Ducky Keyboards

[striker1553]

What's with Ducky Keyboards? I read on the forum about the ducky keyboards now being sold on Newegg. The prices are fair and they get good reviews. But, for gaming, would I be better off going Logitech g710+, or a CM Storm quickfire pro? I just haven't heard of Ducky before. Maybe, since I haven't used a mechanical keyboard since my old Apple days when I was 5 lol. someone could enlighten me?

[Konn]

Many mechanical keyboards are very similar, I don't think a Ducky will make you any better at gaming compared to a Quickfire Pro. I think they have been hyped up a lot because Slick mentions them a few times in live streams. They are still great keyboards though; do a quick google on mechanical keyboards and you will find tonnes of information.

[GamerDude]

I'm a 100% mech KB convert, there are a number of good mech KB makers....one of which is Ducky. Look for red/brown keys/switches if you're a gamer, blues sound secksay initially, but believe me, the 'click' will wear you down. And if not you, perhaps your significant other or roommate. Other good mech brands are Filco, Daskeyboard, KMAC (not recommended for the faint-hearted) and quite a few others. Of course, CoolerMaster, Corsair, Thermaltake, Logitech do have mech offerings of their own. Basically look for Cherry MX keys, all my mech KB's are Cherry red because I just like the linear non clicky keys. Anyway, here's a showcase of the various KB's I have, let's start with the cheapest:

Armaggeddon Black Hornet MKA-3 Cherry Red

In case there's any doubt it uses Cherry switches/keys, here's a shot of what lies under the cap

Here's one of the CoolerMaster Storm Trigger Cherry Red

Last, but definitely not least, my pride and joy....Ducky Shine II 78 Version (7 LED, 8 switches)

 

Yes, I do love the bling bling on this KB.....I guess it's true, you regress when you're older.

[striker1553]

Haha, right on. I know that there's different switches as I've seen the Fast As Possible and did some reading on it. But, its nice to read from a fellow gamer about a reliable set of red or brown switches that are good for gaming. 

[Quantum]

Another option for you to choose from is WASD keyboards.  You can fully customize your keyboard switches, keycaps, and the text on the keycaps.
http://www.wasdkeyboards.com/

[XiaoPigs]

I personally have the Zaibal 60(Cherry MX Blacks) :p Love it, plus it's good for bashing anyone's head in if they try to rob my house. 

[mgsstar]

I own a G710+ and I am pleased with the build quality on this and love the Cherry MX Brown switches with the included O-rings on the keycaps and white LED backlight! :)

[GamerDude]

@OP,

 

Basically, opinion varies on the brand and switch used, it's recommended that you try out the various KBs, and see for yourself what appeals to you. Browns are great as they have a tactile 'bump' when the switch is activated, and is as light and responsive as Reds. I'm pretty new at mech KB myself, and fortunately for me, I was able to tinker with the various keys/switches before deciding Cherry Red was for me. The only thing you'd have to remember about Red and Brown is that they are light, and sensitive, so initially, you may have a few typos because your fingers or palm may lightly touch the keys, and they register. Blue seem to be popular as well, but I find them a little to 'clicky' for my liking. On my DS II 78 Version, the numpad's in blue, and those use Cherry Blue......quite fun in a way because of the 'clicks'. It's a hit or miss, Cherry Blue might grow on you.......ultimately, the onus' on you to try them out and see which suits you best.

[pzt]

The build quality of ducky / filco for that matter is leagues above the logitech / coolermaster / ect. counterparts.

They were in the mechanical keyboard game long before these new guys and it really shows.

 

As for what others are saying, all switches are the same from company to company, but really it just comes down to build quality.

 

My opinion: Coolermaster for example saw that more and more people were buying mechanical keyboards and thought they could jump into the keyboard business to make a few quick buck, in turn that mindset shows in their product.

 

Do yourself a favor and get a filco (i have one) or a ducky! 

[Lukiose]

They look really clean and slick (See what i did there :P) without a 'gamer' branding on them. They also have excellent build quality, i can pick up my ducky right now and apply maximum torque on the keyboard and it would not flex at all.

That said, Corsair and Coolermaster keyboards are excellent, i almost went for a trigger myself, but in the end, it's whether you like the 'gamer' look that your keyboard gives away on your usage immediately. I had no use for macro keys and backlighting is a big plus for me ( Still at that age of bling bling :> ) so i went for a Ducky~

[pzt]

( Still at that age of bling bling :> ) so i went for a Ducky

 

Pretty much the case for most people hahah :D High Rolllllllllllllller!!

 

Guilty as charged.

[Preston]

My first mech keyboard arrived the other day. I Got at ducky 9008 at it is awesome, I couldn't recommend it more. It's just awesome.