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
For starters, physical size doesn't affect price all that much. A PCB may cost $2 more between a TKL and TK size board. The true cost is manufacturing time. This is also the same for cases, plates, etc.
The real determining factor in price of everything is quality of materials. The WhiteFox was basically all Chinese made, where the C70 is fully made and assembled in Germany. Even the anodizing is being done by a factory in Germany that is known for doing hyper-high end camera lenses. Because things weren't outsourced to CN to ensure full control over the product and quality, it will raise the price. Labor cost more in Germany than CN.
This also includes GMK keycaps, which are definitely some of the nicest caps on the market (the nicest in my opinion!)
So when you compare the Q70 to a real custom like the Viper or Eagle (a technically smaller keyboard) this is actually cheaper and a very good price compared to many other custom boards.
Anyhow, this seems a fair price for a fully loaded custom keyboard. And I have some confidence because of GMK's consistency in quality. Good luck with the drop!
What I do know is that it is much, much harder to get consistent quality without constant supervision from a lot of Chinese factories(there are exceptions, especially if you own/run a factory there). I've also heard stellar things about the Kailh factory, and in generally CN is definitely stepping up in a ton of ways. But GMK can keep a much closer eye when this is made nearby at a factory they know and trust already, and can ensure only the best quality.
The WhiteFox was also designed far more with price and selling tons of units in mind over quality, which is fine. There is a market for that, without a doubt. This is not the case for the Q70 though.