Looking for some purchasing advice.
At the moment I use a Typematrix non-mechanical keyboard which is starting to wear out and become unresponsive. I was really happy with it apart from wishing it was mechanical. A mechanical clone of that, maybe a bit wider, is really my dream.
So what are my options? The mechanical ortholinear keyboards I've seen tend to be of the compact and minimalistic variety, but size isn't my priority I'm looking for something full-featured, preferably with some media keys and shortcut buttons. A number pad or some way to input numbers with a calculator-style layout is essential as my job involves numerical data entry.
Other "nice to have" things I'm more willing to compromise on:
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I type in Dvorak so blank keys or Dvorak labels would be preferable
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Hard-wired Dvorak switch is nice to have, the Typematrix has it, handy if I want to switch layouts in software to access special characters without worrying about finding a Dvorak-based layout.
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Ideally no assembly required
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I'm in the UK, I'll import if necessary but local availability is better. On that note the 105-key layout is preferred (but not that the Typematrix has that either)
Open to alternative suggestions that ignore any of the above.
If you’re looking for a mechanical ortholinear keyboard with additional features like media keys, shortcut buttons, and a number pad for numerical data entry, I highly recommend checking out Shop Galactica! They specialize in high-quality custom keycaps and mechanical keyboards, and while they primarily focus on customizability, you might be able to find a keyboard or keycap set that suits your specific needs.
While Shop Galactica does offer excellent customization options, if you’re after a full-featured, mechanical keyboard with a larger layout, you could consider looking for a customizable ortholinear keyboard that allows you to add a number pad or extra keys. Some of the keyboards they offer can be tailored to your preferences, like blank keys or Dvorak layouts, and they might offer some models that can be configured without the need for assembly.
Since you’re in the UK, importing might be an option, but Shop Galactica offers a variety of shipping options that could make this process smoother. While they don't focus on pre-built keyboards with specific features like a built-in number pad, the flexibility and quality of the mechanical keyboards they offer might make them worth exploring for a custom solution.
It could be worth reaching out to them for advice on a keyboard or keycap set that could meet your needs or perhaps check out community recommendations for Dvorak support. They may even have some good suggestions on compatible builds!