See what’s kept keyboard enthusiasts coming back to HHKB for decades
At HHKB, we’re proud to be a part of the mechanical keyboard community — and to have earned spots on the desks of keyboard hobbyists with very high standards. But whether you’re just getting started or already have strong opinions about things like mechanical keyboard stabilizers, you may be wondering what inspires such passion about HHKB in particular.
We could tell you about all the features that make our products a long-time favorite for keyboard enthusiasts. But since we wouldn’t be here without the mechanical keyboard community, maybe it’s a better idea to let the members speak for themselves.
The unique layout: HHKB's 60% design
The first thing many keyboard enthusiasts notice about HHKB is its unique layout. For starters, it’s a 60% keyboard, which means it combines some less-used keys to measure about 40% smaller than a full-size keyboard. Beyond being easier to fit on your desk, the HHKB layout also repositions several keys for easier and more efficient use.
Programming YouTuber ManyLearn ended up loving the HHKB layout so much he brought it to his other boards, too: “It’s very comfortable… Having delete [one row lower] feels fantastic, you have to move your hand less to delete… I’ve already mapped all my other keyboards to have the delete keys and the pipe keys swapped around because it’s that good.”
Watch ManyLearn’s video to see what else he loves about his HHKB Professional HYBRID.
Topre switches: Why they stand out
Topre switches have been one of the defining characteristics of HHKB keyboards for years. Their unique construction allows for unparalleled precision as well as a uniquely satisfying sound and feel. For many members of the mechanical keyboard community, the quest for the perfect “thock” ends with Topres.
Tech reviewer Brandon Taylor felt the love soon after switching from standard MX-style switches: "I gave this about a week of use and... wow. It's a completely different experience. It's a very pleasant switch. ... Very, very smooth."
Watch Brandon’s full review to see what else he thought.
Did You Know?:Our line of accessories helps you get even more from your favorite board. Find keycaps, cases, and more on the official HHKB shop.
Minimalist aesthetics: High-end appeal for keyboard purists
Inside you are two keyboard hobbyists: one who wants a flashy design with RGB keys and over-the-top legends, and one who wants something that looks like it was made for those who type to live.
Content creator and software engineer Mayuko Inoue was quickly impressed by her HHKB’s look and feel: “I feel like I’ve never used a keyboard like this before… But I think the Topre switches, how simple and light and easy it is, the color and the look and feel of it — you’re not going to find something else like this out there.”
Watch Mayuko’s video review to learn more.
Build quality: Keyboards made to work better, longer
Professor Eiiti Wada, who helped create the HHKB layout, once said that a computer user should be able to keep a quality keyboard with them throughout the years — the way a cowboy keeps the same saddle even if he changes horses. That ethos helped inspire the quality design, parts, and manufacturing that goes into each HHKB keyboard.
The mechanical keyboard community has taken notice, as PC tech review channel Badseed Tech notes: “I really feel like you get what you pay for here… I love typing on this board more than any other board I own, and that’s a lot of keyboards at this point. If I’m working at a different desk, I will go get this keyboard and bring it to wherever I’m working. The quality is solid, the feel and sound is superb, and the Bluetooth is bulletproof.”
Watch BadSeed Tech’s full review to see what else he thought.
Modding and customization: Make HHKB your own
The mechanical keyboard community loves customization, from layouts to keycaps to switches and beyond. If you’re looking for an HHKB keyboard that gives you the most options to tweak it to your preference, HHKB Studio is ready to be your next masterpiece.
Tech content creator Sam Pak was impressed by all the customization options possible for an HHKB Studio: “This is an MX-style keyboard, it’s not Topre. You have a hot-swap PCB that you can use three or five-pin switches for this keyboard… And I think the gesture controls are a great feature and can map tons of different things.”
Watch Sam’s video review for even more impressions.
Did You Know?: Learn more about a proud member of the mechanical keyboard community in our spotlight post on pro freelance writer Furry Wrist Abroad.
Find your favorite HHKB
Ready to see what all the excitement is about? Try HHKB Professional HYBRID for the classic experience updated with modern, wireless connectivity. Its Topre key switches offer an unparalleled typing feel while its compact and understated design fits in at home, the office, and on the go. And if you want those same elements in a super quiet experience, try out the HHKB HYBRID Type-S.
Want to put your own mark on the HHKB legacy? Try HHKB Studio, which combines the classic layout with hot-swappable switches, an integrated mouse via a central pointing stick and dedicated mouse buttons, as well as innovative gesture pads you can customize to suit your workflow.
Find your new daily driver keyboard today.
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