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
Case colors aside, the CTRL exceeded my expectations. I opted for the Halo Clear switches and... they're kind of amazing. I had fully intended to swap in Zilents or Aliaz switches but having used the Halo Clears for a few weeks I may not even bother. They're heavy, and I rather like it. Great, so far, even for gaming.
The "stock" PBT shine-thru caps, again, impressed me in an unexpected way. I already liked their Dolch-like appearance but the texture is also really good. Even the sound they make, with a nod to the outstanding stabilizers, is appealing.
You have to really like RGB lighting to appreciate this board, I think. All the utility is still there, of course, when you turn all the lights out. But the lighting is easily one of CTRL's standout features. Once the Massdrop configurator is online I think it could get even better.
And it's not even like the case color is a huge problem. Like many, I was surprised (but not disappointed) that it wasn't as dark as the initial renders. But I still think it's an attractive shade and it plays particularly well with the stellar backlighting. It isn't bright enough to be "clear" nor dark enough to be "dark grey", making it one of the more unique anodized colors in my collection.
I understand CTRL is an evolution of the K-Type, but I'd have to say Massdrop really hit it out of the park here. And if the configurator is as good as the short demo I was shown, it'll be a grand slam.