Keyboards are available in various forms and dimensions, and should you have participated in this pastime for a significant duration, you've likely encountered HHKB. The Happy Hacking collection holds legendary status within the circle, incorporating Topre switches and space-saving designs. Even if you're not a professional or enthusiast, there's a lot of value to be had in these, and the flagship model, HHKB Professional Hybrid Type-S is available for only $219 right now.
The Professional Hybrid Type-S gets its name from two distinct features: 'Hybrid' because it has Bluetooth, and 'Type-S' because it has silent Topre switches. Both of these are upgrades that combine to form the modern flagship in the HHKB lineup — one that usually sells for close to $300. Naturally, many keyboards offer wireless connections nowadays, so it's actually the switches that are unique.
Topre switches feature a rubber dome with a capacitive sensor at the bottom of the housing, and there's a spring in between. Upon depressing a key, the spring shortens, granting a more standard travel like an MX or Kailh-style switch, but it remains a rubber dome, so it has a cushioned feel. Bottoming out rewards you with the tactility of hitting the sensor and activating the switch. It's a satisfying and consistent loop.
Other than that, the layout is 60%, but it's a bit changed to accommodate programmers working in Unix/Linux environments. The Control key is swapped for Command, and the Backspace key says Delete instead. But, of course, all of it can be customized via software, and you can make your own keymaps that are stored on-device.
There are intuitive DIP (dual in-line) switches at the rear of the board that let you adjust settings like these on the fly, too. The build quality is excellent despite being plastic, and the white colorway looks very clean. The integrated feet provide two levels of height modification, and no internal rechargeable battery is included — it utilizes 2x AA batteries, which should last for as long as 3 months!
In our review of this keyboard, we called it very niche and expensive, and while that's still true, the discount certainly makes it look a lot more appealing. Regrettably, a USB cord doesn't come inside the package (because it's promoting Bluetooth so extensively), and the Topre switches might not appeal to all if you're familiar with current factory-lubed switches. Yet, if you're searching for something distinctive, elegant, and sturdy, the HHKB Professional Hybrid Type-S at just $219 is an excellent bargain.
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