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
Spacing Another piece of feedback I’ve been seeing is in regards to the gap between the Alphas and the Function row. There were concerns about how reachable the function keys would be given the increased space. This is a valid concern, and I think the photos on the page seem to make the gap look larger than it actually is. To hopefully put some concern to rest, here are a few photos below, showing Function shortcuts being used on the SHIFT. Note that these images use different keycaps than what will come with the SHIFT.
Layout I’ve been seeing many posts from people who are advocating for a more compact 1800 layout. The one that I’ve seen gain the most traction from is the removal of row 2 from the numpad cluster and pulling in the Function row with the main cluster to better mirror the space on the CTRL keyboard. We are definitely open to dialogue on this change, but I’d love to hear everyone’s thoughts - especially those who have already joined this pre-order and have now seen these additional images in the post. What are your thoughts on variations of the 1800 layout - what is the most preferred approach here? As always, I appreciate the passion from everyone and can’t wait to hear about everyone’s thoughts!