Why does nobody talk about the IBM Model M vs Dell AT101W debate properly?

I keep seeing people call the Dell AT101W a "cheap clone" of the Model M from 1985, but that's not really fair. The AT101W has alps switches, not buckling springs, and I've used both at my desk in Austin for six months. They feel completely different to type on - the Model M is heavy and clicky while the Dell is lighter and smoother. Has anyone else noticed people mixing up switch types when they talk about these boards?

3 comments

3 Comments

king.val12d ago

Honestly, I ran into this exact thing when I was trying to decide between the two for my home setup. People online kept saying they were basically the same board, but that's just totally wrong. The AT101W with Alps switches feels way different, like typing on a smooth, quiet butter knife compared to the Model M's heavy, clacky hammer. If you're actually looking to buy one, just ignore what anyone says about "clones" and go feel both switches in person if you can. The Alps are lighter and quieter, perfect for not driving your roommate nuts.

michaelgrant12d ago

The smooth butter knife comparison is about right for Alps, I swapped a few boards for that exact reason and never looked back.

foster.tessa12d ago

Oh man, I gotta push back a little on this one @king.val. I actually tried both side by side at a meetup and came away feeling the exact opposite. The Model M's buckling spring isn't really a "hammer" to me, it's more like a crisp, snappy snap that gives you that perfect click right at the actuation point. The AT101W with Alps felt kind of mushy and vague by comparison, like pressing into a stale marshmallow before it finally registers. And I get the roommate argument, but I've got a Model M in my office and my wife says the white noise of the clacking is actually way less annoying than the high pitched scratchy sound of those Alps switches. Different strokes for different folks I guess, but I really don't think they're in the same league.