[Intro from Mantic59: Once a month or so I like to wander off of shaving and grooming and into something else that readers might enjoy--watches, smartphones, cigars, etc. This month, a cool gadget for those who need to type a lot.]
I type a lot. All day long and sometimes into the night. Yet I still use the default keyboard that came with my iMac, and other than the annoyance that it sucks batteries like a vampire, I don’t have any strong opinions about it. Still, when I saw “The One” keyboard advertised on ThinkGeek, I was intrigued. With superlatives like “the most singularly awesome keyboard” and “truly a keyboard for the ages,” I had to know what made it so amazing. Thankfully, ThinkGeek sent one over.First, this keyboard has deep, springy keys. With anti-ghosting technology, you cannot type faster than it will receive input. Also, it pairs via Bluetooth for one-button switching between your computer and your phone. In other words, you can reply to texts on your phone with the keyboard, then instantly go back to using your computer.
The keyboard, however, is a little unusual. It’s loud, and the big, bouncy keys feel like a throwback to my Commodore 64. Even though there’s a sticky pad to rest your iPhone, it’s not especially sticky and sort of gets in the way. And finally, it’s not the world’s most attractive keyboard. But for its quirks, I’m getting used to it, and I think my typing accuracy is improving, too.
At $100 (in varieties for PCs or Macs), it’s an investment. But if you’re a serious typist, don’t you deserve a serious keyboard?
there are tons of great mechanical keyboards out there. if you want the convenience of being able to type on your iOS device from your computer check out an app called 1keyboard.
I use the same keyboard that came with the iMac. I use rechargeable batteries. I have six batteries. 2 for the mouse, 2 for the keyboard, 2 always recharged. When I change batteries, I recharge thru a plug in on the back of the iMac. Rayovac Model PS19
If you’re really serious about keyboards (and reducing repetitive stress in your hands and arms) I would actually suggest an ergonomic, a tilted or a vertical keyboard instead. Keyboards with deep or springy keys can actually be detrimental. I currently use the Microsoft Natural Keyboard, but I’m planning on upgrading to an adjustable tilted keyboard sometime soon. They’re pricy ($300+) but really important for those with heavy keyboard use. Being a long time programmer, I have signs of tendonitis and carpal tunnel, so this is always an interesting subject for me.