Talk me out (or in) to an HHKB pro2

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

Hey gang,

As the title says, I'm strongly considering getting an HHKB pro 2. Currently I'm using both a Poker2 with clears (which I love!) and a Model M with BS switches (which I also love!). With my day, job I type A LOT. From what I understand, the topre switches are ideal for those who type more than game and I'm ready to give them a try. I really like the form factor of the 60% which is why I was drawn to the HHKB, although I have also been considering a Realforce 87 with 55g switches as having dedicated arrow keys would be nice. However I think having the smaller HHKB is more appealing to me over the TKL Realforce.

Pros of HHKB:
-smaller form factor.
-visually more appealing IMO
-slightly easier on the wallet
-function layer looks appealing 

Pros of Realforce 87:
-dedicated arrow cluster and F-layer
-option for 55g switches (worth it?)
-although limited, more options for keysets(??)

I'm hoping some HHKB and Realforce users could help with insight on the following:
1. how comparable the 44g topre switches are to BS or mx-clear?
2. Is it worth it to get the Realforce for 55g switches? How easy is it to modify the HHKB to 55g?
3. Construction of the HHKB - is the HHKB sturdy? It looks a bit light although I could judging poorly.
4. Construction of the Realforce - Looks heavier/sturdier than the HHKB, amirite?
5. Where to buy either HHKB or Realforce?
     - Any experiences with amazon for HHKB? I have prime which would help with shipping costs. (http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Hacking-Keyboard-Professional2-Black/dp/B000EXZ0VC)

All input is appreciated, thank you!

[demik]

just do it punk.

finally do something that will make your parents proud.

HHKB MOST OP KEYBOARD EVER. IT CREATES PEACE EVERYWHERE IT GOES. IT TURNS CHERRY PEASANTS INTO THE MASTER RACE.

[FLFisherman]

just do it punk

demik didn't specify, but I think he means "go with the HHKB."

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

[Rad]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

It wouldn't be an HHKB anymore.

[demik]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

couldn't tell you. i love 55g, but i think what makes it great is the metal plate. i have no idea how it feels on the hhkb's case mounted plastic.

[MJ45]

The only way to tell which is best is get both.

[Hypersphere]

You could check out my review describing my "conversion" to HHKB:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=48804.0

Since that time, my favorite board is still the HHKB, but modified by installing Silencing Rings and lubing the stabilizers and switch rails with SuperLube 51010 oil.

My next-favorite boards are the RF87UB55, RF87UB45, V60MTS-C, and IBM XT (Model F).

The RF boards sound and feel more solid than the HHKB. The RFs have plate-mounted switches, whereas the HHKB has case-mounted switches. The RF seems more refined, but the HHKB is more fun.

I've also modded an HHKB by installing 55g domes, but I tend to prefer the standard 45g domes.

Overall, I prefer the 60% form factor to larger boards, and I prefer the HHKB layout to any other. When I use other boards, I remap them to something as close as possible to the HHKB layout.

Another nice thing about either the HHKB or the RF is the keycaps. Not only do they look and feel good, but they are highly functional. They are designed to form a unified functional unit with the switch. This is quite different with Cherry mx switches, for example, where different keycap sets can make a major difference in the sound and feel of the board because of differences in thickness, weight, and dimensions -- such as the relative length of the stem and skirt of the cap.

Having said all this, it comes down to your preferences. You will have to check out the RF and HHKB boards for yourself.

You can buy RF and HHKB from Elitekeyboards.com. They can also be found on Amazon and eBay, and sometimes through keyboard forums such as Geekhack or Deskthority.

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

It wouldn't be an HHKB anymore.

Fair enough  )

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

couldn't tell you. i love 55g, but i think what makes it great is the metal plate. i have no idea how it feels on the hhkb's case mounted plastic.

Gotcha. What's your opinion of the plate-mounted versus case-mounted when it comes to Topre?

[demik]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

It wouldn't be an HHKB anymore.

Fair enough  )

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

couldn't tell you. i love 55g, but i think what makes it great is the metal plate. i have no idea how it feels on the hhkb's case mounted plastic.

Gotcha. What's your opinion of the plate-mounted versus case-mounted when it comes to Topre?

55g RF = godly switch

45g RF = too light

45g HHKB = feels heavier than 45g RF, but not heavy enough for me. and not as smooth as either RF switch. though photek says lubing it makes it perfect. but im not too sure on opening up a 300+ dorrah keyboard

[clacktalk]

1. not comparable. t is a better rubber membrane
2. not worth harvesting 45g to 55g. this is one of the many preference questions that has no absolute ans
3. light and sturdy. definite positive if you want to be mobile
4. rf is much sturdier. has a metal plate, therefore heavier feeling
5. buy used if you can. if you want new and don't live in california, choose between amazon and ek

b t w , i don't like 55g personally bc i use a lot of force when i downstroke, so when the dome cup thing pops inward, my finger slams into the pcb and it eventually hurts. i can tolerate 45g

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

You could check out my review describing my "conversion" to HHKB:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=48804.0

Since that time, my favorite board is still the HHKB, but modified by installing Silencing Rings and lubing the stabilizers and switch rails with SuperLube 51010 oil.

My next-favorite boards are the RF87UB55, RF87UB45, V60MTS-C, and IBM XT (Model F).

The RF boards sound and feel more solid than the HHKB. The RFs have plate-mounted switches, whereas the HHKB has case-mounted switches. The RF seems more refined, but the HHKB is more fun.

I've also modded an HHKB by installing 55g domes, but I tend to prefer the standard 45g domes.

Overall, I prefer the 60% form factor to larger boards, and I prefer the HHKB layout to any other. When I use other boards, I remap them to something as close as possible to the HHKB layout.

Another nice thing about either the HHKB or the RF is the keycaps. Not only do they look and feel good, but they are highly functional. They are designed to form a unified functional unit with the switch. This is quite different with Cherry mx switches, for example, where different keycap sets can make a major difference in the sound and feel of the board because of differences in thickness, weight, and dimensions -- such as the relative length of the stem and skirt of the cap.

Having said all this, it comes down to your preferences. You will have to check out the RF and HHKB boards for yourself.

You can buy RF and HHKB from Elitekeyboards.com. They can also be found on Amazon and eBay, and sometimes through keyboard forums such as Geekhack or Deskthority.

What a great write-up, thank you! If I may ask, what is it about the 45g HHKB that you preferred over the 55g swap? It seems to be a trend that people prefer Realforce 55g > HHKB 45g > HHKB 55g >> Realforce 45g.

[rowdy]

1. Clears are slightly heavier than BS, both are much heavier than HHKB.  I like heavier switches, but keep coming back to my HHKB.

2. Get both - use them separately.  Otherwise you'd have to get both and destroy a 55g RealForce to salvage 55g domes to rape your HHKB.

3. HHKB is reasonably sturdy, but not bulletproof.  Some say it slides around a lot as it is so light - put a sheet of folded drawer liner under it, or stick some rubber feet to stop it sliding.

[cookie]

Depends on how picky you are with the typing expirience?

The thing with Topre is that the hype is insane, the board could not satisfy your expectations first but then you will use it anyway because you have burned so much money on it. Then it may slowly grow to you and you will then see how superior it is when you type on a cherry board again.

These are all maybes, I personally was totally sold to my HHKB and after silencing it... just superior cup rubber!

You should consider buying a Type-S, after years of typing on a silenced HHKB I don't like the stock feel anymore.


Rowdy is right, the stock feet are crap, therefore I've made my own out of a old mousepad. The HHKB feels rock solid now:

[bocahgundul]

HHKB. I'm sorry man


yeah 55g realforce sux 55g hhkb are sux too


yes they are the most sturdiest small board that I've ever own and yes realforce might seem to be a lot sturdier but are u going to kill people with your keyboard?


you can buy them from elitekeyboard.com 

[sacramentoplaya]

Depends on how picky you are with the typing expirience?

The thing with Topre is that the hype is insane, the board could not satisfy your expectations first but then you will use it anyway because you have burned so much money on it. Then it may slowly grow to you and you will then see how superior it is when you type on a cherry board again.

These are all maybes, I personally was totally sold to my HHKB and after silencing it... just superior cup rubber!

You should consider buying a Type-S, after years of typing on a silenced HHKB I don't like the stock feel anymore.


Rowdy is right, the stock feet are crap, therefore I've made my own out of a old mousepad. The HHKB feels rock solid now:

Show Image

This is brilliant. 

Topre really saves your fingers.  My hands start hurting after five minutes on a laptop, but you can go for days and only get stronger like the freaking Hulk on a HHKB2.  Plus, the small size makes it easy to type with on your lap, something I highly recommend for long typing sessions or competitions.

[LiquidEvilGaming]

I own both...and initially i was like...forget this i want to use my RF 87U 55G more...but i found myself switching back to the HHKB constantly due to the easy to use layout (once you are used to it) and the 45G switches are more comfortable over long periods of usage.  Plus the removable cable is a huge hugeee win in my book personally when combined with a right angle mini USB adapter.  Honestly i'm probably going to buy a second HHKB soon either a white one or a Type-S.

TLDR: initially i didn't like the HHKB thought i wasted my money...fast forward now i prefer it over my RF.

P.S i highly recommend the SLIM glorious wrist rest it's perfectly height oriented still fairly stiff and more comfortable than any wood wrist rest i have used.  The PFU official blue esc/red control keycaps look great also and helped me learn the placement of control over being used to caps lock real quick.  Also the right angle mini USB adapter makes cable routing easy since the board has none by default (one of my only real complaints about it)

[sacramentoplaya]

(Attachment Link)

I own both...and initially i was like...forget this i want to use my RF 87U 55G more...but i found myself switching back to the HHKB constantly due to the easy to use layout (once you are used to it) and the 45G switches are more comfortable over long periods of usage.  Plus the removable cable is a huge hugeee win in my book personally when combined with a right angle mini USB adapter.  Honestly i'm probably going to buy a second HHKB soon either a white one or a Type-S.

TLDR: initially i didn't like the HHKB thought i wasted my money...fast forward now i prefer it over my RF.

P.S i highly recommend the SLIM glorious wrist rest it's perfectly height oriented still fairly stiff and more comfortable than any wood wrist rest i have used.  The PFU official blue esc/red control keycaps look great also and helped me learn the placement of control over being used to caps lock real quick.  Also the right angle mini USB adapter makes cable routing easy since the board has none by default (one of my only real complaints about it)

Your wrist rest looks nice, but try it on your lap for a week or so.  Speed, accuracy, and comfort galore.  It's even quieter, too.

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

1. Clears are slightly heavier than BS, both are much heavier than HHKB.  I like heavier switches, but keep coming back to my HHKB.

2. Get both - use them separately.  Otherwise you'd have to get both and destroy a 55g RealForce to salvage 55g domes to rape your HHKB.

3. HHKB is reasonably sturdy, but not bulletproof.  Some say it slides around a lot as it is so light - put a sheet of folded drawer liner under it, or stick some rubber feet to stop it sliding.

Thanks Rowdy for the info!

I also like heavier switches which is the main reason I keep debating the 55g Realforce versus the 45g HHKB. It sounds like the majority of folks who enjoy heavier switches still thoroughly enjoy the 45g HHKB.

So there is no way of purchasing the 55g domes separately to modify the HHKB? One would have to harvest the domes from the Realforce huh?

It's great that you mentioned the HHKB sliding around - this has crossed my mind on a few occasions when looking into the HHKB. Again thanks for the info!

[grav3serker]

You could check out my review describing my "conversion" to HHKB:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=48804.0

Since that time, my favorite board is still the HHKB, but modified by installing Silencing Rings and lubing the stabilizers and switch rails with SuperLube 51010 oil.

My next-favorite boards are the RF87UB55, RF87UB45, V60MTS-C, and IBM XT (Model F).

The RF boards sound and feel more solid than the HHKB. The RFs have plate-mounted switches, whereas the HHKB has case-mounted switches. The RF seems more refined, but the HHKB is more fun.

I've also modded an HHKB by installing 55g domes, but I tend to prefer the standard 45g domes.

Overall, I prefer the 60% form factor to larger boards, and I prefer the HHKB layout to any other. When I use other boards, I remap them to something as close as possible to the HHKB layout.

Another nice thing about either the HHKB or the RF is the keycaps. Not only do they look and feel good, but they are highly functional. They are designed to form a unified functional unit with the switch. This is quite different with Cherry mx switches, for example, where different keycap sets can make a major difference in the sound and feel of the board because of differences in thickness, weight, and dimensions -- such as the relative length of the stem and skirt of the cap.

Having said all this, it comes down to your preferences. You will have to check out the RF and HHKB boards for yourself.

You can buy RF and HHKB from Elitekeyboards.com. They can also be found on Amazon and eBay, and sometimes through keyboard forums such as Geekhack or Deskthority.

How much lube is needed for a full board? I want to do this.

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

Depends on how picky you are with the typing expirience?

The thing with Topre is that the hype is insane, the board could not satisfy your expectations first but then you will use it anyway because you have burned so much money on it. Then it may slowly grow to you and you will then see how superior it is when you type on a cherry board again.

These are all maybes, I personally was totally sold to my HHKB and after silencing it... just superior cup rubber!

You should consider buying a Type-S, after years of typing on a silenced HHKB I don't like the stock feel anymore.


Rowdy is right, the stock feet are crap, therefore I've made my own out of a old mousepad. The HHKB feels rock solid now:

Show Image

This is an excellent idea! If you don't mind me asking, how did you adhere the mousepad to the underside of the HHKB? That looks like a fix to the sliding issue.

I've also though about the type-S instead of the stock HHKB, although I don't think I would mind the additional sound coming from the stock board. In your experience, does the feel of the switches change much between the stock and type-S HHKB?

[cookie]

I have applied the pads with double side Tape. It sticks quite well to the board. But I had to sand down the plastic bimple and fill the stock spaces for the rubber feet to get an even surface.

I have never owned a Type-S they are slightly modified so that there isn't reduced travel with the pads inside. My silenced Boards feel lighter but they still have a nice, noticable resistance before the dome compresses. I use 0,5 mm thick foam.

[Pesky_Human]

I absolutely love my HHKB Pro 2. It is a joy to type on, and the quality is superb. I have not had the opportunity to use a RF 55g keyboard, and I get the feeling that I would like the 55g switches, but the HHKB Topres are really awesome.

[LiquidEvilGaming]

I absolutely love my HHKB Pro 2. It is a joy to type on, and the quality is superb. I have not had the opportunity to use a RF 55g keyboard, and I get the feeling that I would like the 55g switches, but the HHKB Topres are really awesome.

The 55G switches absolutely emphasize that topre feeling and sound...however personally i find they get tiring after extended usage for typing.   

[xtrafrood]

Depends on how picky you are with the typing expirience?

The thing with Topre is that the hype is insane, the board could not satisfy your expectations first but then you will use it anyway because you have burned so much money on it. Then it may slowly grow to you and you will then see how superior it is when you type on a cherry board again.

These are all maybes, I personally was totally sold to my HHKB and after silencing it... just superior cup rubber!

You should consider buying a Type-S, after years of typing on a silenced HHKB I don't like the stock feel anymore.


Rowdy is right, the stock feet are crap, therefore I've made my own out of a old mousepad. The HHKB feels rock solid now:

Show Image

That looks surprisingly good imo

[rowdy]

1. Clears are slightly heavier than BS, both are much heavier than HHKB.  I like heavier switches, but keep coming back to my HHKB.

2. Get both - use them separately.  Otherwise you'd have to get both and destroy a 55g RealForce to salvage 55g domes to rape your HHKB.

3. HHKB is reasonably sturdy, but not bulletproof.  Some say it slides around a lot as it is so light - put a sheet of folded drawer liner under it, or stick some rubber feet to stop it sliding.

Thanks Rowdy for the info!

I also like heavier switches which is the main reason I keep debating the 55g Realforce versus the 45g HHKB. It sounds like the majority of folks who enjoy heavier switches still thoroughly enjoy the 45g HHKB.

So there is no way of purchasing the 55g domes separately to modify the HHKB? One would have to harvest the domes from the Realforce huh?

It's great that you mentioned the HHKB sliding around - this has crossed my mind on a few occasions when looking into the HHKB. Again thanks for the info!

People ask every now and again about buying just Topre domes, but no source has been uncovered yet.

Most just buy a 55g RealForce, put the 55g domes in their HHKB and swap the 45g domes back into the RealForce, then sell a semi-variable RealForce.

[AverageHybrid]

1. How comparable the 44g topre switches are to BS or mx-clear?
2. Is it worth it to get the Realforce for 55g switches? How easy is it to modify the HHKB to 55g?
3. Construction of the HHKB - is the HHKB sturdy? It looks a bit light although I could judging poorly.
4. Construction of the Realforce - Looks heavier/sturdier than the HHKB, amirite?
5. Where to buy either HHKB or Realforce?

Many people have already replied to this thread but I think I'm gonna drop my two cents too. To answer your questions directly:
1. Switch weighting is really subjective, you would assume the smartest thing to do is to go with the heavier switch (55g Topre) since you like heavier MX swtiches too but some people don't really like going to a 55g Topre and prefer something lighter for Topre while there are also others which just straight out find the 45g too light and mushy. In your case I would go with 55g for the safer option.
2.Of course the Realforce is worth it, just like the HHKB too. The thing I can say is don't go for the 45g Realforce sold on EK since I personally tried it and found 45g plate mounted switches too light and doesn't produce a nice sound. So it's either 45g HHKB or 55g Realforce, or in the future you can mod a HHKB to 55g which IMO sounds the best. It wouldn't be that difficult, just needs more of concentration to line everything up correctly(the domes).
3. Not gonna lie the HHKB is definitely light, no, not feather light or light like a toy but just the right weight. I can't speak for both of the build but they're the best as it gets.
5. Buying the HHKB or Realforce really depends on where you live. Look for either Amazon or Elitekeyboards. Recently I've discovered SmartImports which is really great too.

Yea so overall I think if you're used to the heavier switches you should go with the 55g Realforce and maybe in the future if you're adventurous enough you can expand from there. Like most people here would say, if you get it and don't like it, the resale value is pretty good and I'm sure you can sell it away and try another board.

[biocalves]

I don't mean to take this offtopic but figured people chiming in here may have the best answers.

Is there a large difference between the HHKB and the FC660C other than form factor and layout?

Just wanted people's opinions regarding the pros and cons if you compared the two. Thanks!

[LiquidEvilGaming]

I don't mean to take this offtopic but figured people chiming in here may have the best answers.

Is there a large difference between the HHKB and the FC660C other than form factor and layout?

Just wanted people's opinions regarding the pros and cons if you compared the two. Thanks!

Besides the form factor and layout you already mentioned there is one other major difference.

the FC660c uses plate mounted 45G topre and the HHKB uses case mounted 45G Topre it makes a large difference both in feeling and sound profile (and weight of the overall keyboard)  Personally i vastly prefer the 45G feeling on the case mounting of the HHKB to 45g plate mounted and the HHKB is way way way lighter making it easier to travel with or move around.

[biocalves]

I don't mean to take this offtopic but figured people chiming in here may have the best answers.

Is there a large difference between the HHKB and the FC660C other than form factor and layout?

Just wanted people's opinions regarding the pros and cons if you compared the two. Thanks!

Besides the form factor and layout you already mentioned there is one other major difference.

the FC660c uses plate mounted 45G topre and the HHKB uses case mounted 45G Topre it makes a large difference both in feeling and sound profile (and weight of the overall keyboard)  Personally i vastly prefer the 45G feeling on the case mounting of the HHKB to 45g plate mounted and the HHKB is way way way lighter making it easier to travel with or move around.

Ah ok, I didn't know about the two being mounted differently. If you had to how would you explain how they feel differently?

[LiquidEvilGaming]

I don't mean to take this offtopic but figured people chiming in here may have the best answers.

Is there a large difference between the HHKB and the FC660C other than form factor and layout?

Just wanted people's opinions regarding the pros and cons if you compared the two. Thanks!

Besides the form factor and layout you already mentioned there is one other major difference.

the FC660c uses plate mounted 45G topre and the HHKB uses case mounted 45G Topre it makes a large difference both in feeling and sound profile (and weight of the overall keyboard)  Personally i vastly prefer the 45G feeling on the case mounting of the HHKB to 45g plate mounted and the HHKB is way way way lighter making it easier to travel with or move around.

Ah ok, I didn't know about the two being mounted differently. If you had to how would you explain how they feel differently?

Keep in mind this is purely subjective and some may agree or disagree with me as such.  But the plate mounting on the 45G has a slightly mushier feeling to it when bottoming out IMO and it deadens the thock sound of Topre that is so iconic.  the HHKB being case mounted i feel the crisp snap a bit more with the plastic than i do the plate mounting, the Thock sound also seems to "echo?" making it sound a little deeper and more pleasant.  The case mounting also has a little more "Give" to it so if you bottom out hard it feels a little less harsh on the bottom out (Though even plate mounted Topre feels worlds better to bottom out on than cherry).

Best i can describe it based upon my own subjective views having tried both.

[ander]

You type for a living, right? So keyboards are tax-deductible. Order both of those suckers. Everyone knows that different coding languages require different types of keyboards.  :?)

[iLLucionist]

I'd say order both. The way I see it:

HHKB: great layout, but case mounted 45g

Topre: great 55g plate mounted, but layout

Ideally, I would have a plate-mounted 55g Topre in HHKB-layout. Once that comes out, TAKE MY MONEY.

For the rest, the only cherry switch I REALLY like beside Topre, are Clears.

[callmejag]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

Yes. 100x yes. 45g in the HHKB was way too light for me. But...that's me.

[bocahgundul]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

Yes. 100x yes. 45g in the HHKB was way too light for me. But...that's me.

No JUST NO

55g feels too mushy on hhkb

Virgin hhkb best hhkb

[LiquidEvilGaming]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

Yes. 100x yes. 45g in the HHKB was way too light for me. But...that's me.

No JUST NO

55g feels too mushy on hhkb

Virgin hhkb best hhkb

While i have no tried a 55G dome in a HHKB yet i had owned a 55G RF 87U and while the switch did have slightly more snap to it i personally felt they became too fatiguing over long usage and ended up selling it just recently.  The case mounted 45G have just the right feel and sound to them that is divine to me personally.

[appleonama]

just buy the one that looks cooler  )
I'd go with the realforce 55g to be honest but thats only because I use the windows key and caps lock.

[bocahgundul]

just do it punk

What do you think about modifying the HHKB to 55g? Worth it?

Yes. 100x yes. 45g in the HHKB was way too light for me. But...that's me.

No JUST NO

55g feels too mushy on hhkb

Virgin hhkb best hhkb

While i have no tried a 55G dome in a HHKB yet i had owned a 55G RF 87U and while the switch did have slightly more snap to it i personally felt they became too fatiguing over long usage and ended up selling it just recently.  The case mounted 45G have just the right feel and sound to them that is divine to me personally.

Yes tru hhkb is perfect

[thatsmrdoctortoyou]

just buy the one that looks cooler  )
I'd go with the realforce 55g to be honest but thats only because I use the windows key and caps lock.

Show Image

Show Image

Great looking topres you have there! Honestly I never use the caps lock key whereas the control I use all the dang time, hence why I'm leaning toward the HHKB. Just curious, what program requires that you use caps frequently and repetitiously enough to require the caps lock key versus shift? I've noticed that many folks absolutely have to have a caps lock key on their board, whereas others (like myself) never use it.

[lootbag]

I say try the HHKB if you want to adjust to the layout, which does not really take very long.
Been using mine for 6 years now.

There is also the hasu TMK alternate controller for the HHKB, which basically turns it into a fully programmable keyboard and bluetooth connectivity.
Had this for about a year and it is great.

I did have a quick stunt with a Realforce 87U 55g for a couple weeks but eventually sold it, did not really have a need for it.
Preferred the HHKB layout and 45g switches.

[LiquidEvilGaming]

just buy the one that looks cooler  )
I'd go with the realforce 55g to be honest but thats only because I use the windows key and caps lock.

Show Image

Show Image

Great looking topres you have there! Honestly I never use the caps lock key whereas the control I use all the dang time, hence why I'm leaning toward the HHKB. Just curious, what program requires that you use caps frequently and repetitiously enough to require the caps lock key versus shift? I've noticed that many folks absolutely have to have a caps lock key on their board, whereas others (like myself) never use it.

Some people find it faster to use for any sort of capital letter than using shift.  IE pressing shift at the same time as another button feels like playing keyboard twister versus keeping your finger moving and just tapping another button on and than off fluidly.  It's actually a tip also given by the (or maybe now just one of) the words fastest typists Sean Wrona http://seanwrona.com/typing.php .

That having been said i use the HHKB and personally even though i prefer using the caps lock key i have adjusted to the HHKB in two ways.

First i used stick keys to treat the left shift to a very similar like caps lock....once i was used to using the shift button enough and retrained myself i disabled sticky keys and now i can just do it the normal way with no real issues (well still slightly slower but i'm getting more used to it on a daily basis).

I can't speak for everyone of course but this is my own personal reason for preferring having a caps lock key on a keyboard. 

[iLLucionist]

I say try the HHKB if you want to adjust to the layout, which does not really take very long.
Been using mine for 6 years now.

There is also the hasu TMK alternate controller for the HHKB, which basically turns it into a fully programmable keyboard and bluetooth connectivity.
Had this for about a year and it is great.

I did have a quick stunt with a Realforce 87U 55g for a couple weeks but eventually sold it, did not really have a need for it.
Preferred the HHKB layout and 45g switches.

Bluetooth connectivity for realz?

Personally, I like the feel of 55g plate mountend topre more but I keep coming back for the HHKB layout.