Thinkpads Forum

I've seen some threads on this subject, but none clarified me.

I'm looking for a SUPER QUIET keyboard (no *clicks*), that doesn't becomes "shinny" too fast and that you don't have to press the keys too hard in order to type.

By what I've been reading the ALPS is the right one for me. Am I wrong?
Anyway, just put here what is the keyboard you like best and why.


Note: For those who don't know what keyboard type they have (ALPS, Chicony or NMB), read this nice thread.

I haven't used the ALPS but can report based on personal experience that the NMB is far quieter than the quite loud clicky but more precise feeling Chicony. Also, I think the NMB has a slightly shorter throw that requires less pressure. Finally it has a more cushioned or damped feel at the bottom of the stroke, compared to the Chicony. Whether all this is better or worse depends purely on personal preference.

I've used both the ALPS and Chicony and I can assure you that you don't want the Chicony. My personal T60 has the ALPS keyboard and my work issued T60 has the Chicony keyboard. I personally can't stand to type on the Chicony keyboard. It's very clicky and flimsy.
Scott

Although I personally didn't like it, I wouldn't describe the Chicony that originally came on my T61p as "flimsy." It was very solid, in fact. Just not my cup of tea. But many folks like the recent iterations of the Chicony better. Those in that camp usually describe the NMB as "mushy." The whole thing is very subjective. Different (key) strokes for different folks.

Then again, the offer for Portuguese keyboards is so low that I can't even choose :/

Don't feel bad. Nobody who buys a new Thinkpad from Lenovo can choose the keyboard either. They just have to take whatever keyboard Lenovo decides to put on their machine. Usually, the only way to change it is to order the exact keyboard you want as a replacement part from Lenovo and either keep the original one that came with the machine as a spare or try to sell or trade it.