While not “mechanical”, Topre Realforce keyboards (same as on HHKB - it is weighted capacitance with springs, not mechanical switches!!) have the best keystrokes I’ve even used and as high (or higher) quality than most “mechanical” keyboards and are designed to be used with typing the avoids bottoming out.. yeah, no Model M or “Cherry MX” so YMMV on preference. I recommend giving a try, although they are nigh-impossible to find locally. There are 86/87/88 key Topre “compact” models (avoid Topre “RGB” models; 87U is probably best Topre model) and of course HHKB is super compact. Many keyboards don’t have a nice damping (need additional o-rings) or otherwise have a “reverb” backplane. Since keyboards are SOO personal, really need to try a few different configurations. Good luck.
i'll be honest having the DIT switches on the 660M is probably my favorite part. I only really use the default layer with the meta key swapped to function. I love the way the cherry reds feel inside of the leopold case too, it's just a tried and true setup.
I'm currently using the Leopold FC660M (Cherry MX Red) and I'm very happy with it. The build quality is superb, and the PBT keycaps feel is just great. However, if you want to customize your keyboard, I recommend the WASD VP3 61-keys, they will be in stock January 2017 (according to their website) and that's the keyboard I'm planning on getting.
I have two of the Leopold FC660M, one for desk duty and one for travel duty. I've tried a few others but I like the consistency and lightweight of the Leopold. I particularly don't like the excessively hard plates and the heavy metal frames of the other keyboards. The Leopold has a great balance of features and feel.
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