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
I think what these really need, more than anything else though, is a standard stem. Thing is, I think I have a simple, and very easy to implement solution for the issue of needing to "blackout" the MX switch stem color...
As an alternative for blacking out the color of the switch stem, a small matte rectangular vinyl sheet with a stem cross cutout in the center could be optionally installed on top of the colored MX stem to black-out the natural color of the key stems (not needed for black, of course). They could be die cut, if order quantities are sufficient to justify tooling costs. Who knows... Maybe a product like this already exists, I don't know? I'd say that the common vinyl stickers that some hardcore keyboard enthusiasts use on the housings proves that a stem blackout sticker could be a viable item. Also, considering a quick search shows a sheet of 120 stickers is, what, $7-ish... it'd be cheap enough to be feasible. Stem blackout stickers would allow standard round stems on the key caps, but still allow the MX switch stem color to be blacked out. From what I've read, I think a lot of the typing discomfort, is actually from typing with no lateral force... Just a pure downward stroke. Some people have stated that the odd rectangular stems of these keys are binding against the MX switch housings, and switching to normal stems ought to correct that. That could possibly fix a good portion of the odd "typing feel".
I really would pay more for a better design for these, though. Doubleshot legends, normal round stem, vinyl stem blackout stickers to eliminate the need for those odd rectangular stems, and a couple alternate layout/media key options. I'd easily pay double the price, and not even blink an eye, if those changes were implemented. Something for the manufacturer to consider for future drops...