Happy Hacking Keyboard - Professional Hybrid

I find my laptop’s keyboard to be adequate, but I rarely enjoy using it for longer periods. While I was in Tokyo, I figured I’d check out a keyboard store for fun, and I saw this keyboard amongst a whole bunch of DIY kits.

Initial Thoughts #

I’ve owned the original HHKB (2?) in the past, so I’m familiar with its topre keyswitches and alternate key layout. I think these are best tried in person as they’re not for everyone.

The bluetooth feature of this HHKB is well worth it. The build quality, as usual, feels solid even though it’s not made out of metal. I shouldn’t have to update this review much.

The only downside I see so far is that compared to the original HHKB, the compartment for batteries (2x AA) adds some bulk.

I’m happy with this purchase. It’s good to be on Topre keyswitches again.

Update: 2 Months #

The HHKB has held up as a daily driver, although I have some notes.

The batteries seem to get used up faster than I expected; I’m already on my 3rd pair. After using the logitech k380 bluetooth keyboard, I got used to leaving mine always on… however the standby mode of the HHKB seems to use more energy.

From time to time (this has happened about 3 times so far), the bluetooth connection seems to degrade for no reason, adding a noticeable latency to keystrokes. It’s easily fixed by restarting the keyboard so it’s not really an issue.

Info #

I purchased this for JPY ¥36,000 (USD $244.94), at Yusha Kobo Keyboard Speciality Shop in Akihabara, Tokyo, on May 12, 2025.