Tokyo60: My latest mechanical keyboard

I wanted an HHKB-style mechanical keyboard for awhile and stumbled upon the Tokyo60 v4 keyboard kit.

It’s a relatively affordable 60% hot-swappable mechanical keyboard kit with an anodized aluminum case and RGB lighting mounted at the bottom of the PCB for an optional underglow effect. The PCB is directly mounted to top of the case though which can be a sticking point for some people.

Additionally, I should note that this is a barebones kit and as such you have to purchase your MX-style switches, keycaps, and any intended modifications separately. It’s also fully programmable via QMK firmware should you be interested in doing so.

My Tokyo60 configuration

• The official v4 Tokyo60 keycaps
• The official Acrylic Diffuser in case I want to use the RGB underglow
• Boba Tactile U4T 62g switches
• Everglide V2 Screw-In Stabilizer Set (Black)
• MKUltra Tokyo60 HHKB Plate Foam (60PT-TKYO-HHKB-BLK)
• Lubed stabilizers with Dielectric grease

Build process

If you are worried that you won’t be able to build your own keyboard you should know that assembling the keyboard is actually relatively easy and straightforward.

I highly recommend purchasing a Switch and Keycap Puller before starting if you don’t already have them.

1. Lubed and installed the stabilizers onto the PCB

   Lubricating allows them to operate smoothly and helps stop any rattling or other annoying sounds.

2. Installed the plate foam and screwed the PCB into the top case

   The foam helps eliminate any hollow sounds that you might hear by dampening vibrations between the plate and PCB.

3. Installed the switches
4. Plugged the keyboard in and tested it
5. Installed the Acrylic Diffuser and attached the bottom case to the rest of the keyboard
6. Finalized the build by installing the keycaps.

Conclusion

I’m really happy with this keyboard and I think that it sounds fantastic. If you buy this keyboard kit as well you should really consider lubing and adding foam as well. Although they are not required I’d say that it is almost mandatory.

The control key placement will also take some getting used too, but I think this is going to be my main keyboard for some time to come.

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