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
RGB lighting is really nice! I love all the different color modes, and how there's even random color options for some of them. I know flashy LEDs are associated with the "pro gamer lowest common denominator" aesthetic and isn't too fondly viewed around here, but I'm a guy who loves his blinky lights.
I do have to admit that the keycap glyphs are terrible, but that's not really the keyboard's fault as they're the same glyphs you'd find on other Chinese-made boards you can find on Amazon. It's not so much the font, it's just... why does it say "HM" instead of "Home"? PU instead of Page Up? That's just lazy. I guess it's so they could only mark the top half so it would light entirely, but at that point you might as well just use icons.
The last thing is really just a nitpick... the sound isn't quite what I imagined. It's surprisingly hollow and quiet. When I thought "keyboard used in nuclear reactors" I was expecting a clackier, 1980s cyberpunk sound. I got the 70g springs and I guess they're mushier than I expected?