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
A lot of nice and helpful people here, that might give you some help.
- First, are we talking about ansi or iso layout (you know your name). - Second, are you sure that you'll like mechas, the "noise", the precise feeling. I do know a lot of people, that just can't stand mechas, but to each their own. - Third, what size are we talking about, 100% with numpad, tkl (tenkeyless) without numpad, 60% or even smaller. - Fourth, have you tried the options given regarding switches, electronic mall or switchtester, a friend ... . - Fifth, what kind of budget are we talking about.
There could be a lot of more questions, but i think this might be a good start being able to help you.
Some more information would be nice to give you better advice, to many options out there.
Cheers
Forgot to add use case: would be nice to have a TKL to travel with but would need to eliminate most noise to avoid bothering folks.
1) ANSI 2) After inhaling Keychatter.com info, I'm torn between a Cherry MX Brown (possible with the rubber o-ring silence mod) or the Red. 3) I'm thinking TKL, since I can't remember the last time I used the numpad. I don't think I'd like anything smaller than 100%. 4) I don't have any tactile experience with actual mechanical keyboards. I haven't tried the options yet. 5) Well, I would say I wouldn't want to go above $200 though I am investing in the future.
Also, I don't imagine I'll be doing a lot of maintenance, but would the best route be to go plate-mounted and just get a different keyboard if needed (instead of going PCB)?
no disappointment at all, we're one :)
I would really advice you to try some switches first, but i know for sure many people started with reds or browns and your choice to buy these keycaps i like to predict you might be one of these people, that end up with a couple of more mechas in the end and over time.
I guess you can't go wrong with a "cheap (pricewise)" QFR - top link http://www.amazon.com/Coolermaster-SGK-4000-GKCL1-US-Storm-QuickFire-Rapid/dp/B0068INSUM/ref=sr_1_7/183-9732155-3535655?ie=UTF8&qid=1443966051&sr=8-7&keywords=KUL+ES-87
Filco although has a very good reputation - second link http://www.amazon.com/Filco-Majestouch-2-Keyboard-FKBN104M-EB2/dp/B004VKUSG6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1443966703&sr=8-4&keywords=Filco+Majestouch-2
Kul-ES might be a good choice, too. If i remembering correct, that keyboard has gotten the highest score yet by livingspeedbump/keychatter - third link https://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=keyed_up_labs,tenkeyless
I really liked the Varmilo VA87M a lot - fourth link https://www.massdrop.com/buy/varmilo-mechanical-keyboard
Others may say, you've forgotten Ducky ...., but i think you've a good starting point here. All of these mechas will look great and only need the baseset of Danger Zone.
The links given are only examples and not meant that you've to buy there.
Cheers
However, if you like tactile switches and like the TKL form factor then it would be criminally irresponsible for me not to send you to the Cooler Master Novatouch.
gratz, wish you a long lasting happy relationship. About the switch, that's what i meant to try them first if possible.