Kinda annoyed that I just bought the Saber68 with mod M switches for a much higher price of 150USD. Really wanted it originally with zeal65 switches but originative never gives you that option. There doesn't seem to be any differences between the two boards, besides their availability and prices.
So assuming the two are the same, here are some impressions on the board as a whole:
-The keycaps I have are the same as the "black" ones in the drop, and are of nice PBT plastic. I'm not a huge fan of the font used, and the right shift, which I reprogrammed to a second "backspace" key, is not your standard size. But regardless, I don't see these keycaps wearing down anytime soon. Also of note, the included backlight is mediocre at best with the included solid keycaps. If you want the characters to shine, I'd buy a shine-through keycap set or consider a different board. Again, keep in mind the layout if you are buying replacement keycaps.
-Speaking of programming, the method of doing so is great. I had no previous experience in configuring a board, and I got through just fine. Make sure to download the manual in the product description and follow the steps there. Configure your file in a browser, given that you have adobe flash, and drop it into the correct file location on the board itself.
-The plastic shell I got with mines is decent. It feels like a coarser version of what the keycaps are made of. I'd spring for the aluminum shell, but you may want to reference someone who actually has the version of the board. As for aftermarket cases, you don't have many options. The design of the board seems to be unique, so I wouldn't go buying standard 60% wooden cases with the hope of replacing the stock ones. There are some aluminum ones floating around on the internet, but they cost +100USD on their own. If you want aluminum, just grab it in the drop.
-Even with my plastic shell, the metal back plate means there is zero flex in the board
-The board is actually quite thick, and isn't the most suited as a travel board. I guess you could throw it in a bag, but more so a gym bag than a slim neoprene sleeve.
-No drainage for accidental spills, but I have no idea why you would keep open bottles near your keyboard/computer.
-It uses mini USB, which I guess is better than micro USB(very fragile). Would love to see more boards with USB type c though.
-And finally, note which switches you are getting. Although cherry switches are alright, I dislike how scratchy they are. However, they do make up for their lack in quality through their lower price. Zeals as an add-on for 30USD is gr8 IMO.
Reading over this, I realize most of my points are negative. But despite all these, I am happy with my board due to its tactile key feel, effective layout, and minimal design. No bells and whistles, just beautiful functionality. All in all, I think this is a great buy. I may even pick up another one, this time with the zeal65s.
I hope this has helped at least one person, but please make sure to check with other sources as well before you buy. For all I know, maybe the Saber68 and Tada68 are radically different.
Happy typing!
So assuming the two are the same, here are some impressions on the board as a whole: -The keycaps I have are the same as the "black" ones in the drop, and are of nice PBT plastic. I'm not a huge fan of the font used, and the right shift, which I reprogrammed to a second "backspace" key, is not your standard size. But regardless, I don't see these keycaps wearing down anytime soon. Also of note, the included backlight is mediocre at best with the included solid keycaps. If you want the characters to shine, I'd buy a shine-through keycap set or consider a different board. Again, keep in mind the layout if you are buying replacement keycaps. -Speaking of programming, the method of doing so is great. I had no previous experience in configuring a board, and I got through just fine. Make sure to download the manual in the product description and follow the steps there. Configure your file in a browser, given that you have adobe flash, and drop it into the correct file location on the board itself. -The plastic shell I got with mines is decent. It feels like a coarser version of what the keycaps are made of. I'd spring for the aluminum shell, but you may want to reference someone who actually has the version of the board. As for aftermarket cases, you don't have many options. The design of the board seems to be unique, so I wouldn't go buying standard 60% wooden cases with the hope of replacing the stock ones. There are some aluminum ones floating around on the internet, but they cost +100USD on their own. If you want aluminum, just grab it in the drop. -Even with my plastic shell, the metal back plate means there is zero flex in the board -The board is actually quite thick, and isn't the most suited as a travel board. I guess you could throw it in a bag, but more so a gym bag than a slim neoprene sleeve. -No drainage for accidental spills, but I have no idea why you would keep open bottles near your keyboard/computer. -It uses mini USB, which I guess is better than micro USB(very fragile). Would love to see more boards with USB type c though. -And finally, note which switches you are getting. Although cherry switches are alright, I dislike how scratchy they are. However, they do make up for their lack in quality through their lower price. Zeals as an add-on for 30USD is gr8 IMO.
Reading over this, I realize most of my points are negative. But despite all these, I am happy with my board due to its tactile key feel, effective layout, and minimal design. No bells and whistles, just beautiful functionality. All in all, I think this is a great buy. I may even pick up another one, this time with the zeal65s. I hope this has helped at least one person, but please make sure to check with other sources as well before you buy. For all I know, maybe the Saber68 and Tada68 are radically different. Happy typing!