I would opt for HHKB because of its unique layout and because it has a special thock sound, which is super mesmerizing to type on. RealForce is still a TKL, which you are used to. Why not go radical?
Going from a Filco MJ2 with Reds to a 55g 87U wasn't as big of a change as I'd imagine going to a HHKB with case-mounted switches would be. If you're looking to try something new, I think I might go with the HHKB, to be honest. I'm just a sucker for plate-mounted switches.
Going from a Filco MJ2 with Reds to a 55g 87U wasn't as big of a change as I'd imagine going to a HHKB with case-mounted switches would be. If you're looking to try something new, I think I might go with the HHKB, to be honest. I'm just a sucker for plate-mounted switches.
What would you say the feel of a plate-mounted topre switch is like? Does it feel deadened or does the metal kind of produce a sound like the Filco?
I can only imagine it's an age-old question here at GH, but time has come for me to consider a Topre board.
I'm very pleased with my MX reds at the moment, and the only upgrade I would make is towards a vintage black in the future.
I've decided there is a step I must take before I look towards other MX boards; My main use for keyboards is in gaming and writing, and I am looking into getting into editing/graphics work soon.
Realforce 87U 45g/55g VS. HHKB Type-S: These are the finalists of my coming decision and I'm weighing the benefits and some of the discomforts(as in the case of HHKB form).
My thought is that HHKB-S will provide the best "feel" while RF 87U will prove to be the best all-around board with functionality.
I'd like to just hear some advise to nudge me in the right direction :) Thanks!
You... do you have every topre?? :eek: a true topre enthusiast!
Thanks for the recommendation, does the 55g make your fingers fatigued at all in gaming use and whatnot?
May I also ask where you bought your 10th edition??
You... do you have every topre?? :eek: a true topre enthusiast!
Thanks for the recommendation, does the 55g make your fingers fatigued at all in gaming use and whatnot?
May I also ask where you bought your 10th edition??
My first Topre was the variable 87U, which I did some research and thought that maybe the 55g was too heavy, with the primary goal of gaming and work. Turns out that shortly after I gotten the 55g, I knew that this will be 'The' Topre switch for me. I guess you'll know why once you have the chance to experience one. It just feels so good and so far I haven't felt any fatigue, I don't think it needs any getting used to.
Back then I was also considering the HHKB, but I knew the conventional layout of the Realforce will mean I don't have to remap and relearn the in-game keys. I can't comment on the HHKB right now as it's being shipped to me from JP, but its primary use will be for work as I do switch around OSX and Win 8.1 quite a bit depending on the software I use. I think the HHKB will be more ideal for that, but for gaming I should be sticking to the 87U55.
As for the 10th anniversary, you should still be able to get it off eBay, which is how I did. I have kept it sealed as I will only be using it in the future. Maybe even collecting it since I have the regular black model for daily use. :-\
If the regular HHKB is good, I might add a Type-S... :'(
55g RealForce and 45g HHKB have different feel, apart from the switch weight there is the plate vs. case mounted switches.
You'll probably end up getting both eventually, but ask yourself this - can you live without dedicated arrow and function keys?
55g RealForce and 45g HHKB have different feel, apart from the switch weight there is the plate vs. case mounted switches.
You'll probably end up getting both eventually, but ask yourself this - can you live without dedicated arrow and function keys?
Since you said that I thought about when I use those keys.
I realized even for things like Alt +F4 it becomes a tad more complicated. For general browsing and navigating I find my self using space / shift + space / tab / shift+ tab often, so I can't imagine it being a huge obstacle.
I guess it's just a different keyboarding experience, with a learning curve. In my mind it seems like it can be much more ergonomic if I can master it .
Not ambassador - just a happy HHKB user, which is a bit redundant, really, as the first H in HHKB stands for happy :))Appreciate the tips! Very helpful.
Oh, another point in the HHKB's favour - if you do find, for some reason, that you don't like it, or just cannot get accustomed to the layout, you should be able to resell it for nearly what you paid for it, and chalk the small difference up to experience.
Also when you get it you can put a strip of sticky tape along the space bar to stop it from shining. All keycaps are PBT except the space bar, which is ABS and does tend to shine. A non-shiny space bar will be a definite asset should you decide to sell it one day.
Also also there is a Topre PBT Spacebar (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=66623.0) interest check thread.
I have tried various Topre-switch (Leopold FC660C, HHKB Pro 2, HHKB Pro 2 Type-S, RF 87ub 45g, and RF 87ub 55g) or hybrid Topre-switch (CM Novatouch) keyboards.It's great you could give me a lot of insight on every topres I mentioned from your own use! So you enjoy the plate-mounted switches in feels, with 55g being the ideal weight.
I liked the feel of the FC660C, but I gave it away because at the time there was a lack of replacement keycaps and I didn't quite like the layout.
The main selling point of the Novatouch is its hybrid switches that use Cherry mx keycaps on a Topre switch. I like it better than any Cherry mx keyboard I have tried, but for the Topre experience, I prefer the RF 87u or HHKB Pro 2.
My favorite form factor is 60% and the HHKB layout is inspired; I now remap all my keyboards to something as close as possible to a Mac/HHKB layout. I didn't like the feel and sound of the Type-S as much as I had thought I would. It gives the impression that the sliders are wrapped in tissue paper. On balance, I prefer the hollow thock and clack of the standard HHKB Pro 2.
The sound and feel of the RF 87ub 55g is my favorite, with the 45g version a close second. I have not tried the silent versions of RF keyboards, but the standard versions are quieter than the HHKB Pro 2 and quiet enough that I do not feel compelled to get a silent version or to do a silencing mod. The plate-mounted switches in the RF provide a solid sound and feel that I like.
Based on all this, my favorite keyboard would be a HHKB Pro 2 with plate-mounted 55g Topre switches. It is possible to do a dome swap to get 55g, but for plate mounting, I would have to wait for someone to produce this new keyboard. Given that this presumed ideal keyboard does not yet exist, I put both the RF 87ub 55 and the HHKB Pro 2 into my keyboard rotation.
For the OP's choices, you need to decide which you value more: the 60% form factor and great layout of the HHKB or the more conventional layout and arguably more solid sound and feel of the RF. In my case, I like the HHKB layout so much that I use Karabiner software on my Mac to remap the RF to something as close as I can get to a Mac/HHKB layout.
At the moment, I am typing on a KBP V60 Matias Click Mini Keyboard and enjoying it very much. I've remapped it to a Mac/HHKB layout, and the sound and feel is akin to another favorite of mine, the IBM Model F XT keyboard.
How about a zen haiku to help you decide?I have taken some time meditating on those lines :).
Here is one I wrote for you:
in one stroke
decision is made,
thock!
Here is one from an actual zen master:
Though I think not
To think about it,
I do think about it
And shed tears
Thinking about it.
~ Ryokan
Here is another that might help:
Who is hearing?
Your physical being doesn't hear,
Nor does the void.
Then what does?
Strive to find out.
Put aside your rational Intellect,
Give up all techniques.
Just get rid of the notion of self.
~ Bassui
Nobody in a millions years of talking, could have said it better.
Whether you should go for the RF (silent or normal) or HHKB (silent or normal), in my mind depends most on how much you need/want a silent version, and whether or not you prefer the layout (*look?) of the tenkeyless or HHKB layout. That is what I woulbe base my decision on.
You could even debate whether the HHKB-S has the best "feel". This is a subjective thing that not everyone would agree on. Unless you tried them and know this is your own personal preference, going for one keyboard for a supposed better "feel", while both are Topre does not seem to make any sense.
Personally, I feel that the HHKB feels better than the FC660C and Realforce boards. I haven't tried the Novatouch, but of all the ones I've tried, the HHKB was my favorite feeling.
Personally, I feel that the HHKB feels better than the FC660C and Realforce boards. I haven't tried the Novatouch, but of all the ones I've tried, the HHKB was my favorite feeling.
Mm. That's the non-silenced version I'm guessing.
Some seem to suggest the plastic build is a perfect fit for the switches. I've recently read a thread from a Korean forum, here: http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/review/8649354
This reviewer also ranked the HHKB above all, even Type-S. But even then, subjective.
He describes Type-S with "walking on snow" sound, but you're not actually hitting the ground. Feels kind of afloat, he says, whereas regular HHKB gives you that satisfaction.
Finally gotten my black/dark gray HHKB PRO2. It's somewhat similar in feel to my FC660C, but quite significantly lighter. The typing feel on the HHKB is also lighter than the FC660C, though both are weighted at 45g. I really like it, but this is definitely not for gaming and far from the ideal 55g I've grown to adore.
I borrowed it from Hoff, so I don't remember. The FC660C felt less tactile, felt horrible since it bottomed out easily, and was all around unpleasant. The HHKB was perfect.
Finally gotten my black/dark gray HHKB PRO2. It's somewhat similar in feel to my FC660C, but quite significantly lighter. The typing feel on the HHKB is also lighter than the FC660C, though both are weighted at 45g. I really like it, but this is definitely not for gaming and far from the ideal 55g I've grown to adore.Thanks for coming back to share your thoughts on HHKB!
If you're always mobile or into travelling, I can see the appeal of this thing. It's definitely very well thought out and built, with the right choice of materials (though space bar is still ABS), font choice, type layout and all. I also love the fact how well this keyboard works with the OSX platform and it's definitely a keeper for this purpose and versatility.
The big question: Do I regret not chosing the Type-S? Not really.
The PRO2 is already as silent as it can get for a Topre, and is more economical if you're on a budget. Until you have tried the Type-S and PRO2 side by side, I can't safely say you won't go wrong with the PRO2. After all it's still a Topre board. I might add the Type-S next time just for the feel, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. However, I do myself ordering a case and maybe some blank keys... :'(
As far as I go, the HKKB is complimentary to my 87U55, and not a replacement. I'll enjoy both boards side by side and each for their own purpose. :p
I couldn't stand the HHKB's layout, so I traded it for an 87U, and now I'm happy.I actually do have some doubts how much I could get used to this new form, only because of Ctrl + shortcuts. Even worse are Ctrl + Shift shortcuts as far as I can tell from my practice with my KUL, as my muscle memory becomes all tangled up. Sigh, I'm going to take some time on this decision and not hurry too much. Maybe a classified deal may nudge me in a direction for me to settle.
I thought I would hate the HHKB layout. After about two weeks, I came to love it.
I thought I would hate the HHKB layout. After about two weeks, I came to love it. And after Alt and Win were flipped, it was pretty much perfect.Encouraging to hear :D so Alt and Win can be flipped? I imagine that's by mapping the keys, which is good news.
Right now I am using a KBP V60 Matias Click Mini Keyboard. I really like the tactile/aural feedback of the Matias click switches, and I use Karabiner software to remap the keyboard to a Mac/HHKB layout, which is the most intuitive and efficient layout I have ever used. When I use my RF 87ub 55g, I have it remapped to a Mac/HHKB layout as well. This way, I get the nice sound and feel of the 55g plate-mounted Topre switches along with the great layout of the HHKB. Best of both worlds, except I don't get the 60% form factor and symmetry of the HHKB.It's incredible you got so used to that format that you can take it to other boards. You'd think we are so used to the traditional format that it would be harder to decondition.
HD598 and Zowie FK1? You just need to add an Artisan Hayate mousepad! :pGood eye lol. I've never heard of this mousepad! Thanks for the recommendation, as my QcK mousepad has really run its course with about 7 years (?) use :eek:
I just ordered HHKB white with blank caps.so in the Clackvent win, did you choose Topre stem? :)
Non-silenced.
I thought, oh what the hell... midnight impulse buy.
... Thanks everyone in this thread. Please hold me. :-[
I just ordered HHKB white with blank caps.so in the Clackvent win, did you choose Topre stem? :)
Non-silenced.
I thought, oh what the hell... midnight impulse buy.
... Thanks everyone in this thread. Please hold me. :-[
VERY GOOD! Your HHKB already have a friend. You don't need someone to hold. You are already empowered! Ha ha!LOL how foolish I was, thinking I was alone! I forgot about the little friend coming here soon. :')
I just ordered HHKB white with blank caps.\
Non-silenced.
I thought, oh what the hell... midnight impulse buy.
... Thanks everyone in this thread. Please hold me. :-[
Oh so does that mean you choose what type your surprise clack is?No. You just choose stem type. No view
Oh so does that mean you choose what type your surprise clack is?No. You just choose stem type. No view
what CC we'll be getting.
Nice choice! Good luck with the blank keys ;)Thanks rowdy :D I'm gonna need it lol.
Please post back after you've been using it for a couple of weeks and let us know what you think of it.
My GF thought the printed black caps on my HHKB vs the blank black caps are too subtle of a change... So I bought the PFU HHKB carrying case instead... :confused: :-\That's true, I actually rather like the black legends on black keys for that version, you know.
I have tried or own all the "modern" Topre boards and I have to say that it's SO personal that there is no "good" answer. I love the HHKB design (even made an interview of the creator for a french magazine) but I can't work with it. I do miss the arrows too much... The Leopold FC660C is really my fav. And I love the touch. BUT the "perfect" feeling (for me, as I said, it's _so_ personal...) is the RF 87U 55g. I had a 88UB 45g (ISO French) but didn't like it, it felt too weak (45g on RF feels weaker than on HHKB / FC660C.)
So I ended up ordering way too many keyboards (including a ton of MX ones, to try...) and now my setup is "done" :
(http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg)
(Leopold on the Mac / RF on the PC for gaming (not seen on the pic) album here: http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1 (http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1)
TL;DR: you have to try one to know if it's for you, good job ordering that baby. :)
I have tried or own all the "modern" Topre boards and I have to say that it's SO personal that there is no "good" answer. I love the HHKB design (even made an interview of the creator for a french magazine) but I can't work with it. I do miss the arrows too much... The Leopold FC660C is really my fav. And I love the touch. BUT the "perfect" feeling (for me, as I said, it's _so_ personal...) is the RF 87U 55g. I had a 88UB 45g (ISO French) but didn't like it, it felt too weak (45g on RF feels weaker than on HHKB / FC660C.)
So I ended up ordering way too many keyboards (including a ton of MX ones, to try...) and now my setup is "done" :
(http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg)
(Leopold on the Mac / RF on the PC for gaming (not seen on the pic) album here: http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1 (http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1)
TL;DR: you have to try one to know if it's for you, good job ordering that baby. :)
What a great story it is that you interviewed the HHKB maker!! I honestly see myself trying another 55g topre, so hopefully Realforce or someone will make a desirable update in near future :) . Also... You may not realize this, but it is I you helped making this purchase decision in that small reddit thread ;) hehe thanks again friend! So good to see you here.
I have tried or own all the "modern" Topre boards and I have to say that it's SO personal that there is no "good" answer. I love the HHKB design (even made an interview of the creator for a french magazine) but I can't work with it. I do miss the arrows too much... The Leopold FC660C is really my fav. And I love the touch. BUT the "perfect" feeling (for me, as I said, it's _so_ personal...) is the RF 87U 55g. I had a 88UB 45g (ISO French) but didn't like it, it felt too weak (45g on RF feels weaker than on HHKB / FC660C.)
So I ended up ordering way too many keyboards (including a ton of MX ones, to try...) and now my setup is "done" :
(http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg)
(Leopold on the Mac / RF on the PC for gaming (not seen on the pic) album here: http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1 (http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1)
TL;DR: you have to try one to know if it's for you, good job ordering that baby. :)
I have tried or own all the "modern" Topre boards and I have to say that it's SO personal that there is no "good" answer. I love the HHKB design (even made an interview of the creator for a french magazine) but I can't work with it. I do miss the arrows too much... The Leopold FC660C is really my fav. And I love the touch. BUT the "perfect" feeling (for me, as I said, it's _so_ personal...) is the RF 87U 55g. I had a 88UB 45g (ISO French) but didn't like it, it felt too weak (45g on RF feels weaker than on HHKB / FC660C.)
So I ended up ordering way too many keyboards (including a ton of MX ones, to try...) and now my setup is "done" :
(http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/s0gJ58m.jpg)
(Leopold on the Mac / RF on the PC for gaming (not seen on the pic) album here: http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1 (http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1)
TL;DR: you have to try one to know if it's for you, good job ordering that baby. :)
How do you manage to keep your sanity with the AZERTY MBP and the QWERTY Topres??
I have tried twice to convert to QWERTY, but this very problem, i.e. having to deal with AZERTY on my MBA and various other computers around, has prevented me to convert. I can switch from AZERTY to QWERTY and back, but clearly my typing speed and accuracy takes a huge hit when I do so. It's a productivity killer because too much of my brain is focused on the keyboard.
I have also discovered that QWERTY was only marginally better for programming, contrary to what I thought initially. What kills QWERTY is that you must use Shift to type the parenthesis, the asterisk and the double quote. On AZERTY, these characters are directly accessible.
I'm now using a modified AZERTY layout on which characters frequently used for programming ( [ ] { } & | . ) are easily accessible.
If after several weeks I find that this layout provides a productivity gain for me, my plan is to ditch the RF87U and the FC660C, have WASD manufacture several sets of my new AZERTY layout, and get more Novatouches and a vb660m so I can use these keycaps.
On the MBA I will have to use custom stickers. But my optimized layout only changes 10 keys, so it's not a complete mess either.
I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB. ;) I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing. #heaven :D Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)
I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB. ;) I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing. #heaven :D Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)
Ah, I see.
I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.
The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.
The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.
To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".
I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB. ;) I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing. #heaven :D Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)
Ah, I see.
I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.
The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.
The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.
To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".
that's why tons of options is a good thing :) I just prefer Topre, but I don't even understand how you can be "efficient" looking at the keyboard. :x
I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB. ;) I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing. #heaven :D Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)
Ah, I see.
I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.
The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.
The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.
To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".
that's why tons of options is a good thing :) I just prefer Topre, but I don't even understand how you can be "efficient" looking at the keyboard. :x
I also prefer Topre, but by a narrow margin over Cherry MX brown or Matias quiet click. I feel I would miss something if I was using Topre exclusively.
I don't look at the keyboard constantly. When typing text like I'm doing right now, I'm going to have a peek at the keyboard from time to time. Or I can re-position my hands by touch alone, but it's slightly slower for me.
When coding, I need to peek more often mainly because of all these symbols on the number row that you type with AltGr on AZERTY. With my "optimized" layout I hope to reduce this.
I see! :) On a side note, lot of friends are using the typematrix + bepo or dvorak to code. I can't make that kind of radical switch but you should take a look, maybe you will be interested. And HAPPY NEW YEAR (to all ;) ).
I see! :) On a side note, lot of friends are using the typematrix + bepo or dvorak to code. I can't make that kind of radical switch but you should take a look, maybe you will be interested. And HAPPY NEW YEAR (to all ;) ).
I couldn't make the switch either. I don't even feel a need to switch. Worse, objective comparisons do not give bepo or dvorak such a huge advantage that it would justify switching.
Had I to switch, I would switch to QWERTY, but to type accentuated characters it sucks. Then there is the problem of all those computers around that I have to use occasionally and which are all AZERTY. There are 3 of them in the house that are not even mine, not even counting the iPads, and probably at least one waiting for me every time I visit a friend.
So I have chosen to take the coward's route and change only a few keys on the AZERTY keyboard.
Happy new year to all!
I have two 87Us in variable silent, an HHKB Pro 2 (non silent) and an 87U 55g. I like them all, but for different tasks.
The 55g has a nice snappy feel and is great for coding where you're typing in short bursts. More tactile than the other Topre switches. However, for extended typing sessions - as a writer would - it's a bit too heavy for me. I honestly don't feel much difference between the 45g switches and the variable, but the 55g is definitely different. You wouldn't think 10g would make that much of a difference, but it does for me. Your typing style with be the defining factor here. If you are a deliberate, aggressive typist, you will like the 55g. If you're a more relaxed typist, it will be tiring by the end of the day.
The HHKB is an interesting subject. One would think the Fn layer would slow you down in terms of text navigation with the arrow and F keys, pg up, pg down, home and end keys. However, if you stick with it, it *can* actually be faster for text navigation because your fingers don't have to leave home row.
But the HHKB's form factor falls a tad short for me. I rely upon both Win keys, which is the mainstay for keyboard shortcuts in Win 8.1, and even more so in Win 10. The reason it falls short is because for the left Win key, I have to designate that as either a Win key OR a Fn key via a dip switch. If I designate it a Win key, I've got my keyboard shortcuts, but F6 - F12 are the a pain in the butt because you're actuating the Fn key with your right pinky finger. That's a big stretch to accomplish with your right hand. To designate the left Win key as a Fn key obviously solves the F key issue, but then keyboard shortcuts lose out as you're left with only one Win key, which is on the right of the spacebar. Some days I love it, others I can't stand it. It's a well build keyboard, but I'd have to say that the build quality isn't nearly as robust as RealForce. If the HHKB had a Fn *and* Win key on the left of Spacebar, I'd use it much more than I do.
If you mouse for most of the above, forget everything I just said regarding the HHKB.
If you plan to do a lot of writing, I'd suggest either the variable or 45g uniform 87U. Plain typing on the HHKB is a pleasure. And if the above mentioned issues I have with it are of no concern, you should consider it as well.
If I had to have just one keyboard, it would be the 87U variable. It's also my choice for FPS gaming. But if you end up like most of us anal Topre snobs, you'll have to have them all anyway. :p
Good luck!
My HHKB is finally here!Welcome to the winning team. ;D
Initial impressions: Exceeded my expectations greatly.
Right from the box, I was blown away from how small this box was. Think of a small rectangular bento box and an incredibly light one at that. So kawaii.
It was a lot more silent than I had imagined. The topre switch feedback is just perfect and makes me fearful if I can return to non-tactile MX reds with the same appreciation.
It�s addicting and a joy to type on. One thing I noticed was that what we hear as sounds of the board is not at all from the bottom-out, but the keycaps themselves making a bit of noise as you let go of the key (in its highest point).
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
One could even simulate the Type-S feel if you slow down you key presses and type softly without letting the key caps �ring�.
The typing experience: this keyboard made me realize I�m a pretty good touch typist after all (not to brag :P).I have the blank version. I just needed to set up some DIP switches, a peek at the diagram and I was all set for general use. It�s no office-work board, at least at first, because you have to be mindful of what you�re pressing sometimes to figure out which key would be where. Also some actions may require more keypresses.
So, that�s what I think after about an hour of use lol :D. I don�t think my impressions would change much after use though. This is one fine product.
I think a wrist rest would be great with this keyboard.
It�one of the best purchases I�ve made.
*typed from HHKB* ;)
My HHKB is finally here!Welcome to the winning team. ;D
Initial impressions: Exceeded my expectations greatly.
Right from the box, I was blown away from how small this box was. Think of a small rectangular bento box and an incredibly light one at that. So kawaii.
It was a lot more silent than I had imagined. The topre switch feedback is just perfect and makes me fearful if I can return to non-tactile MX reds with the same appreciation.
It�s addicting and a joy to type on. One thing I noticed was that what we hear as sounds of the board is not at all from the bottom-out, but the keycaps themselves making a bit of noise as you let go of the key (in its highest point).
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
One could even simulate the Type-S feel if you slow down you key presses and type softly without letting the key caps �ring�.
The typing experience: this keyboard made me realize I�m a pretty good touch typist after all (not to brag :P).I have the blank version. I just needed to set up some DIP switches, a peek at the diagram and I was all set for general use. It�s no office-work board, at least at first, because you have to be mindful of what you�re pressing sometimes to figure out which key would be where. Also some actions may require more keypresses.
So, that�s what I think after about an hour of use lol :D. I don�t think my impressions would change much after use though. This is one fine product.
I think a wrist rest would be great with this keyboard.
It�one of the best purchases I�ve made.
*typed from HHKB* ;)
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
Nope. They don't wiggle less.
Inside the switch, there is a ring made of a soft material.
When you release the key, the upstroke "click" is dampened because now it's not plastic hitting on plastic. It's soft material hitting on plastic. The ring does only that: dampening the upstroke shock.
I have an HHKB Type-S and the upstroke is indeed less noisy. The sound is lower-pitched and with a lower volume. It's much better.
I have developed a method to silence Topre switches, using landing pads (they must be first slimmed down with a hot clothing iron). I have explained it here:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=65853.msg1540901#msg1540901
You can, if you want, turn your HHKB into a Type-S with this method.
i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(
Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly. If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK. There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration. I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.
Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?
My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(
I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.
Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly. If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK. There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration. I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.
Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?
My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(
I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.
No problem! I know what you mean, the enter key on HHKB's feel, and sound like heaven, I wish all the stabilizer keys felt that way. ;DGuys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly. If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK. There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration. I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.
Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?
My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(
I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.
Thanks for that Flyersfan :D This is why I really want the PBT space bar IC to become reality. I may have to buy some scotch tape of the smooth kind since I don't have any at home at the moment.
I think some of my keys may require some lubing. My "perfect" enter key made me realize that my other keys are quite harsh. My left shift is also lubed very well though.
Yea, I gotta say the feel of my HHKB is my favorite of all my boards. Glad you're happy with your choice! :thumb:fistbump :thumb:
i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! :cool:
i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! :cool:
It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! :cool:
Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.
This is what I get for hanging around GH.
HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my life anyways..
This is what I get for hanging around GH.
HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my life anyways..
HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.
That's the point lmao.This is what I get for hanging around GH.
HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my life anyways..
HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.
This doesn't help. It only speeds the process up. lol
RealForce is for men (sturdy, manly, hairy)....HHKB is for girly-men like Demik. RealForce 55g = master race
That's the point lmao.This is what I get for hanging around GH.
HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my life anyways..
HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.
This doesn't help. It only speeds the process up. lol
What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?
What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?
yes....well, you've just become Demik.
What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?
yes....well, you've just become Demik.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/IbDFQaZ.jpg)
;D
RealForce is for men (sturdy, manly, hairy)....HHKB is for girly-men like Demik. RealForce 55g = master race
It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! :cool:
Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.
Hop on a flight to Chicago, ill be waiting =)It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad :(I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! :cool:
Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.
wow. lucky. so where can i steal it?
Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!
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Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!
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You guys make me so jelly and I want to purchase more Topre... Also, how big is that screen??
Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!
(Attachment Link)
You guys make me so jelly and I want to purchase more Topre... Also, how big is that screen??
The primary is an HP ZR30w, IPS panel at 2560x1600. On each side of that is an HP ZR2440w, IPS panels at 1920x1200. One of the side displays runs in landscape, the other in portrait. All three are mounted on arms.
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The monitor arms are one of the best work area purchases I have ever made. Frees up desk space below them, allows easy adjustment of all the displays (takes a few seconds to convert one of the side displays to landscape or portrait), and allows me to push them in or out to adjust focal length throughout the day. Easier on the eyes. And after work, if I want to recline with my feet up on my desk and game with keyboard on my lap, I just swing the side displays away and extend the primary out to the front of my desk over my legs hahaha. :DThat sounds dreamy... If I ever get around to setting up a new desk, I'll have to look into the arm mount option. Thanks! :) (sorry for making you go off-topic lol!)
Sorry guys for getting off topic...
Another vote for the 87u 55g. But really you should cut to the chase and buy both.Haha, seems like this is the only "right" answer around here. I'd better get a part-time for funding my keyboards :p