What keyboard made you stop using your HHKB?

[SpAmRaY]

For me it was the RS96.

Or if you haven't stopped using the HHKB what keyboard would it take to make you change?

Maybe the new Leopold FC980?

[yomammary]

The RF 87u 55g

[jerue]

only keyboard that could do it for me is my 360 corsa

[dgneo]

At home, 87u 55g.

Otherwise, it's HHKB 100% of the time. Also, the addition of RF Purple Sliders has actually made me want to use my HHKB more. 

[xondat]

I stopped using my HHKB JP and started using my HHKB BT.

I'd like to hope my custom will become partners with my BT though.

[chyros]

So basically, a different layout? xD

[Moistgun]

...

[Bucake]

been using the RF87U for a while now. such a nice keyboard :-)
though i think the weighting will push me back to the hhkb sooner or later. though i wish there were ~50g domes because 45g feels slightly too light (and 55g slightly too heavy)

[czarek]

Believe it or not but before this keyboard I was using HHKB Pro silenced, black case, white keycaps, red escape, classic color scheme. As awesome as it was when I got a keyboard for my wife and decided to test drive it for a while it grew on me so much I'm still using it after almost a month.

It's RF 104UBS. Full size, variable, silenced, black (or rather dark grey, same color as HHKB). Yep, numpad has many more uses than simply numeric entry (although that's useful too). I use it for mouse keys, and for macros, depending on num lock and scroll lock state. Dedicated function keys are also godsend when working in Visual Studio, but are useful in Vim and tmux too.

Layout aside, the feel of a real topre keyboard is just on a different level than a plasticky HHKB. There is no rattle, no clacking, just very luxurious solidity.
I'm a touch typist so I have fallen in love with a variable force. It helped my right hand ring finger and pinky a lot. I don't feel those fingers any more even after long day of work (I mean 12-14 hours easily).

Really impressed so far. Everything is absolutely perfect about this keyboard. The only mod I did to it was replacing a space bar with a PBT one to further improve sound and feel of typing.

BTW. I also have 55g RF 87UB, but it's mostly sitting in a box now as it's just too hard work pressing those keys.

Here's a photo of my Topre family:

[Hypersphere]

I've logged more time on my HHKB than on any other keyboard in my collection. It embodies a near-perfect combination of keyboard elements, including a 60% form factor, switches with excellent tactility, dye-sub PBT keycaps that form an integrated functional unit with the Topre switches, and of course the HHKB layout, which is without a doubt the best configuration I have ever tried. The HHKB is even better after installing Silencing Rings and lubing the switch rails and stabilzers with Superlube 51010.

Nevertheless, despite my overall satisfaction with the HHKB, lately I have been very happily using my refurbished Northgate Omnikey 101. My refurbishing consisted of opening the switches, sonicating the top housings and sliders, washing the springs and contact leaves in 70% (v/v) isopropyl alcohol, lubing the slider rails and contact leaf side of the sliders, painting the top case matte black, swapping the mods and spacebar with blank black ABS caps from Matias, and swapping the Esc, F5-F8, Nav island, and the keys surrounding the NumPad number keys with Tai-Hao BOW doubleshot ABS. The other caps are the stock doubleshots, but cleaned.

After acclimating to 60% boards, I thought I would never revert to a full-size keyboard, but the Northgate is such a joy to type on that it has changed my mind. The sound and feel of the switches is like a hybrid between the best aspects of Topre and IBM Model F. And although I have it remapped to a HHKB-like layout, I enjoy looking at the full array of keys and being able to choose among various options for accomplishing the same task.

The silenced and lubed HHKB is still my overall favorite, but the refurbished Northgate has moved into my rotation as my second favorite board.

It will be interesting to see what happens when my new F62 arrives.

[Tangtawan]

HHKB is good, but not enough. I left it in my closet for the past 4 months, now using IBM Model F AT as a daily driver- and its still not my end game. Even though the keyboard is completely perfect, I still have the urge to try out and buy new ones or try out new switches.. i guess my end game does not exist.

[chyros]

HHKB is good, but not enough. I left it in my closet for the past 4 months, now using IBM Model F AT as a daily driver- and its still not my end game. Even though the keyboard is completely perfect, I still have the urge to try out and buy new ones or try out new switches.. i guess my end game does not exist.

It probably means you're a collector .

[Hypersphere]

It is like the US Declaration of Independence. Our ancestors were wise to the ways of human nature in stating that one of the unalienable rights was the pursuit of happiness rather than happiness itself. So it is with keyboards -- we pursue the end game but never quite achieve it. Like Keats' "Ode on a Grecian Urn", he might well ask of us enthusiasts today, "What mad pursuit?"

[Tactile]

It's a tough call, really. I bounce back & forth between my 55 gram Realforce and the HHKB.

The funniest thing is that I just bought a Type S - used, in like new condition - really a marvelous keyboard. It was connected to the computer for about 24 hours and I put it back in the box and on the shelf. It's got a really luxurious feel - but I get that with the Realforce. It has the HHKB size/layout - but I have a HHKB. And it's nearly thock-less. It's like throwing a blanket over a HHKB and typing on it. It has a great typing feel, it just doesn't feel like a HHKB. So getting me to stop using that HHKB was pretty easy. Now I have to decide what to do with it.

[ReverbSlush]

I've been on my HHKB for several years now and I'm just starting to look at other switches.  It's been a little disappointing so far.

I've tried cherry MX clears and Gateron Blues.  Both just don't do it for me.  I'm not fond of the blues mainly due to the varmilo "ping" happening on a VA87MR.  Honestly though, my main problem is the layout. The CTRL and especially the delete/backspace have become the norm for me.

Is there a TKL or full size out there that has the HHKB layout for backspace? That would be nifty.

[xondat]

So basically, a different layout? xD

 )

I hate the arrow/shift cluster on that, so yeah.

[Hypersphere]

@ReverbSlush: To swap Backslash and Backspace on a standard-layout keyboard, you could use a Hasu USB-USB converter or use key remapping software. If you don't mind using a Cherry mx keyboard with Cherry stabilizers, the Kul ES-87 has a DIP switch setting for swapping Backspace and Backslash.

[ReverbSlush]

thanks @hypersphere!  I'm going to check these out.  I'd rather not keymap if I can help it (work machines) so maybe the Hasu tool will be of use.

[rowdy]

The RF 87u 55g

I'd say possibly this, although I do like the HHKB sound and size.

[yomammary]

The RF 87u 55g

I'd say possibly this, although I do like the HHKB sound and size.

I'm a sysadmin, I tried the HHKB for 6 months and really tried to make it work.
Maybe I could get one at home... I kind of miss it sometimes.

[exitfire401]

My Kingsaver. I haven't had a second thought about Topre since it was built...until I saw the 980c...I'm very tempted to pick one up for work as my Kingsaver won't be leaving my desk at home.

[rowdy]

The RF 87u 55g

I'd say possibly this, although I do like the HHKB sound and size.

I'm a sysadmin, I tried the HHKB for 6 months and really tried to make it work.
Maybe I could get one at home... I kind of miss it sometimes.

I use mine on a Mac where I don't use function keys much, and use Ctrl sequences to navigate mostly.

[orpheo]

I am really new to this whole MK thing but there is something classic about HHKB. I know I use an unusual one being the Pro JP, but everything about it, I love it. The compact size, the small space bar (hehe I know, I actually love this feature!), the plastic case is a plus, because I travel with it, I bring it at work everyday and back at home. It's sturdy, it's not a closet queen, the thing is just perfect for what it is... 60% in Topre form.

Now what would make me change is simple (or not) :
A keyboard with Topre, sized at 60% (WITH Arrow cluster), and Cherry MX stems!
The novatouch is not doing it, it cannot replace HHKB. But one day someone will release this and it's going to kill!
I know there are people lucky enough that have acquired the MX stems modding their Topre switches but I cannot get my hands on that.
Modding is fun, but it's never ending game! I prefer stock KB and be done. For example, my RF in ISO FR is just love. I am in Heaven. But I will mod my HHKB with blanks because PFU doesn't make any ISO FR!
Let's say that the real HHKB killer would be a 60% realforce with arrow cluster. I just love the RF keycaps. I don't understand when people say they are the same. For me the texture on the RF is just so good compared to the slippy HHKB PBT... 

[orpheo]

@Czarek : I should soon received a Falbatech wooden ergodox anytime soon now ? Thanks again man!

Another board that would make me stop using my HHKB pro JP, is a pro JP with full firmware access! Oh wait I already ordered that Hasu custom controller!

[clacktalk]

typing on my hhkb made me stop using my hhkb

[SpAmRaY]

typing on my hhkb made me stop using my hhkb

Best answer so far.

[cheebs]

ES-87.  TKL was the layout of my first mechanical, now I've come back full-circle and am using it again.

[ndakota79]

I just love the RF keycaps. I don't understand when people say they are the same. For me the texture on the RF is just so good compared to the slippy HHKB PBT...

People are even saying they're literally the same. Whats right now?

[Moistgun]

I dont see why you would have one, and stop using it.

I just dont.

[Fictiouz]

Was more so switches rather than a specific board for me. I love me my Zealio switches. But I do love my B.face and RS96.

[Hypersphere]

I've never stopped using my HHKB, but I rotate among various other boards with different types of switches -- this mainly serves to remind me of how much more I prefer the HHKB over all others. Even when using other keyboards, I usually remap them to something as close as I can get to the HHKB layout.

Recently, I have had fun exploring the world of Alps switches, and I particularly like my newly refurbished Northgate Omnikey 101 with SKCM white Alps. However, it is full-size rather than 60%, not intrinsically mapped like the HHKB, and the stock board is not endowed with dye-sub PBT keycaps. As much as i enjoy the white Alps switches, it is like a breath of fresh air when I return to the elegant simplicity of the HHKB.

[typo]

Deck Legend Frost Clear. Watched it being built. Sadly no longer made. The new Deck's have nothing to do with TG3 other than them marketing them. I find the DSA profile actually allows me to type faster with less fatigue. Many find just the opposite though. The Realforce uniform full height is my second choice. Not a big fan of Tenkeyless anyways but it is the same thing essentially.

I just wanted to edit this. Most people complain about DSA., Most Korean customs are DSA. It provides less fatigue and more WPM as I mentioned. Also once it was said here that the Legend is on par with most Koran customs in build quality. Those are the Two reasons i love this board. Switches are lubed,stock springs and no stickers. This or a Korean custom with lubed clears are my ideal boards. Seeing as this was only $245 professionally built as I watched and got a custom keycap as a bonus for touring the facility it was obviously the better value of the Two. It has a PBT space bar as well.  Normally they did not. If anyone wants one I would not be afraid to buy a used one as it is nearly bullet proof.

55G on Topre is not enough for me. I think clears may actually be the stiffest MX spring when you factor they hit 100+G at the end of their travel. Others have higher uniform pressure but not that high. Maybe super blacks. Also, Clears are a premium upcharge on any Korean custom. I beat this thing for years as my daily driver when it put the Topre in a drawer and it looks brand new. I know I am not talking about HHKB but Topre is the same thing. So these are the reasons it displaced it. Plus their service is second to none. They do not service the new models as they are built in china.  Some may find the key caps funky. They are solid. Very thick stem and the "skirt" is an entirely separate piece fused together at 525 degrees F. Not exactly double shot per se but extremely robust. he tops that you actually touch are inverted Dyesubed. Allowing the light to shine through very uniformly. 

Did i say i love this board? I do apologize that I drool over it and have to always mention it at every opportunity. You asked what replaced the topre I just kind of elaborated a little too much. Sorry, my bad.

[mseaworthy]

I've been on my HHKB for several years now and I'm just starting to look at other switches.  It's been a little disappointing so far.

I've tried cherry MX clears and Gateron Blues.  Both just don't do it for me.  I'm not fond of the blues mainly due to the varmilo "ping" happening on a VA87MR.  Honestly though, my main problem is the layout. The CTRL and especially the delete/backspace have become the norm for me.

Is there a TKL or full size out there that has the HHKB layout for backspace? That would be nifty.

Funny…I’ve have had a very similar experience. I had an HHKB and added Hypersphere’s silencing rings and for months thought it was simply the best typing experience to be had (but also love Alps switches). Curious about 55 grams, I tried the RF87U55 and loved the added crisp rebound.
After months of enjoyment, the RealForce seems too compliant. I got another HHKB and was planning to add the silencing rings (fabulous if you're after a compliant feel). But the clop and thock of the plastic on plastic is such a wonderful and raw contrast with the RealForce. I think I’ll leave it (other than having already added PBT spacebar).

[mseaworthy]

It is like the US Declaration of Independence. Our ancestors were wise to the ways of human nature in stating that one of the unalienable rights was the pursuit of happiness rather than happiness itself. So it is with keyboards -- we pursue the end game but never quite achieve it. Like Keats' "Ode on a Grecian Urn", he might well ask of us enthusiasts today, "What mad pursuit?"

Wordsworth's The World is too Much With Us: "Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers"...on keyboards

[tjcaustin]

Considering the tweaks I've done to mine, I'm not sure anything will every dethrone the HHKB I went to way back in the halcyon days of just after the first Keycon.  The new ultra modern f62 got close and may still when I finally see a production version in a couple months, but yeah, nothing else has held my fingers' attention.  Not even the alps 60% with complicated whites.

/shrug

[Dyaems]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

[keyladding]

How is the small spacebar?

[Puddsy]

How is the small spacebar?

i ****ing love small spacebar layouts, i used a minila exclusively for a long time (until i sold it, but i'll probably buy one again soon)

~~

the thing that got me to get rid of my HHKB was my realforce

i also still use my filco with reds nearly daily

[Dyaems]

How is the small spacebar?

I do not have problems with it. I quite like it better than the standard sized as I almost always press the same spot on the spacebar.

[PollandAkuma]

This thread seems more like "How you go Dopre and never come back" 

Or "How I have both mechanical switches and rubber domes and I have no money"

[Fictiouz]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

[PollandAkuma]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

[Fictiouz]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

Well ****, looks like I will be hunting down a HHKB Pro JP.. that layout is so good.

[PollandAkuma]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

Good luck!

(i'm saying that to your wallet)

By the way I saw a hipro JP HHKB from commandlinedesign, and it looks RAD. I think Kumquat/MKlovin also has a Hipro JP. JP hipro JP looks supa rad!



I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

Well ****, looks like I will be hunting down a HHKB Pro JP.. that layout is so good.

[Dyaems]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

oh, it works? I thought it only works from non-JP HHKBs.

[PollandAkuma]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

 
I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

oh, it works? I thought it only works from non-JP HHKBs.

[Tactile]

I stopped using my HHKB Pro JP for a while whenever there is a newly aquired keyboard. It goes on from a few days, upto a few months then uses back my HHKB again.

is there a hasu controller that works with Pro JP?

I think the original intention of the Hasu controller is to be able to program the JP HHKB, so yes.

oh, it works? I thought it only works from non-JP HHKBs.

In Hasu's TMK source code for the HHKB there are source files for the HHKB JP, both USB & bluetooth, so I'd guess that means his controller works with the JP keyboard.