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
In view of balance, I compared the keyboard in active use for a couple of hours to another mechanical keyboard with the same switches and two cheap Logitech consumer keyboards. This keyboard /is/ defective.
It's a great shame that the manufacturer has wasted so much of everyone's time, including their own, in issuing a replacement that does not fully resolve the root cause of the first problem. As someone who works in the high-tech industry for a company that produces consumer devices, I am quite surprised that a business would go to the lengths and expenditure of replacing field models without investing the extra time and resources necessary to avoid embarrassment in the market.
In the meantime of this saga I purchased a 'Ducky One TKL' compact Cherry-MX keyboard from a regular retailer. It's a little bit more expensive in shelf price but what this drop has reminded me is that the cost of non-quality is significant.
I won't be seeking a refund as I don't want to spend any more time on this.
I think the lessons should be:
1. Massdrop do not work with this manufacturer again. Apparently, yes, it is possible to /design/ a defective keyboard. Twice(!).
2. Massdrop either only provide products for which they are sure have market readiness OR Massdrop provide a clear 'cowboy' disclaimer for products provided by amateur manufacturers.
I am no longer confident that there will ever be a functional product.
I have not been following all posts here, but apparently it's a common problem with the other users too.
@Xik what are the steps to getting a refund for this product?