Cooler Master CM Storm Novatouch Keyboard Review

As much as I adore fountain pens, the simple fact is that most of us do our writing on a keyboard these days.  In many ways, mechanical keyboards are to membrane keyboards as fountain pens are to ballpoints and rollerballs: both mechanical keyboards and fountain pens represent older implementations of their respective technologies that are both more costly and arguably offer a superior tactility and writing experience.  But between the two, it is undoubtedly mechanical keyboards - specifically those utilizing Cherry MX key switches - that has enjoyed a mainstream resurgence in the past few years.  The popularity of Cherry MX keyboards has led to the availability of a wide range of key caps that allow you to customize the color, shape, and surface feel of your keys.

Up until now, typists (like me) who prefer Topre's capacative switches have been left out of the customization race.  I've made do with Cherry MX Red keyboards, which rank as a very close second in my estimation, but now Topre fans can enjoy the full panoply of aftermarket key cap options with Cooler Master's Novatouch.  The Novatouch is the first Topre key switch keyboard to incorporate Cherry MX compatible stems, making customized color schemes and layouts (like my Blue Bomber inspired one, above) possible.  It is also the most globally available keyboard models to incorporate Topre switches, with Topre's Realforce, Fujitsu's Happy Hacking Keyboard, and Leopold's FC660C primarily available only in Asian markets like Japan, Korea, and China.  And at $199.99 directly from Cooler Master (potentially $179.99, if you use one of CM's readily available 10% off coupons), it's actually one of the least expensive Topre options as well.

I've owned and used all the Topre switch keyboards mentioned above, and the Novatouch holds up to them all.  I prefer its uniform 45g-weighted layout to the variable weights (usually 35g to 55g) used on basic Realforce models, and the mounting feels more substantial than the plasticy HHKB.  It's closest in feel to the FC660C, which had been my favorite typing keyboard prior to trying the Novatouch.  With the added customizability of key caps and the unparalleled Topre typing experience, the Novatouch is a great choice for those looking for a top-class pure writer's keyboard without the unnecessary frills - such as LED lighting and customizable macros - that more gaming-centered buyers may be looking for.

Ti2 Techliner Review

Although much of my creative process for both writing and illustrating has shifted to digital, I still perpetually search for the Aristotelian ideal of the perfect pen.  For line work, I tend to favor fine-line rollerballs like Pilot's Hi-Tec-C and Uni-ball's Signo series, which strike attractive balances between performance and convenience.  That's why, as an original backer of Mike Bond's first Ti2 Pen, I was pleased to discover that he has expanded the line to include the Techliner, which is a sleek titanium-machined pen designed to house the Uni-ball Signo 207 refill.

The Techliner follows the same aesthetic as the original Ti2 Pen but incorporates several design refinements that potentially make it an even better pen.  The basic Techliner features a tumbled finish, which in my grasp feels like a strict upgrade to the original Ti2's bead-blasted finish.  The friction-fit O-ring cap retention system has been swapped out for impressively strong neodymium magnets, that not only allow for a satisfying snap when recapping or posting the pen, but also allow for interesting storage options if your desk space features a number of ferrous surfaces.  And for someone with smaller hands, the "Shorty" version - which measures in at 5" capped, rather than the 5.75" of the regular version - offers a better in-hand weight and balance.

Mike Bond's Ti2 Designs deals exclusively in titanium-machined hardware, and the substance and feel of the Techliner lives up to expectations.  While $60-$80 is a lot for pen, the quality and robustness of the Techliner may be worth it for those who like the Signo 207 refill but would prefer to use it in a more hefty, well-weighted enclosure.