Topre: RF 87U or HHKB-S?

[sorijealut]

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" :

Show Image

(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. :)

What a great story it is that you interviewed the HHKB maker!! I honestly see myself trying another 55g topre, so hopefully Realforce or someone will make a desirable update in near future :). Also... You may not realize this, but it is I you helped making this purchase decision in that small reddit thread ;) hehe thanks again friend! So good to see you here.

[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" :

Show Image

(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. :)

What a great story it is that you interviewed the HHKB maker!! I honestly see myself trying another 55g topre, so hopefully Realforce or someone will make a desirable update in near future :) . Also... You may not realize this, but it is I you helped making this purchase decision in that small reddit thread ;) hehe thanks again friend! So good to see you here.

Haha I didn't realize that  :)  yeah, I'm here too. Lot of Topre lovers here. <3   Have fun!   :thumb:

[awts]

If only they made the HHKB in 55g Topre, I'll buy them in a heartbeat! 

I like the 55g so much that I might go all crazy and get another RF 87U55 for keepsake or as a spare.

The temptation is strong! 

[spiceBar]

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" :

Show Image

(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. :)

How do you manage to keep your sanity with the AZERTY MBP and the QWERTY Topres??

I have tried twice to convert to QWERTY, but this very problem, i.e. having to deal with AZERTY on my MBA and various other computers around, has prevented me to convert. I can switch from AZERTY to QWERTY and back, but clearly my typing speed and accuracy takes a huge hit when I do so. It's a productivity killer because too much of my brain is focused on the keyboard.

I have also discovered that QWERTY was only marginally better for programming, contrary to what I thought initially. What kills QWERTY is that you must use Shift to type the parenthesis, the asterisk and the double quote. On AZERTY, these characters are directly accessible.

I'm now using a modified AZERTY layout on which characters frequently used for programming ( [ ] { } & | . ) are easily accessible.

If after several weeks I find that this layout provides a productivity gain for me, my plan is to ditch the RF87U and the FC660C, have WASD manufacture several sets of my new AZERTY layout, and get more Novatouches and a vb660m so I can use these keycaps.

On the MBA I will have to use custom stickers. But my optimized layout only changes 10 keys, so it's not a complete mess either.

[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" :

Show Image

(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. :)

How do you manage to keep your sanity with the AZERTY MBP and the QWERTY Topres??

I have tried twice to convert to QWERTY, but this very problem, i.e. having to deal with AZERTY on my MBA and various other computers around, has prevented me to convert. I can switch from AZERTY to QWERTY and back, but clearly my typing speed and accuracy takes a huge hit when I do so. It's a productivity killer because too much of my brain is focused on the keyboard.

I have also discovered that QWERTY was only marginally better for programming, contrary to what I thought initially. What kills QWERTY is that you must use Shift to type the parenthesis, the asterisk and the double quote. On AZERTY, these characters are directly accessible.

I'm now using a modified AZERTY layout on which characters frequently used for programming ( [ ] { } & | . ) are easily accessible.

If after several weeks I find that this layout provides a productivity gain for me, my plan is to ditch the RF87U and the FC660C, have WASD manufacture several sets of my new AZERTY layout, and get more Novatouches and a vb660m so I can use these keycaps.

On the MBA I will have to use custom stickers. But my optimized layout only changes 10 keys, so it's not a complete mess either.

I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB. ;)   I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing.  #heaven  :D  Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)

[spiceBar]

I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB.    I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing.  #heaven    Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)

Ah, I see.

I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.

The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.

The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.

To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".

[Cafeine]

I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB.    I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing.  #heaven    Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)

Ah, I see.

I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.

The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.

The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.

To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".

that's why tons of options is a good thing I just prefer Topre, but I don't even understand how you can be "efficient" looking at the keyboard. :x

[spiceBar]

I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB.    I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing.  #heaven    Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)

Ah, I see.

I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.

The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.

The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.

To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".

that's why tons of options is a good thing I just prefer Topre, but I don't even understand how you can be "efficient" looking at the keyboard. :x

I also prefer Topre, but by a narrow margin over Cherry MX brown or Matias quiet click. I feel I would miss something if I was using Topre exclusively.

I don't look at the keyboard constantly. When typing text like I'm doing right now, I'm going to have a peek at the keyboard from time to time. Or I can re-position my hands by touch alone, but it's slightly slower for me.

When coding, I need to peek more often mainly because of all these symbols on the number row that you type with AltGr on AZERTY. With my "optimized" layout I hope to reduce this.

[Cafeine]

I actually have a trick : I use my own keymap and actually never look at the KB.    I use a Mac inspired AZERTY keymap even on my PC. And I use sofware on the Mac & PC to swap some letters too. I have @# on the pipe / antislash big key (over enter) and <> on the insert key. And I swap / replace the useless capslock with CTRL on all my machines. That's about it. I'm not coding, only writing in Markdown most of the time so that's perfect for me. And that's why the FC660 layout (C or M) is so good for me: the hands dont move at all from their rest spot while typing.  #heaven    Same on the RF, but I DO have to move to reach the arrows. :x (but 55g is too good so I dealwizit)

Ah, I see.

I'm not very efficient when I don't look at the keyboard, so I need custom keycaps.

The RFs are good, but the Novatouch is at least as good once modded. I think the RF have to go. I'm not a Topre jihadist either, so I find the vb660m with Cherry MX and its Bluetooth feature really attractive.

The HHKB Type-S with SpaceFN or GuiFN was nice on my MBA, but I think the vb660m will be even better.

To the current topic's question "RF 87U or HHKB-S?", my current answer tends to be "Neither!".

that's why tons of options is a good thing I just prefer Topre, but I don't even understand how you can be "efficient" looking at the keyboard. :x

I also prefer Topre, but by a narrow margin over Cherry MX brown or Matias quiet click. I feel I would miss something if I was using Topre exclusively.

I don't look at the keyboard constantly. When typing text like I'm doing right now, I'm going to have a peek at the keyboard from time to time. Or I can re-position my hands by touch alone, but it's slightly slower for me.

When coding, I need to peek more often mainly because of all these symbols on the number row that you type with AltGr on AZERTY. With my "optimized" layout I hope to reduce this.

I see!   On a side note, lot of friends are using the typematrix + bepo or dvorak to code. I can't make that kind of radical switch but you should take a look, maybe you will be interested. And HAPPY NEW YEAR (to all ).

[sorijealut]

It's always interesting to see different formats used in Europe.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! and a new keyboard will be coming in just in time

[spiceBar]

I see!   On a side note, lot of friends are using the typematrix + bepo or dvorak to code. I can't make that kind of radical switch but you should take a look, maybe you will be interested. And HAPPY NEW YEAR (to all ).

I couldn't make the switch either. I don't even feel a need to switch. Worse, objective comparisons do not give bepo or dvorak such a huge advantage that it would justify switching.

Had I to switch, I would switch to QWERTY, but to type accentuated characters it sucks. Then there is the problem of all those computers around that I have to use occasionally and which are all AZERTY. There are 3 of them in the house that are not even mine, not even counting the iPads, and probably at least one waiting for me every time I visit a friend.

So I have chosen to take the coward's route and change only a few keys on the AZERTY keyboard.

Happy new year to all!

[Cafeine]

I see!   On a side note, lot of friends are using the typematrix + bepo or dvorak to code. I can't make that kind of radical switch but you should take a look, maybe you will be interested. And HAPPY NEW YEAR (to all ).

I couldn't make the switch either. I don't even feel a need to switch. Worse, objective comparisons do not give bepo or dvorak such a huge advantage that it would justify switching.

Had I to switch, I would switch to QWERTY, but to type accentuated characters it sucks. Then there is the problem of all those computers around that I have to use occasionally and which are all AZERTY. There are 3 of them in the house that are not even mine, not even counting the iPads, and probably at least one waiting for me every time I visit a friend.

So I have chosen to take the coward's route and change only a few keys on the AZERTY keyboard.

Happy new year to all!

That's pretty much my stance. It's the "easier" route and I find my keymap perfect for my work. That's the important part.

[Macsmasher]

I have two 87Us in variable silent, an HHKB Pro 2 (non silent) and an 87U 55g. I like them all, but for different tasks.

The 55g has a nice snappy feel and is great for coding where you're typing in short bursts. More tactile than the other Topre switches. However, for extended typing sessions - as a writer would - it's a bit too heavy for me. I honestly don't feel much difference between the 45g switches and the variable, but the 55g is definitely different. You wouldn't think 10g would make that much of a difference, but it does for me. Your typing style with be the defining factor here. If you are a deliberate, aggressive typist, you will like the 55g. If you're a more relaxed typist, it will be tiring by the end of the day.

The HHKB is an interesting subject. One would think the Fn layer would slow you down in terms of text navigation with the arrow and F keys, pg up, pg down, home and end keys. However, if you stick with it, it *can* actually be faster for text navigation because your fingers don't have to leave home row.

But the HHKB's form factor falls a tad short for me. I rely upon both Win keys, which is the mainstay for keyboard shortcuts in Win 8.1, and even more so in Win 10. The reason it falls short is because for the left Win key, I have to designate that as either a Win key OR a Fn key via a dip switch. If I designate it a Win key, I've got my keyboard shortcuts, but F6 - F12 are the a pain in the butt because you're actuating the Fn key with your right pinky finger. That's a big stretch to accomplish with your right hand. To designate the left Win key as a Fn key obviously solves the F key issue, but then keyboard shortcuts lose out as you're left with only one Win key, which is on the right of the spacebar. Some days I love it, others I can't stand it. It's a well build keyboard, but I'd have to say that the build quality isn't nearly as robust as RealForce. If the HHKB had a Fn *and* Win key on the left of Spacebar, I'd use it much more than I do.

If you mouse for most of the above, forget everything I just said regarding the HHKB.

If you plan to do a lot of writing, I'd suggest either the variable or 45g uniform 87U. Plain typing on the HHKB is a pleasure. And if the above mentioned issues I have with it are of no concern, you should consider it as well.

If I had to have just one keyboard, it would be the 87U variable. It's also my choice for FPS gaming. But if you end up like most of us anal Topre snobs, you'll have to have them all anyway. 

Good luck!

[sorijealut]

I have two 87Us in variable silent, an HHKB Pro 2 (non silent) and an 87U 55g. I like them all, but for different tasks.

The 55g has a nice snappy feel and is great for coding where you're typing in short bursts. More tactile than the other Topre switches. However, for extended typing sessions - as a writer would - it's a bit too heavy for me. I honestly don't feel much difference between the 45g switches and the variable, but the 55g is definitely different. You wouldn't think 10g would make that much of a difference, but it does for me. Your typing style with be the defining factor here. If you are a deliberate, aggressive typist, you will like the 55g. If you're a more relaxed typist, it will be tiring by the end of the day.

The HHKB is an interesting subject. One would think the Fn layer would slow you down in terms of text navigation with the arrow and F keys, pg up, pg down, home and end keys. However, if you stick with it, it *can* actually be faster for text navigation because your fingers don't have to leave home row.

But the HHKB's form factor falls a tad short for me. I rely upon both Win keys, which is the mainstay for keyboard shortcuts in Win 8.1, and even more so in Win 10. The reason it falls short is because for the left Win key, I have to designate that as either a Win key OR a Fn key via a dip switch. If I designate it a Win key, I've got my keyboard shortcuts, but F6 - F12 are the a pain in the butt because you're actuating the Fn key with your right pinky finger. That's a big stretch to accomplish with your right hand. To designate the left Win key as a Fn key obviously solves the F key issue, but then keyboard shortcuts lose out as you're left with only one Win key, which is on the right of the spacebar. Some days I love it, others I can't stand it. It's a well build keyboard, but I'd have to say that the build quality isn't nearly as robust as RealForce. If the HHKB had a Fn *and* Win key on the left of Spacebar, I'd use it much more than I do.

If you mouse for most of the above, forget everything I just said regarding the HHKB.

If you plan to do a lot of writing, I'd suggest either the variable or 45g uniform 87U. Plain typing on the HHKB is a pleasure. And if the above mentioned issues I have with it are of no concern, you should consider it as well.

If I had to have just one keyboard, it would be the 87U variable. It's also my choice for FPS gaming. But if you end up like most of us anal Topre snobs, you'll have to have them all anyway. 

Good luck!

I appreciate your write-up here about each one of the boards you tried out.
Never have I owned a switch with more that 45g actuation force as of yet - although I do own a switch tester so I have an idea.
I already own a great gaming keyboard, so I focused on improving my typing experience (MX reds aren't my ideal switches to type on, because while I average around 95 wpm, it is really mistake-prone).
This board will be used mainly for writing and other long sessions.

I went with HHKB in the end, because I enjoyed the simple design and I wanted to give this format a try.
Now, if it does turn out that the Pro 2 is too loud for public use, I'd probably look towards silencing methods or look towards the Type-S.
It all depends on how much I can enjoy this HHKB and its layout.
The Winkey situation is a possible concern, since I'm using Windows.

Sidenote,
I just saw EK has RF 23UB in stock again http://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=topre_keyboards,rf_numberpad&pid=rf_wc01b0
For any owners out there, is this a worthy purchase coupled to a small-form board? Can you even use it for mapping keys to help out with lack of arrow keys and such?

[sorijealut]

My HHKB is finally here!
Initial impressions: Exceeded my expectations greatly.

Right from the box, I was blown away from how small this box was. Think of a small rectangular bento box and an incredibly light one at that. So kawaii.

It was a lot more silent than I had imagined. The topre switch feedback is just perfect and makes me fearful if I can return to non-tactile MX reds with the same appreciation.
It�s addicting and a joy to type on. One thing I noticed was that what we hear as sounds of the board is not at all from the bottom-out, but the keycaps themselves making a bit of noise as you let go of the key (in its highest point).
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
One could even simulate the Type-S feel if you slow down you key presses and type softly without letting the key caps �ring�.

The typing experience: this keyboard made me realize I�m a pretty good touch typist after all (not to brag ).I have the blank version.  I just needed to set up some DIP switches, a peek at the diagram and I was all set for general use. It�s no office-work board, at least at first, because you have to be mindful of what you�re pressing sometimes to figure out which key would be where. Also some actions may require more keypresses.

So, that�s what I think after about an hour of use lol . I don�t think my impressions would change much after use though. This is one fine product.
I think a wrist rest would be great with this keyboard.
It�one of the best purchases I�ve made.

*typed from HHKB*

[Flyersfan1]

My HHKB is finally here!
Initial impressions: Exceeded my expectations greatly.

Right from the box, I was blown away from how small this box was. Think of a small rectangular bento box and an incredibly light one at that. So kawaii.

It was a lot more silent than I had imagined. The topre switch feedback is just perfect and makes me fearful if I can return to non-tactile MX reds with the same appreciation.
It�s addicting and a joy to type on. One thing I noticed was that what we hear as sounds of the board is not at all from the bottom-out, but the keycaps themselves making a bit of noise as you let go of the key (in its highest point).
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
One could even simulate the Type-S feel if you slow down you key presses and type softly without letting the key caps �ring�.

The typing experience: this keyboard made me realize I�m a pretty good touch typist after all (not to brag ).I have the blank version.  I just needed to set up some DIP switches, a peek at the diagram and I was all set for general use. It�s no office-work board, at least at first, because you have to be mindful of what you�re pressing sometimes to figure out which key would be where. Also some actions may require more keypresses.

So, that�s what I think after about an hour of use lol . I don�t think my impressions would change much after use though. This is one fine product.
I think a wrist rest would be great with this keyboard.
It�one of the best purchases I�ve made.

*typed from HHKB*

Welcome to the winning team.   

[sorijealut]

My HHKB is finally here!
Initial impressions: Exceeded my expectations greatly.

Right from the box, I was blown away from how small this box was. Think of a small rectangular bento box and an incredibly light one at that. So kawaii.

It was a lot more silent than I had imagined. The topre switch feedback is just perfect and makes me fearful if I can return to non-tactile MX reds with the same appreciation.
It�s addicting and a joy to type on. One thing I noticed was that what we hear as sounds of the board is not at all from the bottom-out, but the keycaps themselves making a bit of noise as you let go of the key (in its highest point).
I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.
One could even simulate the Type-S feel if you slow down you key presses and type softly without letting the key caps �ring�.

The typing experience: this keyboard made me realize I�m a pretty good touch typist after all (not to brag ).I have the blank version.  I just needed to set up some DIP switches, a peek at the diagram and I was all set for general use. It�s no office-work board, at least at first, because you have to be mindful of what you�re pressing sometimes to figure out which key would be where. Also some actions may require more keypresses.

So, that�s what I think after about an hour of use lol . I don�t think my impressions would change much after use though. This is one fine product.
I think a wrist rest would be great with this keyboard.
It�one of the best purchases I�ve made.

*typed from HHKB*

Welcome to the winning team.   

Thanks!! The GH advice was spot-on.

[spiceBar]

I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.

Nope. They don't wiggle less.

Inside the switch, there is a ring made of a soft material.

When you release the key, the upstroke "click" is dampened because now it's not plastic hitting on plastic. It's soft material hitting on plastic. The ring does only that: dampening the upstroke shock.

I have an HHKB Type-S and the upstroke is indeed less noisy. The sound is lower-pitched and with a lower volume. It's much better.

I have developed a method to silence Topre switches, using landing pads (they must be first slimmed down with a hot clothing iron). I have explained it here:
  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=65853.msg1540901#msg1540901

You can, if you want, turn your HHKB into a Type-S with this method.

[sorijealut]

I see what some of you guys meant by �Type-S has slightly tighter caps�. I�m guessing the caps are more silent as they wiggle less.

Nope. They don't wiggle less.

Inside the switch, there is a ring made of a soft material.

When you release the key, the upstroke "click" is dampened because now it's not plastic hitting on plastic. It's soft material hitting on plastic. The ring does only that: dampening the upstroke shock.

I have an HHKB Type-S and the upstroke is indeed less noisy. The sound is lower-pitched and with a lower volume. It's much better.

I have developed a method to silence Topre switches, using landing pads (they must be first slimmed down with a hot clothing iron). I have explained it here:
  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=65853.msg1540901#msg1540901

You can, if you want, turn your HHKB into a Type-S with this method.

Oh okay, so they're much of the same housing and everything just with a dampener.

Your guide is so helpful, thanks and I'll have to consider it as an option.
I may be interested in silencing it, or getting a silenced Type-S in the future, but for now it doesn't bother me much at all.

[Bucake]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

[sorijealut]

Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -

Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?

My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.

[Flyersfan1]

Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -

Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?

My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.

I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly.  If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK.  There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration.  I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.

[sorijealut]

Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -

Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?

My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.

I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly.  If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK.  There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration.  I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.

Thanks for that Flyersfan This is why I really want the PBT space bar IC to become reality. I may have to buy some scotch tape of the smooth kind since I don't have any at home at the moment.
I think some of my keys may require some lubing. My "perfect" enter key made me realize that my other keys are quite harsh. My left shift is also lubed very well though.

[Flyersfan1]

Guys, I had a few questions regarding HHKB -

Do you recommend putting tape on HHKB spacebar? Or does it affect the touch too much?

My enter key feels noticeably smooth and almost silent. There's less keycap ring too.
Did they lube this key better than others in production?

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I say you should go for it. I think silenced topres would sound very nice.
I've seen plenty of good recommendations for that board.

I admit I have used scotch tape on my topre spacebars as I have an irrational aversion to shiny keycaps, it felt a little awkward at first, but adjusted to it quickly.  If you have a black hhkb, I wouldn't even bother because you can buy replacements very cheap from EK.  There aren't any aftermarket replacements for white afaik, so you might want to take that into consideration.  I think all of the stabilizers do get greased at the factory, but often it's not enough and there is sometimes rattle present.(especially the spacebar), thankfully, the hhkb is easy to open and not as tedious to mod as a realforce is.

Thanks for that Flyersfan This is why I really want the PBT space bar IC to become reality. I may have to buy some scotch tape of the smooth kind since I don't have any at home at the moment.
I think some of my keys may require some lubing. My "perfect" enter key made me realize that my other keys are quite harsh. My left shift is also lubed very well though.

No problem! I know what you mean, the enter key on HHKB's feel, and sound like heaven, I wish all the stabilizer keys felt that way.   

[pesky brat]

Yea, I gotta say the feel of my HHKB is my favorite of all my boards. Glad you're happy with your choice! 

[sorijealut]

Yea, I gotta say the feel of my HHKB is my favorite of all my boards. Glad you're happy with your choice! 

fistbump 

[Sygaldry]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! 

[Macsmasher]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! 

Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.

[demik]

87u 55g, god switch.

hhkb, god layout.

hard to choose bruh.

[Sygaldry]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! 

Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.

It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.

[derb2k2]

This is what I get for hanging around GH.

HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my  life anyways..

[Sygaldry]

This is what I get for hanging around GH.

HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my  life anyways..

HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.

[derb2k2]

This is what I get for hanging around GH.

HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my  life anyways..

HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.

This doesn't help. It only speeds the process up. lol

[digi]

RealForce is for men (sturdy, manly, hairy)....HHKB is for girly-men like Demik. RealForce 55g = master race

[Keybatant]

Well, if I were forced to choose only one, I would go for HHKB type-s.
For me, 87u 55 is like "one trick pony", while delivery outstanding typing experience, is rather boring in long run sessions.
Don't get me wrong, is still great keyb, but just cannot win with mobility and "dancing-layout" of the hhkb (ok, I'll be honest, I'm missing FN+Arrow from Leo FC660c, I really do)
Of course different peeps have different needs, so what is fun for me,  can and will be meaningless for others.
At end of the day, is good to have choice though...

[Sygaldry]

This is what I get for hanging around GH.

HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my  life anyways..

HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.

This doesn't help. It only speeds the process up. lol

That's the point lmao.
On the bright side, HHKB is the end game keyboard for a lot of us.
For us, a better keyboard just doesn't exist.

[Sygaldry]

RealForce is for men (sturdy, manly, hairy)....HHKB is for girly-men like Demik. RealForce 55g = master race

What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?

This is what I get for hanging around GH.

HHKB will be my next purchase. I want Topre in my  life anyways..

HHKB is life. You won't just have Topre in your life, you will have... life... in your life.

This doesn't help. It only speeds the process up. lol

That's the point lmao.
On the bright side, HHKB is the end game keyboard for a lot of us.
For us, a better keyboard just doesn't exist.

[digi]

What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?

yes....well, you've just become Demik.

[Sygaldry]

What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?

yes....well, you've just become Demik.

 

[digi]

What if I have both? Does that make me a girly manly man?

yes....well, you've just become Demik.

Show Image

 ;D

=) huehue, noice.

[demik]

RealForce is for men (sturdy, manly, hairy)....HHKB is for girly-men like Demik. RealForce 55g = master race

damn it, i can't talk crap about the 55g because i love it also.

you win this round digi.

[Bucake]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! 

Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.

It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.

wow. lucky. so where can i steal it?

[Sygaldry]

i want a white Realforce 87U 55g Type-S so bad

I have a black RF87u 55g Type-S coming in the mail tomorrow! 

Explain. There are no 55g type-s 87Us. You must tell us where to got it.

It was modded by Bro Caps （55g uniform board with purple type-s sliders), sold to someone else, and now I'm the third owner.

wow. lucky. so where can i steal it?

Hop on a flight to Chicago, ill be waiting =)

[Macsmasher]

Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!



87U 55g in front, HHKB non-silenced, 87U variable silent in the back and a Realforce numpad on the right. That was about six months ago. Here's the HHKB now with some new keycaps...

[sorijealut]

Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!

(Attachment Link)

You guys make me so jelly and I want to purchase more Topre... Also, how big is that screen??

[Macsmasher]

Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!

(Attachment Link)

You guys make me so jelly and I want to purchase more Topre... Also, how big is that screen??

The primary is an HP ZR30w, IPS panel at 2560x1600. On each side of that is an HP ZR2440w, IPS panels at 1920x1200. One of the side displays runs in landscape, the other in portrait. All three are mounted on arms.

[sorijealut]

Aside from my leopard print G-string banana hammock, I consider myself a manly man!

(Attachment Link)

You guys make me so jelly and I want to purchase more Topre... Also, how big is that screen??

The primary is an HP ZR30w, IPS panel at 2560x1600. On each side of that is an HP ZR2440w, IPS panels at 1920x1200. One of the side displays runs in landscape, the other in portrait. All three are mounted on arms.

(Attachment Link)

Talk about working space...! Thanks, and those arm mounts look like pure joy.

[Macsmasher]

The monitor arms are one of the best work area purchases I have ever made. Frees up desk space below them, allows easy adjustment of all the displays (takes a few seconds to convert one of the side displays to landscape or portrait), and allows me to push them in or out to adjust focal length throughout the day. Easier on the eyes. And after work, if I want to recline with my feet up on my desk and game with keyboard on my lap, I just swing the side displays away and extend the primary out to the front of my desk over my legs hahaha. 

Sorry guys for getting off topic...

[Sencha]

Another vote for the 87u 55g. But really you should cut to the chase and buy both.

[sorijealut]

The monitor arms are one of the best work area purchases I have ever made. Frees up desk space below them, allows easy adjustment of all the displays (takes a few seconds to convert one of the side displays to landscape or portrait), and allows me to push them in or out to adjust focal length throughout the day. Easier on the eyes. And after work, if I want to recline with my feet up on my desk and game with keyboard on my lap, I just swing the side displays away and extend the primary out to the front of my desk over my legs hahaha. 

Sorry guys for getting off topic...

That sounds dreamy... If I ever get around to setting up a new desk, I'll have to look into the arm mount option. Thanks! (sorry for making you go off-topic lol!)

Another vote for the 87u 55g. But really you should cut to the chase and buy both.

Haha, seems like this is the only "right" answer around here. I'd better get a part-time for funding my keyboards 

edit: grammar