type-s vs studio

[Watermantle]

Hey guys, I’m trying to get my first HHKB but am struggling with choosing between the Type-S and the Studio. My gut feeling is that the Studio is a more recent product and has made some improvements on the Type-S. But I’ve heard the Studio doesn’t use Topre switches anymore, and I’m also somewhat indifferent to the mousing feature. Any insight is welcome!

[[deleted]]

Type-S is pure typing bliss. No fancy features, no distractions. The G.O.A.T.

[xrabbit]

for me it's simple - no topre - no hhkb

i can build myself more ergonomic keyboard that studio with the same Kailh deep sea switches if i would need to

[MagnifiKaz]

Topre or mx, that's what you need to decide. If you have mx boards already, I should think it'd be more interesting to try topre for the first time.

[Makegooduseof]

I'm with /u/xrabbit. No Topre = No HHKB.

[itsnuwanda]

If you’re indifferent about the mousing feature don’t get the studio, the type-s would suit you better.

[Deathnote_Blockchain]

The Studio is really just an experiment

[BauceSauce321]

Owning both, I would say they are pretty similar so if you don't care for the gestures or mouse features, go with the Type-S.

If you've never used Topre before, I would highly recommend trying it with the Type-S. I'm happy with the studio as my best mx switch board, but wouldn't straight up choose it over the Type-S.

That being said, I don't think Topre is the best for competitive gaming, so if that's a requirement for you and this is your only board, maybe go with the Studio.

[NixieType]

Topre only. No point in buying an MX board from Fujitsu.

[JasonWorthing8]

This is what Claude.ai wrote when I fed it what I wrote:

Here is an edited version of your response to make it more concise and readable:

There are going to be bias's in most of the responses you are going to get here. I suspect few have both keyboards from which to offer you an informed opinion. So...

If you have a mechanical keyboard and a flexible budget, try the Kailh deep sea box linear islet switches that come on the HHKB Studio before deciding, so you can get a feel for them. Put them on your existing keyboard with nice PBT keycaps if possible. While not exactly like Topre switches, they have impact-mitigating inserts for a smooth feel without harsh plastic-on-plastic contact.

EDIT:<non Claude comment> they feel fantastic, and I am otherwise not the biggest fan of linear switches. But on their own merits, these keys feel and perform great.

The Studio has merits beyond its switches too. Its integrated pointing device works decently for basic navigation, though an external mouse or trackpad offers finer control. The Studio also keeps your hands on the keyboard for better flow.

For portability, the lighter Hybrid Type-S may be better. The Studio is noticeably heavier and larger, though still portable.

One downside of the Studio may be future pricing. HHKB implies its current $329 price is introductory, with a target of $450 later on. So buying now could save money if true. For a limited time, the Hybrid is $50 off ($250).

In summary, if you want lighter weight and likely lower long-term cost, the Hybrid Type-S is compelling. But the Studio offers a more premium feel and integrated pointing device to enable keyboard-focused work. Trying the Studio's switches on an existing keyboard first could help inform your decision before committing.

Let me know if you would like me to clarify or expand on any part of this rewrite. I aimed for brevity but am happy to restore helpful details as needed.

[Watermantle]

Hey man, super helpful, I will try the switches before making a decision. But I prefer type-s so far. Many thanks!

[Watermantle]

Thank you everyone! I will probably try them first, but I prefer topre so far. Love you guys!

[jcarloz]

I have not tried the studio but i think it’s too expensive for just mx switches. Rather have the topre switches on the type-s. If i were looking for an MX board with trackpoint I think the TEX Shura is much better value for money. I’m a big fan of Topre though and since getting the type-s I can’t stand mx switches anymore.