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
Five switch off. Keyboard unusable. Extra quality control.
Some people also reported being able to force the sliders back in without opening the switch case but this can potentially destroy the switch requiring replacement.
Anyway, while waiting for my Vibe to be shipped, I took precautions and got 10 Cherry MX Clear switches since I also have two more KBs with them.
I managed to replace the accent keys with the ones supplied and later on I replaced them all with SA Dasher without an issue. Also I have two more keyboards with MX Clears and never had an issue with a stem coming out of the housing. You just have to wiggle a little bit and pull straight up.
Regarding the o-rings: since the default keycaps are in SA profile, you need to insert quite a lot of them on each keycap for them to actually have an effect. If you place just one ring like in the pictures above, I won't do a thing as it has nothing to block it above.