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 received mine yesterday in Germany and have some initial thoughts, too.
The keyboard is working fine at BIOS, Bootmenue, Win7 and Linux. But i've had some trouble with Win10, as soon as i plugged in the keyboard all of my input devices didn't work anymore and misbehaved. After a couple of reboots, switching back and forth between Windows and Linux the problem was solved. Don't ask me why, but sometimes Pc's/Windows is a mystery :)
The downloadable software isn't working for me, i get the message "no keyboard detected" everytime at Win7 and Win10, the included software from the mini-cd is working and does recognize the mk, still havn't been fooling around with it, because i don't need it.
The switch feeling is no Topre, it's not as smooth at all like my RF, Leopold or HHKB. But i still like it and don't think it's bad, just different. There might be a lot of potential in lubing the rails to make it smoother. The weight of 55g is absolutly given, a little bit more linear than Topre. The Tock is nice and reminds me something in between a HHKB and a HHKB Type-S.
All of this is very subjective and your feelings may differ from mine but i still think this keyboard is worth a try depending on your expectations. I don't regret to have bought this for the options given and the money asked for!
If you've questions, i'll try to answer, just let me know.