Question regarding Model M keyboards (maybe specifically Unicomp ones)

[Dikkus]

Hello friends. Recently I purchased a Unicomp Ultra Classic, it's my first Model M keyboard and I quite like it overall. I do, however, have a few quibbles which I'm wondering whether or not is common to Model M keyboards in general. Specifically related to friction on the downstroke. There's a decent amount of keys that feel relatively smooth in one or two directions, but a bit rough in others. Removing the key cap and putting it back on sometimes helps this, but usually it makes no difference. Perhaps the most egregious key is the Numpad Enter, which is fairly scratchy and seems harder to press down on. I assume it might be an issue with the stabilizer but I really have no idea. I'm just wondering whether or not I have a problematic model or if it's a common issue, and if perhaps it gets better as I use them. Thanks!

[Wazrach]

Hello friends. Recently I purchased a Unicomp Ultra Classic, it's my first Model M keyboard and I quite like it overall. I do, however, have a few quibbles which I'm wondering whether or not is common to Model M keyboards in general. Specifically related to friction on the downstroke. There's a decent amount of keys that feel relatively smooth in one or two directions, but a bit rough in others. Removing the key cap and putting it back on sometimes helps this, but usually it makes no difference. Perhaps the most egregious key is the Numpad Enter, which is fairly scratchy and seems harder to press down on. I assume it might be an issue with the stabilizer but I really have no idea. I'm just wondering whether or not I have a problematic model or if it's a common issue, and if perhaps it gets better as I use them. Thanks!

My very early 1986 Model M 122 had a similar issue, but is becoming smoother with use. I think your keyboard just needs to be worn in. This new old-stock Model F I'm currently typing on was also slightly abrasive when I first got it, and the F's switches are known for how smooth they are.

[Dikkus]

Hello friends. Recently I purchased a Unicomp Ultra Classic, it's my first Model M keyboard and I quite like it overall. I do, however, have a few quibbles which I'm wondering whether or not is common to Model M keyboards in general. Specifically related to friction on the downstroke. There's a decent amount of keys that feel relatively smooth in one or two directions, but a bit rough in others. Removing the key cap and putting it back on sometimes helps this, but usually it makes no difference. Perhaps the most egregious key is the Numpad Enter, which is fairly scratchy and seems harder to press down on. I assume it might be an issue with the stabilizer but I really have no idea. I'm just wondering whether or not I have a problematic model or if it's a common issue, and if perhaps it gets better as I use them. Thanks!

My very early 1986 Model M 122 had a similar issue, but is becoming smoother with use. I think your keyboard just needs to be worn in. This new old-stock Model F I'm currently typing on was also slightly abrasive when I first got it, and the F's switches are known for how smooth they are.

That's certainly reassuring, thank you!

[Howard81]

As above, they do wear in with use and become smoother.