Introduction to the Cherry G80-1800 Keyboard Series

 

Introduction to the Cherry G80-1800 Keyboard Series

The Cherry G80-1800 is a highly-regarded PC-compatible keyboard that has been in production for many years, known for its durable design and various key switch options. It is produced by Cherry, a well-known manufacturer in the keyboard industry. This article explores the key features, variations, and historical evolution of the Cherry G80-1800 series, providing a comprehensive overview for keyboard enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.

Key Features of the Cherry G80-1800 Keyboard

The Cherry G80-1800 is distinct from other Cherry keyboards due to its compact layout, which brings the numerical keypad closer to the main keyboard. This arrangement reduces desk space usage, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a minimalistic setup without compromising functionality.

• Compact layout: The arrow keys are integrated with the numeric keypad, making the overall keyboard smaller compared to traditional layouts.
• Keycap material: The keycaps have been made from various materials, including double-shot ABS, PBT, and POM, offering users options based on their preferences for durability and texture.
• Color options: Modern variations of the G80-1800 come in either light grey or black, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
• Windows keys: Recent versions include Windows keys, with a 6-unit space bar, while older versions without Windows keys feature a full 7-unit space bar and 1.5-unit Ctrl and Alt keys.

Comparison with the Cherry G80-3000

One of the most frequent questions from users is how the Cherry G80-1800 compares with the Cherry G80-3000. While both are popular mechanical keyboards, there are some key differences:

• Key profile: The keys on the Cherry G80-1800 are positioned on different rows compared to the G80-3000, making them not fully interchangeable.
• Key size variations: The right Shift key on the G80-1800 is 1.75 units wide without a stabilizer, differing from the G80-11800 and G80-11900 models, which use a 2-unit Shift key with a stabilizer.

Variations of the Cherry G80-1800

Over the years, Cherry has produced several variations of the G80-1800 keyboard, each offering a different set of features:

• Early versions: The first models were winkeyless, using a DIN interface with switchable XT/AT modes and double-shot keycaps.
• Modern versions: Current versions feature Windows keys, a USB interface, and laser-etched keycaps made from either light grey PBT or black POM.
• Switch options: Modern G80-1800s typically come with Cherry MX Black switches, though earlier models and special editions offered other switch types, such as Cherry MX Brown.

Notable Special Editions

Several special versions of the Cherry G80-1800 series have been produced, each with unique features. For instance, the Cherry G80-1865 features Cherry MX Brown switches, offering a quieter and softer typing experience compared to the MX Black switches found in standard models. These variations appeal to different users based on their preferences for switch feel and performance.

Keycap Sizes and Compatibility

When it comes to customizing the Cherry G80-1800, understanding keycap sizes is important for enthusiasts looking to switch out keycaps:

• The right Shift key requires a 1.75-unit keycap.
• The numpad-0 key is 1 unit in size, making it smaller than the typical 2-unit numpad-0 found on other keyboards.
• Earlier versions feature a 7-unit space bar, while later versions with Windows keys use a 6-unit space bar. Notably, Signature Plastics offers replacement space bars that fit both versions, ensuring compatibility for users looking to modify their keyboards.

Conclusion

The Cherry G80-1800 series remains a favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts due to its compact design, durability, and customizable options. Whether you are a professional typist, a gamer, or a collector, the G80-1800 offers a variety of configurations to meet your specific needs. From its early winkeyless models to modern versions with Windows keys, the Cherry G80-1800 continues to be a relevant and popular choice in the keyboard market.

For more information on Cherry keyboards and where to buy the Cherry G80-1800 series, visit Cherry's official website.