So about a month ago I found a Dell at101w at the flea market for a dollar in working shape. Now I'm looking to get something more modern but I can't find one I quite like the feel of. Right now the closest I've come is a Razer black widow ultimate 2016 but the keys feel like the press down too easily. Ultimately the most I'd be willing to spend is 130, but any recommendations are appreciated!
Posted Apr 2, 2016, 12:51 AM UTC
The Dell AT101, nice board, uses black ALPS switches which are no longer made.
The closest switch type would be Matias Click, which are also based off ALPS. They'll be somewhat clickier and a little lighter, but also a lot smoother and less rough. You can find boards with these switches at https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/
KBParadise makes TKL and 60% boards with these switches, for full size you'll want to look at Matias own keyboards. All of these options are in your budget.
KBParadise also makes boards that use a "White Fukka" switch, which are very similar.
Have fun, I think ALPS/Matias switches are superior to Cherries personally!
Cherry MX clear switches I think? Black ALPS are tactile? There are some Matias switch (ALPS clones) keyboards like the KBParadise V60 and V80.
Or Cherry MX Greens if he wants clicky and slightly stiffer still.
Black Alps are tactile non-clicky switches, although they are actually pretty loud anyway.
They sound really nice though, a much fuller and chunkier sound than the thin plastic sound of Cherries.