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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 05:48:15

Title: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 05:48:15
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 05:56:17
its so nice

just try it
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:05:15
its so nice

just try it

Haha, would you care to ellaborate? :)) And I'll probably wait 'till I get my Poker 2, and see wether or not I like the 60% formfactor before I decide wether or not to get the HHKB.

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:10:51
Control placement, backspace/delete placement and aesthetics. The split backspace is awesome for me, because I can use it as apostrophe when I have my language set to Norwegian in my OS.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mougrim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:11:45
Well... I like Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock. it's where it SHOULD be.

And I think you'll like Poker II. It's my work keyboard and I adore it :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:15:43
Well... I like Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock. it's where it SHOULD be.

And I think you'll like Poker II. It's my work keyboard and I adore it :)

I'm sure hoping so ! ^^ But thing is, if I like the Poker 2, I might consider going straight to the HHKB.. Give myself an early christmas and birthday present!

Control placement, backspace/delete placement and aesthetics. The split backspace is awesome for me, because I can use it as apostrophe when I have my language set to Norwegian in my OS.

What do you mean by "split backspace" ? O_o that fact that it is primarily a delete, and have to use Fn to use backspace, or?  That's another thing, wouldn't it be annoying to have to press Fn to use backspace, since that's a very commonly used key? Or is there something I've misunderstood?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:17:35
 just  buy it it's the best one jfc
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Razor Lotus on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:21:23
If you're concerned about 60% layouts, I'm on a 60% now and I use it to go to forums, play games and do pretty much everything on it and I really like it.

Of course, the games I play don't require extensive use of the function keys and all that too
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:21:52
just  buy it it's the best one jfc

Lol, I like your determination.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:22:19
You know where the backspace is on most keyboards, right? On the HHKB there's two 1u keys where the backspace normally is.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:22:22
im not determined im just right GOD DANG GET IT HAVE IT OWN IT LOVE IT FRIIIICK
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:27:42
You know where the backspace is on most keyboards, right? On the HHKB there's two 1u keys where the backspace normally is.

Ahhhhh... NOW I see it.. god damn confusing
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Oobly on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:47:28
Well, it's a very well thought out layout and many people who try it love it. Also, they say the Topre switches grow on you and after a while you really like them....

Not me, though. I prefer the layout and switches on my KBT Pure. The disadvantages of the HHKB Pro 2 are that if you don't like the layout or the switch feel you are stuck. With a board like a Poker 2 you can simply reprogram the layout and change / modify the switches as you see fit to get them to feel how you like. Also, you can add / change LED's to get the backlighting how you want. Not to mention the aftermarket case and especially keycap options. you can even program the HHKB layout on it if you like (except for the Fn next to the shift key).

HHKB Pro 2 uses Topre switches and they are not MX keycap compatible and there are VERY few keycap options available. Also, the space bars are made from ABS even though the rest of the caps are PBT.

MX switches are prefered for gaming, too. Especially for FPS games.

So, I would but a Poker 2 if I needed a new 60%, but that's personal preference.

I shudder to to think what the HHKB Pro 2 would cost in Norway.....  :eek: You'd probably be able to sell it there quite easily afterwards, though, if you decide you don't like it, so....
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:49:35
Well, it's a very well thought out layout and many people who try it love it. Also, they say the Topre switches grow on you and after a while you really like them....

Not me, though. I prefer the layout and switches on my KBT Pure. The disadvantages of the HHKB Pro 2 are that if you don't like the layout or the switch feel you are stuck. With a board like a Poker 2 you can simply reprogram the layout and change / modify the switches as you see fit to get them to feel how you like. Also, you can add / change LED's to get the backlighting how you want. Not to mention the aftermarket case and especially keycap options. you can even program the HHKB layout on it if you like (except for the Fn next to the shift key).

HHKB Pro 2 uses Topre switches and they are not MX keycap compatible and there are VERY few keycap options available. Also, the space bars are made from ABS even though the rest of the caps are PBT.

MX switches are prefered for gaming, too. Especially for FPS games.

So, I would but a Poker 2 if I needed a new 60%, but that's personal preference.

I shudder to to think what the HHKB Pro 2 would cost in Norway.....  :eek: You'd probably be able to sell it there quite easily afterwards, though, if you decide you don't like it, so....


There's no way of getting a hold of an HHKB in Norway unless you order internationally (AFAIK). So I'd have to buy from EK or something like that ^^' would end up at about just under 300$ :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 20 May 2014, 06:58:44
Well, it's a very well thought out layout and many people who try it love it. Also, they say the Topre switches grow on you and after a while you really like them....

Not me, though. I prefer the layout and switches on my KBT Pure. The disadvantages of the HHKB Pro 2 are that if you don't like the layout or the switch feel you are stuck. With a board like a Poker 2 you can simply reprogram the layout and change / modify the switches as you see fit to get them to feel how you like. Also, you can add / change LED's to get the backlighting how you want. Not to mention the aftermarket case and especially keycap options. you can even program the HHKB layout on it if you like (except for the Fn next to the shift key).

HHKB Pro 2 uses Topre switches and they are not MX keycap compatible and there are VERY few keycap options available. Also, the space bars are made from ABS even though the rest of the caps are PBT.

MX switches are prefered for gaming, too. Especially for FPS games.

So, I would but a Poker 2 if I needed a new 60%, but that's personal preference.

I shudder to to think what the HHKB Pro 2 would cost in Norway.....  :eek: You'd probably be able to sell it there quite easily afterwards, though, if you decide you don't like it, so....


There's no way of getting a hold of an HHKB in Norway unless you order internationally (AFAIK). So I'd have to buy from EK or something like that ^^' would end up at about just under 300$ :)

My advice would be to keep an eye out for one 2nd hand or buy with a proxy from Japan.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:00:48
Would it really be that much cheaper from Japan?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:09:58
Would it really be that much cheaper from Japan?

You may have to check it out because it comes down to how much shipping and customs would cost each way. I got a new type-s from Japan with a proxy and it was a lot cheaper. Pro tip would be to keep an eye on this auction site: http://buyee.jp/ they are owned by Tenso (who are quite a reliable proxy) it allows you to buy from Yahoo JP auctions second hand and have it sent anywhere. Little more risky but if you want to save a lot it's not a bad option.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:13:58
Would it really be that much cheaper from Japan?

You may have to check it out because it comes down to how much shipping and customs would cost each way. I got a new type-s from Japan with a proxy and it was a lot cheaper. Pro tip would be to keep an eye on this auction site: http://buyee.jp/ they are owned by Tenso (who are quite a reliable proxy) it allows you to buy from Yahoo JP auctions second hand and have it sent anywhere. Little more risky but if you want to save a lot it's not a bad option.

Thanks man, appreciate it :) I'll definetely keep an eye out for that! But as said, I'll wait and see how I feel about a 60% formfactor before I take the next step. I just wanted to know why people believe the HHKB layout is superior to other layouts.

Is this stuff actually legit?:
http://buyee.jp/item/yahoo/auction/184688607

I mean.. I could easily save 100 bucks from buying there then O_o Jeez.. didn't know the difference was that big.

EDIT: Even though the description saying it's used, and that it's not returnable is a bit shady
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: osi on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:32:04
If I had bought an HHKB as my first keyboard, it would have likely been a long time before I had gotten another board. I'm glad I 'worked' my way up to it so I could collect a few boards before hitting the pinnacle.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:45:56
Would it really be that much cheaper from Japan?

You may have to check it out because it comes down to how much shipping and customs would cost each way. I got a new type-s from Japan with a proxy and it was a lot cheaper. Pro tip would be to keep an eye on this auction site: http://buyee.jp/ they are owned by Tenso (who are quite a reliable proxy) it allows you to buy from Yahoo JP auctions second hand and have it sent anywhere. Little more risky but if you want to save a lot it's not a bad option.

Thanks man, appreciate it :) I'll definetely keep an eye out for that! But as said, I'll wait and see how I feel about a 60% formfactor before I take the next step. I just wanted to know why people believe the HHKB layout is superior to other layouts.

Is this stuff actually legit?:
http://buyee.jp/item/yahoo/auction/184688607

I mean.. I could easily save 100 bucks from buying there then O_o Jeez.. didn't know the difference was that big.

EDIT: Even though the description saying it's used, and that it's not returnable is a bit shady

Yes be careful and remember it's an auction site like ebay so you need to be as cautious as you would always be in that situation.

If I am perfectly honest I never believed the layout was really superior, it was the looks and topre switches that got me but now that I use it daily, I absolutely love the layout and have switched control positions on my Realforce at home :) The only thing that does take a while to get used to is the arrow keys and if you use them a lot and really like having them as dedicated keys the HHKB will probably not work so well for you.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:48:12
If I had bought an HHKB as my first keyboard, it would have likely been a long time before I had gotten another board. I'm glad I 'worked' my way up to it so I could collect a few boards before hitting the pinnacle.

That's why I consider buying it though.. I like having only ONE. If I ever buy a new keyboard I'd likely sell the last one ^^' I like having one "ultimate".. I know these words are like blasphemy around here thoguh ! :))
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: neunelfer on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:48:24
Once you get used to the changes in the HHKB layout, they feel completely natural and just feel right. You don't have to be a programmer. Topre is great for typing anything, and if you have long essays to write,  I would say Topre feels the best for straight up typing in my opinion.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:49:59
I can give you a AHK script which simulates the Poker 2 arrows if the arrow situation on the HHKB becomes a problem for you.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mougrim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:57:25
You know, if you plan to order HHKB Pro from Japan anyway, go from Japanese version. It have A LOT more buttons. Hell, it even have separate arrows!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: geniekid on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:58:22
These are the things I find great about the HHKB layout and that I've adopted in my other keyboards:

I think marginally better 60% layouts exist (some more info here (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=57723.0)), but without a fully programmable controller I think the HHKB is as good as it gets for a stock layout.

Keep in mind you can try out almost all of these changes (minus the navigation layer) via a software based key mapper.  No Topre, but I feel that you're primarily interested in the layout at this point in time.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: geniekid on Tue, 20 May 2014, 07:59:22
EDIT:  Double post.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 08:01:51
You can't compare the Poker layout to the HHKB layout. I first tried a Poker as my first 60%, and at the end of that experience, I thought I would never like 60% keyboards. It took awhile until I finally picked up the HHKB, and while Topre feels very nice, it was the layout that sold me. The position of Backspace and Ctrl just feel right. I've gone as far as changing all other keyboard layouts to be the same, and going back to other keyboards just feels wrong.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: riotonthebay on Tue, 20 May 2014, 08:24:35
In addition to what's been said about the layout, I don't find the arrow to be difficult to use at all. I now use HHKB arrows without looking at my hand placement and it's just as easy to get to them as dedicated arrows because there's less hand movement involves.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: neunelfer on Tue, 20 May 2014, 08:27:52
In addition to what's been said about the layout, I don't find the arrow to be difficult to use at all. I now use HHKB arrows without looking at my hand placement and it's just as easy to get to them as dedicated arrows because there's less hand movement involves.

Sometimes when I switch back to my Filco, my hand naturally goes into that position for the arrow keys. I think that's a pretty good indication that after you get used to it, it's truly a superior layout.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: geniekid on Tue, 20 May 2014, 08:33:30
In addition to what's been said about the layout, I don't find the arrow to be difficult to use at all. I now use HHKB arrows without looking at my hand placement and it's just as easy to get to them as dedicated arrows because there's less hand movement involves.

Sometimes when I switch back to my Filco, my hand naturally goes into that position for the arrow keys. I think that's a pretty good indication that after you get used to it, it's truly a superior layout.

Because of my HHKB I programmed my QFR w/ a Frosty Flake to have a navigation layer via R-Alt and made it use the usual inverted T for arrows.  Ironically, now every time I use my HHKB I wish it had the QFR's layout which would have never happened in the first place if not for the the HHKB.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Polymer on Tue, 20 May 2014, 08:48:49
Really the two main layout changes are the CTRL key and Backspace.  Both of which are in a superior position usage wise.  It really makes a lot more sense than where they're normally placed.

On the downside, I think some have issues w/ the arrow keys...
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Awful on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:05:12
It's only superior if you like mushy, pudding feeling, switches. :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:12:24
You know what I see, and I always wonder why people view this site with blinders to where they only see one thing, one opinion, and try to correlate that to the ultimate view of the entirety of geekhack?

People only really talk about the switches they like. There aren't really entire threads of people crapping on Browns, for example. When people ask what kind of keyboard/switch they should buy, the respondents' inherent suggestion is what they like.

Why do people focus so much on Topre? Has anyone else noticed that people like Bucking Springs as well? I know people say, "well, it's so expensive, blahblahblah." Has anyone who makes these arguments noticed that people actually spend just as much on an SSK? No one goes out of their way to try to discredit Buckling Springs because of it. No one goes out of their way to discredit Korean custom keyboards. So what is it about Topre? What about this switch makes so much talk, on both sides?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mougrim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:34:06
Because most of newbies here bought theirfirst mechanical board to get away from totally unsatisfactory rubber domes boards. And they they learn about Topre which is basically rubber dome switches, but costs more then most of more elaborate mechanical ones. And see some Topre zealots. Naturally, they start arguing...
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Defect on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:41:56
It's not ;)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mougrim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:50:56
It's not what?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 10:51:42
His statement is in direct response to the question in the title of this thread.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: acsim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 12:50:33
For me the HHKB is superior to any other keyboard I've used due to it's entire package. The superior keycaps, form-factor, layout and switches. Topre switches (I own both the FC660C and HHKB) are a joy to type on. Tactile yet light, it suits me as I have weak little fingers and I have to code all day and night. The Backspace and control keys are in places that makes more sense. My arms are always shoulder-width apart due to how close the mouse and keyboard can be. It's so ergonomic and natural. All these factors and probably more make it unimaginable for me to go back to any old regular keyboard.  :D

source: Owned a mx brown QFR, mx blue DAS, mx blue filco majestouch ninja, mx red tenkeyless Ducky and FC660C. Sold all of them except the FC660C.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Latin00032 on Tue, 20 May 2014, 13:41:03
For me the HHKB is superior to any other keyboard I've used due to it's entire package. The superior keycaps, form-factor, layout and switches. Topre switches (I own both the FC660C and HHKB) are a joy to type on. Tactile yet light, it suits me as I have weak little fingers and I have to code all day and night. The Backspace and control keys are in places that makes more sense. My arms are always shoulder-width apart due to how close the mouse and keyboard can be. It's so ergonomic and natural. All these factors and probably more make it unimaginable for me to go back to any old regular keyboard.  :D

source: Owned a mx brown QFR, mx blue DAS, mx blue filco majestouch ninja, mx red tenkeyless Ducky and FC660C. Sold all of them except the FC660C.

So, how do you feel about the hhkb and fc660c considering you have tried them both?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 13:47:02
OK let me put it to you straight: have you ever had sex?

hhkb is like sex and every other keyboard is like masturbating.

burroughs buckling spring is too lewd to get into details about. wowza
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Signature on Tue, 20 May 2014, 13:51:16
OK let me put it to you straight: have you ever had sex?

hhkb is like sex and every other keyboard is like masturbating.

burroughs buckling spring is too lewd to get into details about. wowza
Since it's a cloud of boobs does it make it an orgy?   :rolleyes:
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 13:57:29
OK let me put it to you straight: have you ever had sex?

hhkb is like sex and every other keyboard is like masturbating.

burroughs buckling spring is too lewd to get into details about. wowza
Since it's a cloud of boobs does it make it an orgy?   :rolleyes:

hhkb. you do it with your hands like this. Not like curry powder aphrodisiac licked off my desk.


MOUTH TO MOUTH
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:07:27
Very interesting opinions here :)
Well, I just came to think that I'd always like the "endgame" at once, instead of going through the whole package. I know that such a take on it might sound naive and stupid, but that's how it is for me. That's why I always do tons of researching before buying anything, really. I enjoy researching and learning everything I can before I make a decision. That's also why I made this thread ^^ Many people speak of the HHKB as the endgame board, the one and only, so I wanted to know what it is about the layout that makes it apparently so good.
I know it's not possible to jump straight to one thing you're gonna be satisfied with for the rest of your life, and I know that everything is personal preference, aka you need to try things out. I do, however, still enjoy reading everyone else's opinions, and it gives me an idea of what to expect and not expect.
I definetely LOVE the looks of the HHKB. It just.. it looks so professional, it's so sleak, nothing unnecessary junk, it's just a keyboard, it doesn't try to be everything else to make up for not being a perfect keyboard. Wow.. I ended up being really philosophical here, I'm just gonna end the rant now :p
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: acsim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:08:44
It's pretty much the opinions of everyone who had tried both the FC660C and HHKB. The FC660C, due to its metal plating,  both the feel and sound are more subdued on the FC660C. Construction is solid, thick and chunky which gives a very premium build quality impression. Keycaps are slightly smaller compared the HHKB. One major difference between the two, is that the keys on the FC660C are "flatter" across the width of the board. Meaning that the height difference between the first and last row of the keyboard is not as exaggerated as the HHKB. Due to this, I usually to kick up the legs behind the FC660C but it's not really an issue.

The HHKB on the other hand is lighter, feels more plastic-ky. Unsuspecting users wouldn't know that they are handling a $300 keyboard. However the feedback is more pronounced, more "thocky" as many of us would say. The keycaps feel wider and the bottom row keys of the keyboard sits lower compared to other keyboards I've tried. That effectively eliminates the use of wrist rests for me.

All in all, the difference between the two is not whole lot but depending on how you use them, you'll find one more suitable for your needs. I enjoy the HHKB more simply due to the backspace placement, the "thockiness" and that I code in vim so I don't use arrow keys all that often.  :cool:


Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:22:11
For me, the HHKB is the last keyboard I would need, but not the last that I WANT. ;) I enjoy keyboards, so I won't limit myself to just one. I appreciate more than 1 switch, so I need more keyboards.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:28:44
For me, the HHKB is the last keyboard I would need, but not the last that I WANT. ;) I enjoy keyboards, so I won't limit myself to just one. I appreciate more than 1 switch, so I need more keyboards.

Haha, it wouldn't surprise me if that's where I end up as well. However, I know that I always like to have that ONE I can use for everything. I don't like having lots of stuff, one that can do that, one that can do that, and one that can do that, I want one that can do everything! As said, I know that it sound naive and "childish" of sorts, but that's how it is for me. I'm well aware something like that won't exist most of the time, but still..

And from reviews and so on it sounded like HHKB could be that "one" :)) Even the Poker 2 feels like the "one", just because of all the customisability, and how it is a jack of all trades. Wanna collect keycaps? Well everything fits on the poker 2! Wanna solder on LEDs? You can do that as well! Want to customise your layout? Poker 2 got it!

If you get my drift.. I DO however know that all of the mentioned above won't be the case with the HHKB, but it sounds like the HHKB got the package anyways, and that you really won't need any fancy stuff.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Novus on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:30:37
People here are mother****ing crazy ****ers
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:30:50
For me, the HHKB is the last keyboard I would need, but not the last that I WANT. ;) I enjoy keyboards, so I won't limit myself to just one. I appreciate more than 1 switch, so I need more keyboards.

This is why I also have an SSK. Those would be the last two I need. And I'm trying to convince myself they're the last two I want as well. Though I still have an RF, aside from the other boards I wish to still sell.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:31:24
People here are mother****ing crazy ****ers

Ain't that the mother****ing truth.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Lain1911 on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:34:31
Because it has the word hacking in the name, and when you use a keyboard with the word hacking in it you time travel in the 1990's and feel awesome.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: daerid on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:47:00
I'm not a fan of the layout, makes my wrists hurt.

Love the visual aesthetic of it, but in practice it just doesn't work out for me.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Novus on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:48:23
Before you buy an HHKB you have to ask yourself.
Are you a mother****ing wannabee or do you actually vim?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:52:20
Before you buy an HHKB you have to ask yourself.
Are you a mother****ing wannabee or do you actually vim?


If you by "vim" mean enthusiastic about this whole thing, then yes. If you mean something else, or there is some damn inside joke I'm not getting here, then I've got absolutely no clue, brother.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:56:42
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vim_%28text_editor%29

Either way, I would say that your usage of vim doesn't mean anything in regard to the using a HHKB. Perhaps it's optimized for a certain usage, but I use it every day on a Windows computer, and I have zero problems with doing so. Does this make me a wannabe? If you say so.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Tue, 20 May 2014, 14:57:14
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vim_%28text_editor%29

Either way, I would say that your usage of vim doesn't mean anything in regard to the using a HHKB. Perhaps it's optimized for a certain usage, but I use it every day on a Windows computer, and I have zero problems with doing so. Does this make me a wannabe? If you say so.

will you STOP not trolling? jeez
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 20 May 2014, 15:12:18
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vim_%28text_editor%29

Either way, I would say that your usage of vim doesn't mean anything in regard to the using a HHKB. Perhaps it's optimized for a certain usage, but I use it every day on a Windows computer, and I have zero problems with doing so. Does this make me a wannabe? If you say so.

will you STOP not trolling? jeez

I got the trolling part.. but it didn't really hit homerun in my park. Oh well, every man to his each or whatever the saying is in english :))

EDIT: thanks for the link btw, esoo.. cleared some things up. For some weird reason I thought vim was an abbreviation or something, so I never simply googled "vim", but always "vim meaning".
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: DasHHKBProM on Tue, 20 May 2014, 15:38:23
the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Novus on Tue, 20 May 2014, 15:57:45
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vim_%28text_editor%29

Either way, I would say that your usage of vim doesn't mean anything in regard to the using a HHKB. Perhaps it's optimized for a certain usage, but I use it every day on a Windows computer, and I have zero problems with doing so. Does this make me a wannabe? If you say so.

You're a moose, not a wannabe.
Get your **** together, geez.
Also remember kids, type-s or gtfo.

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: p3lim on Tue, 20 May 2014, 16:13:46
the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something

Then building a GH60 would be the trifecta, you get a keyboard with both "geek" and "hack" in it, and you get to make it yourself!
Oh and you could do the HHKB layout on it, only "downside" then would be the switches.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 20 May 2014, 16:17:18
the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something

Then building a GH60 would be the trifecta, you get a keyboard with both "geek" and "hack" in it, and you get to make it yourself!
Oh and you could do the HHKB layout on it, only "downside" then would be the switches.

Obviously you build it with Browns and then stuff them full of grease.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: wharrislv on Tue, 20 May 2014, 16:45:22
You can get the thock from any topre board, but not the layout.  I prefer it much more than my 60% boards.  I spend all of my time in linux for the most part, so that has a lot to do with it.  There are some modifications, like putting ctrl where caps lock is, that you can do on your own with hacks in your OS and possibly your boards firmware, but other placements end up making a lot of sense. 

The HHKB build quality is, in my opinion, unparalleled amongst my MANY boards, even the Model M, and it looks great. 

Like many other examples of Japanese craftsmanship in manufacturing, there are no "holy ****" features, but the accumulation of many small touches that make it, to me, the best keyboard in the world.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 20:46:38
Case-mount switches, so it's sturdy but light.

Very good for portability if you want to carry keyboard around with you.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: anoxy on Tue, 20 May 2014, 21:03:18
Can't say I like the layout of it either, though I've never tried it. I also don't really like how symmetrical it is. But this is coming from an adamant Leo FC660 fan.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Wed, 21 May 2014, 00:10:42
I like reading people that don't like it as well. Keep it coming :) the formfactor is also very appealing to me.. I'll be living in a small apartment with my partner, and space isn't exactly something we'll have in abundance!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Wed, 21 May 2014, 08:49:16
Can't say I like the layout of it either, though I've never tried it.

 :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool:

the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something

yes basically this is the most important thing
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Wildcard on Wed, 21 May 2014, 09:25:10
For those who use function keys often, are you ever bothered by the HHKB or 60% layouts? It might just be me, but this is something that's started to bug me with my FC660C
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 21 May 2014, 09:30:21
Can't say I like the layout of it either, though I've never tried it.

 :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool:

the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something

yes basically this is the most important thing

GH60 FTW then (has both Geek and Hack in the name)... With HHKB physical and default layer layout, but Fn layer like this:

[ ; ' and Enter as inverted T arrow cluster.
P as Home.
] as End.
L as PgUp.
. as PgDn.

Plate mounted, in a CNC aluminium case (with proper corner blockers, like the HHKB).

Also, trampoline and latex modded, worn-in and lubed 62g ErgoClears. Panda Clear (Clear with Black spring) on space bar.

Thick PBT Cherry profile caps.

Endgame board....

/thread
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: sth on Wed, 21 May 2014, 09:43:32
Can't say I like the layout of it either, though I've never tried it.

 :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool: :cool:

the way the keyboard transitively uses the verb hacking in its title should count for something

yes basically this is the most important thing

GH60 FTW then (has both Geek and Hack in the name)... With HHKB physical and default layer layout, but Fn layer like this:

[ ; ' and Enter as inverted T arrow cluster.
P as Home.
] as End.
L as PgUp.
. as PgDn.

Plate mounted, in a CNC aluminium case (with proper corner blockers, like the HHKB).

Also, trampoline and latex modded, worn-in and lubed 62g ErgoClears. Panda Clear (Clear with Black spring) on space bar.

Thick PBT Cherry profile caps.

Endgame board....

/thread

lol no
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Wed, 21 May 2014, 09:48:17
NotevenTopre.jpg
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: esoomenona on Wed, 21 May 2014, 09:55:09
NotevenTopre.jpg

Obviously you build it with Browns and then stuff them full of grease.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:44:54
Well, now I'm totally considering buying the HKKB... My Poker 2 with browns got cancelled by qtan, so I'm once again in search for a new keyboard!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:45:54
Buy. It.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: allocerveau on Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:51:03
For those who use function keys often, are you ever bothered by the HHKB or 60% layouts? It might just be me, but this is something that's started to bug me with my FC660C
I use a HHKB and I always find the Fn key with my right pinky without any difficulty. The fact that it is on the edge of the board helps a lot I guess, I know without looking at the board where it is. Although I guess having to reach it a bit further down among similar-length keys on the FC660 would bother me a bit.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:03:00
Buy. It.


It's just.. the pricetag, alien layout, and topre switches which I've never tried that's really holding me back
I also use arrowkeys a lot to navigate when writing texts. >_>
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: allocerveau on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:04:12
Buy. It.


It's just.. the pricetag, alien layout, and topre switches which I've never tried that's really holding me back
I also use arrowkeys a lot to navigate when writing texts. >_>
So ... you're not considering it at all then ?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:05:57
Buy. It.


It's just.. the pricetag, alien layout, and topre switches which I've never tried that's really holding me back
I also use arrowkeys a lot to navigate when writing texts. >_>
So ... you're not considering it at all then ?

Yes, I am.. Even because of all those things I just mentioned. And that's basically because of all the good reviews it has gotten. I also like owning something that's a bit different!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Defect on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:07:01
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)

Edit: for me, I don't regret buying my topre, and I'm glad I have one around.  But I sometimes wish I instead spent the money on pcbs/springs/switches to make more boards for friends.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:11:40
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)

Edit: for me, I don't regret buying my topre, and I'm glad I have one around.  But I sometimes wish I instead spent the money on pcbs/springs/switches to make more boards for friends.

Haha, indeed! I might just be fighting a lost cause here :)) But for now I really don't want to spend too much money on modding and having fun with caps. I''ll be a poor student next year :)) I'll most likely put this on hold for a while, but I want a really good keyboard while waiting !
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: allocerveau on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:12:48
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)
I went straight from a 6GV2 to a HHKB and didn't regret it one bit. But indeed, there was no hesitation, I was sure that was the board for me.

Sagil, if you're not sure about it, don't go for it just now. Give yourself a week or two to think about it thoroughly, because it is indeed an expensive item and buyer's remorse sucks.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Hypersphere on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:27:47
The HHKB Pro 2 is definitely not just for programmers. It is a great keyboard for general use. I have posted a review here:
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=48804.0
Professor Wada researched the layout thoroughly and came up with something that is highly intuitive and efficient. Nevertheless, I was very skeptical, and it took me months of deliberation before finally committing to a purchase. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I adjusted to the "alien" layout almost immediately. Now, even the cursor diamond is second nature. I like the layout so much that I have remapped my other keyboards to emulate the HHKB as closely as possible.

Other things to like include the overall elegant design (including its 60% form factor and symmetry), dye-sublimated keycaps, and Topre switches.

The total package is a masterpiece of modern keyboards that has become one of my all-time favorites. Others that I like include the IBM Model F XT and the IBM Model M SSK. I actually prefer the IBM buckling spring switches, especially the capacitive switches in the XT, to the Topre switches in the HHKB Pro 2. However, I have remapped my IBMs to the HHKB layout, and I rotate among the IBMs and the HHKB Pro 2.

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:49:45
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)
I went straight from a 6GV2 to a HHKB and didn't regret it one bit. But indeed, there was no hesitation, I was sure that was the board for me.

Sagil, if you're not sure about it, don't go for it just now. Give yourself a week or two to think about it thoroughly, because it is indeed an expensive item and buyer's remorse sucks.

Oooh, trust me, I've given this more than a couple weeks of thinking! :)) But you're indeed right, it's not a "just buy it" type of item.
I love the looks of the HHKB, and I like how small of a footprint it has. I also like that it's different, it's not just a "normal keyboard" kind of.  But I'm also thinking a Poker 2 might be the better choice, simply because of the programming abilities. But the HHKB seems to have it all from the getgo. This sh** ain't supposed to be easy!

Even though I AM whining quite a bit, I definetely enjoy the search though, which is important to note! I like doing the reasearch, I like hearing other people's thoughts, and I love being able to find something (AKA customising in many other areas) that one board that really suits my needs.

EDIT: I'm kinda qustioning the topre switches for gaming though.. I really haven't found any proper description of what topre feels like. Everyone says "it's in another league" or "you can't compare it to anything". But really, is there anything it's possible to compare it with? Does it have the same tactile feedback as blue mx, does it feel as light as reds, etc.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Defect on Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:17:43
EDIT: I'm kinda qustioning the topre switches for gaming though.. I really haven't found any proper description of what topre feels like. Everyone says "it's in another league" or "you can't compare it to anything". But really, is there anything it's possible to compare it with? Does it have the same tactile feedback as blue mx, does it feel as light as reds, etc.
It's just high quality rubber dome that actuated half way rather than bottom out.

It's smooth (like worn out and lubed MX, which is rare), very little wiggle, and just feels nice.  But it's undeniably still rubber dome.  55g are tactile at the top, crisp almost.  But once you break initial tactility it's got no cushion force, so you'll still bottom out.  No comments from me on 45g.  But it'd rubber dome also.

Also, topre domes have pretty high variance so your switches may feel different even within the same board.  Maybe HHKB doesn't have this issue.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ideus on Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:55:41
Well... I like Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock. it's where it SHOULD be.

And I think you'll like Poker II. It's my work keyboard and I adore it :)

Control key can be swapped with caps lock in any board.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ideus on Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:59:23
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)
I went straight from a 6GV2 to a HHKB and didn't regret it one bit. But indeed, there was no hesitation, I was sure that was the board for me.

Sagil, if you're not sure about it, don't go for it just now. Give yourself a week or two to think about it thoroughly, because it is indeed an expensive item and buyer's remorse sucks.

Oooh, trust me, I've given this more than a couple weeks of thinking! :)) But you're indeed right, it's not a "just buy it" type of item.
I love the looks of the HHKB, and I like how small of a footprint it has. I also like that it's different, it's not just a "normal keyboard" kind of.  But I'm also thinking a Poker 2 might be the better choice, simply because of the programming abilities. But the HHKB seems to have it all from the getgo. This sh** ain't supposed to be easy!

Even though I AM whining quite a bit, I definetely enjoy the search though, which is important to note! I like doing the reasearch, I like hearing other people's thoughts, and I love being able to find something (AKA customising in many other areas) that one board that really suits my needs.

EDIT: I'm kinda qustioning the topre switches for gaming though.. I really haven't found any proper description of what topre feels like. Everyone says "it's in another league" or "you can't compare it to anything". But really, is there anything it's possible to compare it with? Does it have the same tactile feedback as blue mx, does it feel as light as reds, etc.

I think there were a thread discussing the use of topre switches for gaming. If you like to do your own research I am pretty sure you can find it. In the other hand, it is all about personal feeling, thus at the end you should give the switches a try to get your very own personal opinion.

I also suggest you to update the title of your thread, it began as a thread on layout, and now it is about switches.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 12:08:08
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)
I went straight from a 6GV2 to a HHKB and didn't regret it one bit. But indeed, there was no hesitation, I was sure that was the board for me.

Sagil, if you're not sure about it, don't go for it just now. Give yourself a week or two to think about it thoroughly, because it is indeed an expensive item and buyer's remorse sucks.

Oooh, trust me, I've given this more than a couple weeks of thinking! :)) But you're indeed right, it's not a "just buy it" type of item.
I love the looks of the HHKB, and I like how small of a footprint it has. I also like that it's different, it's not just a "normal keyboard" kind of.  But I'm also thinking a Poker 2 might be the better choice, simply because of the programming abilities. But the HHKB seems to have it all from the getgo. This sh** ain't supposed to be easy!

Even though I AM whining quite a bit, I definetely enjoy the search though, which is important to note! I like doing the reasearch, I like hearing other people's thoughts, and I love being able to find something (AKA customising in many other areas) that one board that really suits my needs.

EDIT: I'm kinda qustioning the topre switches for gaming though.. I really haven't found any proper description of what topre feels like. Everyone says "it's in another league" or "you can't compare it to anything". But really, is there anything it's possible to compare it with? Does it have the same tactile feedback as blue mx, does it feel as light as reds, etc.

I think there were a thread discussing the use of topre switches for gaming. If you like to do your own research I am pretty sure you can find it. In the other hand, it is all about personal feeling, thus at the end you should give the switches a try to get your very own personal opinion.

I also suggest you to update the title of your thread, it began as a thread on layout, and now it is about switches.

Thanks for the tip on thread.. I'll be honest and say that I didn't do a search before editing, it was something that just suddenly popped up in my mind :)
Anywhoo.. when it comes to the title, I believe it is still appropriate. The OP could be changed, however. The whole has basically developed into a discussion of the HHKB in general, and the title itself does not imply anything other than that :) (IMO)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Hypersphere on Mon, 26 May 2014, 12:23:13
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)

Edit: for me, I don't regret buying my topre, and I'm glad I have one around.  But I sometimes wish I instead spent the money on pcbs/springs/switches to make more boards for friends.
Yep, I certainly went down that road. In the end, I ended up with the HHKB Pro 2 as one of my all-time favorite boards. This might lead me to conclude that I should have saved all the money spent on other boards and to have bought the HHKB in the first place. However, then I would have had no basis for comparison and I always would have wondered.

A close contender for me was the Leopold FC660C (the one with Topre switches, not to be confused with the FC660M, which has Cherry mx switches). Actually, I got both of them, but I much preferred the FC66C with Topre switches. However, the layout didn't seem quite right and I didn't like the appearance of the keycaps. Although I have a slight preference for the sound and feel of the FC660C over the HHKB, I favor the HHKB overall for its combination of sound, feel, form factor, layout, styling/design/symmetry, and attractive/legible dye-sub keycaps.

Along the way, I tried the Poker II. I was attracted to the Poker because of its form factor, standard layout, availability of replacement keycaps, and availability of metal cases. However, I have found that I just don't like Cherry mx switches -- they don't provide the same aural/tactile connection with actuation that I get from Topre or IBM buckling spring switches. Moreover, I find that Cherry boards have an uneven feel between alpha keys and stabilized keys, whether the stabilizers are Costar or Cherry. To me, the keys across the board in an IBM buckling spring or a Topre switch board feel more uniform.

Of course, YMMV as they say. Ultimately, you will need to test various boards yourself to decide which ones work well for you.

(Typed on my Mac with an IBM XT keyboard remapped to a HHKB layout).
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 14:18:11
Sagii you're going to end up like me (and many others on here).  Your indecisiveness mixed with curiosity is going to take you on an adventure to buy every board out there.

My personal recommendation is to hold out until you can get a cheaper topre to see if you even like the switch, and go with 1-2 mx boards for now.  Although,  the downside is that if you are one of those Topre folks, you will feel you wasted money on MX boards.

But then you can take apart and mod your MX boards for even more fun :)

Edit: for me, I don't regret buying my topre, and I'm glad I have one around.  But I sometimes wish I instead spent the money on pcbs/springs/switches to make more boards for friends.
Yep, I certainly went down that road. In the end, I ended up with the HHKB Pro 2 as one of my all-time favorite boards. This might lead me to conclude that I should have saved all the money spent on other boards and to have bought the HHKB in the first place. However, then I would have had no basis for comparison and I always would have wondered.

A close contender for me was the Leopold FC660C (the one with Topre switches, not to be confused with the FC660M, which has Cherry mx switches). Actually, I got both of them, but I much preferred the FC66C with Topre switches. However, the layout didn't seem quite right and I didn't like the appearance of the keycaps. Although I have a slight preference for the sound and feel of the FC660C over the HHKB, I favor the HHKB overall for its combination of sound, feel, form factor, layout, styling/design/symmetry, and attractive/legible dye-sub keycaps.

Along the way, I tried the Poker II. I was attracted to the Poker because of its form factor, standard layout, availability of replacement keycaps, and availability of metal cases. However, I have found that I just don't like Cherry mx switches -- they don't provide the same aural/tactile connection with actuation that I get from Topre or IBM buckling spring switches. Moreover, I find that Cherry boards have an uneven feel between alpha keys and stabilized keys, whether the stabilizers are Costar or Cherry. To me, the keys across the board in an IBM buckling spring or a Topre switch board feel more uniform.

Of course, YMMV as they say. Ultimately, you will need to test various boards yourself to decide which ones work well for you.

(Typed on my Mac with an IBM XT keyboard remapped to a HHKB layout).

Thanks for the detailed reply :) And yes.. I guess lots of this still boils down to which switch I like/do not like. The biggest problem is that the ONLY switch available for me to try would be the orange mx compatible switches from razer, browns (ONLY on a g710+, which has o-rings), and probably the occasional red switch (haven't seen one yet). So really.. it's extremely hard for me to find out which switch I like without spending quite a bit of money :/
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: allocerveau on Mon, 26 May 2014, 14:35:08
Oh and by the way, I'm going to sell my HHKB Type S, check the classified section soon ;)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 16:03:14
Ehm.. I feel like a noob asking about this, but what exactly are the two keys on either side of the spacebar used for? I mean, you've got the two alt keys, but the two on the inside of the alt keys.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Pacifist on Mon, 26 May 2014, 16:03:54
Ehm.. I feel like a noob asking about this, but what exactly are the two keys on either side of the spacebar used for? I mean, you've got the two alt keys, but the two on the inside of the alt keys.

ctrl/caps
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 16:05:12
Ehm.. I feel like a noob asking about this, but what exactly are the two keys on either side of the spacebar used for? I mean, you've got the two alt keys, but the two on the inside of the alt keys.

ctrl/caps

Ah.. okey, so both are ctrl/caps keys? (dependig on the DIPs, I presume)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Pacifist on Mon, 26 May 2014, 16:06:23
Ehm.. I feel like a noob asking about this, but what exactly are the two keys on either side of the spacebar used for? I mean, you've got the two alt keys, but the two on the inside of the alt keys.

ctrl/caps

Ah.. okey, so both are ctrl/caps keys? (dependig on the DIPs, I presume)

basicially regular bottom row but without win keys, dip switch will flip ctrl and caps
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 26 May 2014, 16:07:39
Ehm.. I feel like a noob asking about this, but what exactly are the two keys on either side of the spacebar used for? I mean, you've got the two alt keys, but the two on the inside of the alt keys.

ctrl/caps

Ah.. okey, so both are ctrl/caps keys? (dependig on the DIPs, I presume)

basicially regular bottom row but without win keys, dip switch will flip ctrl and caps

Alright, thanks!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 27 May 2014, 01:54:55
They are meta keys (windows/command). On mac I actually set them as Ctrl and my control as command but that is just to make switching between mac and windows shortcuts more seamless.

[attach=1]
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Fragil1ty on Tue, 27 May 2014, 02:23:19
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Oobly on Tue, 27 May 2014, 02:32:35
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

If you use 75% for the arrow keys, then there's the Leopold FC660C. If you use the F keys a lot, there's the Realforce TKL.

As for me, I'll stick to my consistent and moddable MX switches on a 60% layout with usable arrow keys and home and end in decent places, thanks.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 27 May 2014, 02:46:20
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

If you use 75% for the arrow keys, then there's the Leopold FC660C. If you use the F keys a lot, there's the Realforce TKL.

As for me, I'll stick to my consistent and moddable MX switches on a 60% layout with usable arrow keys and home and end in decent places, thanks.

The leopold is definitely an interesting board.. the thing is that the asymmetry bothers me a lot :))
I've had the chance to buy the HHKBPro 2 for about 280$ as of right now.. I decided not to buy it just yet though!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 27 May 2014, 03:14:01
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)

I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :( .


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.



Exactly.  60 percent is just way too small, literally in the calculator range when it comes to size.  In fact you can really only use one hand but couldn't use two hands at the same time unless you want to rub both sides of your hands together with your index fingers  ::) .

Maybe I've got rock-ape hands and only a certain sized keyboard suits me (minimum standard TKL) but HHKB is just too small.  Plus you need to use both hands due to certain keys being only accessible via an FN selection.

If they decide to make a TKL HHKB then it'll be worth buying but if they did, can you imagine the price tag maybe around $500 to $600 non silenced........
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Oobly on Tue, 27 May 2014, 03:24:20
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)

I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

If you use 75% for the arrow keys, then there's the Leopold FC660C. If you use the F keys a lot, there's the Realforce TKL.

As for me, I'll stick to my consistent and moddable MX switches on a 60% layout with usable arrow keys and home and end in decent places, thanks.

The leopold is definitely an interesting board.. the thing is that the asymmetry bothers me a lot :))
I've had the chance to buy the HHKBPro 2 for about 280$ as of right now.. I decided not to buy it just yet though!

<start off-topic rant>

Well, if you're into symmetry there are only a few boards that qualify ;) Truly Ergonomic, ErgoDox, some symmetrical stagger boards, my custom DIY board, AcidFire's Axios project, etc.

"Normal" layout boards are all asymmetrical, the Q and A rows are horizontally staggered by 1/4 keyspace, so it's impossible to make them symmetrical. This is a legacy of the original "Type-Writer" keyboard designed by Christopher Sholes. It was designed so the levers for the strikers could lie next to each other and be centered on each keycap. The layout was also designed to prevent letters in close physical proximity from being struck too soon after each other due to the strikers relying on gravity to return to their default position. The machine sold well, so we got stuck with the QWERTY layout on all subsequent Typewiters, even though Sholes had designed a better layout for his 2nd model 5 years later which used springs to return the strikers (Remington & Sons refused to change the layout, arguing that too many people were already used to QWERTY). Then, when they first electrical and electronic keyboards were made they stuck to the staggered row layout for the same reason of familiarity. So now we have 2 outmoded, unergonomic, inefficient and downright bad "features" common to practically all modern keyboards when there is no reason other than familiarity and tradition to keep them. There is certainly no practical need to keep them, since we don't have mechanical levers under the caps that need to lie next to each other and the characters can be typed in any order at any speed without "jamming" the system.

Another thing we can blame on the legacy of "it's always been done that way" is how much we overload the pinkie with modifiers and other functions. In the beginning, everything was typed in upper case, so there were only the alpha and number keys with a few punctuation keys. When the shiftable carriage was invented, they added shift keys which actually moved the whole carriage, then came Shift Lock, carriage return, Tab, etc... All these had to be added on around the outside of the existing layout so as to keep the layout "familiar", but instead of making the space bar smaller and putting them on the thumbs, they ended up on the left and right sides, operated by the pinkies. This practice continued in the electronic era, so now we have Esc, backspace, Ctrl, Alt, Win, Menu, etc also. Most of which we have to use pinkies for.

It's ridiculous how much legacy "junk" we put up with in the name of familiarity. Silly thing is that now our kids are learning to use this mishmash of unergonomic ad-hoc components, too. I think it's time for a change.

</end off-topic rant>
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 27 May 2014, 05:04:15
@Oobly okey, I guess you're right with the symmetry, but some are less asymmetrical than others ;)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Hypersphere on Wed, 28 May 2014, 08:30:37
Of course the HHKB is what it is. If they tried to make it 75% or TKL, for example, it would no longer be the HHKB. The HHKB is 60%, but the typing area is standard -- the same size and key spacing as found on a full-size board. Naturally not everyone will like the HHKB, although those who do appreciate its form factor, design, and layout, which is intuitive and efficient for those who like it. It is good that there are so many good choices of keyboards available for all tastes and budgets!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 28 May 2014, 11:02:32
The layout is superior. It's probably the definitive keyboard layout for me. Just perfect for a 60% keyboard.

Here's a Rev.B GH60 in a Titan colored Hammer alu case, with Nostalgia keycaps...

(http://i.imgur.com/ay9cFJa.jpg)



I even built a Phantom with a HHKB layout for the 60% portion...

(http://i.imgur.com/yLPSnTH.jpg)



I prefer MX switches to Topre, though. Except at work, when I want to type quietly. Then I use an actual HHKB. :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: osi on Wed, 28 May 2014, 11:19:41
I also don't really like how symmetrical it is.

Madness
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 29 May 2014, 01:44:05
I also don't really like how symmetrical it is.

Madness

Exactly, Madness!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: hasu on Thu, 29 May 2014, 02:49:45
Small form factor, desk space is REAL estate for me. /pic of my desk/
And that location of control is gold.

jdcape, nice GH60.
Oh, no palm keys? Ill try PALM KEY as Fn when I get mine :D
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: zoolzoo on Thu, 29 May 2014, 19:41:21
its not
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Thu, 29 May 2014, 19:42:22
It is.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: airlangga07 on Sun, 08 June 2014, 12:15:53
hello, im thinking of getting HHKB Pro 2, sometime next month, and i have question that bothered me (but i think it's not necessary to create a new thread), i use linux and mainly use my keyboard to write code (mostly with Sublime text and vim), so i usually remap the esc key with caps lock key on my filco TKL. well, in HHKB layout the caps lock key is replaced with control key! how do i get around with this? if i remap the esc key with control key, that would be unconfortable for me to use ctrl+[some key].

and how the DIP switch do?

thanks.

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sun, 08 June 2014, 13:08:37
hello, im thinking of getting HHKB Pro 2, sometime next month, and i have question that bothered me (but i think it's not necessary to create a new thread), i use linux and mainly use my keyboard to write code (mostly with Sublime text and vim), so i usually remap the esc key with caps lock key on my filco TKL. well, in HHKB layout the caps lock key is replaced with control key! how do i get around with this? if i remap the esc key with control key, that would be unconfortable for me to use ctrl+[some key].

and how the DIP switch do?

thanks.

Well.. I'm defo not qualified to answer your question properly, but it's worth noting (unless you alrdy know) that the ESC is already placed in such a way that it's easier to reach than "normal" (it's one row lower). So mby it wont be necessary to move it? Bear in mind I got no clue how those programs work though.. :))
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ideus on Sun, 08 June 2014, 20:37:35
The layout is superior. It's probably the definitive keyboard layout for me. Just perfect for a 60% keyboard.

Here's a Rev.B GH60 in a Titan colored Hammer alu case, with Nostalgia keycaps...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ay9cFJa.jpg)




I even built a Phantom with a HHKB layout for the 60% portion...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yLPSnTH.jpg)




I prefer MX switches to Topre, though. Except at work, when I want to type quietly. Then I use an actual HHKB. :)

It is clear you like the HH layout, but it is a little hard to understand what is the justification to waste the two keys that are already available in the PCB.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Puddsy on Sun, 08 June 2014, 21:04:09
HHKB layout sucks

I could never get used to it.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: anoxy on Sun, 08 June 2014, 21:17:57
The leopold is definitely an interesting board.. the thing is that the asymmetry bothers me a lot :))
I've had the chance to buy the HHKBPro 2 for about 280$ as of right now.. I decided not to buy it just yet though!
Asymmetry is in vogue. Maximum feng shui.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Smasher816 on Mon, 09 June 2014, 09:15:20
hello, im thinking of getting HHKB Pro 2, sometime next month, and i have question that bothered me (but i think it's not necessary to create a new thread), i use linux and mainly use my keyboard to write code (mostly with Sublime text and vim), so i usually remap the esc key with caps lock key on my filco TKL. well, in HHKB layout the caps lock key is replaced with control key! how do i get around with this? if i remap the esc key with control key, that would be unconfortable for me to use ctrl+[some key].

and how the DIP switch do?

thanks.

You can use xcape or custom firmware to make the control key act as escape when tapped - Best of both worlds!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: airlangga07 on Mon, 09 June 2014, 11:37:48
hello, im thinking of getting HHKB Pro 2, sometime next month, and i have question that bothered me (but i think it's not necessary to create a new thread), i use linux and mainly use my keyboard to write code (mostly with Sublime text and vim), so i usually remap the esc key with caps lock key on my filco TKL. well, in HHKB layout the caps lock key is replaced with control key! how do i get around with this? if i remap the esc key with control key, that would be unconfortable for me to use ctrl+[some key].

and how the DIP switch do?

thanks.

You can use xcape or custom firmware to make the control key act as escape when tapped - Best of both worlds!

well i obviously didnt think about that! interesting idea! might want to try it on my keyboard right now! thanks for the suggestion!

hello, im thinking of getting HHKB Pro 2, sometime next month, and i have question that bothered me (but i think it's not necessary to create a new thread), i use linux and mainly use my keyboard to write code (mostly with Sublime text and vim), so i usually remap the esc key with caps lock key on my filco TKL. well, in HHKB layout the caps lock key is replaced with control key! how do i get around with this? if i remap the esc key with control key, that would be unconfortable for me to use ctrl+[some key].

and how the DIP switch do?

thanks.

Well.. I'm defo not qualified to answer your question properly, but it's worth noting (unless you alrdy know) that the ESC is already placed in such a way that it's easier to reach than "normal" (it's one row lower). So mby it wont be necessary to move it? Bear in mind I got no clue how those programs work though.. :))

yep although it's already near enough to comfortably press the esc key, but i find it really fast to press ESC when its on the caps lock key. and i use the esc key a lot.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: pbtforever on Mon, 09 June 2014, 17:58:03
Try gaming on it.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 09 June 2014, 18:00:09
Try gaming on it.

?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: exitfire401 on Mon, 09 June 2014, 18:02:11
Try gaming on it.

Already have. It's wonderful.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 09 June 2014, 18:12:01
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 09 June 2014, 18:13:31
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D

Nice. Hope it'll please you. I really recommend silencing it.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 10 June 2014, 00:19:01
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

I still don't understand why people say this, esp when the above hasn't purchased one. HHKB is my oldest keybard atm, and I've owned realforce 87 as well, but I would never say one is significantly better than the other to warrant any discussion on actual superior differences.

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 10 June 2014, 00:31:01
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

I still don't understand why people say this, esp when the above hasn't purchased one. HHKB is my oldest keybard atm, and I've owned realforce 87 as well, but I would never say one is significantly better than the other to warrant any discussion on actual superior differences.

Because people like to talk out of their ass.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: SSIPAK on Tue, 10 June 2014, 00:34:16
(http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130927215834/happytreefanon/images/0/0c/MJ_Popcorn.gif)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 10 June 2014, 00:47:43
Try gaming on it.

Already have. It's wonderful.

Same here - no worries (apart from games requiring heavy use of F1..F12).
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 10 June 2014, 03:30:26
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)


I wouldn't call it superior to all over boards, but it's definitely the best Topre board out there for sure. I want one really badly, but I couldn't use one it's just too small for me, 60% boards don't cut it for me, I need a 75% board or nothing at-all :(.


If they made a 75% HHKB, then I'd jump on that in a heartbeat.

I still don't understand why people say this, esp when the above hasn't purchased one. HHKB is my oldest keybard atm, and I've owned realforce 87 as well, but I would never say one is significantly better than the other to warrant any discussion on actual superior differences.

Well.. when I wrote "superior" in the title it was more of a way to get your attention, rather than me actually believing it's superior. There's so much personal preference involved in these things that it's almost impossible to say that one's better than the other :))
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Oobly on Tue, 10 June 2014, 03:56:23
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D

Congratulations!!

It's been a journey, hasn't it. I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. It's very nice to get that first really special board. For me it was my Pure. I love that thing.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 10 June 2014, 04:01:59
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D

Congratulations!!

It's been a journey, hasn't it. I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. It's very nice to get that first really special board. For me it was my Pure. I love that thing.

Thank you! Well, it's been one hell of a journey! But jeez, it's been fun as well!! I just got some money for my vacation from work so I thought "What the heck, just buy it". I may have payed slightly over what I should've, but oh well! I wanted the board, and I went for it ^_^
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Coreda on Tue, 10 June 2014, 04:06:21
Remember to post some impressions when it arrives  ;D
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 10 June 2014, 04:09:01
Remember to post some impressions when it arrives  ;D

Will do ! ^^
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Tue, 10 June 2014, 04:18:03
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D
Congratulations on joining the Superiority  :cool:
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Tue, 10 June 2014, 07:18:04
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D
Congratulations on joining the Superiority  :cool:

Haha, we'll see.. maybe I think it's crap! I'm open for both loving and hating it :))
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ideus on Thu, 12 June 2014, 11:05:07
The layout is superior. It's probably the definitive keyboard layout for me. Just perfect for a 60% keyboard.

Here's a Rev.B GH60 in a Titan colored Hammer alu case, with Nostalgia keycaps...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ay9cFJa.jpg)




I even built a Phantom with a HHKB layout for the 60% portion...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yLPSnTH.jpg)




I prefer MX switches to Topre, though. Except at work, when I want to type quietly. Then I use an actual HHKB. :)

It is clear you like the HH layout, but it is a little hard to understand what is the justification to waste the two keys that are already available in the PCB.

Cool, you just need a viper like case for your board.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tribade on Thu, 12 June 2014, 15:08:15
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D
Congratulations on joining the Superiority  :cool:

Haha, we'll see.. maybe I think it's crap! I'm open for both loving and hating it :))

Gratz on the new board!  HHKB was my second mech and I still love it.  And the damn things hold their value really well for a keyboard. 
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 12 June 2014, 17:01:26
An update guys: I have now officially bought my first mech (I KNOW not everyone agrees HHKB is mechanical, but w/e), a black HHKB Pro 2 :D:D
Congrats! Hope I could see it irl sometime.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sat, 21 June 2014, 06:25:19
Ahhhh!!! Update: keyboard is now in the customs here in Norway. Can't wait!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Signature on Sat, 21 June 2014, 06:50:31
Ahhhh!!! Update: keyboard is now in the customs here in Norway. Can't wait!
I'm recieving mine on monday! Can't wait! :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Sat, 21 June 2014, 06:55:05
Ahhhh!!! Update: keyboard is now in the customs here in Norway. Can't wait!

I'm recieving mine on monday! Can't wait! :)

Nice to see some fellow Scandinavians stepping up their keyboard game no matter the cost  :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Signature on Sat, 21 June 2014, 06:59:38
Ahhhh!!! Update: keyboard is now in the customs here in Norway. Can't wait!

I'm recieving mine on monday! Can't wait! :)

Nice to see some fellow Scandinavians stepping up their keyboard game no matter the cost  :thumb:
We gotta Viking up!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mauri on Sat, 21 June 2014, 07:02:32
When God in his infinite wisdom created the earth, the sky and the stars, in some religions is believed to have also created the hhkb, for mankind to feel oneness with the cup rubber.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Sat, 21 June 2014, 07:55:11
Ahhhh!!! Update: keyboard is now in the customs here in Norway. Can't wait!

I'm recieving mine on monday! Can't wait! :)

Nice to see some fellow Scandinavians stepping up their keyboard game no matter the cost  :thumb:
We gotta Viking up!
DAMN RIGHT!
(https://i.imgur.com/iFWVyRB.png)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sat, 21 June 2014, 08:48:35
VIKING's UNITE!
No, but seriously.. I can't wait for my HHKB. I'm really scared I WON'T like it though! :)) Won't know till I try it
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ckar on Sat, 21 June 2014, 09:55:51
The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is one of the best looking keyboards ever designed:

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/1407889/kb7.png)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sat, 21 June 2014, 10:26:54
The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is one of the best looking keyboards ever designed:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a0Hh78z.jpg)

Sure as hell is... that and the layout are the two main reasons I bought it (y)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: noway on Sat, 21 June 2014, 11:39:11
Haven't got one (yet). 

I like my MX Blue Quickfire Rapid but my preferred keycap color is white keys/black legends + grey modifiers/black legends in a small keyboard.  So that really limits me with stock keyboards, although I can order some aftermarket caps for the Rapid.  Otherwise for new stock stuff, I have found Topre TKL and HHKB.  Why more stock keyboards with white keys/black legends + grey modifiers/black legends aren't available is beyond me! 

So I would choose mostly for the keycap colors.  I find other keys hard to read quickly. 
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Puddsy on Sat, 21 June 2014, 11:40:38
A white keyboard is a lot harder to clean, so most corporate buyers want a black keyboard.

But then again, look at old cherry boards...
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sat, 21 June 2014, 11:50:42
Well, I just simply don't like the "classic" keyboard look (let the lynching begin). That's why I chose a black HHKB instead of a white one, and I honestly overpayed. Coulda gotten a white one for way less ^^'
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: noway on Sat, 21 June 2014, 12:14:06
I am old school and most of the books I've read over the years are white with black lettering and I think that has influenced my choice of keycap color.   Plus my eyes are getting old and I have used an IBM Type M for many years so I am stuck in my ways.  I never minded cleaning the Type M keys but then again I was the only one using it so a bit of grub inbetween cleanings was no big deal.  But now I find the Type M takes up too much desk space.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sat, 21 June 2014, 12:27:49
I am old school and most of the books I've read over the years are white with black lettering and I think that has influenced my choice of keycap color.   Plus my eyes are getting old and I have used an IBM Type M for many years so I am stuck in my ways.  I never minded cleaning the Type M keys but then again I was the only one using it so a bit of grub inbetween cleanings was no big deal.  But now I find the Type M takes up too much desk space.
That might be it :)) personally, I've always had the "gaming keyboardzz" with fancy shizzles on 'em, so I guess classic is too "plain" for me. I'm also a touchtypist, aka legends don't really bother me much!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 21 June 2014, 18:29:44
VIKING's UNITE!
No, but seriously.. I can't wait for my HHKB. I'm really scared I WON'T like it though! :)) Won't know till I try it

If Vikings had HHKBs instead of Ulfberhts, I wonder if history would have worked out differently ...
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Sat, 21 June 2014, 19:40:08
VIKING's UNITE!
No, but seriously.. I can't wait for my HHKB. I'm really scared I WON'T like it though! :)) Won't know till I try it

If Vikings had HHKBs instead of Ulfberhts, I wonder if history would have worked out differently ...
Who knows, maybe they did.
(http://images.cryhavok.org/d/1371-1/Damn+Vikings.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Eszett on Sat, 21 June 2014, 20:02:42
Let’s sum up the arguments here, for why the HHKB is said to be better than other keyboards:
pros
• 60% form factor => this argument isn’t HHKB specific
• Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock => You can do that with any other programmable keyboard
• Backspace/Delete placement => what’s so special about it, that a 60% keyboard can’t do?
• aesthetics => de gustibus non est disputandum
• Topre switches => ok, but again not HHKB specific
cons
• overpriced
• controller not programmable
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable


Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: eth0s on Sat, 21 June 2014, 20:14:33
Let’s sum up the arguments here, for why the HHKB is said to be better than other keyboards:
pros
• 60% form factor => this argument isn’t HHKB specific
• Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock => You can do that with any other programmable keyboard
• Backspace/Delete placement => what’s so special about it, that a 60% keyboard can’t do?
• aesthetics => de gustibus non est disputandum
• Topre switches => ok, but again not HHKB specific
cons
• overpriced
• controller not programmable
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable




Hmm, well your cons are simply wrong:

• overpriced - not for the quality you get.
• controller not programmable - how many keyboards have this, besides customs?
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps - umm, yes.  Is this a problem though?
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable [sic] - this is not true.  The arrow keys are actually more accessible than on a "regular" MX keyboard.  You don't have to move your right hand away from the main alpha keys.  You learn to use your right hand and Fn key for arrows quite easily.


Also, you forgot one big "pro":

• Vikings love the HHKB Pro 2.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Sat, 21 June 2014, 20:20:29
Let’s sum up the arguments here, for why the HHKB is said to be better than other keyboards:
pros
• 60% form factor => this argument isn’t HHKB specific
• Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock => You can do that with any other programmable keyboard
• Backspace/Delete placement => what’s so special about it, that a 60% keyboard can’t do?
• aesthetics => de gustibus non est disputandum
• Topre switches => ok, but again not HHKB specific
cons
• overpriced
• controller not programmable
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable

You don't have to bother with programming your keyboard if you have the HHKB. Case mounted Topre switches are HHKB specific. Arrow keys are 1 Fn press away, besides you could get the jp version if you desperately need the arrows.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: eth0s on Sat, 21 June 2014, 20:21:27
Let’s sum up the arguments here, for why the HHKB is said to be better than other keyboards:
pros
• 60% form factor => this argument isn’t HHKB specific
• Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock => You can do that with any other programmable keyboard
• Backspace/Delete placement => what’s so special about it, that a 60% keyboard can’t do?
• aesthetics => de gustibus non est disputandum
• Topre switches => ok, but again not HHKB specific
cons
• overpriced
• controller not programmable
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable

You don't have to bother with programming your keyboard if you have the HHKB. Case mounted Topre switches are HHKB specific. Arrow keys are 1 Fn press away, besides you could get the jp version if you desperately need the arrows.

I don't see the problem with using right pinky finger for the Fn key, and just using arrows with Index and Pointer fingers?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Kmynis on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:04:33
It has the best layout for a 60% board. I wish I knew the benefits of the HHKB layout earlier, so I would have ordered my GH60 in this exact layout.
The only 60% that can come with type-s.

People like topre, people like 60%, therefore people like hhkb.

Cons: ****ty feet, poor keycap availability.
           
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: exitfire401 on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:05:36
It has the best layout for a 60% board. I wish I knew the benefits of the HHKB layout earlier, so I would have ordered my GH60 in this exact layout.
The only 60% that can come with type-s.

People like topre, people like 60%, therefore people like hhkb.

Cons: ****ty feet, poor keycap availability.
         

The first con can be solved for $.60, and the second is just a sad reality =( The only downfall of the board.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Xowie on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:07:42
I love my HHKB(s). There are a couple of annoying things though. Available replacement keycap variety is severely lacking. Also if you are playing games that require right hand on mouse and left hand on arrows (though this might be inherently true (for me) for any 60% keyboard).
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: suby4me on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:11:46
When I first saw the layout of the HHKB, I wasn't sure how it'd be. To be honest, it works quite well in my opinion. I had a poker II and I thought it was smart using the wasd + fn. With the HHKB, the fn is next to my pinky and my index finger can hit the arrow cluster easier.

It is understandable that it's hard to find keycaps for these boards. However, maybe in the future we'd see some adapters that will let us use cherry mx caps (saw a prototype around here).

exitfire is right about the feet. I just went to home depot and bought some rubber pads for a dollar something, cut it up, slapped it on and now it's perfect.

Besides Vikings loving the HHKB, so do Mongolians  :p
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tribade on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:12:29
Let’s sum up the arguments here, for why the HHKB is said to be better than other keyboards:
pros
• 60% form factor => this argument isn’t HHKB specific
• Ctrl key in place of Caps Lock => You can do that with any other programmable keyboard
• Backspace/Delete placement => what’s so special about it, that a 60% keyboard can’t do?
• aesthetics => de gustibus non est disputandum
• Topre switches => ok, but again not HHKB specific
cons
• overpriced
• controller not programmable
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps
• arrow keys aren’t easily accessable

You don't have to bother with programming your keyboard if you have the HHKB. Case mounted Topre switches are HHKB specific. Arrow keys are 1 Fn press away, besides you could get the jp version if you desperately need the arrows.

I don't see the problem with using right pinky finger for the Fn key, and just using arrows with Index and Pointer fingers?

Isn't that how everyone does it? I've found the arrow keys really easy to use.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 21 June 2014, 21:20:54
cons
• Topre switches are not compatible with MX keycaps

Resolved (mostly) by this (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=54942.0).
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: DuckNorris on Sat, 21 June 2014, 22:12:02
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: eth0s on Sat, 21 June 2014, 22:14:59
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.

HHKB does have arrow keys.  You have to use Fn key to access them.  It is easy.  Like anybody can do it.

(https://elitekeyboards.com/proddata/doc/hhkbp2_basic_layout.png)

Like zoinks.

(http://static.fjcdn.com/gifs/Shaggy+.+Now+we+get+why+he+says+zoinks_d2f27a_3874102.gif)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Sat, 21 June 2014, 22:21:07
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.

HHKB Pro 2 has non-dedicated arrow keys, so you'll have to use Fn to access them. The HHKB Pro 2 JP however, has dedicated arrow keys.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: DuckNorris on Sat, 21 June 2014, 22:22:24
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.

HHKB does have arrow keys.  You have to use Fn key to access them.  It is easy.  Like anybody can do it.

Show Image
(https://elitekeyboards.com/proddata/doc/hhkbp2_basic_layout.png)


Like zoinks.

Show Image
(http://static.fjcdn.com/gifs/Shaggy+.+Now+we+get+why+he+says+zoinks_d2f27a_3874102.gif)

I dont know if I would want to pres fn when accessing them lol, cause I use them a  lot.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tribade on Sun, 22 June 2014, 01:46:12
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.

HHKB does have arrow keys.  You have to use Fn key to access them.  It is easy.  Like anybody can do it.

Show Image
(https://elitekeyboards.com/proddata/doc/hhkbp2_basic_layout.png)


Like zoinks.

Show Image
(http://static.fjcdn.com/gifs/Shaggy+.+Now+we+get+why+he+says+zoinks_d2f27a_3874102.gif)

I dont know if I would want to pres fn when accessing them lol, cause I use them a  lot.

For me, their placement became second nature so quickly that I didn't miss having dedicated arrow keys. Once you get used to it I found that it was even easier than using shift to capitalize a letter.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Sun, 22 June 2014, 03:52:16
I was interested in one but I do use my arrow keys a lot and I see the hhkb does not have them. I use them when programming.

HHKB does have arrow keys.  You have to use Fn key to access them.  It is easy.  Like anybody can do it.

Show Image
(https://elitekeyboards.com/proddata/doc/hhkbp2_basic_layout.png)


Like zoinks.

Show Image
(http://static.fjcdn.com/gifs/Shaggy+.+Now+we+get+why+he+says+zoinks_d2f27a_3874102.gif)

I dont know if I would want to pres fn when accessing them lol, cause I use them a  lot.

For me, their placement became second nature so quickly that I didn't miss having dedicated arrow keys. Once you get used to it I found that it was even easier than using shift to capitalize a letter.

That's how I think I'll end up as well. I mean, on the Poker 2 etc I was scared how it would be to press the arrow keys + shift + ctrl. I use that a lot when editing text documents (I do that quite a lot), but when I'm able to press the arrowkeys with ONLY my left hand, it'll be easy to press shift and ctrl as well. In all fairness, I would have to move my fingers LESS than when using a TKL or fullsize :D So the placement of the Fn button is a big deal for me!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Sun, 22 June 2014, 04:44:49
• Vikings love the HHKB Pro 2.
(http://www.vikingequiz.dk/static/grafik/viking-new-user.gif)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: schad on Sun, 22 June 2014, 21:41:14
I hate you all.  Without even trying, you may have talked me into this keyboard.  I've already swapped Control and Caps Lock.  (Including the caps.  I have a Sun Type 7, which you could actually get in a very similar layout, so the caps are the same size.)  I was hoping that it would feel totally alien and awkward and that I could use it to talk myself out of a HHKB.  But instead, I immediately adjusted to it and now can't imagine going back to the "normal" layout.

In a last-ditch attempt to save myself almost $300, I'm going to take apart this Model M that's been sitting in the garage for the past 10 years or so, clean it, buy a PS/2-to-USB adapter (no PS/2 ports on any of my computers), and see if that will satisfy me.

Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 22 June 2014, 22:52:19
I hate you all.  Without even trying, you may have talked me into this keyboard.  I've already swapped Control and Caps Lock.  (Including the caps.  I have a Sun Type 7, which you could actually get in a very similar layout, so the caps are the same size.)  I was hoping that it would feel totally alien and awkward and that I could use it to talk myself out of a HHKB.  But instead, I immediately adjusted to it and now can't imagine going back to the "normal" layout.

In a last-ditch attempt to save myself almost $300, I'm going to take apart this Model M that's been sitting in the garage for the past 10 years or so, clean it, buy a PS/2-to-USB adapter (no PS/2 ports on any of my computers), and see if that will satisfy me.

Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.

A Model M will not satisfy you.

The spark of curiosity about HHKB has been lit.

We have you now! :p
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Mon, 23 June 2014, 03:03:57
Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.
(http://austingwalters.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/oneofus.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 23 June 2014, 03:44:36
I hate you all.  Without even trying, you may have talked me into this keyboard.  I've already swapped Control and Caps Lock.  (Including the caps.  I have a Sun Type 7, which you could actually get in a very similar layout, so the caps are the same size.)  I was hoping that it would feel totally alien and awkward and that I could use it to talk myself out of a HHKB.  But instead, I immediately adjusted to it and now can't imagine going back to the "normal" layout.

In a last-ditch attempt to save myself almost $300, I'm going to take apart this Model M that's been sitting in the garage for the past 10 years or so, clean it, buy a PS/2-to-USB adapter (no PS/2 ports on any of my computers), and see if that will satisfy me.

Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.
As rowdy said, the spark has been lit. I had my eye on the HHKB Pro 2 from the day I registered here, but I thought the pricetag was just simply INSANE, and that I would never get one. One and a half month later I'm waiting for it to arrive in my mail >.> You're not getting outta this, my brother, but trust me, thy shall not regret! I've joined the elite ranks of Happy vikings Hacking away at their Professional keyboards, and so shall you!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 23 June 2014, 03:45:10
Oops
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Pacifist on Mon, 23 June 2014, 03:59:20
I hate you all.  Without even trying, you may have talked me into this keyboard.  I've already swapped Control and Caps Lock.  (Including the caps.  I have a Sun Type 7, which you could actually get in a very similar layout, so the caps are the same size.)  I was hoping that it would feel totally alien and awkward and that I could use it to talk myself out of a HHKB.  But instead, I immediately adjusted to it and now can't imagine going back to the "normal" layout.

In a last-ditch attempt to save myself almost $300, I'm going to take apart this Model M that's been sitting in the garage for the past 10 years or so, clean it, buy a PS/2-to-USB adapter (no PS/2 ports on any of my computers), and see if that will satisfy me.

Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.

A Model M will not satisfy you.


He needs a F
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 23 June 2014, 05:05:02
I hate you all.  Without even trying, you may have talked me into this keyboard.  I've already swapped Control and Caps Lock.  (Including the caps.  I have a Sun Type 7, which you could actually get in a very similar layout, so the caps are the same size.)  I was hoping that it would feel totally alien and awkward and that I could use it to talk myself out of a HHKB.  But instead, I immediately adjusted to it and now can't imagine going back to the "normal" layout.

In a last-ditch attempt to save myself almost $300, I'm going to take apart this Model M that's been sitting in the garage for the past 10 years or so, clean it, buy a PS/2-to-USB adapter (no PS/2 ports on any of my computers), and see if that will satisfy me.

Although I am half Danish.  Apparently, this means that the HHKB might be inevitable.

A Model M will not satisfy you.


He needs a F

And could very well end up with both!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:01:32
HHKB Pro 2 has non-dedicated arrow keys, so you'll have to use Fn to access them.

So you have to press the FN key together with the arrow(s), to initiate movement on screen?  The same principle with other keys as well?

And relax here HHKB snobs because I want to know the exact key activation and not trying to be funny in anyway.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Frenir on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:23:15
HHKB Pro 2 has non-dedicated arrow keys, so you'll have to use Fn to access them.
So you have to press the FN key together with the arrow(s), to initiate movement on screen?  The same principle with other keys as well?
Pretty much yeah.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:29:01
HHKB Pro 2 has non-dedicated arrow keys, so you'll have to use Fn to access them.

So you have to press the FN key together with the arrow(s), to initiate movement on screen?  The same principle with other keys as well?

And relax here HHKB snobs because I want to know the exact key activation and not trying to be funny in anyway.

Yes, just press and hold down Fn first, and then press '[` for up-arrow, etc.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: osi on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:32:26
HHKB Pro 2 has non-dedicated arrow keys, so you'll have to use Fn to access them.

So you have to press the FN key together with the arrow(s), to initiate movement on screen?  The same principle with other keys as well?

And relax here HHKB snobs because I want to know the exact key activation and not trying to be funny in anyway.

Yes, just press and hold down Fn first, and then press '[` for up-arrow, etc.

The arrows are not a big deal in the function layer. I got used to them easier than expected
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: quadibloc on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:33:32
The HHKB is the only 60% Topre out there, and some people prefer 60%, and the Topre is a very good keyboard.

Yes, there are other Topres, and other 60% keyboards, but it is the only keyboard that is both.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:34:27
The HHKB is the only 60% Topre out there, and some people prefer 60%, and the Topre is a very good keyboard.

You're forgetting about the Leopold FC660C.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:38:28
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: quadibloc on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:38:56
You're forgetting about the Leopold FC660C.

Oh, wow. It's a 66% instead, but that means it has cursor keys without shrinking the right Shift key too much. Yes, I would prefer that to an HHKB.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Kmynis on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:42:46
Leopold, especially with dye sub caps is a proper competitor for the regular hhkb pro 2, maybe even a smarter purchase tbh. Or you can get a hhkb type-s and forget about all other 45g topre boards. I can not imagine how can you not want to try type-s once you try the regular one, so go with the end game right away and save yourself some money.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 23 June 2014, 07:44:14
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)

Should only take a few days after they've received the letter. :p
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Sagii on Mon, 23 June 2014, 08:01:32
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)

Should only take a few days after they've received the letter. :p

If you're wrong, and it doesn't come in the next few days, Imma hunt you down man. I can't take this.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: epzy on Mon, 23 June 2014, 08:02:38
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)

Should only take a few days after they've received the letter. :p

If you're wrong, and it doesn't come in the next few days, Imma hunt you down man. I can't take this.

Come @ me.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: microsoft windows on Mon, 23 June 2014, 13:31:14
I never thought that the HHKB was superior. I always preferred older Dell and IBM keyboards.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Signature on Mon, 23 June 2014, 15:05:04
I never thought that the HHKB was superior. I always preferred older Dell and IBM keyboards.
Lol i though you were going to say sidewinder x4 or some ****...
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: blackbox on Tue, 24 June 2014, 02:53:52
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)

Should only take a few days after they've received the letter. :p

Late reply but yea, it should take only a few days. If it doesn't you have one more man to hunt down.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: paicrai on Thu, 04 September 2014, 17:14:51
hp vectra
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tutuling on Sun, 21 September 2014, 10:05:00
See
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: 40keyless on Sun, 15 April 2018, 04:19:12
welcome to the club!
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: joedupa on Sun, 15 April 2018, 15:43:48
Hi guys, I'm new here.
So looking at special HHKB layout - what do you do in programming that you prefer CTRL in Capslock position.
What do you there that it makes that difference?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sun, 15 April 2018, 15:56:39
Hi guys, I'm new here.
So looking at special HHKB layout - what do you do in programming that you prefer CTRL in Capslock position.
What do you there that it makes that difference?
That's where the magic happens.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 15 April 2018, 20:17:56
I never thought that the HHKB was superior. I always preferred older Dell and IBM keyboards.

No Microsoft Internet Keyboard? Wow. My mind is blown.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: Snowdog993 on Sun, 15 April 2018, 20:20:20

A Model M will not satisfy you.

The spark of curiosity about HHKB has been lit.

We have you now! :p

Unless you're me! Carry on.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: joedupa on Mon, 16 April 2018, 18:56:35
Hi guys, I'm new here.
So looking at special HHKB layout - what do you do in programming that you prefer CTRL in Capslock position.
What do you there that it makes that difference?
That's where the magic happens.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

WHat exactly being magic there? :)
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: phinix on Fri, 20 May 2022, 09:39:52
No matter what everyone says, I can't wait for my HHKB!! I sent the customs my invoice etc a few days ago.. any norwegians who's got a guestimate of how long it'll take, assuming it went through the customs without any trouble? (Blackbox and epzy, I'm looking at you)

Should only take a few days after they've received the letter. :p

If you're wrong, and it doesn't come in the next few days, Imma hunt you down man. I can't take this.

So did you get your hhkb? Did you like it? Do you still have it?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tricheboars on Mon, 23 May 2022, 17:14:21
dude @phinix we were talking in another hhkb thread last week on here.

i just wanted to let you know that i got a hhkb hybrid white with printed keycaps and i am completely blown away. this is the first store bought keyboard i have used in like a decade. ive been making myself ergo doxes and 60% since i got on here in 2013.

i should have bought this ****ing thing years ago. you should stick with it.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: phinix on Tue, 24 May 2022, 03:10:40
dude @phinix we were talking in another hhkb thread last week on here.

i just wanted to let you know that i got a hhkb hybrid white with printed keycaps and i am completely blown away. this is the first store bought keyboard i have used in like a decade. ive been making myself ergo doxes and 60% since i got on here in 2013.

i should have bought this ****ing thing years ago. you should stick with it.

I think I'll buy it again :)

How do you work with this without arrows?
Are you ok with 60% arrows placement?
Do you use arrows a lot?
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: tricheboars on Tue, 24 May 2022, 09:35:41
dude @phinix we were talking in another hhkb thread last week on here.

i just wanted to let you know that i got a hhkb hybrid white with printed keycaps and i am completely blown away. this is the first store bought keyboard i have used in like a decade. ive been making myself ergo doxes and 60% since i got on here in 2013.

i should have bought this ****ing thing years ago. you should stick with it.

I think I'll buy it again :)

How do you work with this without arrows?
Are you ok with 60% arrows placement?
Do you use arrows a lot?

omg if you buy it again you'll have the most ridiculous history with this board in the 25 years of its history. lol

ok man as for adjusting to keyboards. i am good at adjusting. i taught myself to type on a custom matrix layout ergo dox years ago and ive made my own 60% boards for like a decade. it will take me like a week or two with the arrow keys being where they are on my hhkb for me to adjust.

i freaking love the topre switches. the sounds is soooo nice. i cant believe im in love with a ****ing store bought keyboard.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: phinix on Thu, 02 June 2022, 05:37:39
dude @phinix we were talking in another hhkb thread last week on here.

i just wanted to let you know that i got a hhkb hybrid white with printed keycaps and i am completely blown away. this is the first store bought keyboard i have used in like a decade. ive been making myself ergo doxes and 60% since i got on here in 2013.

i should have bought this ****ing thing years ago. you should stick with it.

I think I'll buy it again :)

How do you work with this without arrows?
Are you ok with 60% arrows placement?
Do you use arrows a lot?

omg if you buy it again you'll have the most ridiculous history with this board in the 25 years of its history. lol

ok man as for adjusting to keyboards. i am good at adjusting. i taught myself to type on a custom matrix layout ergo dox years ago and ive made my own 60% boards for like a decade. it will take me like a week or two with the arrow keys being where they are on my hhkb for me to adjust.

i freaking love the topre switches. the sounds is soooo nice. i cant believe im in love with a ****ing store bought keyboard.

Fantastic, sounds like you are one of those die-hard hhkb lovers:)
Cool, I hope I will be one some day :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: ideus on Sun, 05 June 2022, 09:26:23
A strange case of superiority, that of the HHKB over other keyboards, takes tents of arguments to be built. Superiority should speak for itself; otherwise, it is just a matter of personal opinion.
Title: Re: WHY is the HHKB superior?
Post by: mohawk1367 on Mon, 03 October 2022, 07:35:24
Okey, I know there are some threads floating around here, but I wanted to ask a pretty specific question: What about the HHKB's layout is it that makes it superior to all other layouts? Is it only for programmers using specific programs it is so damn good, or is it for all everyday users? I'm extremely intruiged by the keyboard, and I'm really considering jumping straight to it.. after my next paycheck.
However, I'm defo not a programmer, and all I'll be using my KB for is gaming, browsing, typing (I'm a psychology student, AKA I will be writing lots of essay like papers), and just general use.
As always, I know everything is personal preference, but I want to hear your opinions! :)

Idek. I just think it makes the keys I use most easier to reach?