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
I believe these are Alps switches, and I type on this every chance I get. In terms of weight of the switch (how much force it takes to depress the keys) the one I have (which I believe is comparable to this) is roughly equal to Cherry MX Clear, not MX Brown.
Note that the version I have is TKL, has Mac-specific keys, and it's bluetooth, but my expectation is that the overall smoothness in feel and sound level are comparable between the two. If I didn't have one, I'd snatch this up in an instant! (especially considering that I paid over $170 for mine)
The Quiet Pro certainly seems quieter than the others, but it still uses mechanical switches, so I wouldn't expect them to be anywhere near silent. And the typist in the sound files seems to be bottoming out on every one of the keyboards (the click of the switch is followed by a thud or clack), so they all sound louder than they would from someone with a lighter touch that releases earlier.
That's one of the benefits of tactile switches, knowing when the switch activates by feel before needing to bottom out to be sure. But if the actuation force is as high as helrich mentioned, it may take more finesse to find the sweet spot.
I've used buckling spring and Alps switches years ago, and a MX blue now. I've been happy enough with the blues, not as tactile but a lot quieter. I'm really looking forward to this one, if the Matias really can deliver an Alps feel that's even quieter than Cherry switches.