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 a better picture of the side profile here is one of these same caps on my HHKB:
This is easily one of my favorite keyboards of all time, I highly recommend it.
My favorite keyboard ever is the 55g Realforce 87u though. Sadly there is no HiPro varaint AND due to the TKL Realforce keyboards having indicator LED's under the switches (for Caps, Scroll) the slider housing is special and sideways on the left hand CTRL cap, making it unable to take a full set of HiPro Caps. Fortunately there is a tiny little modification you can do with a dremel and you'll end up with the most glorious keyboard ever! Here is my 10AE 55g HiPro 87U!
So, on my 87U pictured above I actually swapped out the larger housings as well to prevent any extra wobble. On the F row there are just normal housings and they still feel pretty good. Obviously that is not possible on the HHKB, and the wobble was a little noticeable for sure.