Three major brands of keyboards made in Japan

Growing interest in keyboards made in Japan

Design-wise, keyboards made in Japan pursue a simple yet functional aesthetic. With sophisticated design, compact shapes, and the use of high-quality materials, these keyboards balance beauty and practicality. Additionally, layouts and key arrays optimized for Japanese input are significant attractions of these products, highlighting Japan’s unique features.

Thus, through their history and evolution, keyboards made in Japan have developed unique characteristics and technologies, transcending mere input tools to become artistic works of technology and design.

Features and Appeal of keyboards made in Japan

keyboards made in Japan are highly regarded globally for their distinctive design, exceptional quality, and unique functionality.

Aesthetics of Design

keyboards made in Japan are characterized by their simple and refined designs. Influenced by minimalism, they maximize comfort and functionality while avoiding unnecessary decoration. Their compact size and stylish appearance add a sophisticated touch to office spaces and home desktops.

Quality

Japan’s manufacturing industry is globally recognized for its precision and high quality, and keyboard manufacturing is no exception. Durable materials, meticulous assembly processes, and thorough quality control ensure that these keyboards maintain performance even under stringent usage conditions. Moreover, their intricate internal mechanisms provide a superior typing experience alongside durability.

Unique Features

keyboards made in Japan are equipped with various functions to meet specific needs. For example, they offer customizability in key layouts and switch types to provide different operational feelings, catering to user preferences and applications.

Comfortable Typing Experience

keyboards made in Japan place significant emphasis on comfort during typing. Smooth keystrokes with appropriate resistance make for a fatigue-resistant design even during prolonged use. Additionally, the keys produce a subdued sound, making them suitable for use in workplaces and public areas.

Durability

keyboards made in Japan are also highly valued for their durability. They are constructed robustly to withstand long-term use and made from high-quality materials that minimize degradation over time.

In these ways, keyboards made in Japan excel in design, quality, functionality, comfort, and durability. These attributes elevate Japanese keyboards from mere input devices to sophisticated tools that meet user needs.

PFU / HHKB

History and Overview of PFU Ltd.

PFU Ltd. is one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of high-quality keyboards. Founded in 1960, the company has been a pioneer in the field of information and communication technology for many years. PFU is particularly well-known for its high-performance “Happy Hacking Keyboard (HHKB)” series. The company’s products are especially popular among programmers and computer enthusiasts, known for their sophisticated design and exceptional performance.

Happy Hacking Keyboard Microsite | PFU https://happyhackingkb.com/

Features of PFU Products

PFU keyboards are renowned for their unique design and high quality. The HHKB series, in particular, is known for its compact yet user-friendly design, featuring a minimalistic key layout that eliminates unnecessary elements. These keyboards are lightweight and portable, made with materials that offer superior durability. Moreover, PFU keyboards are highly customizable, allowing users to modify key layouts and keycaps according to their preferences.

Top 3 Recommended Products from PFU

HHKB Professional HYBRID Type-S($320-350)

The premium model with silencing rings and Bluetooth connectivity

Features: The HHKB Professional HYBRID Type-S represents the flagship model in the HHKB lineup. It features Topre’s electrostatic capacitive switches with silencing rings that significantly reduce typing noise while maintaining the distinctive tactile feel. This model supports Bluetooth connectivity for up to four devices, allowing seamless switching between your computer, tablet, and smartphone. With two AA batteries, it delivers approximately three months of wireless use. The Type-S offers a uniquely smooth and refined typing experience that reduces fatigue during extended coding sessions or writing tasks. The dedicated “Happy Hacking Keyboard Keymap Tool” lets users customize key mappings to match their workflow. This keyboard is the ultimate choice for professionals seeking the finest typing experience available.

Price: $320-350

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HHKB Professional HYBRID($270-300)

Wireless functionality with the classic HHKB typing sound

Features: The HHKB Professional HYBRID combines the classic HHKB design with modern Bluetooth connectivity. Like the Type-S, it can connect to up to four devices wirelessly while also supporting USB-C wired connection. This model utilizes the same Topre electrostatic capacitive switches but without the silencing rings, resulting in a more pronounced and satisfying “clicky” sound during typing. The 45g actuation force provides the perfect balance between tactile feedback and finger comfort, making it highly regarded among programmers and writers who type for extended periods. With a battery life of approximately three months, it’s an excellent companion for mobile work. The HYBRID maintains the iconic 60% layout with its thoughtfully positioned keys for maximum efficiency.

Price: $270-300

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HHKB Professional Classic($220-250)

The traditional wired experience that stays true to the original design

Features: The HHKB Professional Classic honors the legacy that began with the original HHKB in 1996, focusing on traditional design and core functionality. This wired-only model (USB Type-C) delivers the pure HHKB experience with Topre’s renowned electrostatic capacitive switches and the ergonomic 60% layout that has influenced countless keyboard designs since its introduction. The Classic supports basic layout modifications through DIP switches and works instantly across various environments without requiring drivers. It’s the ideal choice for purists and minimalists who value a distraction-free typing experience without unnecessary bells and whistles. The exceptional durability of this keyboard means it’s not uncommon for users to continue using their HHKB for well over a decade, making it a worthwhile long-term investment for serious typists.

Price: $220-250

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Topre / REALFORCE

History and Overview of Topre Corporation

Topre Corporation is one of the key players in Japan’s keyboard market. Founded in 1935, the company initially began with manufacturing plastic molding products. Later, in response to technological innovation and market demand, Topre entered the keyboard manufacturing industry. The company is particularly known for its “Realforce” brand of keyboards, which have gained widespread support from many users due to their high-quality construction and unique typing experience.

REALFORCE | Premium Keyboard, PBT, Capacitive Key Switch https://www.realforce.co.jp/en/

Features of Topre Products

Topre keyboards are distinguished by their high durability and unique keystroke feel. The Realforce series from Topre utilizes a unique capacitive non-contact method, delivering a smooth keystroke experience unlike other keyboards. Additionally, the keystroke sound is quiet, making them suitable for office environments and quiet places. Design-wise, their simple and sophisticated appearance is well-received by many users.

Top 3 Recommended Products from Topre

Realforce R3($280-330)

• Latest flagship with variable actuation point technology
• Sleek design with improved keycap quality
• Adjustable activation points (1.5mm, 2.2mm, 3.0mm)

The Realforce R3 keyboard stands out for its innovative features and exceptional customization options. One of its main attractions is the APC (Actuation Point Changer) function, which allows users to adjust the activation depth of each key switch to 0.8mm, 1.5mm, 2.2mm, or 3.0mm. This feature enables customization for various needs, from fast typing and gaming to settings that reduce typing errors​​​​.

The keyboard employs a capacitive non-contact switch mechanism, enhancing reliability and durability without physical contact of key switch electrodes​​. It also supports wireless connectivity, allowing multi-pairing with up to four devices, including Windows PCs, smartphones, and tablets​​.

Customization extends to its design, with optional colored panels and panel design kits for personalizing the keyboard’s appearance​​. Users can choose from three key weights (45g, variable, 30g), catering to individual preferences and daily usage​​.

The Realforce R3 features Topre’s unique silent switches, significantly reducing keystroke noise, making it suitable for quiet environments and during remote meetings​​. Additionally, it supports full n-key rollover and simultaneous key presses, ensuring accurate input even during fast typing​​.

Comprehensive software support includes adjustment of the APC function, panel sheet printing, heatmap, keymap replacement, and more, enhancing the overall user experience​​.

In summary, the Realforce R3 combines advanced customization, durability, and ease of use, making it a high-quality keyboard suited for professionals.

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Realforce R2 PFU Limited Edition ($340-380)

• Premium variant with specially selected switches
• Silenced design with dampening rings
• APC technology for customizable actuation points

Features: The Realforce R2 PFU Limited Edition stands as the premium variant in the R2 lineup, meticulously refined by PFU (the company behind the HHKB) for the most discerning keyboard enthusiasts. This model features specially selected Topre switches that undergo additional quality control testing for consistent tactile response across all keys. The hallmark feature is its “silenced” switch design—utilizing precision-engineered dampening rings to reduce both the downstroke and upstroke sounds without compromising the signature Topre feel. The keyboard employs high-quality PBT keycaps with printed legends that resist shine and wear even after years of use. The R2 PFU Limited Edition also includes APC (Actuation Point Changer) technology, allowing users to select between three actuation points, effectively transforming the keyboard’s responsiveness to match different usage scenarios from gaming to programming.

Price: $340-380

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Realforce RGB ($250-300)

• Full RGB backlighting with 16.8 million color options
• Analog pressure sensor control for nuanced input
• Step-less actuation point adjustment

Features: The Realforce RGB bridges the gap between premium typing experience and modern gaming aesthetics, featuring Topre’s electrostatic capacitive switches combined with full RGB backlighting. Each key can be individually programmed with 16.8 million color options through the dedicated software, enabling custom lighting profiles for different applications or games. What truly sets this model apart is its “APC” (Analog Pressure sensor Control) technology that allows for analog input—the keyboard can register varying degrees of pressure, enabling more nuanced control in compatible games or applications. The Realforce RGB also features a unique step-less actuation point adjustment, letting users fine-tune the activation point anywhere between 1.5mm and 3.0mm with remarkable precision. With a detachable wrist rest, anti-ghosting capabilities, and N-key rollover, this keyboard delivers both the unparalleled Topre typing experience and the customization options typically associated with high-end gaming peripherals.

Price: $250-300

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Topre’s keyboards, known for their unique keystroke feel and high-quality build, have earned high praise from typing enthusiasts and professional users alike.

Diatec / FILCO

History and Overview of Diatec Corporation

Diatec Corporation, though a relatively new player in the Japanese keyboard manufacturing scene, has rapidly established its position in the market through innovation and high-quality products. Founded in the early 2000s, the company is especially known for its ‘Filco’ brand of keyboards. Diatec specializes in the manufacture of high-quality mechanical keyboards, gaining widespread support from users for their robust construction and superior typing experience.

DIATEC CORPORATION https://diatec.co.jp/en/

Features of Diatec Products

Diatec keyboards are characterized by their durability and classical design. The Filco brand keyboards, made from high-quality materials and precisely assembled, are built to endure long-term use. They also excel in keystroke feel, offering a variety of switch types to cater to users’ preferences. Design-wise, these keyboards feature a simple yet modern style, fitting well in professional work environments.

Top 3 Recommended Products from Diatec

Filco Majestouch-2 ($140-165)

• Traditional mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches
• “Tank-like” construction with steel-reinforced plate
• Minimalist design focused purely on typing performance

Features: The Filco Majestouch-2 is widely regarded as one of the finest traditional mechanical keyboards on the market, embodying Japanese craftsmanship and exceptional build quality. This keyboard features genuine Cherry MX switches (available in various options including Blue, Brown, Red, and Black) that are rated for over 50 million keystrokes, ensuring remarkable longevity. The Majestouch-2’s distinctive “tank-like” construction includes a steel-reinforced interior plate that eliminates flex during typing, creating a solid and consistent typing platform. Minimalist in design with no backlighting or programmable features, the Majestouch-2 focuses entirely on delivering the purest typing experience possible. The N-key rollover functionality (via PS/2 adapter) or 6-key rollover (via USB) ensures accurate input even during rapid typing sessions. Its thick, high-quality ABS keycaps with pad-printed legends offer a pleasant finger feel that improves with use over time.

Price: $140-165

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Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 ($180-210)

• Wireless version with Bluetooth connectivity for up to 4 devices
• Same robust construction as the standard model
• 6-month battery life with power management features

Features: The Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 takes the legendary build quality of the standard Majestouch-2 and adds versatile Bluetooth connectivity, making it ideal for users who need wireless flexibility without compromising on typing quality. This model maintains the same robust construction with a steel-reinforced plate but incorporates Bluetooth 3.0 technology that allows connection with up to four devices simultaneously. Battery life is impressive at approximately 6 months of regular use with two AA batteries. The Convertible 2 retains the genuine Cherry MX switches (available in Blue, Brown, Red, or Black variants) that provide the tactile feedback and durability Filco is known for. A thoughtful power management system automatically puts the keyboard to sleep after periods of inactivity, while intelligent LED indicators display battery status and connection information. The included DIP switches allow for basic customization of key layouts, particularly useful for Mac users who wish to remap modifier keys.

Price: $180-210

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Filco Majestouch Minila Air ($170-195)

• Compact 60% layout with dedicated arrow keys
• Split spacebar design for additional functionality
• Bluetooth connectivity with extensive customization options

Features: The Filco Majestouch Minila Air offers a compact 60% layout with a uniquely functional design that sets it apart from other mini keyboards. Despite its small footprint, the Minila Air features dedicated arrow keys and a split spacebar that can be programmed as an additional modifier key—innovations that make this compact board surprisingly practical for everyday use. Like its larger siblings, it employs genuine Cherry MX switches (available in Blue, Brown, Red, or Black) and maintains Filco’s signature solid construction. The Bluetooth connectivity supports pairing with up to four devices with simple hotkey switching, while the keyboard can also be used via USB cable when needed. The Minila Air includes a robust set of DIP switches on the underside that enable extensive customization of modifier keys and layout preferences without requiring software. With approximately 6 months of battery life from two AA batteries and a carrying size perfect for travel, this keyboard bridges the gap between ultra-portable and professional-grade typing tools for programmers, writers, and professionals on the go.

Price: $170-195

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Diatec’s keyboards, known for their robustness, exceptional typing feel, and user-friendly design, are recommended for a wide range of users from business professionals to enthusiasts.

Summary

This article has delved deep into the unique charm, history, and evolution of Japanese-made keyboards, as well as the features of major manufacturers. Japanese keyboards are highly valued worldwide for their superior design, exceptional quality, unique functionality, and comfortable typing experience. Manufacturers such as PFU, Topre, and Diatec each offer products with distinctive characteristics, catering to various needs. Experience the special typing experience of Japanese keyboards for yourself.

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