I’m less interested in Unicomp/IBM’s novel buckling spring technology (as cool as it is) and more that they’re built well, are corded and not wireless, offer replacement parts on their website, and have a mail-in repair service.
Unicomp’s Model M keyboard was my first choice for a long-lasting keyboard, but now I want to lessen my dependence on American-made companies (especially since Unicomp is based in Kentucky) and wanted to see if any alternatives existed. I’ve heard good things about Cherry, but I don’t fully understand their business model or how to order their products.
If you’re talking about keyboard longevity, the keyboard body itself matters almost not at all. The switches are essentially the only moving parts to wear out, and they’re mostly interchangeable. The letters can wear off on some caps but those are easily replaceable too. You could look at things on something like KeebFinder and see what you like.