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
Review:
Hall Effect Clicky vs SKCM Blues:
SKCM Blues are not as tactile and also not as clacky
Hall Effect Clicky vs Gateron Blues:
The Hall Effect clickies also seem to be much lower pitched and is more pleasant sounding to me. However when it comes to the stabilized keys, the Rantopad MXX seems to be quieter than the XMIT 60%. Could be a difference in stabilizer quality.
On its own:
Those who have seen my other videos know that I really don't like clicky switches. If you were to hand me an OTD with any kind of blues for $5, I'd probably turn it down. Well maybe not...I can flip that for $$$$$$. Generally speaking I like how these clicky switches sound. I also like how they feel, they are very very tactile, I hope the regular tactile version will come close!
* feel of switches compared to Cherry blue/brown: smoothness? wobble? accuracy? Switches are way more tactile when compared against any stock Cherry MX switch. Wobble is less than Gateron but still more than Cherry. Im unsure what you mean about accuracy
* stability and noise of space bar Spacebar feels great but rattles. I've never had a stock OEM keyboard where I found the stabilizers to be not rattly.
* sturdiness of bamboo casing compared to a standard plastic I have the 60%, variant, so keyboard size plays a big role in the stability and sturdiness of a case. I find the bamboo case of sufficient quality. It flexes a whole lot less than my KBP V60 with a plastic case.
* ease of configuring LEDs You'll need a windows PC to use the tool. I haven't played around with it yet to make a fair statement
* Linux compatibility (if you have a Linux machine available) Worked on my macbook pro no problem.
chilling it in a refrigerator LOL, not my board. Not going to do any tests that may damage it.
Now we just need to find something else to distract us until April -- That's long time to wait!