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Head to head · Prices checked Oct 21, 2026

HHKB Studio vs Lofree 1% MistyUnique Inputs vs Standard Layout

Choose the HHKB Studio for its unique pointer input to stay on the home row, or the Lofree 1% Misty for a more conventional layout with extensive firmware customization.

Quick verdict

Which one should you get?

Get the

HHKB Studio

Unique Inputs

If you want

  • Integrated pointing stick and three mouse buttons for cursor control.
  • Four customizable gesture pads for touch-based inputs.
  • Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.

And can live with

  • Wireless operation relies on 4 AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable cell.
  • The unique keycap shapes around the pointing stick may limit aftermarket keycap compatibility.
  • Lacks support for QMK or VIA firmware customization.

Get the

Lofree 1% Misty

Standard Layout

If you want

  • Supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source firmware customization.
  • Features a built-in 2000mAh rechargeable battery.
  • 65% layout includes arrow keys and some dedicated navigation keys.

And can live with

  • Case and keycaps are made of PC plastic, which may feel less premium than other materials.
  • The white-only backlighting offers less color customization than full RGB.
  • No alternative switch types are listed, only linear.

Bottom line

Your choice depends on your primary need for novel input methods versus software freedom. Opt for the HHKB Studio if your workflow involves extensive cursor movement and you want to eliminate reaching for a mouse. Choose the Lofree 1% Misty if you prefer a standard compact layout and value the extensive customization offered by QMK and VIA firmware, along with the convenience of a rechargeable battery.

What actually differs

The differences that matter

Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.

HHKB Studio

Lofree 1% Misty

  • Layout size

    60%

    65%

  • Hall effect (magnetic)

    Yes

    No

  • Switch options

    Clicky, Linear

    Linear

  • QMK

    No

    Yes

  • VIA

    No

    Yes

KeebFinder scores

How we score
  • HHKB Studio
  • Lofree 1% Misty
Performance
62
70
Build quality
48
61
Productivity
64
77
Customizability
64
85
Portability
88
90

What they share

  • Connection: Bluetooth, Wired
  • Hot-swappable
See every spec side by side

Best for

What will you mostly use it for?

The HHKB Studio wins for programming and content creation due to its unique input methods designed for efficiency. The Lofree 1% Misty is the better choice for gaming, travel, and modding, thanks to its standard layout, built-in battery, and QMK/VIA support. For office use, both are capable, making it a tie that depends on whether you value a pointing stick or dedicated media keys more.

For gaming

Pick the Lofree 1% Misty

  • The Lofree 1% Misty lists N-key rollover support, which is beneficial for gaming.
  • Its 65% layout retains dedicated arrow keys, which are often preferred for gaming over layers.
  • The HHKB Studio's pointing stick and gesture pads offer no stated gaming advantage.

Full specs

HHKB Studio vs Lofree 1% Misty specs

Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.

9 of 23 specs differ

HHKB Studio

Lofree 1% Misty

Typing & switches

Switch options

Clicky, Linear
Linear

Hall effect (magnetic)

Yes
No

Hot-swappable

Yes
Yes

Mount style

Plate Mount
—

Layout

Layout size

60%
65%

Layout standard

ANSI
ANSI

Ergonomics

Standard
Standard

Display

None
None

Media keys

Yes
Yes

Connectivity & battery

Connection

Bluetooth, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired

Battery

—
2,000 mAh

USB-C

Yes
Yes

Build & materials

Case material

—
Plastic

Plate material

Aluminum
—

Keycaps

PBT
PC

Weight

—
812 g

Dimensions

—
40 x 320 x 117 mm

Backlight

Yes, north-facing
White

Firmware & software

QMK

No
Yes

VIA

No
Yes

N-key rollover

No
Yes

Mac & Windows

Yes
Yes

Extras

Released

2024
2022

Where to buy

Compare prices

Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.

Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.

HHKB Studio2 stores
  • MKUS

    In stock
    $294Visit
  • AmazonGlobal

    Check price
    ~$294Visit
  • LofreeHK

    In stock
    $239Visit
  • AmazonGlobal

    Check price
    ~$239Visit

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FAQ

HHKB Studio vs Lofree 1% Misty: your questions

The HHKB Studio is specifically designed for this. It includes an integrated pointing stick (like a TrackPoint) and three mouse buttons, allowing for full cursor control without leaving the keyboard. The vendor states it's designed to reduce hand and finger fatigue by keeping your hands on the home row.

Yes, but the methods and depth differ. The Lofree 1% Misty supports QMK and VIA, which are powerful, open-source tools for extensive remapping and macro creation. The HHKB Studio uses proprietary customization software that stores up to 4 keymaps and also offers hardware DIP switches for layout changes.

The Lofree 1% Misty has white LED backlighting with multiple modes. The HHKB Studio's product listing specifies 'Blank / None LED' for backlighting, indicating it does not have per-key lighting, though it mentions an 'LED strip' which may be for status indicators.

The Lofree 1% Misty is likely more travel-friendly. It has a built-in 2000mAh rechargeable battery, so you don't need to carry spare AAs. The HHKB Studio requires 4 AA batteries for wireless use and, based on its feature set, may have a larger and potentially heavier build due to its integrated pointing hardware.

Yes, both the HHKB Studio and the Lofree 1% Misty feature hot-swappable PCBs. The HHKB Studio's listing confirms it supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. The Lofree uses Kailh Jellyfish switches with an MX stem, which is the standard for hot-swap sockets.

The HHKB Studio uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which are known for their durability and resistance to shine. The Lofree 1% Misty uses PC (polycarbonate) keycaps with a matte finish, which the vendor says creates a soft, illuminated look.

According to a user review for the HHKB Studio, the pointing stick's middle mouse button can toggle the stick to function for page scrolling. Additionally, the gesture pads can also be customized for scrolling functions.

Yes. The Lofree 1% Misty's tech specs list compatibility with Windows, macOS, iPadOS, iOS, and Android. The HHKB Studio is also listed as compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux.

The HHKB Studio is a 60% layout with 60 keys, sacrificing dedicated arrow and navigation keys for extreme compactness. The Lofree 1% Misty is a 65% layout with 68 keys, which retains dedicated arrow keys and a few additional navigation keys like Delete and Page Up/Down.

The Lofree 1% Misty has a significant advantage in software support due to its compatibility with QMK and VIA. These are community-standard, open-source firmware platforms that allow for nearly limitless key remapping, layer creation, and macro programming directly in a browser or app.

The Lofree 1% Misty comes with specified Kailh Jellyfish linear switches, with detailed actuation force and travel stats provided. The HHKB Studio comes with HHKB-designed 45g linear switches and is also listed as supporting clicky switches, offering more variety out of the box.

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