Syed Imran Haider 
The Happy Hacking Keyboard has proven to be one of the most innovative keyboards to be introduced in the last three decades. The new HHKB Studio comes with two differences; first, it does not have the signature Topre switches. Secondly, it comes with a trackpoint. Most importantly, it also comes with a high price tag for a mechanical keyboard.
Design
The HHKB Studio is undoubtedly a well-built device, made completely of plastic. It weighs 840g and is quite thick, will very little deck flex. The keyboard looks quite mean, thanks to its two-tone silver and black colorway. It is all-Black on top and the PBT keycaps come with black legends. There are no other colors available. The device has a 60% layout, which might come off as surprising to those who have not used the HHKB layout before.
It was developed with Japanese firm PFU Corporation and Eliti Wada, a computer scientist, designed the layout. The Control Key on the keyboard is where the Caps Lock key usually is. Likewise, the space between Enter and Backspace key is also reduced and the Function key is also a step above its usual placement on a keyboard. The key placement is quite sensible, which makes it easy to use the HHKB keyboard. It may take some time to adjust if you are using the layout for the first time.
As far as the keycaps are concerned, they feel great due to the thick PBT construction. The Trackpoint is not usually seen on mechanical keyboards, but it has been included here to help in moving the cursor more precisely without requiring a mouse. There is a USB-C port on the back for wired connectivity and there is also an on/off switch. The battery compartment is at the bottom, along with DIP switches. You can also raise the angle of the keyboard with the two-stage feet.
Performance
The HHKB studio has opted to forgo the Topre switches in favor of silent Kalih linear switches. The keypress is consistently smooth and the 45g actuation force is on the light side. They are quiet and solid switches, which make them a great option to use in busy environments. The keyboard has excellent acoustics, thanks to these switches because the sound is muted and smooth.
You also have the option of changing the switches in case you do not like them. The keyboard boasts compatibility with 3-pin and 5-pin switch mounting, so you have lots of options to choose from. The layout itself is very comfortable in terms of usage and you can also enjoy convenience with the dedicated mouse buttons. You can simultaneously connect 4 devices via Bluetooth, or use the USB-C cable included.
Software
The HHKB Studio Keymap Tool is the software that comes with the keyboard for adding functions to dedicated keys and remapping keys. It is a lightweight and slick software that you will have no trouble using. But, you have to plug in the keyboard to use the software. There is no backlighting and this can be a bit disappointing.
The Verdict
The HHKB Studio is a fantastic mechanical keyboard that has amazing acoustics and a great layout. If you are looking for a unique device, you cannot go wrong with the HHKB Studio
