[ch_123]

HHKB fan here. When using macOS or Linux, I basically never use the function keys, and I find the arrow key shortcuts pleasant to use because they do not require me to move my hands from the home row. Another factor is that I use vim (and VScode with vim bindings) so I use the arrow keys less than usual. Add to that the high build quality, light weight, high quality switches which are not too loud for an office environment, and they are one of my favourite keyboard designs.

I will say that under Windows, or when playing games, the layout becomes problematic... but I use another keyboard for gaming anyway. As always, YMMV.

[ndiddy]

One thing I like about the newer HHKB keyboards is that they're remappable, which somewhat addresses the Windows shortcomings. The remap tool is only officially supported on the more expensive wireless keyboard, but it works on the wired Classic model by editing the "KeyboardDatalist.json" file in the install directory and replacing all instances of "false" with "true". I mapped Fn+HJKL to the arrow keys, Fn+F to PgDn, Fn+B to PgUp, Fn+N to Home, and Fn+M to End.

[jwells89]

I’m in this boat too, although I don’t use VIM. On macOS where mnemonic key shortcuts are the norm, function key usage is low enough that them being layered isn’t an issue, and layered arrows are actually nice than dedicated once you’re used to them.

I have a few boards with the HHKB layout, only a couple of which are HHKBs. For me the layout is nearly perfect, just wish I could have it in my laptops too.