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
edit: I'm still new to keyboards, so forgive what might be a silly question.
No need to reprogramm, the output, if you press a key, is given by your OS and the settings Country/Language, Keymap. Stock Win ISO-DE would output Z, if Y would be pressed and Y, if Z would be pressed. (Qwertz) Stock Win US-ANSI, Z and Y would be corresponding to the keycaps shown. (Qwerty)
What does it mean, if you're able to type without looking at your keycaps, you shouldn't experience a difference. If not, you might be in trouble, keycaps don't reflect the output. You can buy fitting keycaps, if available, but they must be compatible with Cherry MX and the sizes have to match. This one does use the so called standard bottom row, 7x1.25u and 6.25u spacebar, which is good! It might be getting expensive to get a fitting keycapset, usual drops here might be $80+ and ISO-UK addon another $20+, additional shipping and customs.
UK has a very good keyboardstore: https://www.keyboardco.com/category.asp?sr=&path=mechanical+keyboards&lan=United+Kingdom&ss=de&rtv=100 and have a look: https://www.keyboardco.com/keyboard/uk-va88m-cmyk-pbt-backlit-soft-linear-keyboard.asp as example.
In the end, all money and trouble considered, i would know for sure, where i would be buying :)