Looking for a new keyboard

[Nyosan~]

I currently have a Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000, which I really like using. I really like the key location, and I'd like to find something like that if possible.

My only problem with it is that it doesn't acknowledge certain combinations of key presses. Namely, when I'm using the numpad to navigate in FFXI, I can't hit certain macros (i.e., combinations of alt/ctrl + keyboard numbers). This can be pretty annoying and causes a lot of problems if I'm kiting, since I either have to click on auto-run and release the numpad keys to use the macro, or I have to stop running entirely...

I'm looking for a keyboard with similar function and setup as the one mentioned above, without multiple key press limitations. Anyone know of anything like that?

Even if you don't know of one with a similar setup, please post your keyboard if you don't have the key press limitation issue.

For reference, here's a picture of the keyboard I use:

Spoiler:

 

[Princemercury]

Hey Nyo, this post is just input, not a solution, sorry.

I think we've all been having the same problems especially when we have to control running and actions at the same time.

You're right for looking in the direction of a KB since it is a Hardware issue and depends on how a KB is designed on the inside. eg my F and G buttons on this laptop will not work at the same time.

Here is a program that can help you if you ever decide to buy and try a KB. It can detect as many keys as you can press.

http://www.passmark.com/products/keytest.htm

 

[masterorion]

i had the model of keyboard just before that one. i never had problems with any key combo. maybe its the way you use autorun? on any of my keyboards, i just used the 7/8 keys simultanious. but, i never had any problems with using ctrl/alt with anything else.

i have recently gone to a new keyboard since my old MS kb had died. i use the logitech wave. which, is as close as i could find. they dont have too many of the split keyboards around anymore. those are the ones i really prefered

 

[Nyosan~]

masterorion: I use the number pad for movement as well, and my left hand for macros for the most part (I can reach the right CTRL with my right hand, and make use of that on occasion). When I'm pressing macros, the number keys I use are the ones above the main keyboard, not the numpad itself.

As for the auto-run, I use the same thing as you do. Also, no problems with the Logitech Wave and multiple key presses?


Princemercury: Thanks for the website, I'll give it a shot when I get home. I began playing on a laptop and never had this issue, so it was pretty aggrivating when I switched to the new keyboard and had the problem.

 

[masterorion]

nope. ive never actually encountered any problems at all with key combos of any sort. perhaps its a difference of how we do it. for tanking especially. ive tanked since the release of the game with my old split ergo keyboard. never any probs. the only thing i didnt like about that keyboard was the f-lock button to turn on and off the function keys. drove me crazy. the wave gives me the same functionality that my old one did. with this one, i dont have to worry about that stupid f-lock


i would say we both do it the same way. i use the number row for all macros. i try setting them so i can use all of them with only my left hand. on occasion, i have to set them on the 7 8 and 9. for those, i set things that i can just set auto run on and use my right hand for while im on auto

 

[Tagrineth]

i have recently gone to a new keyboard since my old MS kb had died. i use the logitech wave. which, is as close as i could find. they dont have too many of the split keyboards around anymore. those are the ones i really prefered

Yeah, the split keyboards were designed and marketed to be "better" for your arms/hands than standard keyboards, but after they were on the market for a while they discovered that they actually DON'T make a difference in terms of arm/hand strain and such... so since they are literally an intentionally more awkward design, and thus represent an illogical design to achieve a nonexistant goal, they kinda stopped marketing them widely.

They're still made though simply because some people DO prefer them...

 

[masterorion]

personally, i do find them to be better for your wrists. they allow your wrists to rest as they would normally instead of forcing a position for your hands. the wave is probably the most comfortable ive found since having my split ergonomic keyboard. i liked the split keyboard because it was more sloped than the wave. the wave is a little flatter than my old one.

 

[Nyosan~]

i would say we both do it the same way. i use the number row for all macros. i try setting them so i can use all of them with only my left hand. on occasion, i have to set them on the 7 8 and 9. for those, i set things that i can just set auto run on and use my right hand for while im on auto

Pretty similarly, anyway. I use the 7-0 on the number row pretty frequently still, and I tend to use my left hand for those as well if I need to use them while moving. Slightly awkward, but it gets the job done without having to stop (usually). Problem is when I'm trying to kite around something, instead of in a straight line (using 4 & 6 while keeping the 8 held down). Too many keys at once and I can't hit any macros...

Anyway, thanks for the input.

 

[Bajaratt]

I'd have suggested a Logitech G15, but it doesn't have the split keyboard design to it.