Interview with Kazuya KJ Sugimasa,

Product Strategy Manager at PFU (EMEA).

How would you describe HHKB Studio in a few words?

The Ultimate All-in keyboard.

Why did you choose HUGE DESIGN, Inc. for the design of the HHKB Studio?

The PFU America product planning team, based in California, chose HUGE DESIGN, Inc. due to their strong reputation in innovative product design for the IT and home appliance sectors.

Who is the target audience for the HHKB Studio series?

The HHKB series has always been popular among programmers, but the HHKB Studio is designed to also cater to a broader audience, including front-end engineers, creators, and professionals working in image and video editing. Whether you are into coding, creative work, or simply seeking a high-performance input device, the HHKB Studio meets the needs of those who value customisation and ergonomic. The new "snow" colour option also caters to those who prefer white-coloured keyboards or need improved visibility.

Will there be a blank model of the HHKB Studio released?

While we do not plan to release a blank model as a regular product, optional blank keycaps will be available to purchase. Since HHKB Studio uses Cherry MX-compatible switches, customers also have the flexibility to customise with third-party switches and keytops*.

How well has the HHKB series sold?

As of April 2024, the HHKB series has sold over 700,000 units globally, establishing it as a top choice for ergonomic keyboards and high-performance input devices.

Why did you adopt mechanical switches in the HHKB Studio?

The decision to use mechanical switches was based on two key factors:

1. Customisability: By adopting Cherry MX-compatible switches, users can easily customise their key switches to suit their preferences.

2. Immersive Experience: To enhance the typing experience, we chose linear-type switches, which reduce noise during keystrokes. This is ideal for professionals who require a quieter and more immersive workspace. The Professional series will continue to use capacitive non-contact switches for those who prefer tactile feedback.

How many keys are there on the HHKB Studio?

The US Layout has 63 keys (60 main keys, 3 mouse keys).

The HHKB Studio keymap tool allows you to save multiple profiles. What prompted the addition of the ability to save multiple profiles?

The idea for saving profiles came before the charcoal model release, and it was further driven by customer feedback. This feature allows users to:

1. Easily share their customised keymaps.

2. Update and modify keymaps based on individual needs, providing a more tailored user experience.

Can keymaps saved with the keymap modification tool be shared between the HHKB Studio and the Professional series?

No, the keymaps saved for the HHKB Studio are exclusive to that model and cannot be shared with the Professional series. Each series uses a different configuration for keymap customisation.

What is the keyboard plate made of, and how does it impact the sound and feel?

The keyboard plate is made from SPCC steel, a material known for its durability and solid feel. This construction affects the overall typing experience, contributing to both the sound profile and feel of the keyboard, making it a premium choice for professionals.

Why didn’t use the electrostatic capacitive method for Studio?

For this model, we moved away from the electrostatic capacitive method to better focus on two factors:

1. Immersive Typing: With more front-end engineers and creatives engaging in sound-sensitive tasks like video editing and programming, we wanted to create a quieter, more immersive typing experience. The linear switches provide the low-noise performance required for these professionals.

2. Customisability: The HHKB Studio offers a more customisable keyboard experience with Cherry MX-compatible switches. The Professional series, on the other hand, will continue to use the capacitive non-contact method for those who prefer the tactile feel of the traditional design.

Can the mouse key switches be removed or replaced?

Yes, the mouse key switches are removable and replaceable, offering users even more flexibility to tailor their setup.

Which manufacturers’ key switches are compatible with the HHKB Studio?

The HHKB Studio is compatible with Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches. It supports 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing users to choose from a variety of options* to create their ideal typing experience.

Is the key printing identical to the Professional series?

Yes, the key legends are printed using the same high-quality sublimation printing technique as the Professional series, ensuring long-lasting clarity and durability.

Anything you would like to add to conclude this interview?

Whether you're a programmer, creative professional, or simply someone looking to upgrade your workspace, HHKB Studio offers the perfect balance of functionality and design. With features like mechanical switches, customizable keymaps, and a robust, quiet typing experience, the HHKB Studio is set to revolutionize the way you work.

* Please note that the use and installation of compatible switches and keytops are the responsibility of the customer.

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