HHKB Pro 2 for programming

JayDee_

548 Posts

December 03 2011 22:11 GMT

I've been programming a lot lately and decided it is time to fully enter the matrix with a top of the line nerd keyboard. I want the get the HHKB Pro 2, but I have some questions.

-Is it difficult to use the arrow keys? I use the arrow keys a lot while programming.

-Are you slowed down by having to "chord" keys together?

-Should I wuss out and buy a Leopold TKL cherry red instead?

Note: The high price tag of the HHKB Pro 2 is not an issue. I am willing to pay extra for an efficient/reliable keyboard.

Hashbaz

United States340 Posts

December 03 2011 22:29 GMT

My advice is to try a variety of switches and find out what works best for you. There's nothing wussy about choosing a Leopold over a HHKB. The HHKB has an elite aura surrounding it, but it's just the price tag and marketing hype. There's no single objectively best keyboard for programming or any other task. When it comes to layouts and feel, it's all about what you like and what you don't.

A lot of people love Topre switches and the HHKB layout. Others find the layout pointlessly restrictive and the switches cheap feeling. It sounds like you've got the money, so go for it and see what you think. There are a couple for sale on geekhack.org right now, and you can always resell it there (or on other keyboard forums) if you don't like it.

I used to have a Poker keyboard (which has a similar layout to the HHKB). After I got used to the layout I didn't find it restrictive for programming at all, even with the chorded arrow keys. On the other hand, I'm typing on a Leopold with red switches right now, and I love it too. I use it every day for programming and general typing. I also love Topre switches (and I actually have a Realforce coming in the mail next week).

If you're on geekhack, I have a Cherry switch tester numpad making the rounds that you can sign up for here. It includes red switches.

JayDee_

548 Posts

December 03 2011 22:50 GMT

It seems like the arrow key issue might be hard to get use to, but I guess it's worth a shot. Thanks for the good advice!

nakor

Canada19 Posts

December 04 2011 00:05 GMT

here's no single objectively best keyboard for programming or any other task. When it comes to layouts and feel, it's all about what you like and what you don't.

Seconded. I'm a full-time programmer and I use microsoft ergonomic keyboard 7000 both at work and at home. Personally, I go for comfort because that's the most important thing when you're coding 8 hours a day, everyday.

DJFaqU

466 Posts

December 04 2011 00:15 GMT

I can't take something that calls itself a happy hacking keyboard but doesn't have a numpad seriously.

I suggest coming to a conclusion on which switches you prefer and then getting a full-sized keyboard with those.

JayDee_

548 Posts

December 04 2011 04:53 GMT

On December 04 2011 09:15 DJFaqU wrote:
I can't take something that calls itself a happy hacking keyboard but doesn't have a numpad seriously.

I suggest coming to a conclusion on which switches you prefer and then getting a full-sized keyboard with those.

The switches/feel are supposedly what make the HHKB so great. A separate numpad is always an option for times when you need to write a lot of numbers.

HolidayNova

Australia1 Post

December 17 2011 16:22 GMT

I have used all these keyboards.. the hhkb.. I can't get used not having the arrows. I'm logging into unix all the time at work.. copy and pasting commands and scrips.. I need the arrow keys.. I need to highlight stuff etc... HHKB alhough I'm still trying to use it.. is so frustrating. The key feel is excellent, I don't have the realforce yet.. but I tried it out here in Japan and it's got the best of keyboard layout and Topre feel

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