The reason for it using AA instead of a built-in battery is for the sustainability of the keyboard itself because the rechargeable battery will die eventually. HHKB can last more than 10 years. Personally have an HHKB Pro 3 mod with deskey's silencing rings. Love them to death.
@@Zuggible that’s one more thing the company need to spend money on I guess, I mean there are pretty good rechargeable AA batteries on the market now anyway
@@Zuggible At that point you might as well just use AA batteries instead because they're an open standard. If you use something like Eneloops or some of the Li Ion AA batteries on the market now it's the same thing but more compatible.
Didn't realize until now that "squishy" is actually a great description of how the keys feel! haha I spent about a year also in deciding on buying the HHKB Type-S. It was mainly the unique sound and layout that sold me and I've been really happy with mine!
@@hellomayuko I have spent thousands of dollars on keyboards and have some custom boards but this exact HHKB is my favorite by far. Split ergo boards are better at some things but overall the HHKB Hybrid professional type s is my go to.
I had so many keyboards in the past, HHKB Type S and regular version, Realforce, Drop Alt, keychron, etc.. I ended up in G915 TKL and think it’s the most efficient I’ve ever used. I can’t denied HHKB is the prettiest, due to my two year experience with HHKB caused me to change cap key to ctrl every keyboard I use afterwards🤣
A built-in battery would reduce the lifespan of the product or at least create more of a logistical hassle when users keyboards inevitably no longer hold a charge and need to be replaced. I think using user replaceable standard AA was the smartest choice. And since you don’t need to replace but once every few months it shouldn’t be an inconvenience. Definitely get some rechargeable cells though. You can get them fairly inexpensive these days. I use some from ikea (made in Japan) that work great- I get just over 2 months with them on my hhkb with heavy use.
I've been using the HHKB type-s pro for a year. It’s really impressive although it took me a month to actually get used to the layout. Overall, It’s hard to switch back to normal keyboards :)
Using two HHKB Pro 2s (wired versions) for 10 years (office+home). Flawless. Wrist pain gone, no longer twisting to reach a mouse. Love them, my best IT investment, and expect them to last another 20 years.
I love this keyboard. I have the classic, non-bluetooth version, the classic non-Type-S, too. Love it. The give of the board inside is heavenly for my fingers. Great for long-term typing.
my HHKB is one of my desert island objects, i've had it for years and hope to have it forever. there's just something about it that always makes me feel cozy.
I've used this keyboard for years now and I absolutely love the layout, but when I went to a Macbook, I also had to change. In Linux/Windows/etc the control key is used like the Command key on mac, so I swapped the two in my mac OS configuration so command is in the Control (normally Capslock) spot. That works well and now I can still use the keyboard elsewhere and use the same muscle memory for most shortcut keys across computers.
I have the same exact keyboard. I have gotten it with the printed keys at first, then after learning the layout, which did not take long at all! I changed to the blank key caps as it is much more aesthetically pleasing. Also it acts as a security mechanism keeping people in my company away from it. Yes numbers and symbols was quite challenging until my company implemented 2FA, which helped me learned the numbers, and I just remember which number contains which symbol.
Love those blanks. I'm about to buy the Kara from Rama Works which has a HHKB layout and put some blanks on it, cuts down on the amount of people casually using my computers lol
Haha I used my 60% keyboard with blanks at work and anytime someone wanted to show me something on my computer they looked so confused and... "ok you type... this this and that"! 🤣
If you dont like the layout as much and want something wired with the same mechanical switches I highly recommend the Leopold FC660 (preferably with silent switches), I have these and they are incredible, none of the keys are awkward so it's very easy to adjust to. HKB may be better if you can adapt to the layout as it is more optimal for things like programming and has extra keys like the 2 meta keys near the keyboard. I just got the hkkb they are nice but take some time to get adjusted to.
Great review! Got introduced to Topre keyboards years ago. Started with a Leopold FC660C and ended up collecting more (Realforce 87U & a Coolermaster Novatouch). Love them all. Not gonna lie, kinda tempted on a Bluetooth one.
Was introduced to HHKB about 5 years ago, haven't looked back, but I also ended up making the mistake with the blank key caps and getting printed key caps after. Glad you enjoy it as well.
Very good review, thank you! I’ve been using HHKB since 2008, mostly because of the layout (I’ve started my carrier on Sun machines and got used to this layout). Those keyboards are indeed very long lasting, my first HHKB Pro 2 from 2008 is still alive and I use it every day. Another note on switching to other keyboards: I just stopped doing that. I have a piece of plexiglass that I put on top of the laptop and just put my keyboard on it. I think it’s called Sonshi-style in Japan. Happy hacking!
Nice catch on the Apple vibe! HHKB is actually inspired by the Apple M0110 keyboard dating back in the 80's. It was also Steve Job's idea to take away the arrow keys.
As a Linux user who constantly uses neovim as my text editor and who has capslock binded to control because It's easier to use nvim I felt a BIG relieve when go this keyboard. Magnificant!
Yeah, tempted to go for this keyboard for that reason, the usability w/Linux seems like a huge upside and it seems built to last. Still having some sticker shock however.
The topre switches are some of the best to type on. I absolutely love my HHKB 2 and use it quite often. I did just build a custom keyboard that is an HHKB layout.
I never had an issue with the caps lock and ctrl change since usually HHKB layout boards have caps lock as FN + Tab or FN + Ctrl and it takes like no time to hit those keys in combination, plus I found that the ctrl at the caps lock is nicer for my hands since I don't have to stretch as much but yes it does take some getting used to :) . Additionally I love the split backspace and honestly any custom board that I look out for that is a must for me if it supports split backspace.
True, also Caps Lock is kinda useless for me, I bet I havent pressed it once since I got my first pc lol, the only time I might use it is when swearing at ppl on hypixel
If you like the feel of the switch and want to go with a layout you're already familiar with, rechargeable battery, take a look at the Niz keyboard, they also use EC switch (kinda cloned from Topre), and available in the 75% layout similar to the K2 among other choices. Small bonus point is that you can replace the keycaps with any Cherry compatible keycaps unlike HHKB. Typing this from the same HHKB model as yours and went through another niz. I actually prefer the HHKB layout over the standard layout, and replaceable battery. just wish it has shorter spacebar so more keys available at the bottom row.
i love this board especially on a mac. Its one of those where at first i'm like "meh" then i keep coming back to it. 2 years later its one of my favorites for work lol
Would love to try topre switches! Also blank keycaps make keyboard look just so much cleaner - don't worry, you'll get used to location of numbers and symbols soon ❤️ I have black Anne Pro 2 with blanks and I love the aesthetics! It's also 60% USB-C and bluetooth so might be a cheaper alternative to get if someone wants this one but can't justify the price (and it also comes in white! 😊)
I tried the same hhkb that she has, my main issue was the sensitivity of the topre switches, when I would barely rest my fingers on the switches they would actuate. It’s very nice for calmly typing, but not so much for aggressively building a front end, or gaming. I switched to a Tokyo 60 with box creams and have been enjoying that setup quite a bit.
@@Scragg- interesting! Then topre is def not for me as I like kinda resting my fingers on the keyboard when I'm thinking what to type next... I have gateron reds which is nothing fancy but I really can't complain! :)
@@KaroCodes you can get heavier domes depending on if there are any group buys for them at the moment. I wanted to do that but eventually I got tired of waiting
In my opinion, Eneloop black rechargeable batteries are more environmentally friendly: you get hundreds of recharges and each charge will last quite a while. But if the HHKB had an internal battery and that battery eventually dies, and it will, then... well... that would be a pain in the butt to fix, if you are able to fix it at all. And as some of the comments have already mentioned, the HKKB keyboard will last way longer than the internal battery.
I wanted to try an HHKB as I find it's layout interesting but now I moved on to a custom ortholinear keyboard and I don't think I'll go back to staggered keyboards. The ortho layout made so much sense to and I find it a lot easier to type numbers and symbols without looking at the keyboard and I found it very comfortable to use, so much so that I built a second one to have a different feeling/looking one, with a different keycap profile and different switches. You should give an ortholinear a try.
ctrl+space is how you swap languages on a mac, I also type japanese. I'm hhkb before a mac user though, so the first thing i did was swap caps lock and ctrl keys.
Hey! I was kinda thinking when watching this... You'd probably like my "other" keeb (not this one, this one is black - I like it, but I suspect you wouldn't). My "other" keyboard is a Keyboardio Model 01, with unpainted keys. So... what's the skinny? It's a "split" keyboard, and it is completely symmetrical. The keys are arranged in columns, and they form arcs (because fingers are different lengths). They move a lot of functions to the thumbs, and put a lot of the important "pinky keys" into the centre. The keys are organic shapes. The body of the keyboard is wood, lovely blonde wood. It has nice wrist rests integrated. The two halves can be connected (it takes on a kind of butterfly appearance - the company have a butterfly as their logo because of this) or split (I use it split). You can attach "octopods" that have slopes to tent the keyboard... I have the quiet one, they also made clicky. So, build wise - it's wooden and organic looking with custom shaped keys with USB-C. I've swapped out the supplied cables for braided. But yeah it's pretty nice. Comfort wise - they have built it for human hands, it has very sculpted keys. The Matias Switches are a little like the ones on old Mac keyboards (well a little). This is a very comfortable keyboard indeed. Usability wise - there is quite the learning curve, especially if you've never used a non-staggered layout. However, the layout is rather better thought out that it at first appears. It will really help if you are a vim user. But, the changes are logical and pull the most used keys closer pushing less used keys away on the pinky keys. Everything can be reprogrammed. However, the thing is not commute friendly (I have one here and one at the office, the office one has painted keys for my co-workers; however this doesn't seem to help them much). Delight wise - it looks like a butterfly! The wood and organic shapes are really delightful. I really love it with the unpainted keys, but it still looks fantastic with the standard painted keys. This is. keyboard that is highly adjustable, and you can make it your own. What could be more delightful than that? Now this is keyboard that you can't actually get anymore - but fear not! Keyboardio are making an even better one. [YAY!] So the changes are: the option of walnut wood, hotswap MX type switches, and more refined keycaps (I think the changes are minimal, I love the original ones already). The new one is called the "Keyboardio Model 100" - I suspect you'd love it.
9:53 You absolutely could and should. Get some Eneloops that will last many years with a decent capacity. Custom internal batteries (they all use standard cells, but are packaged in a custom way) are not only poor for consumers in terms of device longevity, they are bad for the environment.
Being a HHKB user for the last 21 years. Earlier days of my college, it was a bit off and on but never used it that much. But been using ONLY HHKB exclusively (and blank) version for the last 11ish years since. Also, this is one of those keyboards where once you really learn it well, you won’t absolutely need to look at the keyboard. In fact if you are a person who needs to look on keyboard once in a while, this keyboard will make you go nuts. I don’t have any other keyboards and I can say that once you become super comfortable with this keyboard, no other keyboard will work for you. This doesn’t mean other keyboards are not as good. It is just that while learning this keyboard as a programmer was reasonably difficult, “unlearning” it is extremely difficult. Once you get used to this it is super hard to go other way. Over the last 10 years, I had to get 2 of these, one at home, one at office. It doesn’t mean I can’t use others, but just that fingers feel really suboptimal in other layouts now. To people who are worried about quality, these are some well built keyboards. I can tell you that the oldest one I have is the one I bought about 11 years ago and it still works without any issue. Up until about 1-2 years ago, I sold the then 16 year old one and got the hybrid one. Even that was running fine. I can’t yet comment on how good the hybrid one is.
so, two things. I have yet to try a hhkb type s, but I have a keychron k2 pro (they have hot swap now!) with silent alpaca and double shot caps. I highly recommend it. I am also building a keyboard from scratch using a hhkb-layout PCB (with underglow), a frosty translucent case, durock v2 stabilizers, silent alpaca switches, double shot caps. I think it's going to turn out alright, but I will let you know. I buckled under pressure and just got the drop+tokyo hhkb-layout board, which will have everything from drop except silent alpaca switches. As you can see, I am a huge fan of silent alpacas. They're just the best silent linear switch and feel great. I *do* want to buy a true HHKB type s, but I am trying to save up money right now and went a bit crazy. I was *trying* so hard NOT to get this invested into keyboards because I figured ... ah ... I only have a couple computers and once I find something quiet but good enough I can stop, but then ... sigh ... I can't stop. HELP. Anyway, nice video. Love the content. Keep it up.
Thank you, because you are a programmer, then your opinion counts a lot. A thank you again, because you mention or answer thing to make to my mind, like labeled printed and you were honest, no trying to make very smart and that is a great point for you. After seeing a lot keyboards videos, you make buy this and also because I have little hand too. Daamn, is too damn expensive!!!.
Hi Mayuko, you can have rechargeable battery on this board by swapping out the daughter board with an after market one called HHKB BLE. Look it up if you're into modding :) Well, beyond the stock experience, lies an abyss of a rabbit whole for modders of this tiny board.
Niz Plum Atom 68 is a solid topre alternative, best stock experience (no modding needed, stabs are properly lubed) at half the price, and arguably sounds better than topre (at least stock). Just bought one for my girlfriend with a set of ePBTxGOK BoW R1 keycaps and gel wristrest, looks fantastic. And it's a 65%, so no problem adjusting to the layout.
i love the feed back of the 45g silence keys, but just can't get used to the layout, so i got a fullsize Realforce PFU with the same switch instead. Love it!
Could you review a razer keyboard? I wonder how a programmer will review a gaming keyboard. I am programmer and I have owned a lot of razer keyboards during the years. I usually do not game on my pc but I really like the mechanical noise and the feedback of the Razer Blackwidow v3 Mini Hyper speed. I wonder what do you think about it on the professional matter. I am ok with it to be honest. I like the feedback and the response and you can also pair it with up three devices using Bluetooth, it has an usb-c cable and also a WIFI dongle. So I will like to know your opinion about it. I am not really fan of the RGB, I put my keys set on white color or or yellow. I ordered a leopold recently, Everybody said that keyboard of HHKB or Leopold feels very different to type, so I want to know. I didn't went for the topre switches, it was like double the price of the keyboard. I went for red silent.
Topre switches are both a switch type and a brand in a similar way to how Cherry owned the MX switch design for a long time. They charge a premium for this. If you want to experience a lot of different key feels then I would suggest getting a hotswap board and experimenting a little. It is hard to recommend anything in particular because of how the mechanical keyboard market goes but normally you can find a decent kit for around 50 dollars if you are willing to do some modding. I have a feeling you will like the Leopold more than you Blackwidow board. Have fun!
@@Kevin-rg2xj I got it today. Very good quality keyboard it is smaller than the razer blackwidow v3 mini. It is much more silence compared with the yellow switches that razer offer. The keycaps feels much nicer than the razer one. Now I kind of regret not getting the topre switches but I saw that leopold will upgrade soon their keyboards with usb-c so. When they are avaliable I will try to get the new one with topre switches.
TKL for the win. The only 4 keys on there that I don't use: scroll lock, pause break, the delete key, and the right alt key. Doing any layout less than TKL just sounds annoying as hell to me personally.
@@YaroLord Yeah, I personally don't need the numpad at all, but if I had to enter in tons of data into a spread sheet on an almost daily basis, then I can see the numpad being worth it. I've literally never used it once I learned how to touch type though... cause I needed to memorize that top row of numbers anyways to access all the symbols that I use as a programmer.
A slightly cheaper alternative that has a very similar aesthetic and switch feel - the Epomaker NiZ Plum Atom68. It also has a more conventional layout :)
how are your wrists? I just bought it and I feel fatigued having my wrists are tilted up. I have a palm rest but i hate to add another thing to my desk... at least i haven't had this issue with my apple magic keyboard which is so low... i love how effortless it is to type on though.
What's your setup for switching language inputs using caps lock? I'm currently studying Japanese, and if there's a better way to switch between inputs than the default I'd love to learn it!
Great review! I have 3 topre switch keyboards and I absolutely love them. An RF 104UG HiPro for my PC, a white printed HHKB Pro Hybrid for my Mac at home, and a snow unprinted HHKB Pro Hybrid Type-S that stays with me. Much better feeling and sound than MX mechanical switches IMO. Please don’t argue with me if you think the other way. If you think so, you’re right :) The only complaint I’ve ever had is the lack of tactile feedback on the F and J keys in my RF 104UG HiPro.
I have had the RF 104 PFU(45G silenced) at work for the past 2.5 years love the key feel - shopping for TKL and torn do I get another RF or try HHKB? Seems like allot are saying HHKB layout is great but takes time to get used to and switching between normal keyboard is odd? Thinking I should just get another RF since I don't want to convert everything and I'm already fast.
@@h82fail Definitely go with RF then. HHKBs do need some time to get used to and work best with MacOS or Linux from my experience. The key layout is brilliant but can be annoying at first if you’re coming from a regular layout keyboard. Also going back to a regular keyboard can be a problem especially with the delete/backspace and control keys.
Please do a video on how do you configure your Xcode IDE. I have set my own theme even, but when it comes to my mouse, I'd like to configure the 4 and 5 buttons to move in history, back and forward, and middle button to work like command click, that is navigate into the code. Can this be done?
i would love a good keyboard that just had the mac layout, so i don‘t have to get used to something new.. :) But it‘s cool that you can actually map keys with some keyboards. Maybe that would be the way to go for me. Thanks for the video:)
Have you tried to use other types of linear switches other than cherry? A lot of other kinds of linears could fit the kind of typing experience you described. Just thought it could be something you could try :)
topre is king, though I think the epomaker niz plum atom68 would've also fit your requirements really well (soft ec switches, bluetooth, whitish design)
Got 2 of these. Love em. However, using this with Windows is messing with my head due to the crtl key. Fine with Mac, though. Just so you know, they released a special version in snow white just recently. I feels somehow even more satisfying to type on. Could be subjective, however.
This sounds pretty good. I like the overall look of it but being in the custom keyboard community. this keyboard has large potential to be modding into something better. Maybe consider modding it? Nice video!
Amazing video! You really explained the keyboard better than anyone else could have!! Thank you so much! You earned a SUB from me! You are also so pretty! Have a good day!
Great video. :-) I actually got a HHKB type-s (black, labeled) recently and loving it so far. My only 2 problems are probably the keyboard was paring lamely to my Bluetooth adapter on my pc, so needed to buy a new adapter, another is when the caps lock is on, there isn't any indicator for that so I get confused sometimes. (especially when I swap between hiragana and alphabets under Japanese, then switching to English and Chinese sometimes) I actually would like to remap the keys on my other keyboard to be HHKB's (my previous one is a filco 87 keys with standard layout), so I don't need to swap typing habit between office and home lol.
The Leopold silent with purple sliders is way more silent... I own both also the typing on the Leopold feels way less cramped, AND the key caps are higher quality along with the overal weight and build. But the HHKB has it's charm. You should mod the HHKB and lube it not only does it feel better but sounds better and less like LEGO, the Leopold tho has 0 rattle out of the box
While I don't have the HHKB, I have had both rechargeable and battery powered wireless keyboards and mice, and I much prefer the battery powered ones myself. First, they seem to last much longer, and when they are low, it's a quick swap and they are back to full. Second, and for me it is just an aesthetic thing, but I don't want the charging cable snaked across my desk. I was not a fan of how many batteries I was going through though, so I did get a set of Panasonic Enloops that I can rotate through. Those topre switches look very interesting though. Will need to see if I can find a way to test them out.
I think Mayuko has not heard of r/mechanicalkeyboard yet. It seems she is just about to deep dive into the rabbit hole. UPDATE: she just released a video building her first mechanical keyboard (Sep 21, 2021) :D
When I've tried HHKB professional 2 previously, the main downside of this keyboard for me was the lack of arrow keys, I just didn't use to it. But topre switches were so good, so I switched to Realforce TKL SA for Mac, which uses same topre 45g silent switches
Where did you purchase the keyboard? it seems like TKL SA for Mac version is only available on Japanese market and I really want one for the exact same reason 😅
The reason for it using AA instead of a built-in battery is for the sustainability of the keyboard itself because the rechargeable battery will die eventually. HHKB can last more than 10 years.
Personally have an HHKB Pro 3 mod with deskey's silencing rings. Love them to death.
Why not make the rechargeable batteries replaceable? Have it use 18650s or something.
@@Zuggible that’s one more thing the company need to spend money on I guess, I mean there are pretty good rechargeable AA batteries on the market now anyway
@@Zuggible At that point you might as well just use AA batteries instead because they're an open standard. If you use something like Eneloops or some of the Li Ion AA batteries on the market now it's the same thing but more compatible.
@@Zuggible thats kinda what they already did, ive been using the same rechargeable AA batteries since 2008 or 2009
so what is the usb c port on it for and does the keyboard come with a cable ?
Didn't realize until now that "squishy" is actually a great description of how the keys feel! haha
I spent about a year also in deciding on buying the HHKB Type-S. It was mainly the unique sound and layout that sold me and I've been really happy with mine!
People from the keyboard community tends to say it is "Thocky", or just "Thock", being a more low pitched sound
Hahaha I mean, you were one of the people that sold me on the keyboard!
You guys are making me feel like getting one!
@@hellomayuko I have spent thousands of dollars on keyboards and have some custom boards but this exact HHKB is my favorite by far. Split ergo boards are better at some things but overall the HHKB Hybrid professional type s is my go to.
I had so many keyboards in the past, HHKB Type S and regular version, Realforce, Drop Alt, keychron, etc.. I ended up in G915 TKL and think it’s the most efficient I’ve ever used. I can’t denied HHKB is the prettiest, due to my two year experience with HHKB caused me to change cap key to ctrl every keyboard I use afterwards🤣
Nothing beats the thock sound of an HHKB.
A built-in battery would reduce the lifespan of the product or at least create more of a logistical hassle when users keyboards inevitably no longer hold a charge and need to be replaced. I think using user replaceable standard AA was the smartest choice. And since you don’t need to replace but once every few months it shouldn’t be an inconvenience. Definitely get some rechargeable cells though. You can get them fairly inexpensive these days. I use some from ikea (made in Japan) that work great- I get just over 2 months with them on my hhkb with heavy use.
Welcome to the HHKB family. Enjoy the "good feeling of oneness with cup rubber"
wow a wild Zambumon appears :)
yooo the goat in Mayuko comments
what a troll
"Spend money on the things you touch everyday." And you've done just that.
and that's why I got myself a heated luxury nappa leather wrapped fleshlight with 8 massage modes, 5.1 surround sound with 192 kHz binaural samples and surgical grade semen drainage channel
It's called a girlfriend.
I've been using the HHKB type-s pro for a year. It’s really impressive although it took me a month to actually get used to the layout. Overall, It’s hard to switch back to normal keyboards :)
Same issue. I cry inside a little when I have to switch back to a standard keyboard.
Using two HHKB Pro 2s (wired versions) for 10 years (office+home). Flawless. Wrist pain gone, no longer twisting to reach a mouse. Love them, my best IT investment, and expect them to last another 20 years.
Have you tried Planck keyboard? You may love it even more. I simply sold everything.
I love this keyboard. I have the classic, non-bluetooth version, the classic non-Type-S, too. Love it. The give of the board inside is heavenly for my fingers. Great for long-term typing.
my HHKB is one of my desert island objects, i've had it for years and hope to have it forever. there's just something about it that always makes me feel cozy.
I've used this keyboard for years now and I absolutely love the layout, but when I went to a Macbook, I also had to change. In Linux/Windows/etc the control key is used like the Command key on mac, so I swapped the two in my mac OS configuration so command is in the Control (normally Capslock) spot. That works well and now I can still use the keyboard elsewhere and use the same muscle memory for most shortcut keys across computers.
I need to read this again
I have the same exact keyboard. I have gotten it with the printed keys at first, then after learning the layout, which did not take long at all! I changed to the blank key caps as it is much more aesthetically pleasing. Also it acts as a security mechanism keeping people in my company away from it. Yes numbers and symbols was quite challenging until my company implemented 2FA, which helped me learned the numbers, and I just remember which number contains which symbol.
OMG!!
I'm really happy that I could finally appeard on your channel!! Thank you!!
Love those blanks. I'm about to buy the Kara from Rama Works which has a HHKB layout and put some blanks on it, cuts down on the amount of people casually using my computers lol
ive heard having blank keycaps is one of the best ways to get people to not use your computer haha
@@hellomayuko yup, or just get gmk dots haha
Why make it harder for yourself just to avoid unwanted use? A password on your computer would suffice.
Or install arch Linux xddd
Haha I used my 60% keyboard with blanks at work and anytime someone wanted to show me something on my computer they looked so confused and... "ok you type... this this and that"! 🤣
If you dont like the layout as much and want something wired with the same mechanical switches I highly recommend the Leopold FC660 (preferably with silent switches), I have these and they are incredible, none of the keys are awkward so it's very easy to adjust to. HKB may be better if you can adapt to the layout as it is more optimal for things like programming and has extra keys like the 2 meta keys near the keyboard. I just got the hkkb they are nice but take some time to get adjusted to.
Great review! Got introduced to Topre keyboards years ago. Started with a Leopold FC660C and ended up collecting more (Realforce 87U & a Coolermaster Novatouch). Love them all. Not gonna lie, kinda tempted on a Bluetooth one.
Was introduced to HHKB about 5 years ago, haven't looked back, but I also ended up making the mistake with the blank key caps and getting printed key caps after. Glad you enjoy it as well.
It took me a while to get used to the slow rebound of the topre switches, but overall, it is very unique and comfortable to type on this keyboard.
Very good review, thank you! I’ve been using HHKB since 2008, mostly because of the layout (I’ve started my carrier on Sun machines and got used to this layout). Those keyboards are indeed very long lasting, my first HHKB Pro 2 from 2008 is still alive and I use it every day. Another note on switching to other keyboards: I just stopped doing that. I have a piece of plexiglass that I put on top of the laptop and just put my keyboard on it. I think it’s called Sonshi-style in Japan. Happy hacking!
Nice catch on the Apple vibe! HHKB is actually inspired by the Apple M0110 keyboard dating back in the 80's. It was also Steve Job's idea to take away the arrow keys.
As a Linux user who constantly uses neovim as my text editor and who has capslock binded to control because It's easier to use nvim I felt a BIG relieve when go this keyboard. Magnificant!
Yeah, tempted to go for this keyboard for that reason, the usability w/Linux seems like a huge upside and it seems built to last. Still having some sticker shock however.
Black HHKB Type-S user here. Best keyboard I’ve ever used. If I ever get bored and try a different one I just end up coming back to this.
The topre switches are some of the best to type on. I absolutely love my HHKB 2 and use it quite often. I did just build a custom keyboard that is an HHKB layout.
Can you please share the specs/build?
I never had an issue with the caps lock and ctrl change since usually HHKB layout boards have caps lock as FN + Tab or FN + Ctrl and it takes like no time to hit those keys in combination, plus I found that the ctrl at the caps lock is nicer for my hands since I don't have to stretch as much but yes it does take some getting used to :) . Additionally I love the split backspace and honestly any custom board that I look out for that is a must for me if it supports split backspace.
True, also Caps Lock is kinda useless for me, I bet I havent pressed it once since I got my first pc lol, the only time I might use it is when swearing at ppl on hypixel
Welcome to the HHKB family. Can't explain why but the whole package just comes together so well.
If you like the feel of the switch and want to go with a layout you're already familiar with, rechargeable battery, take a look at the Niz keyboard, they also use EC switch (kinda cloned from Topre), and available in the 75% layout similar to the K2 among other choices. Small bonus point is that you can replace the keycaps with any Cherry compatible keycaps unlike HHKB. Typing this from the same HHKB model as yours and went through another niz. I actually prefer the HHKB layout over the standard layout, and replaceable battery. just wish it has shorter spacebar so more keys available at the bottom row.
I have a Niz but like the feel of the HHKB. That being said, it is a really nice keyboard and sounds great!
> just wish it has shorter spacebar so more keys available at the bottom row
You could get the JIS HHKB.
i love this board especially on a mac. Its one of those where at first i'm like "meh" then i keep coming back to it. 2 years later its one of my favorites for work lol
why specially on a mac?
@@Don_XII command key and control key location. Command + easier.
I've been using HHKB since 1997. The current setup is HHKB Professional 2 Type-S (without BT, wired, US layout) since 2016 or so. :)
One comment: the HHKB manufacturer is NOT Fujitsu, but PFU, a subsidiary of Fujitsu.
oh wow, do you have a picture of your 1997 HHKB? I'd love to see it!
@@hellomayuko Allow me some time to salvage the old keyboard. I'll let you know when it's available.
Would love to try topre switches! Also blank keycaps make keyboard look just so much cleaner - don't worry, you'll get used to location of numbers and symbols soon ❤️ I have black Anne Pro 2 with blanks and I love the aesthetics! It's also 60% USB-C and bluetooth so might be a cheaper alternative to get if someone wants this one but can't justify the price (and it also comes in white! 😊)
I tried the same hhkb that she has, my main issue was the sensitivity of the topre switches, when I would barely rest my fingers on the switches they would actuate. It’s very nice for calmly typing, but not so much for aggressively building a front end, or gaming. I switched to a Tokyo 60 with box creams and have been enjoying that setup quite a bit.
@@Scragg- interesting! Then topre is def not for me as I like kinda resting my fingers on the keyboard when I'm thinking what to type next... I have gateron reds which is nothing fancy but I really can't complain! :)
@@KaroCodes you can get heavier domes depending on if there are any group buys for them at the moment. I wanted to do that but eventually I got tired of waiting
Are you still regretting getting blanks? Any update would be great.
Yesssssss, I can't believe you made a HHKB video!! LIKE LIKE LIKE!!
your review has further fuelled my enthusiasm to get that Topre Realforce 23U numpad. Different keyboard, but a relative of HHKB, same Topre switches.
Damn, love the vibe of all your vids Mayuko!!!
In my opinion, Eneloop black rechargeable batteries are more environmentally friendly: you get hundreds of recharges and each charge will last quite a while. But if the HHKB had an internal battery and that battery eventually dies, and it will, then... well... that would be a pain in the butt to fix, if you are able to fix it at all. And as some of the comments have already mentioned, the HKKB keyboard will last way longer than the internal battery.
Those blank legends look so clean.
You should hit up Taeha for a custom keyboard :))
nice video mayuko!!
I wanted to try an HHKB as I find it's layout interesting but now I moved on to a custom ortholinear keyboard and I don't think I'll go back to staggered keyboards. The ortho layout made so much sense to and I find it a lot easier to type numbers and symbols without looking at the keyboard and I found it very comfortable to use, so much so that I built a second one to have a different feeling/looking one, with a different keycap profile and different switches. You should give an ortholinear a try.
Same. After Planck, everything is history.
Want to try Topre...., but already have weird things like glove80 and The Polyglot.
ctrl+space is how you swap languages on a mac, I also type japanese. I'm hhkb before a mac user though, so the first thing i did was swap caps lock and ctrl keys.
Hey! I was kinda thinking when watching this... You'd probably like my "other" keeb (not this one, this one is black - I like it, but I suspect you wouldn't). My "other" keyboard is a Keyboardio Model 01, with unpainted keys. So... what's the skinny?
It's a "split" keyboard, and it is completely symmetrical. The keys are arranged in columns, and they form arcs (because fingers are different lengths). They move a lot of functions to the thumbs, and put a lot of the important "pinky keys" into the centre. The keys are organic shapes. The body of the keyboard is wood, lovely blonde wood. It has nice wrist rests integrated. The two halves can be connected (it takes on a kind of butterfly appearance - the company have a butterfly as their logo because of this) or split (I use it split). You can attach "octopods" that have slopes to tent the keyboard... I have the quiet one, they also made clicky.
So, build wise - it's wooden and organic looking with custom shaped keys with USB-C. I've swapped out the supplied cables for braided. But yeah it's pretty nice.
Comfort wise - they have built it for human hands, it has very sculpted keys. The Matias Switches are a little like the ones on old Mac keyboards (well a little). This is a very comfortable keyboard indeed.
Usability wise - there is quite the learning curve, especially if you've never used a non-staggered layout. However, the layout is rather better thought out that it at first appears. It will really help if you are a vim user. But, the changes are logical and pull the most used keys closer pushing less used keys away on the pinky keys. Everything can be reprogrammed. However, the thing is not commute friendly (I have one here and one at the office, the office one has painted keys for my co-workers; however this doesn't seem to help them much).
Delight wise - it looks like a butterfly! The wood and organic shapes are really delightful. I really love it with the unpainted keys, but it still looks fantastic with the standard painted keys. This is. keyboard that is highly adjustable, and you can make it your own. What could be more delightful than that?
Now this is keyboard that you can't actually get anymore - but fear not! Keyboardio are making an even better one. [YAY!] So the changes are: the option of walnut wood, hotswap MX type switches, and more refined keycaps (I think the changes are minimal, I love the original ones already). The new one is called the "Keyboardio Model 100" - I suspect you'd love it.
flipping the spacebar 180 will get you that 10/10 comfort
I was so shocked when you were talking about tobalog. then i realized you are japanese lol. love ya both
9:53 You absolutely could and should. Get some Eneloops that will last many years with a decent capacity.
Custom internal batteries (they all use standard cells, but are packaged in a custom way) are not only poor for consumers in terms of device longevity, they are bad for the environment.
I came here to say this.
Very helpful mayuko!
THE BLANK KEYCAPS OR GETTING ON NERVES SO MUCH
Great review! And can I just say, your brows are flawless hahaha
Just wait until she fully embraces the mechanical keyboard hobby
Thx for the review! Is it good for gaming?
If you're handy, you can replace the batteries with a li-on battery that you can recharge or just pop in rechargeable batteries
HHKB classic is best for me. I bought type-s first, but a little bit boring, so I got classic and it's much more fun to type and perfect for me.
Being a HHKB user for the last 21 years. Earlier days of my college, it was a bit off and on but never used it that much. But been using ONLY HHKB exclusively (and blank) version for the last 11ish years since. Also, this is one of those keyboards where once you really learn it well, you won’t absolutely need to look at the keyboard. In fact if you are a person who needs to look on keyboard once in a while, this keyboard will make you go nuts. I don’t have any other keyboards and I can say that once you become super comfortable with this keyboard, no other keyboard will work for you. This doesn’t mean other keyboards are not as good. It is just that while learning this keyboard as a programmer was reasonably difficult, “unlearning” it is extremely difficult. Once you get used to this it is super hard to go other way. Over the last 10 years, I had to get 2 of these, one at home, one at office. It doesn’t mean I can’t use others, but just that fingers feel really suboptimal in other layouts now.
To people who are worried about quality, these are some well built keyboards. I can tell you that the oldest one I have is the one I bought about 11 years ago and it still works without any issue. Up until about 1-2 years ago, I sold the then 16 year old one and got the hybrid one. Even that was running fine. I can’t yet comment on how good the hybrid one is.
the fact that my so said mechanical keyboard cost only around 30-40 bucks really had me
Do you still have your blank caps? I wanted and would buy them off you.
so, two things. I have yet to try a hhkb type s, but I have a keychron k2 pro (they have hot swap now!) with silent alpaca and double shot caps. I highly recommend it. I am also building a keyboard from scratch using a hhkb-layout PCB (with underglow), a frosty translucent case, durock v2 stabilizers, silent alpaca switches, double shot caps. I think it's going to turn out alright, but I will let you know. I buckled under pressure and just got the drop+tokyo hhkb-layout board, which will have everything from drop except silent alpaca switches. As you can see, I am a huge fan of silent alpacas. They're just the best silent linear switch and feel great. I *do* want to buy a true HHKB type s, but I am trying to save up money right now and went a bit crazy. I was *trying* so hard NOT to get this invested into keyboards because I figured ... ah ... I only have a couple computers and once I find something quiet but good enough I can stop, but then ... sigh ... I can't stop. HELP. Anyway, nice video. Love the content. Keep it up.
Thank you, because you are a programmer, then your opinion counts a lot. A thank you again, because you mention or answer thing to make to my mind, like labeled printed and you were honest, no trying to make very smart and that is a great point for you. After seeing a lot keyboards videos, you make buy this and also because I have little hand too. Daamn, is too damn expensive!!!.
Hi Mayuko, you can have rechargeable battery on this board by swapping out the daughter board with an after market one called HHKB BLE. Look it up if you're into modding :) Well, beyond the stock experience, lies an abyss of a rabbit whole for modders of this tiny board.
Niz Plum Atom 68 is a solid topre alternative, best stock experience (no modding needed, stabs are properly lubed) at half the price, and arguably sounds better than topre (at least stock). Just bought one for my girlfriend with a set of ePBTxGOK BoW R1 keycaps and gel wristrest, looks fantastic. And it's a 65%, so no problem adjusting to the layout.
i love the feed back of the 45g silence keys, but just can't get used to the layout, so i got a fullsize Realforce PFU with the same switch instead. Love it!
Could you review a razer keyboard? I wonder how a programmer will review a gaming keyboard. I am programmer and I have owned a lot of razer keyboards during the years. I usually do not game on my pc but I really like the mechanical noise and the feedback of the Razer Blackwidow v3 Mini Hyper speed. I wonder what do you think about it on the professional matter. I am ok with it to be honest. I like the feedback and the response and you can also pair it with up three devices using Bluetooth, it has an usb-c cable and also a WIFI dongle. So I will like to know your opinion about it. I am not really fan of the RGB, I put my keys set on white color or or yellow.
I ordered a leopold recently, Everybody said that keyboard of HHKB or Leopold feels very different to type, so I want to know. I didn't went for the topre switches, it was like double the price of the keyboard. I went for red silent.
Topre switches are both a switch type and a brand in a similar way to how Cherry owned the MX switch design for a long time. They charge a premium for this. If you want to experience a lot of different key feels then I would suggest getting a hotswap board and experimenting a little. It is hard to recommend anything in particular because of how the mechanical keyboard market goes but normally you can find a decent kit for around 50 dollars if you are willing to do some modding. I have a feeling you will like the Leopold more than you Blackwidow board. Have fun!
@@Kevin-rg2xj I got it today. Very good quality keyboard it is smaller than the razer blackwidow v3 mini. It is much more silence compared with the yellow switches that razer offer. The keycaps feels much nicer than the razer one. Now I kind of regret not getting the topre switches but I saw that leopold will upgrade soon their keyboards with usb-c so. When they are avaliable I will try to get the new one with topre switches.
TKL for the win. The only 4 keys on there that I don't use: scroll lock, pause break, the delete key, and the right alt key. Doing any layout less than TKL just sounds annoying as hell to me personally.
lucky you for not having to do any accounting ever
@@YaroLord Yeah, I personally don't need the numpad at all, but if I had to enter in tons of data into a spread sheet on an almost daily basis, then I can see the numpad being worth it. I've literally never used it once I learned how to touch type though... cause I needed to memorize that top row of numbers anyways to access all the symbols that I use as a programmer.
A slightly cheaper alternative that has a very similar aesthetic and switch feel - the Epomaker NiZ Plum Atom68. It also has a more conventional layout :)
how are your wrists? I just bought it and I feel fatigued having my wrists are tilted up. I have a palm rest but i hate to add another thing to my desk... at least i haven't had this issue with my apple magic keyboard which is so low... i love how effortless it is to type on though.
What's your setup for switching language inputs using caps lock? I'm currently studying Japanese, and if there's a better way to switch between inputs than the default I'd love to learn it!
10/10 would be a custom keyboard tailored to all of ur preferences :)
Ever use Holy Panda switches or Zealios?
Great review! I have 3 topre switch keyboards and I absolutely love them. An RF 104UG HiPro for my PC, a white printed HHKB Pro Hybrid for my Mac at home, and a snow unprinted HHKB Pro Hybrid Type-S that stays with me. Much better feeling and sound than MX mechanical switches IMO. Please don’t argue with me if you think the other way. If you think so, you’re right :) The only complaint I’ve ever had is the lack of tactile feedback on the F and J keys in my RF 104UG HiPro.
I have had the RF 104 PFU(45G silenced) at work for the past 2.5 years love the key feel - shopping for TKL and torn do I get another RF or try HHKB? Seems like allot are saying HHKB layout is great but takes time to get used to and switching between normal keyboard is odd? Thinking I should just get another RF since I don't want to convert everything and I'm already fast.
@@h82fail Definitely go with RF then. HHKBs do need some time to get used to and work best with MacOS or Linux from my experience. The key layout is brilliant but can be annoying at first if you’re coming from a regular layout keyboard. Also going back to a regular keyboard can be a problem especially with the delete/backspace and control keys.
@@bowentian2485 thanks
I write everything in Latex and could never live without my backslash
Tips for typing numbers on printless keyboard, use colorful keycap to identify "0".
"Hello! Welcome my name is Mayuko"❤️
Please do a video on how do you configure your Xcode IDE. I have set my own theme even, but when it comes to my mouse, I'd like to configure the 4 and 5 buttons to move in history, back and forward, and middle button to work like command click, that is navigate into the code. Can this be done?
Me writing LaTeX like uhhhh no backslash gonna be a problem lmao
i would love a good keyboard that just had the mac layout, so i don‘t have to get used to something new.. :)
But it‘s cool that you can actually map keys with some keyboards. Maybe that would be the way to go for me. Thanks for the video:)
Have you tried to use other types of linear switches other than cherry? A lot of other kinds of linears could fit the kind of typing experience you described. Just thought it could be something you could try :)
topre is king, though I think the epomaker niz plum atom68 would've also fit your requirements really well (soft ec switches, bluetooth, whitish design)
So it’s more comfortable than an ergo split keyboard?
Got 2 of these. Love em. However, using this with Windows is messing with my head due to the crtl key. Fine with Mac, though. Just so you know, they released a special version in snow white just recently. I feels somehow even more satisfying to type on. Could be subjective, however.
Hey ! Where is the CTRL key ? How do you Copy/Paste ?
This sounds pretty good. I like the overall look of it but being in the custom keyboard community. this keyboard has large potential to be modding into something better. Maybe consider modding it? Nice video!
you should try to dive into the custom keyboard world and build one exactly for your needs!
Nice keyboard but curious as to why you did not opt for a custom keyboard !
strong flex not having the legends. I can type a few sentences but I do find it less stressful to look down from time to time
Great info on the keyboard, I was wondering myself too. Enjoy your content!
Amazing video! You really explained the keyboard better than anyone else could have!! Thank you so much! You earned a SUB from me! You are also so pretty! Have a good day!
Great video. :-)
I actually got a HHKB type-s (black, labeled) recently and loving it so far.
My only 2 problems are probably the keyboard was paring lamely to my Bluetooth adapter on my pc,
so needed to buy a new adapter,
another is when the caps lock is on,
there isn't any indicator for that so I get confused sometimes.
(especially when I swap between hiragana and alphabets under Japanese, then switching to English and Chinese sometimes)
I actually would like to remap the keys on my other keyboard to be HHKB's (my previous one is a filco 87 keys with standard layout),
so I don't need to swap typing habit between office and home lol.
can u use it for gaming mayuko?
COOL VIDEO ! GOOD JOB MAYUKO ..
The Leopold silent with purple sliders is way more silent... I own both also the typing on the Leopold feels way less cramped, AND the key caps are higher quality along with the overal weight and build. But the HHKB has it's charm. You should mod the HHKB and lube it not only does it feel better but sounds better and less like LEGO, the Leopold tho has 0 rattle out of the box
As a mechanical keyboard enthusiast she lied, it’s not hard to find a Bluetooth white mechanical keyboard, it’s actually like insanely easy
While I don't have the HHKB, I have had both rechargeable and battery powered wireless keyboards and mice, and I much prefer the battery powered ones myself. First, they seem to last much longer, and when they are low, it's a quick swap and they are back to full. Second, and for me it is just an aesthetic thing, but I don't want the charging cable snaked across my desk.
I was not a fan of how many batteries I was going through though, so I did get a set of Panasonic Enloops that I can rotate through.
Those topre switches look very interesting though. Will need to see if I can find a way to test them out.
It’s topre right?
it match with your shirt and background of keyboard, simple and elegant.
I think Mayuko has not heard of r/mechanicalkeyboard yet. It seems she is just about to deep dive into the rabbit hole.
UPDATE: she just released a video building her first mechanical keyboard (Sep 21, 2021) :D
we must pray for her
When I've tried HHKB professional 2 previously, the main downside of this keyboard for me was the lack of arrow keys, I just didn't use to it. But topre switches were so good, so I switched to Realforce TKL SA for Mac, which uses same topre 45g silent switches
You can remap keys.. so you can put arrow keys in a function key
Where did you purchase the keyboard? it seems like TKL SA for Mac version is only available on Japanese market and I really want one for the exact same reason 😅
How do you use ctrl copy and paste? with the layout that you created.
I have three. Best keyboard in existence.
is this a good upgrade from the niz
plum 68?
Got an old version HHKB lite2 for 100 yen (1 dollar), very happy with it!
Have you tried Anne Pro 2? I guess it's pretty decent keyboard too
Doesn't compare to topre switches
Maybe try a Niz Plum. They have similar switches but a more standard layout.
I love my HHKB! It’s amazing