Topre: RF 87U or HHKB-S?

[sorijealut]

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!

[Belfong]

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?

[sorijealut]

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?

Mm that's a very good point. I think I do need a change towards something else than TKL, also for versatility in the ability to swap them
and have a different typing experience (which also brings up a unique point, that my KUL can be set into the HHKB format with DIP switches).  Thanks!

[pr0ximity]

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.

[sorijealut]

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?

[pr0ximity]

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?

Definitely no ping if that's what you're referencing, it's a solid metallic 'thock'.

[amos5606]

Realforce is really solid and always be a  nice choice.
I used to owned both rf55g and HHKB.
I prefer nice rebound of the rf55g, it make me feel really comfortable.
You will get used to the heavy of the 55g dome.

[pr0ximity]

On the note of weight, I have a Model M and have typed on rubber domes/scissor switches for a while, and I think 55g is less fatiguing than any of those. I do program though, so not a lot of long-form writing. I use it for games though and I must say it's a pleasure (I think FPS it's not the best for, just my personal preference).

While I'm thinking of it, on the note of feel: I like describing it as a weak but well-pronounced rubber-dome with longer travel.

[sorijealut]

Hm.. I am trying to imagine the feel coupled with the many videos on Youtube but that never works too well, does it?

I do like to play my DOTA/ FPS, but my topre does not have to be good for gaming, I suppose. Then again I have a friend who plays CS:GO on his HHKB and he's better than me lol.
I feel ya on the company domes I have to use at work right now, they are soo bad on my fingers.

[awts]

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!

I would say get the RF87U55 first, cause the layout is more typical for gaming, and it's got the best "Topre" feel to me. And eventually you'll own the HHKB as well... 

[sorijealut]

You... do you have every topre?? 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??

[awts]

You... do you have every topre?? 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... 

[sorijealut]

You... do you have every topre?? 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... 

Thanks for your story of the various models...! I just read your thread and it was the same topic as well. I would be interested to hear your thoughts on the HHKB after your use
I will have to make my mind up about the 55g or HHKB route, but I don't think I can go wrong with either 

[rowdy]

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?

[sorijealut]

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 .

[rowdy]

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 .

The HHKB?

Yes, definitely!

Your hands don't need to move as far to reach all the keys, and you can also keep the mouse a bit closer.

Plus once you get over the initial location of Ctrl and Backspace, you will wonder how you ever managed with the old-fashioned TKL layout

[sorijealut]

rowdy you are good at convincing... are you an HHKB ambassador of sorts? )

I think I'm pretty much set on going for the HHKB adventure, since I already own a TKL form(like Belfong said) and the design is just flawless to look at. The portability!
I can always revisit the Realforce since they seem to have more frequent product releases - maybe in 2015??

The only question now for me is international shipping. I've been looking at the jp website -> tenso -> US shipping method for a Type-S that is relatively cheaper.
Perhaps I should wait for another Tenso shipping discount that I missed recently

Thanks all!!!!! for the valuable inputs!!!

[rowdy]

Not ambassador - just a happy HHKB user, which is a bit redundant, really, as the first H in HHKB stands for happy )

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 interest check thread.

[sorijealut]

Not ambassador - just a happy HHKB user, which is a bit redundant, really, as the first H in HHKB stands for happy )

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 interest check thread.

Appreciate the tips! Very helpful.
Thats true, the resell value should be decent and I take good care of my keyboards. Oh yes I think I have heard this too!
How convenient that the topre spacebar is coming as gb. I've filled out a intent form right away so exciting.

[Hypersphere]

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.

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.

[eth0s]

How about a zen haiku to help you decide?

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. 
   

[Grim Fandango]

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.

[sorijealut]

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.

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.

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.
Yet, you love the HHKB form. A combination of the two products would be quite desired by the community, I think. I liked how you divided form factor and the feel and sound of the switches separately.
Thanks for the help!

How about a zen haiku to help you decide?

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. 

I have taken some time meditating on those lines  .

Joyful and crisp
clacks of topre ,
But who is it for?
Only mine ears, and my fingers.

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.

That's right.
My preference is towards a TKL at the moment, but I haven't tried smaller forms yet.
As for feels, I prefer quieter switches usually; in the case of MX switches, I hated the blues and loved the reds.
I think I would enjoy a nice plate mounted board as well. But yeah, I really don't have any experience with them first hand, and what the "best feel"
would be an ideal feel for my use then. I can only juxtapose sounds as feels at the moment, and I do enjoy the sound of silenced ones better.

[nubbinator]

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.

[sorijealut]

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.

[awts]

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.

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. 

[nubbinator]

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.

I actually prefer the Type-S to the HHKB vanilla since it feels a little "tighter" feeling to me.  It's not worth the price difference though.

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 kind of have to disagree.  The FC660C and HHKB Pro2 are night and day different to me.  The HHKB has a crisper tactility and a softer landing.  The FC660C made me hate Topre while the HHKB made me love Topre.

[awts]

Funny that I kind of felt that they're not too far off. Do you own the latest FC660C with sub dye keys? The PRO2 felt smoother but is actually lighter. More like the FC660C didn't felt like they were 45g. Also, the the keys of the FC660C hits the metal plate while the HHKB lands gentler. But of course all these are user preference as I've no issues with the Leopold, but the laser printed keys on my old version. Generally I still prefer the feel of my 87U55. I think I'll be passing down the FC660C mainly because Leopold doesn't sell full set replacement keys... and my WASD keys are wearing out way too fast...

[nubbinator]

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.   

[HoffmanMyster]

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.

Mine is the original pad printed version. 

[Puddsy]

I couldn't stand the HHKB's layout, so I traded it for an 87U, and now I'm happy.

[sorijealut]

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.

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. 

Thanks for coming back to share your thoughts on HHKB!
I've read some reviews that FC660C feels a lot heavier, especially with the dye subs.
It seems like many are saying Type-S isn't worth the cost difference unless I really want to spend it for the stock silencers, so I will beware of that.
Anyway, I'm glad you found it to be an enjoyable experience. It's probably a great travel board and a showcase board to show off

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.

[nubbinator]

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.

[awts]

I thought I would hate the HHKB layout.  After about two weeks, I came to love it.

I'll try using it longer and hope I can get used to it too! 

[awts]

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.

[/quote]

HD598 and Zowie FK1? You just need to add an Artisan Hayate mousepad! 

[Hypersphere]

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.

[sorijealut]

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 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! 

Good 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 
But as you can see it's still pretty clean lol. A bit off topic, but what makes this Hayate better than the common makers?

[sorijealut]

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.

[Belfong]

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.

so in the Clackvent win, did you choose Topre stem?

[sorijealut]

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.

so in the Clackvent win, did you choose Topre stem?

You're sharp Belfong. 

YES I DID!!

[Belfong]

VERY GOOD! Your HHKB already have a friend. You don't need someone to hold. You are already empowered! Ha ha!

[sorijealut]

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. :')

[rowdy]

Nice choice!  Good luck with the blank keys

Please post back after you've been using it for a couple of weeks and let us know what you think of it.

[awts]

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.

\

I'm so going to order some blank keys for mine! 

[Moralless]

Oh so does that mean you choose what type your surprise clack is?

[Belfong]

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.

[Moralless]

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.

Oh that's what I meant. Thanks for the clarification

[awts]

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... 

[sorijealut]

Nice choice!  Good luck with the blank keys

Please post back after you've been using it for a couple of weeks and let us know what you think of it.

Thanks rowdy I'm gonna need it lol.
I will make sure to post impressions!

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... 

That's true, I actually rather like the black legends on black keys for that version, you know.
Ooh I may need a case too sometime...!

[Cafeine]

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" :



(Leopold on the Mac / RF on the PC for gaming (not seen on the pic) album here: http://imgur.com/a/8J3v1

TL;DR: you have to try one to know if it's for you, good job ordering that baby.