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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Tyrosh22 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:47:29

Title: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Tyrosh22 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:47:29
Those boards are worshipped by quite a few people here. I was just wondering why you guys like those keyboards so much.  :D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:57:05
Buy one and find out.  ^-^
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: derb2k2 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:58:13
Look at it!! Just look at it for god's sake!

Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Tyrosh22 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:12:29
Look at it!! Just look at it for god's sake!

I'm not (yet) a sucker for symmetry! :D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Defect on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:15:02
They're not.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: hwood34 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:30:26
See: every other thread on HHKB
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: tototo on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:56:03
I was in awe of them until I actually tried Topre. Turned out to be not for me. Can very well be a breaking in period and getting used to the feel but I take my linear Cherry MX any day of the week. Topre truly feels like (and tbh is) high end rubber dome.

(And I stood in Akihabara holding one, agonizing over the decision then ended up not. The disappointment on how topre felt was too much.)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:58:47
placebo effect?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Snowdog993 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:07:53
Peer pressure.  That's the way I see it.  If you try the HHKB and like it, you're all good.  If you don't, then you find yourself wondering why you bought one.  It seems extreme either way.  It's an expensive way to find out.  I think the best bet is to actually try one out and determine if you want one.
Not for me.  I don't think I would ever get used to a small layout keyboard myself.  I could see using it for a portable device, but that's about it.  For full time use, I'd rather have a keyboard I am used to using.  That's my opinion.  To each their own.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: MGH on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:09:24
Buy one and find out.  ^-^
QFT
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: monotagary on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:09:26
Cult of Topre.


Also layout is amazing.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Fragil1ty on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:40:16
I think it's everything about them to be honest, just the whole thing. I think they are without a doubt the best looking 60% boards on the market, wish I hadn't have sold mine now to be honest with you.


rip hhkb pro 2 2014 :(
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: brimborion on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:50:20
I like my Lite and Lite 2. Now that I have used a Type Heaven for a while I'd consider a HHKB Pro, but man, that's a lot of money to pay for my Nth keyboard. If it was one of my only keyboards I wouldn't be as averse to paying it, but with a growing collection of good keyboards it's not high on my purchase list.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Tyrosh22 on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:53:25
I really want to try topre one day. But they are so expensive. :D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:22:35
They're not... most overrated board ever. Owned one for 3 months and got rid of the piece of ****. Worth nowhere near the price they want for it, and not even plate mounted. PCB mounted MX keyboards get hate on, yet nobody says the same for HHKB due to the hype. If you want to try Topre, go for the Leopold 660C. Better layout, and plate mounted. Feels so much better.

HHKB layout sucks too, some people will claim it's "amazing" mainly due to the symmetry.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:27:10
They're not... most overrated board ever. Owned one for 3 months and got rid of the piece of ****. Worth nowhere near the price they want for it, and not even plate mounted. If you want to try Topre, go for the Leopold 660C. Better layout, and plate mounted.

HHKB layout sucks too, some people will claim it's "amazing" mainly due to the symmetry.

or if he wants a "better" layout, he could just get himself an RF, not that half assed **** leopold came out with.

hell, even the HHKB Pro JP is a million times better than 660c.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:29:01
They're not... most overrated board ever. Owned one for 3 months and got rid of the piece of ****. Worth nowhere near the price they want for it, and not even plate mounted. If you want to try Topre, go for the Leopold 660C. Better layout, and plate mounted.

HHKB layout sucks too, some people will claim it's "amazing" mainly due to the symmetry.

or if he wants a "better" layout, he could just get himself an RF, not that half assed **** leopold came out with.

hell, even the HHKB Pro JP is a million times better than 660c.

LOL no. That tiny ass spacebar sucks. The enter key is huge and ISO style. The tiny gaps on the bottom row is awful design.

If that wasn't bad enough, the backspace key is only 1u, and difficult to reach as it's positioned way too far away.

HHKB = Most overrated keyboard ever. Only buy if you feel like tossing away $250 on a crap PCB mount. Any other PCB mount for that price would immediately be **** on in this board, yet the HHKB gets a pass?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:31:37
maybe you just have ***** hands?

hhkb pro jp is ridiculously easy to learn.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:33:30
maybe you just have ***** hands?

hhkb pro jp is ridiculously easy to learn.

Ha... 10 years of competitive piano and my hands are the issue now?

No, the tiny backspace key is awful design, as with small gaps on the bottom row.

If you want to try Topre: Realforce, Novatouch, and 660C. Forget the gimmicky, hyped, and overrated HHKB.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:34:18
except it's not pcb mount. it's case mounted.


competitive piano? proof, that **** sounds awesome. is it like break dancing but with pianos?

lol hyped and overrated and you bring up the novatouch. RIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:36:01
except it's not pcb mount. it's case mounted.


competitive piano? proof, that **** sounds awesome. is it like break dancing but with pianos?

Yea exactly. You break dance on the piano.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:36:42
except it's not pcb mount. it's case mounted.


competitive piano? proof, that **** sounds awesome. is it like break dancing but with pianos?

Yea exactly. You break dance on the piano.

even better
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:44:19
except it's not pcb mount. it's case mounted.


competitive piano? proof, that **** sounds awesome. is it like break dancing but with pianos?

lol hyped and overrated and you bring up the novatouch. RIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT.

Except a lot of people here love the Novatouch, and plenty of reviews on this board have found it very favorable to the Realforce, not even factoring in Cherry switch compatibility.

Just because you drank the kool-aid doesn't mean the Novatouch is a crap board. Build quality is much better than HHKB, which must be the only board over $200 to not even include a metal plate.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:46:29
people love the novacrap because they're in love with putting ****ty loud keycaps on keyboards
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:47:06
The Topre that can be expressed is not the eternal Topre; The HHKB that can be defined is not the unchanging HHKB.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: limitz on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:51:17
The Topre that can be expressed is not the eternal Topre; The HHKB that can be defined is not the unchanging HHKB.

Whoa, that's like... deep man.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: bowji on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:03:59
I had a chance to try the HHKB recently and its a great board, it was a display piece so I dont have a full experience of it but it sure felt great to type on. From what Ive seen and read, people prefer the HHKB layout compared to the standard ones. Noticeably, the backspace and ctrl location on the board. Also the fn layer seems very intuitive, but as with any new board that may take time to get used to. The Realforce, HHKB, 660c all has its merits and all have a unique/different typing experience thats hard to express. When I was in the market for a topre board, I would have went with the HHKB if it wasnt so hard/pricey to get one here. Now Im thankful it was hard to get since Im in love with my 660c.

PS. I would stay away from Novatouch... seems like theres more people selling theirs than keeping it in the Korean community. (buying it as a donor board is a different story...)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Air tree on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:09:47
The Topre that can be expressed is not the eternal Topre; The HHKB that can be defined is not the unchanging HHKB.
(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/2013/10/tim-and-eric-mind-blown.gif)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:19:51
The Topre that can be expressed is not the eternal Topre; The HHKB that can be defined is not the unchanging HHKB.
Show Image
(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/2013/10/tim-and-eric-mind-blown.gif)


^^ Who is this guy? AND does he even have a HHKB??
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Novus on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:30:52
WOW.
this thread
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: noisyturtle on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:41:53
this thread is top kek
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: epzy on Tue, 03 February 2015, 21:45:37
really, limitz? smh

the hhkb is great due to its layout, aesthetics and feel (imo)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ValerieV on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:07:01
When i first bought the HHKB i didn't think too much for it. I thought it was okay but overpriced. I still believe it is overpriced but i have grown to really love it. I have tried numerous other Topre keyboards and the HHKB is my favorite by far. I only wish it was wireless and had dedicated arrow keys. Then it would be perfect!!!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: bueller on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:16:25
LEHHKBMASTERRACE

MX4LYFE YOU PEASANTS!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Melvang on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:18:18
Can someone post the layout for the HHKB?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: RavenII on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:31:20
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:33:17
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

As someone who borrowed one and  tested one out for a couple of weeks before actually buying one, I can tell you that it's not true.  I thought it was and for some people it might be, but it really is one of the nicest keyboards I have ever used.  I absolutely love mine. 

Don't get me wrong, I love Cherry and Alps and wish the HHKB was cheaper, but I still think it's one of the best mechanical keyboards on the market with regards to feel.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:34:14
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free

anyway, people like them because they do.

same reason people like ergo clears, same reason people that fall for vintage blacks. it's what they like typing on. not every switch is for everyone, and nothing a person can say will make you believe it until you try it and find out for yourself.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:37:06
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free

anyway, people like them because they do.

same reason people like ergo clears, same people that fall for vintage blacks. it's what they like typing on. not every switch is for everyone, and nothing a person can say will make you believe it until you try it and find out for yourself.

demik being rational and not trolling with the HHKB?  What a day! 

But, seriously, that's damn well said.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:40:44
think my hhkb trolling does more damage to the hhkb team image than helps it.

although, i wonder who has listened to my trolling, bought it and actually thought "he was right!"
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:41:07
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization)

but i got mine for free


Your syndrome is called emotional attachment. Those who paid for it get the Stockholm syndrome.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:43:27
and here i thought i could just enjoy a keyboard without being evaluated with some sort of syndrome.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:43:52
When i first bought the HHKB i didn't think too much for it. I thought it was okay but overpriced. I still believe it is overpriced but i have grown to really love it. I have tried numerous other Topre keyboards and the HHKB is my favorite by far. I only wish it was wireless and had dedicated arrow keys. Then it would be perfect!!!


You meant perfect as it worth its price?

Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Air tree on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:48:26
The Topre that can be expressed is not the eternal Topre; The HHKB that can be defined is not the unchanging HHKB.
Show Image
(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/2013/10/tim-and-eric-mind-blown.gif)


^^ Who is this guy? AND does he even have a HHKB??
Brah.
Since my HHKB is actually ordered and on the way, I now have a justifiable reason to buy more Bro Caps. (Yes the procrastination is over)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Tue, 03 February 2015, 22:53:58
and here i thought i could just enjoy a keyboard without being evaluated with some sort of syndrome.

You are an elitist, that's the definition.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: bueller on Tue, 03 February 2015, 23:40:39
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free


You're welcome :P

Now someone buy me a HHKB so I can be a part of the master race! lol
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:07:08
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free


You're welcome :P

Now someone buy me a HHKB so I can be a part of the master race! lol

I'm not a rich man, but I'd put $20 toward that goal.  Now we just need 11-13 more at $20, depending on shipping.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:17:18
down
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Polymer on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:20:40
The whole Topre cost thing has been debunked awhile ago..and realistically, the cost of Topre keyboards are not much more than Cherry MX...

I'm sure some people will justify the prices they paid and there is no doubt, some bias there...But really, Topre is a great switch and the keyboards feel great..the people hating on them are ones that can't get over that there is a rubber dome in there...and some people just like other switches...
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: bueller on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:35:33
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free


You're welcome :P

Now someone buy me a HHKB so I can be a part of the master race! lol

I'm not a rich man, but I'd put $20 toward that goal.  Now we just need 11-13 more at $20, depending on shipping.

Cheers nubbs and dembro but I don't think I could accept that, there are far more deserving people around here!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:38:12
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free


You're welcome :P

Now someone buy me a HHKB so I can be a part of the master race! lol

I'm not a rich man, but I'd put $20 toward that goal.  Now we just need 11-13 more at $20, depending on shipping.

Cheers nubbs and dembro but I don't think I could accept that, there are far more deserving people around here!

SHUT UP AND TAKE IT, YOU KNOW YOU LIKE IT
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: snipars on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:40:46
It's expensive and not perfect for everyone, but for people who like tiny keyboards and tactile switches, it's really nice to type on.
It's the only keyboard i've used so far that i'm content with using all the time,other keyboards i seem to get bored of after a week but the hhkb looks, feels and sounds amazing. 
I guess there are bound to be people who don't like it but encourage themselves to because of the price, but for me it's the ideal keyboard, however i don't like the fact that there are no keys in the lower left or right, forcing me to use the default control position whereas i'd rather have backspace on that key 
 
That being said, i'm typing this on a laptop keyboard looking at my hhkb on the table next to me as i don't want to wake anyone up, i want to buy a silenced version but i'm not sure if they feel identical
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:45:17
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

but i got mine for free


You're welcome :P

Now someone buy me a HHKB so I can be a part of the master race! lol

I'm not a rich man, but I'd put $20 toward that goal.  Now we just need 11-13 more at $20, depending on shipping.

Cheers nubbs and dembro but I don't think I could accept that, there are far more deserving people around here!

possibly. but i bet none are niner fans. we gotta stick together bruh
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: hasu on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:51:15
HHK IS A WAY OF LIFE. IT NEVER MEANS TOPRE NOR RUBBER DOME.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: bueller on Wed, 04 February 2015, 00:53:01
SHUT UP AND TAKE IT, YOU KNOW YOU LIKE IT

oooh baby just like that. *shudders*

possibly. but i bet none are niner fans. we gotta stick together bruh

Damn right bro. NFC West is ours next year!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: minh278 on Wed, 04 February 2015, 02:34:37
Though i have a topre i reserve that for the weekends. My laptop chicklet keyboard is alot easier to type on when im on the couch(i dont feel like using my desktop on weekdays). Yes the blasphemy...
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Wed, 04 February 2015, 02:41:41
Though i have a topre i reserve that for the weekends. My laptop chicklet keyboard is alot easier to type on when im on the couch(i dont feel like using my desktop on weekdays). Yes the blasphemy...
Don't blame you. Most of the time I'm on GH it's on my tablet on the couch or in bed.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: feizor on Wed, 04 February 2015, 02:47:03
Look at it!! Just look at it for god's sake!



What's the velcro for?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 04 February 2015, 03:20:42
They're not.

^This.

Plasticky feeling expensive rubber dome board.

Unusable arrow and edit key layout (that can't be reprogrammed). Fn key placement that overloads your right pinkie even more than a normal board. Slippery grip tabs that allow the board to move around when typed on.

No aftermarket keycap choices.

ABS spacebar.

Only one useful mod - can't change the switch feeling except by buying ANOTHER overpriced board and swapping domes.

Overpriced and overrated.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Novus on Wed, 04 February 2015, 03:24:31
They're not.

^This.

Plasticky feeling expensive rubber dome board.

Unusable arrow and edit key layout (that can't be reprogrammed). Fn key placement that overloads your right pinkie even more than a normal board. Slippery grip tabs that allow the board to move around when typed on.

No aftermarket keycap choices.

ABS spacebar.

Only one useful mod - can't change the switch feeling except by buying ANOTHER overpriced board and swapping domes.

Overpriced and overrated.

Whoa that's pretty awfully biased coming from you.


think my hhkb trolling does more damage to the hhkb team image than helps it.

although, i wonder who has listened to my trolling, bought it and actually thought "he was right!"

Me! I did.
You mean you lied to me milky?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: snipars on Wed, 04 February 2015, 03:33:13
They're not.

^This.

Plasticky feeling expensive rubber dome board.

Unusable arrow and edit key layout (that can't be reprogrammed). Fn key placement that overloads your right pinkie even more than a normal board. Slippery grip tabs that allow the board to move around when typed on.

No aftermarket keycap choices.

ABS spacebar.

Only one useful mod - can't change the switch feeling except by buying ANOTHER overpriced board and swapping domes.

Overpriced and overrated.

The plastic feeling is what makes it so great for me, the hhkb may not be ideal for you but it's not cheap feeling
And for me, the layout is near perfect, although everyone uses their keyboard for different things
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Keybatant on Wed, 04 February 2015, 03:54:35
HHKB is great keyb, small mobile topre happynator with smart layout.
Is worth the money tag? Hell no, but *****ing about its price compare to much more expensive useless stuff that is eating dust in my garage will sound hypocrite even to me.
If I'll need to choose only one, hhkb would win for sure.
Don't get me wrong, I just like topre feel, so have portable topre keyboard is just great idea imo, but my "favorite" device is and will be Code tkl with clears.
I'm not typing on it every day, my daily driver is hhkb (surprise, surprise), but when I back to mx clears after few days (weeks) of break, it just sounds like brutal fight with unknown man.
And after minutes I can hear voice of De Niro from Taxi Driver movie:
"Are you bottoming me?"
(http://i.imgur.com/vQMlnH3.png?1)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: derb2k2 on Wed, 04 February 2015, 05:07:53
HHKB is great keyb, small mobile topre happynator with smart layout.
Is worth the money tag? Hell no, but *****ing about its price compare to much more expensive useless stuff that is eating dust in my garage will sound hypocrite even to me.
If I'll need to choose only one, hhkb would win for sure.
Don't get me wrong, I just like topre feel, so have portable topre keyboard is just great idea imo, but my "favorite" device is and will be Code tkl with clears.
I'm not typing on it every day, my daily driver is hhkb (surprise, surprise), but when I back to mx clears after few days (weeks) of break, it just sounds like brutal fight with unknown man.
And after minutes I can hear voice of De Niro from Taxi Driver movie:
"Are you bottoming me?"
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vQMlnH3.png?1)


 :)) :)) :)) :))
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 04 February 2015, 06:54:41
...

Plasticky feeling expensive rubber dome board.

...

Whoa that's pretty awfully biased coming from you.


...
[/quote]

Yeah... I guess I got a bit carried away there. It's not as bad as all that, just not my thing really. I'm a "modder" at heart, find it hard to leave things stock, so that affects my bias, too. If I don't have an option to change it I find it less attractive than if I do.

And the arrow and edit layout is unusable to me, spanning three rows just to press up and down. Maybe if I turned it 90 degrees so I can use my thumb to press Fn and rest my fingers on [; and /....  :rolleyes:

If you add how much I've spent on keycaps to the price of my boards, then the price of the HHKB may not be so bad in comparison, but I just love changing my caps :)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Wed, 04 February 2015, 07:04:01
Is it for plastic and rubber lovers? Now it sounds like if we were at a bondage site.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Firebolt1914 on Wed, 04 February 2015, 07:53:19
I'm gonna listen to demilk's trolling and buy an hhkb
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: monotagary on Wed, 04 February 2015, 09:32:22
I'm gonna listen to demilk's trolling and buy an hhkb


Demik's trolling converted me the HHKB lifestyle and I can't imagine going back to anything else.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: erroneousdetails on Wed, 04 February 2015, 10:47:41
* sigh * Opens wallet.

Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: saturnotaku on Wed, 04 February 2015, 10:52:40
Meh, I sold my HHKB...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
so I could buy a Type-S.  ;D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 04 February 2015, 10:53:51
Meh, I sold my HHKB...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
so I could buy a Type-S.  ;D

^^ This guy knows whats up.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: daerid on Wed, 04 February 2015, 10:58:12
Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:02:12
Young people tend to need leadership to make decisions, grown ups take their own. I have not read people in need of induction to get BS or MX boards, I wonder why some people declared they are into HHKB, in particular, because someone has inducted them into it.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: azhdar on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:03:42
Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.
Unless It's Demik, then everybody notusing HHKB is a waste of oxygen.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: monotagary on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:05:01
Meh, I sold my HHKB...
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so I could buy a Type-S.  ;D

^^ This guy knows whats up.


Ayyyyy lmao.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TacticalCoder on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:11:09
That tiny ass spacebar sucks. The enter key is huge and ISO style. The tiny gaps on the bottom row is awful design.

If that wasn't bad enough, the backspace key is only 1u, and difficult to reach as it's positioned way too far away.

The whole point of having a tiny spacebar for a non-japanese person is to be able to very easily reach modifiers left and right of the space bars with the thumbs. As a result I'm using Alt, AltGr, Ctrl, Shift and an additional "Super" modifier (so that's five modifier instead of typically three... Sometimes I'm considering adding an "Hyper" modifier too). I touch type but I "incorrectly" only ever hit the space bar with my right thumb (instead of alternating as the touch-typing gods meant it to be if I am not mistaken), so that allows me to constantly have my left thumb on the modifier at the left of the tiny space bar: this is great because I don't need to distort my thumb, it just feels natural.

Who's reaching for backspace? That's modifier+'h' for me to delete a character backward and modifier+'m' to do "enter".

Tiny gaps? I hardly ever use the function keys and who reaches for the arrows?  There's modifier+{i,j,k,l} to simulate the arrows. So I didn't even notice that gap until I read your message...

I'm not just after a good switch: I'm also after having the most efficient setup possible. For example one modifier is dedicated to all the shortcuts related to the window manager (switching virtual desktops, resizing windows, closing windows, etc.): that's very convenient (and fast). My keyboard's layout ain't perfect? I'm not forced to use every single key...

I've been typing on IBM Model M for years and have tried many MX switches and I even have a white ALPS board which is kinda great to type on...  Yet after reading about the particular feeling of Topre and how they were so great, I decided I had to try an HHKB to see what gives: best switch ever IMHO.  Maybe not for gaming: but I don't play games with my HHKB.

Now I'm not saying the HHKB Pro JP's layout is perfect and I'm not saying I wouldn't love a real ergonomic keyboard with Topre switches: say an ErgoDox or a keyboardio/butterfly design but with Topre switches.  Actually I'd love that: I'd fork out $500 in a heartbeat to have such a beast (and, no, I don't like the µTron's layout at all)... But meanwhile I'm a happy camper with my Pro JP  :p
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: snipars on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:14:25
so I could buy a Type-S.  ;D

Does the silenced version feel any different to the standard version? i'd love to have a silent hhkb, but i'm not willing to sacrifice any of the brilliant feeling

Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.

People are stupid about the hhkb and topres in general, i love how the hhkb feels and how light it is so i can transport it easily, which other than the layout i think is the only real advantage it'd have over other keyboards. It's great for me, but some people prefer clicky or linear to expensive cup rubber tactile goodness
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TacticalCoder on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:22:52
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization)

Besides my beige IBM Model Ms sitting in a garage, my HHKB Pro JP is actually the least expensive board I've got here: I've got industrial Model Ms with fancy keycaps (so you need two keyboards to make one), a Cherry MX-5000 and a very nice prototype split /ergo white ALPS board which could very well sell for more than an HHKB if I were to sell it.

(and I paid my HHKBs kinda a cheap price: bought directly in Japan by a relative when the EUR was very high compared to the Yen and delivered for free)

So the argument "you paid a lot for it, so you think it's great" doesn't make much sense to me: my HHKB is the least expensive keyboard here.  By that logic I should be using my Industrial Model M with white-on-black M13 keys or my MX-5000.

Simply doesn't follow. Moreover the HHKB keeps a high resale value: so anyone buying one and not liking it can simply resell it and not lose too much.

I think the HHKBs are simply freakin' great keyboards and that's why most people who try them never go back  :)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: brimborion on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:37:58
I spend a lot of time in vim so I like the Esc placement. I also was spending some of my time on Sun machines when I bought my first HHKB Lite, so I appreciate the Control placement. I also was using a Marble Mouse and liked how close it sat to my right hand when I used the small keyboard.

So, I bought my Lites for the layout, which I can change in my other keyboards with key mapping software, and size, which I can't, though another 60% might be fine. At the time, mechanical to me meant Model M, so I couldn't really see why the Pro would be worth the extra money. Though, since I bought 3 lites, maybe I was approaching the price anyway.

I'm not saying its too expensive, but so far it has been too expensive for me.

I've been through this whole thing with pens too, there's always something shinier and better that a few loud people will tell you is better than anything you already have. I get one, and it's not. Still, another compact keyboard is in my future, and it's one of the options.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Wed, 04 February 2015, 11:43:32
Does the silenced version feel any different to the standard version? i'd love to have a silent hhkb, but i'm not willing to sacrifice any of the brilliant feeling

It felt "tighter" and a little nicer to me when I tried one.  I wouldn't pay the premium for it though.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 04 February 2015, 12:54:04
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization)

Besides my beige IBM Model Ms sitting in a garage, my HHKB Pro JP is actually the least expensive board I've got here: I've got industrial Model Ms with fancy keycaps (so you need two keyboards to make one), a Cherry MX-5000 and a very nice prototype split /ergo white ALPS board which could very well sell for more than an HHKB if I were to sell it.

(and I paid my HHKBs kinda a cheap price: bought directly in Japan by a relative when the EUR was very high compared to the Yen and delivered for free)

So the argument "you paid a lot for it, so you think it's great" doesn't make much sense to me: my HHKB is the least expensive keyboard here.  By that logic I should be using my Industrial Model M with white-on-black M13 keys or my MX-5000.

Simply doesn't follow. Moreover the HHKB keeps a high resale value: so anyone buying one and not liking it can simply resell it and not lose too much.

I think the HHKBs are simply freakin' great keyboards and that's why most people who try them never go back  :)
At this point, I've put more money into my Poker II than my HHKB; guess which one gets more use :)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:26:20
HHKB = the Apple sheeple of the keyboard world
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:27:46
Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.
Unless It's Demik, then everybody notusing HHKB is a waste of oxygen.
Man, you really don't like me do you?


HHKB = the Apple sheeple of the keyboard world

Says the clickclack collector. That's rich.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: nubbinator on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:29:14
HHKB = the Apple sheeple of the keyboard world

Nope.  That would be Korean keyboards.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:30:02
Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.
Unless It's Demik, then everybody notusing HHKB is a waste of oxygen.
Man, you really don't like me do you?
I think he's just slightly more aggressive with his posts than the average GH user.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Findecanor on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:33:53
The big thing, I think, is that if you use a HHKB then you think you're l33t or other people think you are l33t.
If you use one with no legends printed, then you are even more l33t.
And being l33t is not just the same as being part of a clique - it is about (imagining that you) being among the elite in computer proficiency.

Other than that, it is about preference to the layout. It is perfect for some programs under Unix, if you are used to older keyboards with Unix layout without any useless cruft. That is why the designer had chosen the layout - he was an old Sun user, and the first HHKB worked only on Sun.

Just because you drank the kool-aid doesn't mean the Novatouch is a crap board. Build quality is much better than HHKB, which must be the only board over $200 to not even include a metal plate.
BTW. Kinesis Advantage also has a plastic "plate" where the switches are mounted. Plastic isn't worse than metal - just different.

Those who paid for it get the Stockholm syndrome.
Wrongful analogy. HHKB users don't phone the police and complain about how the negotiations are being done when their Happy Hacking keyboards are holding them hostage ... because keyboards can't hold their users hostage.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: saturnotaku on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:36:15
Does the silenced version feel any different to the standard version? i'd love to have a silent hhkb, but i'm not willing to sacrifice any of the brilliant feeling

I don't have my Type-S yet, but comparing a silenced Realforce 87U to a standard HHKB, there's not much difference in terms of feel. The silenced Topre switch is a bit softer on the upstroke due to the "landing pad," but it's not so great that you'd notice.

That being said, if you're happy with your standard HHKB, I'd say it's not worth the extra money to move to the Type-S.

To anyone who's interested in the Type-S, now is a great time to look into getting one. With the Yen weak against the US Dollar, Type-S boards are available from Amazon Japan for around $250 give or take. Even with proxy and shipping fees, you'll save a lot of money versus buying from fleBay or EliteKeyboards.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: daerid on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:54:30
I just find it completely baffling that some people can't just go "Hey, I don't like the HHKB (Topre), but you do, and you are also willing to pay what it costs. That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way".

Why so many people feel the need to assert and project themselves on to others as if other people's choices somehow threaten their own sense of self.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 04 February 2015, 13:55:01
Does the silenced version feel any different to the standard version? i'd love to have a silent hhkb, but i'm not willing to sacrifice any of the brilliant feeling

I don't have my Type-S yet, but comparing a silenced Realforce 87U to a standard HHKB, there's not much difference in terms of feel. The silenced Topre switch is a bit softer on the upstroke due to the "landing pad," but it's not so great that you'd notice.

That being said, if you're happy with your standard HHKB, I'd say it's not worth the extra money to move to the Type-S.

To anyone who's interested in the Type-S, now is a great time to look into getting one. With the Yen weak against the US Dollar, Type-S boards are available from Amazon Japan for around $250 give or take. Even with proxy and shipping fees, you'll save a lot of money versus buying from fleBay or EliteKeyboards.
Got mine 248 shipped from PFU Direct while Tenso had their free shipping promotion going on. Would have paid the same price to get a non Type-S from EK.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: saturnotaku on Wed, 04 February 2015, 14:03:46
Got mine 248 shipped from PFU Direct while Tenso had their free shipping promotion going on. Would have paid the same price to get a non Type-S from EK.

There you go. By the way, did you get my PM regarding the Realforce keycaps you had posted about in the classifieds?
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 04 February 2015, 14:12:21
Got mine 248 shipped from PFU Direct while Tenso had their free shipping promotion going on. Would have paid the same price to get a non Type-S from EK.

There you go. By the way, did you get my PM regarding the Realforce keycaps you had posted about in the classifieds?
Oh shoot. It must have gotten buried in my inbox, just saw it now  :'( my bad!

Already picked up the keys I needed, sorry!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Tyrosh22 on Wed, 04 February 2015, 16:10:49
I just find it completely baffling that some people can't just go "Hey, I don't like the HHKB (Topre), but you do, and you are also willing to pay what it costs. That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way".

Why so many people feel the need to assert and project themselves on to others as if other people's choices somehow threaten their own sense of self.

This.

I started this thread because I wanted to find out why people (and to me it seemed like quite a few) on this board like HHKB boards. I guess I should have seen it coming that asking such a question inevitably leads to people bashing HHKB boards/users - just like asking "why do you like your iPhone?" leads to people commenting on how iPhones are too expensive and use an inferior OS and whatnot.
It is perfectly fine to state why you dislike a board (or anything for that matter) after trying it, saying: well, this and that I don't like - guess it's not my thing then. But why all this bashing?
If it were anyplace else I might understand people saying "you're paying 250+ bucks for a keyboard - what the hell is wrong with you?", but here? In a keyboard enthusiast community? Live and let live, guys!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Wed, 04 February 2015, 16:56:44

The title of the OP implies these boards to be intrinsically great, that motivates people who does not think the same to express their views. A title in the line of "why do you like the HHKB" would be a more balanced call for people to share their experiences. By the way, do you remember threads in the line of "why are MX boards so great"? That calls some controversy, so you are harvesting what you sow.


There are some facts about the HHKB that makes it a fine 60% board, for example the layout, that takes advantage of keys located at more intelligent places than the standard, like control, and backspace. Also, it splits the extremely long right shift and backspace to get three additional one unit spots. The empty spaces at the bottom look elegant.


However, it also has some compromises that does not keep its high end nature according with its price bracket. The ABS spacebar, its lack of programmability, The flimsy construction - here some like that its very light -


For keyboard aficionados like GH members the lack of alternative caps may be in detriment of customizability. Of course who needs extra caps if it comes with nice colored PBT ones. But again, we are a special bread of users, not the mainstream joe that keeps everything in stock form.


In any case calling something "so great" will give you some emotional responses. 
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: azhdar on Wed, 04 February 2015, 17:12:36
Topre Lovers = Apple Fans
Topre Haters = Android Fans

Not saying that if you love Topre you have an iPhone and if you don't like Topre you have an Android phone, I'm just talking about behavior. In my experience Android fanatics will do whatever they can and take every opportunity to bash the iPhone and those who purchase them. Whereas most iPhone users don't feel the need to waste time and energy on bashing Android, because they realize that it's a decent phone, just not for them.

When the Topre war starts, it's almost always somebody coming in and harping on how overpriced and overrated it is, rarely (if ever) is it a Topre fan bashing on non-Topre switches.
Unless It's Demik, then everybody notusing HHKB is a waste of oxygen.
Man, you really don't like me do you?

I have nothing against you, you gucci to me man.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Tyrosh22 on Wed, 04 February 2015, 18:23:52

The title of the OP implies these boards to be intrinsically great, that motivates people who does not think the same to express their views. A title in the line of "why do you like the HHKB" would be a more balanced call for people to share their experiences. By the way, do you remember threads in the line of "why are MX boards so great"? That calls some controversy, so you are harvesting what you sow.


There are some facts about the HHKB that makes it a fine 60% board, for example the layout, that takes advantage of keys located at more intelligent places than the standard, like control, and backspace. Also, it splits the extremely long right shift and backspace to get three additional one unit spots. The empty spaces at the bottom look elegant.


However, it also has some compromises that does not keep its high end nature according with its price bracket. The ABS spacebar, its lack of programmability, The flimsy construction - here some like that its very light -


For keyboard aficionados like GH members the lack of alternative caps may be in detriment of customizability. Of course who needs extra caps if it comes with nice colored PBT ones. But again, we are a special bread of users, not the mainstream joe that keeps everything in stock form.


In any case calling something "so great" will give you some emotional responses.

I do see your point, should have gone for a more neutral title indeed.  :-[
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: swathe on Wed, 04 February 2015, 19:51:16
It's hard for people like me who live nowhere near probably anyone who even owns one to try it out. People on the net either think it's the bees knees or totally over rated and not too many people in the middle. I'd love to try one and have come close to pulling the trigger on one a few times. All I really have is the option to buy, then if I don't like it sell it.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: byker on Wed, 04 February 2015, 20:36:55
It's hard for people like me who live nowhere near probably anyone who even owns one to try it out. People on the net either think it's the bees knees or totally over rated and not too many people in the middle. I'd love to try one and have come close to pulling the trigger on one a few times. All I really have is the option to buy, then if I don't like it sell it.


That is true for most of us I think, but you cannot really lose out. If you don't like it and resell it, you will have had a new experience of the hhkb layout and topre switches, and you won't lose too much money!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: swathe on Wed, 04 February 2015, 21:02:40
That is true for most of us I think, but you cannot really lose out. If you don't like it and resell it, you will have had a new experience of the hhkb layout and topre switches, and you won't lose too much money!

Yeah I think that's it. I've never typed on Topre but the HHKB layout is definitely an attractive proposition for me as an Emacs user.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Wed, 04 February 2015, 21:17:54

The title of the OP implies these boards to be intrinsically great, that motivates people who does not think the same to express their views. A title in the line of "why do you like the HHKB" would be a more balanced call for people to share their experiences. By the way, do you remember threads in the line of "why are MX boards so great"? That calls some controversy, so you are harvesting what you sow.


There are some facts about the HHKB that makes it a fine 60% board, for example the layout, that takes advantage of keys located at more intelligent places than the standard, like control, and backspace. Also, it splits the extremely long right shift and backspace to get three additional one unit spots. The empty spaces at the bottom look elegant.


However, it also has some compromises that does not keep its high end nature according with its price bracket. The ABS spacebar, its lack of programmability, The flimsy construction - here some like that its very light -


For keyboard aficionados like GH members the lack of alternative caps may be in detriment of customizability. Of course who needs extra caps if it comes with nice colored PBT ones. But again, we are a special bread of users, not the mainstream joe that keeps everything in stock form.


In any case calling something "so great" will give you some emotional responses.

I do see your point, should have gone for a more neutral title indeed.  :-[

Apply your sense of humor to the situation, enjoy the conversation and get fun. Many discussions here are no more than funny chats. Those that take them too seriously may get frustrated. Do not let GH to suck you into its reality distortion field.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: steve.v on Fri, 27 February 2015, 07:43:11
Personal preference really.
1 year with cherries: Plastic and loud
2 weeks with HHKB type-S: Smooth, silent and sturdy.

IMO Topres are what rubberdome keyboards should have been.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Fri, 27 February 2015, 08:02:08
Personal preference really.
1 year with cherries: Plastic and loud
2 weeks with HHKB type-S: Smooth, silent and sturdy.

IMO Topres are what rubberdome keyboards should have been.


Rubber Dome boards were adopted for the sake of cost reductions, the capacitive technology on Topre boards is too expensive, thus no, Topre are not what rubber dome boards should have been.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TopreFan333 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 10:17:25
This is why they're so phenomenal...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-purchase_rationalization

Could apply to literally any other mechanical keyboard.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 27 February 2015, 10:25:20

The title of the OP implies these boards to be intrinsically great, that motivates people who does not think the same to express their views. A title in the line of "why do you like the HHKB" would be a more balanced call for people to share their experiences. By the way, do you remember threads in the line of "why are MX boards so great"? That calls some controversy, so you are harvesting what you sow.


There are some facts about the HHKB that makes it a fine 60% board, for example the layout, that takes advantage of keys located at more intelligent places than the standard, like control, and backspace. Also, it splits the extremely long right shift and backspace to get three additional one unit spots. The empty spaces at the bottom look elegant.


However, it also has some compromises that does not keep its high end nature according with its price bracket. The ABS spacebar, its lack of programmability, The flimsy construction - here some like that its very light -


For keyboard aficionados like GH members the lack of alternative caps may be in detriment of customizability. Of course who needs extra caps if it comes with nice colored PBT ones. But again, we are a special bread of users, not the mainstream joe that keeps everything in stock form.


In any case calling something "so great" will give you some emotional responses.

Just chiming in a bit here...
If I were just to take the title at face value my response would simply just have been that the keyboards have a very smart layout.

You are correct that some people would undoubtedly get emotional over such a title simply because. like you said, the title makes it sound like there's something inherently amazing about it that everyone would agree with.

Personally I would just say that the op just didn't know what the good aspects about it were. I felt the same way at some point until I tried it and really liked it and learned for myself why I liked it.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TopreFan333 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 10:27:03
Unusable arrow and edit key layout (that can't be reprogrammed).
It's not that hard, and you move your hand less far than you do for dedicated arrow keys. 

Quote
Fn key placement that overloads your right pinkie even more than a normal board. Slippery grip tabs that allow the board to move around when typed on.
To each his/her own I guess. Isn't any 60% board going to require a lot of use of some kind of FN layer though? I'd be interested to hear the counterpoint on this, actually. I'm not having too much trouble adjusting so far, and I'm only a couple weeks into using this thing regularly.

Quote
No aftermarket keycap choices.
I wouldn't mind a few color options for modifiers, but yeah, this isn't the board for you if you're into blowing a fortune on changing your keys on a whim. The idea is it comes with nice, functional keycaps out of the box and you use those. Definitely not a great keyboard for a hobbyist -- more for, you know, just typing on it.

Quote
ABS spacebar.
I'm always surprised people care so much about this. When it starts to (gasp) show signs of wear, you could always buy a replacement using some of the $ you've not been blowing on replacing the keys every time a new group buy comes up or whatever :)

Quote
Only one useful mod - can't change the switch feeling except by buying ANOTHER overpriced board and swapping domes.
Again, not a keyboard for hobbyists. I personally love the way the switches feel and would rather just type than spend my time ****ing around with switches.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Hypersphere on Fri, 27 February 2015, 10:55:51
The HHKB Pro 2 has a following and people are willing to pay premium prices for these keyboards. The reasons I like them are as follows:

+ 60% form factor.
+ Symmetry.
+ Layout.
+ Dye-sublimated PBT keycaps.

Some improvements I have wanted to make:

- Silencing, especially the return-stroke "clack", and in a black case. I did this by installing silencing rings from a donor silent RF keyboard into a black HHKB Pro 2 recipient.
- Heavier switches. I did this by installing 55g domes from a donor 55g RF keyboard.

Now I have a black 55g silenced HHKB Pro 2. I am very pleased with it.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: osi on Fri, 27 February 2015, 11:12:09
They're not... most overrated board ever. Owned one for 3 months and got rid of the piece of ****. Worth nowhere near the price they want for it, and not even plate mounted. PCB mounted MX keyboards get hate on, yet nobody says the same for HHKB due to the hype. If you want to try Topre, go for the Leopold 660C. Better layout, and plate mounted. Feels so much better.

HHKB layout sucks too, some people will claim it's "amazing" mainly due to the symmetry.

Disregard this newb troll trash
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Fri, 27 February 2015, 13:04:28
There will be PBT space bars available soon, when a GB for them open, by Matt3o. Just in case someone reading here is not aware of it yet.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Gravitar on Fri, 27 February 2015, 13:19:08
I find the design to be so pleasant, and the layout seemed to be really thought out. I have found a downside though, when I have to use a different keyboard, my hands are used to the layout of the HHKB(ctrl where caps lock usually is, escape and delete moved down, etc...)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ctm on Fri, 27 February 2015, 14:11:06
I guess it has something to do with it's cool name and appearance.  :D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: cptmullet on Fri, 27 February 2015, 14:19:13
I've had a HHKB Lite for many years and I liked the layout as a basic windows user, however, as time moved on I really started to miss the full functionality without FN layers. I eventually moved back to standard keyboards and find TKL to be the optimal set up.
I think the moved `/~ key was the hardest thing for me to cope with, followed by no arrow keys, and no f keys respectively.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TopreFan333 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 16:32:30
I would point out that the promotion of the CTRL key doesn't do a whole lot for Mac users. It doesn't mess anything up, and I don't miss Caps Lock, the the CTRL key just doesn't have the same significance on the Mac, at least not in the general applications I use anyway -- it's all about the CMD key.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 27 February 2015, 19:39:58
I would point out that the promotion of the CTRL key doesn't do a whole lot for Mac users. It doesn't mess anything up, and I don't miss Caps Lock, the the CTRL key just doesn't have the same significance on the Mac, at least not in the general applications I use anyway -- it's all about the CMD key.

Real hackers use windows duh
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: demik on Fri, 27 February 2015, 19:48:30
I would point out that the promotion of the CTRL key doesn't do a whole lot for Mac users. It doesn't mess anything up, and I don't miss Caps Lock, the the CTRL key just doesn't have the same significance on the Mac, at least not in the general applications I use anyway -- it's all about the CMD key.

Real hackers use windows duh

real hackers dont own computers, they just use other's computers to not get hacked

(http://gifsec.com/wp-content/uploads/GIF/2014/06/GIF-Hacker.gif)
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:48:58
I would point out that the promotion of the CTRL key doesn't do a whole lot for Mac users. It doesn't mess anything up, and I don't miss Caps Lock, the the CTRL key just doesn't have the same significance on the Mac, at least not in the general applications I use anyway -- it's all about the CMD key.

Real hackers use windows duh

real hackers dont own computers, they just use other's computers to not get hacked

Show Image
(http://gifsec.com/wp-content/uploads/GIF/2014/06/GIF-Hacker.gif)


Yea but they still use windows on those computers
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Sygaldry on Fri, 27 February 2015, 22:02:42

The title of the OP implies these boards to be intrinsically great, that motivates people who does not think the same to express their views. A title in the line of "why do you like the HHKB" would be a more balanced call for people to share their experiences. By the way, do you remember threads in the line of "why are MX boards so great"? That calls some controversy, so you are harvesting what you sow.


There are some facts about the HHKB that makes it a fine 60% board, for example the layout, that takes advantage of keys located at more intelligent places than the standard, like control, and backspace. Also, it splits the extremely long right shift and backspace to get three additional one unit spots. The empty spaces at the bottom look elegant.


However, it also has some compromises that does not keep its high end nature according with its price bracket. The ABS spacebar, its lack of programmability, The flimsy construction - here some like that its very light -


For keyboard aficionados like GH members the lack of alternative caps may be in detriment of customizability. Of course who needs extra caps if it comes with nice colored PBT ones. But again, we are a special bread of users, not the mainstream joe that keeps everything in stock form.


In any case calling something "so great" will give you some emotional responses.
Let's be honest. The HHKB is a great keyboard.

As is almost every other keyboard posted here.

Why is it intrinsically wrong to imply something is great?

I see nothing wrong with how OP has phrased his/her question.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: dustinhxc on Fri, 27 February 2015, 23:55:26
I love Topre 45g. switches to start off with. The reason I enjoy HHKBs is mainly because of the size! Theyre so adorable!
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: steve.v on Sat, 28 February 2015, 03:51:13

I love Topre 45g. switches to start off with. The reason I enjoy HHKBs is mainly because of the size! Theyre so adorable!

I was surprised at how small my HHKB was, it looked bigger in pictures and videos lol.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TopreFan333 on Sat, 28 February 2015, 08:43:00
Real hackers use windows duh
Oh no. Does this mean... my career as a hacker is not going to work out?? I guess I'll send back this keyboard, vape pen and leather trenchcoat
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Korth on Sat, 28 February 2015, 09:21:42
I just find it completely baffling that some people can't just go "Hey, I don't like the HHKB (Topre), but you do, and you are also willing to pay what it costs. That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way".
Well ...

I don't like the HHKB (any kind), I don't like tenkeyless and tiny form factor keyboards in general.  But some of you do, and you think the HHKB is worth paying for.  That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way.  Except that I have more keys than you do, nyaa-nyaa-nyaa!  :p
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: steve.v on Sat, 28 February 2015, 10:29:09

I just find it completely baffling that some people can't just go "Hey, I don't like the HHKB (Topre), but you do, and you are also willing to pay what it costs. That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way".
Well ...

I don't like the HHKB (any kind), I don't like tenkeyless and tiny form factor keyboards in general.  But some of you do, and you think the HHKB is worth paying for.  That's cool and doesn't threaten or affect me in any way.  Except that I have more keys than you do, nyaa-nyaa-nyaa!  :p

I'm a programmer, and my HHKB has every key I need :D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: brimborion on Sat, 28 February 2015, 12:23:06
I have two HHKB, but they are Lite and have rubber domes. I still like them though. For people who are not sure if they'd like the layout, it might not be a bad idea to try one. The rubber domes in them are among the better you'll find.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 28 February 2015, 12:33:54
I'm only getting a Topre board because I was given two Topre artisans for free...

And because of the division between those who like and don't like the HHKB (th layout doesn't appeal to me) I'm buying a Realforce 55g.

Soon TM
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: ideus on Sat, 28 February 2015, 13:40:57
This is another thread sponsored by the "HHKB Buyers-Remorse Sufferers Support Group".
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: TopreFan333 on Sun, 01 March 2015, 11:23:18
This is another thread sponsored by the "HHKB Buyers-Remorse Sufferers Support Group".

Another thread hijacked by "anybody who doesn't like what I like must be wrong" trolls.
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Polymer on Mon, 02 March 2015, 08:01:09
I'm a programmer, and my HHKB has every key I need :D

Except a PBT spacebar :)...
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 02 March 2015, 08:59:06
I'm a programmer, and my HHKB has every key I need :D

Except a PBT spacebar :)...

...SOONNNNN

;D
Title: Re: Why are HHKB boards so great?
Post by: saturnotaku on Mon, 02 March 2015, 09:05:15
HHKBs are seductive in that every time I think about selling mine, I type on it some more and realize I can't quit it. So I'll add keyboards rather than replacing my Type-S.