I think the perfect 104 key keyboard just doesn't exist for me...

[stlouis1]

I bet the light doesn't bleed out around the keys as much with that design. seems like it would be very focused toward the key itself from my observations just glancing at it.

 

[MacJunky]

but if anyone knows where I might look for a wired 100% vanilla 104 key with 0 extra functions or knobs on a nice solid metal frame I'd love to know.

Brand New Model F Keyboards – The Model M Predecessor: Mechanical Capacitive Buckling Spring Keyboards with NKRO

www.modelfkeyboards.com

Check out the F104 Compact and F104 Classic. Both are wired and feature metal cases with a good old US ANSI layout, or one of any other layout they have options for, but you sound like you want US ANSI.

 

[Izerous]

Because the base is transparent on this one specifically a lot of light can still come around the bottom, you can actually see the moving parts from the side. But because there isn't a plunger in the way between the keycap and the LED the keys light up really well. Even the forward faces of the key caps are well lit.

The square profile instead of a cross in the middle though I have noticed makes them less wobbly

 

[stlouis1]

Brand New Model F Keyboards – The Model M Predecessor: Mechanical Capacitive Buckling Spring Keyboards with NKRO

www.modelfkeyboards.com

Check out the F104 Compact and F104 Classic. Both are wired and feature metal cases with a good old US ANSI layout, or one of any other layout they have options for, but you sound like you want US ANSI.

I actually did look at them as I mentioned somewhere in here I thought. I did entertain them for a minute but there was something I just didn't quite like

sswilson is actually sending me an old corsair k70 of his though so that will hold me off a bit on my hunt. I do like the plain 104 key layout and lack of modifier keys on the older k70. I've narrowed the issue with mine down to the media buttons and/or volume roller though. I took it apart earlier this week and disconnected both and haven't had any issues with it plugged in since. My computer has even been in sleep mode 3 mornings in a row now so it looks like it may have been preventing sleep as well. I do like my older k70 though, it might be loud, but I find it sturdy with the metal frame and overall I like it so at least if I don't fully fix mine I'll have the one from sswilson soon. But my plan is to try reconnecting the media keys and volume roller individually as they're separate circuits to see if I can narrow down which is the issue. I'm actually suspecting the volume roller and if I'm right, maybe I can source a replacement pot for it, or clean it with some good contact cleaner so maybe I'll get lucky