Questions about first build (HHKB layout, 60%)

[benfrain]

I'm looking to get together pieces for my first build so I'm trying to soak up as much information as possible. However, I'd like clarification on a few points.

My daily board is a HHKB Pro 2 at the office and a WASD v2 at home. Looking to build a new board with a HHKB layout as I'm a big fan but would like a more substantial case and to try some other switches.

Requirements:

- USB C connector
- hot swappable PCB
- metal/alu case

I intend to get a hot swap PCB so I can hopefully buy less keyboards and simply buy new switches instead!

Questions:
1. Can anyone recommend a decent affordable 60% case that would fit the HS60 PCB https://groupbuys.mechboards.co.uk/shop/hs60-hotswap-60-pcb/ that mechanical keyboards stock?
2. I've seen inexpensive cases like this: https://kbdfans.com/collections/60-layout-case/products/customized-gh60-aluminum-case?variant=538568785933 but what do I need to go on top? A plate of some sort? 3. If I want HHKB layout do I need to source something special?
4. Shopping list wise, what do I need? Case, PCB, Plate, Switches, Stabilisers — am I missing anything else?
5. Are cheaper cases a false economy? Do they flex/have poor fitting etc?

Thanks for any pointers!

[MMKB]

To have the HHKB layout the case must have two blockers. Best entry level examples I could think of are:

Kbdfans HHKB Tofu
Duck Sidewinder https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=103356.0

[MMKB]

4. Shopping list wise, what do I need? Case, PCB, Plate, Switches, Stabilisers — am I missing anything else?

- keypuller, switch puller
- band-aid: search “keyboard stabilizer band-aid mod”
- noise dampening sheet such as Sorbothane. It reduces the hollow ping from any metal case

[benfrain]

Thanks MMKB, appreciate the input 👍

[Sup]

That case you send is very nice. I got one here and it is low profile, So if you are okay with seeing your switches from the side i think its a good case. Also you would need to find a plate that is specifically cut for a HHKB layout so there are no switch holes on the right and left side of the plate.

[JinTea]

4. Shopping list wise, what do I need? Case, PCB, Plate, Switches, Stabilisers — am I missing anything else?

- keypuller, switch puller
- band-aid: search “keyboard stabilizer band-aid mod”
- noise dampening sheet such as Sorbothane. It reduces the hollow ping from any metal case

What are other good dampening materials? I know some people use shelf liner as well, don't know the name of the rubber for that either though.