Subjective ADB Keyboard Opinions Wanted

[KnobsNSwitches]

I had an Apple Extended Keyboard II hooked up to my Color Classic, but that giant keyboard just takes up too much desk space. I replaced it with the handsome Apple Keyboard II (more Color Classic appropriate, I suppose), and it's fine, but I don't really like the mushy-ness of the keys. 
 

I'm considering a IIgs keyboard, but they fetch a pretty penny right now...can anyone who has used both speak to the 'feel' of the IIgs keyboard compared to the Apple Keyboard II?

 

[Unknown_K]

Not that I know about. The IIgs keyboard is nice for a compact, how much are they going for these days?

Only other idea would be to replace all the key switches with mechanical ones on a custom AKII board.

 

[ArmorAlley]

If you have a modern keyboard that you like, you might consider splashing out on a Wombat from BMoW [https://www.bigmessowires.com/shop/]. It is a two-way USB-ADB converter.

While not-at-all period-correct, it does let you use your favourite modern keyboard with your CC.

As an aside, I rest my AEK-II against my SE with the unused ADB-port against the ground when it is not in use, but I really like the AEK-II. It is a lot more space-efficient. The CC may only only have one ADB port though and that would be a problem.

Another option would be to buy (or make) for yourself a small stand upon which the CC would sit and within which the AEK-II would rest when not in use. It would certainly gather less dust than my method.

 

[aeberbach]

The compact notched keyboard M0487 is a budget board, no mechanical switches, so is a bit mushy. The M0116 might be a good option with ALPS switches just like your AEKII but much narrower. Original equipment on the SE/30 and others; same key layout as M0487).

 

[register]

The Apple Adjustable Keyboard could be a nice option, just with a mouse, without the separate numerical keyad.. The main drawback for me is the lack of a dedicated key switch mechanism for the caps lock key. I am tempted to try and hack an ALPS caps lock key from the AEKII into the Adjustable.

Also, there is a compact Next ADB keyboard available, in all black, a somewhat unusual layout, but very beautiful. The footprint is similar to the footprint of the Apple Keyboard II. Unfortunately, it uses the same Mitsumi KPQ type keyswitches as used in the Apple Keyboard II (sadly: mushy). It looks great in combination with the black Apple ADB mouse from the Performa TV set. Note: Even NOS units will require a simple repair job for the small round buttons right to the backspace key. Those buttons are underlayed with some plastic foam that decomposes after decades. Just replace the stuff by new plastic foam. Matching foam can be found as wrapping material and can easily cut to the appropriate dimensions with scissors.