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
A board like the CTRL in its price tier cannot be replaced with a similar board from another company. There just isn't another comparable board out there. A refund was unsatisfactory because we had been looking forward to these boards for so long, and despite getting our money back we would be left with nothing, and no option to buy a similar board somewhere else.
There are other hot swappable boards out there, but the ones readily available for purchase right now are basically trash compared to a fully-functioning CTRL. I have a GMMK at work, and it's flimsy "Chinesium" with wobbly switch sockets, and it's extremely unsatisfying to use after tasting the CTRL.
There are other high-quality aluminum boards out there in the CTRL price-range, but the lack the customizability and features of the CTRL, namely having any switch layout you want without needed soldering gear and experience. Sure, we have Input Club's RE:Type Mechanical Keyboard group buy coming up in the near future, with boards shipping months later. Further in the future we might have another CTRL drop and future boards made by Massdrop, but that's a far cry from having a full-functional CTRL right now. I hope I am getting across my (and other's) thought process on the disappointment that we had prior to your public statement here.
Now, regarding the replacement units that those of us who are affected by this are receiving. Is any additional QC going to be done on these boards to ensure a smooth transition into our new boards? It's just something I felt like asking. I dread the thought of getting a new CTRL and finding new/different issues or more of the same. You guys are coming through for us now, but I don't really see how it would be possible to receive a second replacement CTRL.
That is probably outside of the scope of the group buy structure, or at least I would assume. Thanks again for letting us know what is going on with this.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Christian A: Hello [Name redacted], Thanks for getting back to me with your address. I'd be glad to get a new unit sent out to you. I have submitted the request to our warehouse for your replacement keyboard. It can typically take our warehouse 1-3 business days for a replacement to be prepared and shipped. You should receive an automated confirmation email with tracking once the shipment has been picked up and scanned by the courier. After you receive your replacement, we do ask that you please return the defective CTRL to us using the prepaid return label linked below: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I never received an update to that. Not a problem and not complaining. I just prefer to know straight up the current situation. I asked for an update last night and received this response from Dave R. at support.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello [Name redacted], Thanks for writing into Massdrop Community Support, my name's Dave. I apologize for the delay in getting to your support request. I'm sorry about the delay in shipping out your Massdrop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard. Sadly we don't have any stock available to send out a replacement at this time. We are expecting a new shipment in the next few weeks, so if you don't mind waiting a bit longer we can send you the new keyboard. Alternately, if you feel like you've waited long enough you can return the keyboard for a full refund. Please let me know how you'd like to proceed and I'll get your request started. Best wishes, Dave R. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As you can see @JaleesaG, your information, Christian's, and Dave's all conflict with each other. Who among you has the most recent information on the situation?
If that does happen, please reach out to support and they will be able to assist you.