with a stepped caps lock key???? I really tried to get one but mine shipped with an unstepped one...
I checked, and turns out that Ellipse needs to source stepped caps lock keys from Unicomp and if you want one you need to ask for one specially.
Yeah, nice to see an ISO 😊
Gorgeous keyboard. Lucky bastard. In a good way.
Is excrement in orange juice a common thing around there? Because I tend to buy the non-excrement variant pretty much exclusively.
3:17 we will never be satisfied, no matter what you do muahahaha
I love you dude! Would prefer these keys in a much smaller case.
They sell compact "60%" size versions.
I put in my order over a year ago. I hope this is a sign mine will ship soon !!! Cant wait to get it !!!!
I bought a Kishsaver from Joe about 2 and a bit years ago, its been great, but the layout is a bit irritating.
I wish I waited until the standard layout versions like the F104 and the SSK came out. Along with the sales that he has offered since. It sounded like the project was going to end a few years ago, so i jumped into it.
When it becomes cheaper to just use aluminium instead of zinc because of shipping fees LMAO
Man that is a lovely keyboard, I'd buy one but I don't want to tip over a bank.
I have lately been thinking about it, obtaining one for a permanent position on my desk. Considering the rest nowadays are for youngsters and kids. Thus I just watched the video and heard again the spring pinging of terrorism. Sadly, Unicomp sounds like this too. And I wanted so much to try one, similar to topre switches.
Stick some floss in the springs and the ping is all but gone.
Like a OLD JAGUAR!
I really wanted one of these, but the position of the Alt Gr key is a deal breaker for me, because I use it a lot for typing various symbols. My muscle memory would just screw me over. I understand they did it like this so it can use the same mold of as the 101 model, but unfortunately that means this isn't a standard 104 layout.
You can get these boards with a smaller space bar and an additional 1.25U key to the right of the spacebar if needed. Also, the keyboards are fully reprogrammable with Vial, so you can remap the keys.
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards Oh, I didn't realize there was an "extra" barrel to accommodate this. Thanks, I'll have a better look at the options!
You have a massive box
No! Curse you! My wallet will NOT be happy with what I'm about to do!
Looks and sounds absolutely lovely btw...
I have one of these and it's completely worth it; you won't be disappointed. I used to think the Model Ms were the king of IBM boards but the F is _so_ much nicer to type on!
I wish i wasnt so cash strapped at the moment…. But only one comment… no curly cable?
Sound test?
There will be one during the review, naturally :) .
Link is dead :(
Interesting, I've had a F104 for about 3 weeks now, do the later boards arrive pre assembled in somewhat decent packaging, or is it just the review units that get special treatment?
Mine rocked up in a wet cardboard box and the tape had come apart, somehow the keyboard survived without any major scuffs, at the end of the day I wanted a replacement for my aging model M that was essentially, a "model M on steroids" and that's exactly what I received, but the packaging documentation and pretty much non existent customer support/warranty paints a foul picture of this keyboard for me. Its just little things like the US ANSI layout gets a full width caps lock and the palm rest is 2 millimeters thicker then an original model M and the keyboard seems to sit on a different angle compared to the original and that takes a bit to get used to, I cant recommend this keyboard to anyone, I have a love hate relationship with it on one hand it types like divine intervention yet it sounds like industrial machinery falling down a staircase, the build quality is almost impeccable yet it comes in a broken box without any real warranty, for the price point, the latter is unacceptable..
The box is the same box for all of these keyboards. In fact these keyboards do come with a one-year limited warranty, as noted in the included product booklet printout. A printed manual is not included but a full manual and hour-long comprehensive step by step setup video is available on the project web site. My apologies that the shippers damaged the box in transit. Did they deliver to an uncovered area when it was raining? If you wanted a stepped caps lock that is available to order on the Extra Keys page.
@@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards I live in Australia, unfortunately all parcels from USPS Fedex DHL etc all go through Couriers Please once they get here, they are well.. just look up the opening scene of Ace Ventura Pet Detective and you will have a pretty clear image of how Couriers Please operates. I happened to be home when the Parcel was delivered, between the doorbell ringing and opening the door was less then 30 seconds however when I opened the door nobody was there and the keyboard was laying on the grass in the rain! Clearly the box got ruined thankfully there was no damage to either the keyboard or the spare foam, I understand that his parcel was plastic wrapped to hold both the boxes together, but if mine was plastic wrapped it could have prevented any potential water damage from happening in the first place, and I was unaware that you could get stepped caps lock keys for these boards, thanks for clarifying that.
Setting up my keyboard was very troublesome the F8 keys stem was damaged in shipping and I had to break part of it off with pliers just make it use usable, it takes about 15 to 20 tries of seating that damaged key cap to get it working correctly, heaven forbid I have to remove it in the future. I also had 3 keys that wouldn't register at all or simulate a constant key press, no matter the key caps used and I tried all the troubleshooting steps, in the end the only thing that fixed it was doing a complete tear down and replacing the 3 offending flippers with ones from the first aid kit, all in it took almost 3 hours of tinkering to get the keyboard fully operational and the fact the warranty card in the box explained very clearly that the warranty does not cover the faults with my unit and If I wanted a replacement F8 key I will be paying the shipping, mind you that could cost me $60AUD for a single key cap! I hope this explains my frustration, I don't recommend this keyboard to anyone because there's a chance someone could receive a dud and the “if its DOA but it can be fixed by the end user with parts they may or not have no warranty!” support you offer really just added to my frustration.
For me to recommend this keyboard here's 3 things I’d like to see changed, firstly I want to see a video about flashing and configuring the keyboards firmware that contains up to date information, secondly I feel that if someone gets a keyboard and there's damaged components in the box when delivered that you should cover the shipping costs of the replacement parts, I even emailed Unicomp and asked them if they cover shipping for RMA and they do! Lastly let the Internet archive save your website it really rubs me the wrong way, that you have excluded it from the wayback machine.
Nice!
Windows key seams small. But I guess it fits in the empty space that was there.
I almost bought one of these before deciding to refurbish an original. I bought some spare parts from them, so I appreciate what they're doing.
I use a TinkerBOY DIN-USB adapter on my original F and it works flawlessly, including multi-layer reprogramming in VIAL. I'm glad to hear these repros have VIAL, too, as that gives such a good experience.
Edited to correct an outdated assumption.
The originals are great and I am glad you are helping to keep them running! I am not sure what you are referring to; these keyboards do not have any controller issues. The controller works fine right out of the box with zero programming or adjustment needed. Just plug it in. Years ago there were some issues regarding the ease of reprogrammability of these controllers (QMK vs. xwhatsit original) but these controllers have now been used for 10 years on thousands of new and original Model F keyboards and now run off open source Vial which can be updated offline.
@Brand_New_Model_F_Keyboards thanks for the info. Yes, you referenced what I was referring to. I'm glad to hear it's no longer an issue and VIAL is working! That's such a huge quality of life improvement. I've edited my original comment accordingly.
Looking forward to seeing more about the beamspring revival :)
Orange juice without excrement? Also why is it green lmao
It's a Gollum cocktail! :D
LUCKY, bought mine in early 2023 and i got the wrong damn one and now im trying to send it back but the address didnt work round one and now im trying to figure out were my no number pad model is.
As we discussed over email, I sent the model that you ordered but you changed your mind and we are doing an exchange. I don't want anyone to get the wrong idea.
Orange Juice without excrement?????
Yeah you know the pulpy crap they feel obligated to keep in for some reason.
I have an F 77 with the zinc case. Works well, apart from an issue I haven’t been able to solve where the spacebar transposes itself with other keystrokes. I wonder if anybody else has this issue?
Yes, the fix for issues with keys including this issue is mentioned in the manual. It's all about reseating, flipping upside down, or replacing the affected springs that may have fallen out of place or become damaged.
Nice. But IDK why (when it adds "Windows" keys) it has to be so faithful to the original as to have two misshapen keys, or have all the fluff around it, or needs a numpad.
Nice that you can get them in other colors than beige, but a standard US Ansi TKL with blue alps and without the case would be interesting. It takes up too much desk real estate as is.
It needs a numpad because people sometimes need numpads? I need one to do my job so I don't buy keyboards without them. Thankful to Joe that he offers this full-size option now. I do wish I could have gotten it without the extra keys though as my ancient Model M dust cover would have fit perfectly.
Why would a Model F have blue Alps switches..?
The boards are decent replicas, but the owner of the project is a greedy scumbag, expect little to no support from him if you run into any issues. He relies on other people on forums to fix issues, and even tried talking these people into giving him money so he can buy Deskthority despite him profiting from these sites.
I emailed Joe (the owner) for help with ordering, maybe 3 years ago, and when he responded, his messages were... rude and aggressive and like, "You're wasting my time." I responded by saying, your website says EMAIL US FOR HELP ORDERING (or language similar to that), and THAT'S WHAT I DID, to which he replied that I was some kind of helpless simpleton (I have a Ph.D. in physics). Was totally baffled and put off by the experience, and thus decided never to buy anything from him.
He sells crap on eBay that he actually ships in a timely manner (this according to a keyboarding friend who buys from him on eBay), but if you buy accessories (parts, kits) on his website (where he's under no obligation to ship in a timely manner), he will take... his... sweet... time.
干得好
Please for the love of god change the blade on the knife, that was painful to watch.
What a weird agenda to open a computer hardware video.
Porn is not allowed on youtube.
Just don't make "ASMR" videos and we're good. Cheers.
The TDXL videos are labeled as ASMR, how do you feel about that
@@justin6581 What's a TDXL?
@@WR3ND Short for Typing Demonstration eXtra Large
Scam keyboard
Care to elaborate?
400$ suuree.rather have my original 30$ find