All three keyboards mentioned are "linear" (Red) switch.  Gamers like them, because force is constant throughout the key travel.  I'm not a gamer, so can't comment on their experience.  I prefer light key, that provides initial resistance and then collapses after trigger point.  This usually means "clicky" (Blue) or "tactile" (Brown) switch, though I don't care about audio or tactile feedback.  If anything, less noise is better. 

I use Topre keyboard (brand: RealForce) which is "capacitive" switch with variable weight (ie. different key has different weight).  I bought them long ago.  It delayed the onset of carpal tunnel (wrist), tennis elbow (elbow), and pinched nerve (neck/shoulder), and it helps me keep those symptoms at manageable level.  So, it was good investment.  Otherwise, I would be in different line of work.

Now, for mouse... get one with back/forward buttons.  You will never go back.  So, 5-buttons + wheel.  :-)


On 2026-06-13 16:13, Jason Shaw via Talk wrote:
I have the Kinesis Freestyle Pro (https://kinesis-ergo.com/freestyle-pro-getting-started/#layout) that appears no longer available. I chose Cherry Mx Quiet Red switches.  They have a softer feel than the really clicky switches but provide enough tactile feedback for decent touch typing. 

On Sat, Jun 13, 2026, 15:17 Evan Leibovitch via Talk <talk@lists.gtalug.org> wrote:
I'm very happy with the two keyboards I've bought:
  • ElecFox Linky87 - Bought from Amazon US, CAD$77 including shipping to Canada and HST. It's the perfect layout for me, giving me new desktop space. Sounds and feels wonderful. I bought the black version which is not to all tastes because the key labels are on the side of the keys and use the LEDs to shine through.

  • The Kisnt KN85 - Also bought from Amazon US last year for about the same price. This seems to be the darling of the reviewers; it's certainly well made, and the sound and feel are excellent. But the software is non-standard and awful , and the layout is an odd one that I've never quite felt comfortable with. It's on Amazon Canada but last the price there was ridiculous, cheaper to buy at Amazon US and pay the shipping