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
https://imgur.com/a/pmmLi for more beautiful shots.
The 1800 makes it slightly easier to go back and forth between a mouse and keyboard, due to the decrease in space between the home row and the right side of the board. (If you use a mouse left handed, obviously, this doesn't matter). But I'd say the difference between the 1800 and a traditional 104 fullsize is the numpad, function keys, and arrow cluster.
Look at this: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1994/3097/products/Kira-Wide_1024x1024.jpg?v=1517621238 Without looking, it's much more difficult to move from the home row to the arrow keys and numpad, and a farther travel for function keys like END or HOME. Because there's no negative space around these keys, it's harder to do it by touch. And the only thing you get in return is a mouse that's ~2 inches closer to the home row.
lol I realize this is a ridiculous discussion... and 1800 layouts look great, but they aren't a *better* layout unless you really care about your mouse placement.
Your posted picture of the kira 96 is actually one of the reasons I would not buy that keyboard. I think the kira 1800 is the perfect compromise of compactness and functionality. I don't actually agree with your opinion on the WASD though. I would much rather purchase a Varmilio or a Ducky. The keycaps alone are a massive drawback on a WASD.
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/varmilo-108-keyboard https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=111
One last thing the 1800 style is available easily via kbdfans and has all the keys of a full size, you just have to use numlock. Since it's programmable that's not really an issue.
https://kbdfans.myshopify.com/collections/keyboard/products/pre-orderkbdfans-kbd19x-90-mechanical-keyboard-diy-kit