Maybe just make it one row wider or taller so that it can have an escape and a `~ key simultaneously? The need to make these things so small that compromises like having to choose between esc and `~ is very strange to me. This is not a portable device.
I have had a Mistel MD650L for the last 6 weeks, and I didn't notice that it had the same issue as this one -- you need to press a mod key to switch between esc and `~. I use both enough that this is a major PITA. I remapped the "del" key to `~ for a while, but then I started to have to hunt around for that key on my laptop.
> I don't get however why you don't consider the current model compact.
Are you referring to this?
> This is not a portable device.
The way I read it, drewg123 wasn't saying that this particular keyboard is not compact compared to other keyboards. Rather, a keyboard in general doesn't need to be particularly portable, so why attempt to shave an extra inch off by eliminating useful keys?
Yes, that's exactly what I'm trying to say. I didn't notice the tradeoff on the kbd that I have now before I bought it. So every time I go to use tilde, I need to stop, think, and hit the mode key. I'd much rather have another row with fn/esc above the numbers, just like on regular keyboards. I was actually hoping this keyboard had that. I can't seem to find a "mild" ergo split mechanical keyboard with enough keys; I'd buy one if I could find one..
There is the matter of desk estate, because of which some people prefer more compact keyboards, to have more space available. Some also prefer this 60% keyboards because it force them to avoid "harmful" keys and let them focus on their touch typing-usage. And other just take it it as a matter of aestetic. Though, this keyboard isn't really looking good, so I say not many will choose it beacuse of look.
I have had a Mistel MD650L for the last 6 weeks, and I didn't notice that it had the same issue as this one -- you need to press a mod key to switch between esc and `~. I use both enough that this is a major PITA. I remapped the "del" key to `~ for a while, but then I started to have to hunt around for that key on my laptop.