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
also, are they compatible with mac?
Gateron Reds are similar to Cherry MX Reds. Both are linear switches, however, while the stem on c\Cherry's tend to be rough, the stems on Gat Reds are smooth out of the factory, and come pre-lubed, as are the rest of their switches. Both are 45cN switches. No clicks so they should be quiet.
Gateron Clears are also linear, but are super light (35cN). It's lighter than Either Cherry Reds and Cherry Blacks (45cN and 55cN respectively). No clicks, so they should be quiet.
Gateron Blues are like Cherry Blues (55cN actuation force, but don't quote me on this, I'm not too familiar with the blue switches). Most people agree that Gateron Blues click louder than Cherry Blues, and are smoother. So yeah, these are loud swtiches.
Gateron Browns are similar to Cherry Browns. Tactile swtiches , with no click. Both require on paper 45cN to actuate, however, the tactile point on Gateron's are higher up than on Cherry's. Something like 85% on the Gaterons and 50% on the Cherry's, so it seems a little heavier. Also, Gateron Browns are smoother than Cherry Browns, again probably due to the pre-lubing and the smoother stems.
If you want quiet switches, then you'll want to look at the clears, reds, and browns. Its just a matter of if you want tactility or not. Hope this was helpful!
p.s. regarding mac compatibility, one of the Massdrop employees tested it on his mac and said it worked. It's in one of the earlier pages of this discussion.