Never used a HHKB (and would miss the modifier keys too), but after daily driving Topre switches for about 1.5 years, I can confirm they are fantastic switches and worth every penny.

It uses a Unix keyboard layout where the caps lock is swapped out with the ctrl key. I think it’s much more ergonomic to have the ctrl on the home row. The arrow keys are behind a fn modifier resting on the right pinky. Also accessible without moving your fingers from the home row. It’s frankly the best keyboard I ever had from an ergonomic POV. Key feel is also great, but the layout has a bit of a learning curve.