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
considering getting a topre keyboard, but am uncomfortable shelling out cash until I’m sure I won’t regret it instantly. I don’t mind spending the premium price for a HHKB but only if I’m convinced it’s worth that hefty price tag.
Can an anyone share their experiences with either keyboard to help me make a decision? Any comparison would be helpful!
yeah, i love the layout of this plum cause i'm used to it, but have also heard good things about the HHKB (but i've never tried it and don't know anybody near me with one).
How close are they in terms of how they feel to type on? From what I read from others, the Plum feels softer and less snappy than the HHKB? Did you find that you liked this feeling more or not? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions ^^
The Cherry MX Cap compatibility honestly would win me over with this board. That and the price is unbeatable. Man, I want to pull the trigger with this one.
Comparing to the HHKB, the keys feel softer to type on, if that makes sense. The sound is dampened a bit as well. The keys also require less force to actuate, so make note of that. I had to add the included springs on my alpha's because I found myself typoing without them because I was used to the force required to actuate a HHKB key.
These keys are not the same as HHKB, but they still feel really fricken good. For 85 bucks, it's a good addition imo.
-Edit: I'd like to add, because I use HHKB primarily, I always hit Caps Lock on my Plum because thats where I expect CTRL to be... First world problems, really.
could you explain how the HHKB is bad (or worse compared to the plum) when gaming? I saw Matt reply to someone else in the discussion that he found the HHKB to be great for gaming.
It's like starting crack. Don't start. You won't be able to resist. Unless you dislike the keyboard layout, which is the reason I got rid of mine.