The Happy Hacking Keyboard (HHKB) is a popular and highly regarded mechanical keyboard designed for programmers and enthusiasts. It was originally developed by Japanese computer engineer Eiiti Wada and later refined by PFU Limited, a subsidiary of Fujitsu.

The HHKB is known for its minimalist design and compact layout. It features a reduced key count compared to standard keyboards, eliminating the dedicated function row, arrow keys, and the numeric keypad. Despite its small size, the HHKB provides a comfortable and efficient typing experience.

One of the distinctive aspects of the HHKB is its unique key layout. It utilizes a modified version of the traditional Japanese layout, known as the "Happy Hacking" layout. This layout aims to optimize typing ergonomics by placing frequently used keys within easy reach of the fingers. The Control (Ctrl) key is positioned where the Caps Lock key is typically found, emphasizing its importance in programming tasks.

The HHKB also uses Topre switches, a type of electrostatic capacitive switch that combines elements of both mechanical and rubber dome keyboards. Topre switches are known for their smooth keystrokes, tactile feedback, and quiet operation. They provide a comfortable typing experience while maintaining accuracy and responsiveness.

Established: 1996

Founder: Eiiti Wada

Website: https://happyhackingkb.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PFUHHKB/

View on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/HHKB-Hacking-Keyboard-Professional-Hybrid/dp/B083MS1ZWL

Filco is a well-known brand of mechanical keyboards that is highly regarded by keyboard enthusiasts. The brand is owned by Diatec Corporation, a Japanese company that specializes in computer peripherals. Filco keyboards are known for their high build quality, durability, and excellent typing experience.

Filco keyboards typically use Cherry MX switches, which are widely recognized as some of the best mechanical switches available. These switches offer a range of options, including tactile, linear, and clicky variants, allowing users to choose the switch type that best suits their preferences.

One of the standout features of Filco keyboards is their sturdy construction. They are built with a heavy-duty steel plate and a robust chassis, resulting in a solid and stable typing experience. The keycaps on Filco keyboards are typically made from high-quality materials, such as ABS or PBT plastic, which ensures durability and resistance to wear.

Filco keyboards have gained a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting, making them a popular choice among professionals, gamers, and keyboard enthusiasts. Their focus on quality and performance has contributed to their popularity in the mechanical keyboard community.

Established: 1998
Founder: Diatec Corporation
Website: https://www.diatec.co.jp
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FILCO.KB.kobo/
View on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/FILCO-Majestouch-Convertible-Bluetooth-Mechanical/dp/B0BQV7XJDY

Realforce keyboards are highly regarded for their unique switches, known as Topre switches. These switches combine elements of both mechanical and rubber dome keyboards, resulting in a unique and satisfying typing experience. Topre switches are praised for their smooth keystrokes, tactile feedback, and quiet operation. They provide a balance of comfort, accuracy, and responsiveness.

Realforce keyboards are available in various sizes and configurations, including full-size, tenkeyless (TKL), and compact layouts. They typically feature a traditional keyboard design with a standard key layout, including a function row, arrow keys, and a numeric keypad.

Realforce keyboards are known for their high build quality and attention to detail. They often feature robust construction, with a sturdy chassis and high-quality keycaps made from materials such as PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) plastic. The keyboards are designed to be durable and long-lasting, ensuring a reliable typing experience over time.

Realforce keyboards have gained a dedicated following among professionals, writers, programmers, and keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate the superior typing feel and quality offered by the brand. The combination of Topre switches and meticulous craftsmanship has made Realforce keyboards sought after in the mechanical keyboard community.

Established: 2001

Founder: Topre Corporation

Website: https://www.realforce.co.jp/en/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/topre.realforce/

View on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/REALFORCE-Keyboard-Hybrid-Japanese-Layout/dp/B09HWRX4J9