Model F Ultra Compact keyboard: It improves on IBM's classic

The return of the buckling spring

- MATTHEW S. SMITH

Modern mechanical keyboards hold endless possibilities in design and function, yet one experience remains rare: the classic buckling spring keyboard. This key switch design was popularized by early IBM keyboards, such as the Model M and Model F, prized for their uniquely clicky, tactile feel.

Enter Model F Labs, a small company set up exclusively to produce buckling spring keyboards. The model I received, the counter-intuitively titled Model F Ultra Compact, retails for an intimidating $420. That’s a high price to pay for a keyboard with few modern conveniences—but I’m sold.

WHAT’S A MODEL F KEYBOARD, GRANDPA?

IBM’s Model F is the original buckling spring keyboard, launched in 1981 alongside early IBM PCs. It was standard issue for most IBM PCs through 1985, when the Model F was replaced by the more famous and affordable Model M (the Model F was still produced until 1994, however).

The distinction between the Model F and Model M is important, at least to enthusiasts. Though both are buckling spring keyboards, Model F keyboards don’t have a membrane but instead rely on metal barrel plates. They’re also absolute units: Most Model F keyboards have odd layouts or extra function keys. That’s why the Model F Ultra Compact, which is based on the Model F 104, doesn’t seem to fit its name. It’s large by modern standards but small compared to many original Model F keyboards.