What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
- the K2 has an 84 key AKA "75%" layout with no gaps between clusters of keys whereas the CTRL Hi-Pro is "Tenkeyless", in other words using the standard layout minus numeric keypad popularized with the IBM Model M SSK
- the K2 lacks hot swappable switches
- the CTRL Hi-Pro lacks bluetooth capability
- the CTRL Hi-Pro is more than double the weight of the aluminum K2
- the CTRL Hi-Pro is available in gray
- the CTRL Hi-Pro has more switch options available from the factory
If you wanted to claim that this is a clone of something, you could do a better job. There are many aluminum high-profile tenkeyless keyboards, especially expensive ones. To name some examples: