2022-06-04

HHKB

HHKB logo

In 1996 the Japanese computer scientist Eiiti Wada designed Happy Hacking Keyboard, a minimalistic keyboard with 60 keys. It is produced in Japan by PFU Limited, a subsidiary of Fujitsu.

HHKB photo

https://hhkeyboard.us

The keyboard design is inspired by the keyboard of the first Macintosh 128k: no function keys and cursor keys, Control instead of CapsLock.

This does not mean that you cannot control the cursor, press F2, or change the volume — these functions are performed by the existing keys with held down Fn key.

HHKB Layout

The current generation HHKB Professional Series can either connect via USB Type-C or Bluetooth, runs on two AA batteries, and remembers up to four devices.

What makes the HHKB different from most mechanical keyboards is the Topre’s electrostatic capacitive switches. They detect key presses using a spring located directly on the circuit board rather than passing a current through them. The spring allows the keys to return to their original position faster, they don’t rattle as much, and they sound different.

Topre switch

Topre switch Force Diagram

If the lack of arrow keys seems wild, look at the Leopold FC660C.