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Comment by layer8 | Hacker News Reader

If this uses similar parts as the HP-15C Collector’s Edition in 2023 (which seems likely), then be advised that it doesn’t match the quality of the original in terms of display, key feel, and key labeling (colors). The back side of the 15C CE is also pretty ugly in my opinion [0] compared to the original [1].

[0] https://commerce.hpcalc.org/images/15c-ce-back-medium.jpg

[1] https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/HP-15C_C...

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The originals (I still have my 1987 HP-15C) used silicon-on-sapphire technology, normally used for space, that ensured the amazing battery life. The keyboard domes had a complicated fabrication process to ensure optimum feel. The keycaps were double shot for durability. No modern calculator is going to be made to that standard, it would cost at least $1000.

I loved the keyboard on my HP-48G. It had such a nice crisp tactile feel to the key presses - a bit of snap - that I got to where it could usually operate it by touch without looking.

(These days it's stored safely away with batteries removed, so I don't use it that much anymore. For convenience, I usually just use either Droid48 on my phone, or Emacs Calc at my computers.)

The LCD screen polarizer may eventually detach[0][1], effectively ruining the screen. Unfortunately, it's not easily replaceable. I think it's not impossible the enthusiast community will eventually come up with a solution, but until then I'd use your 48G as much as you can. After it's done, either get a Prime while they still sell on eBay or get a SwissMicro 42n for similar keyboard feel and nostalgia factor.

[0] https://www.hpmuseum.org/forum/thread-18710.html

[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/calculators/comments/1r8gtvr/hp_48g...

I’d pay that much, but alas.

They can be found on ebay.

I have two originals, which is why I could make the comparison, but they are not in pristine condition like a new one would be.

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