MLK:Magnetic Levitation Keyboard

🧲 The Floating Keyboard of the Future: Inside the $100 Magnetic Levitation Revolution

Say goodbye to switches. This sci-fi-inspired keyboard uses magnets and sensors to let your fingers type on air—literally.

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“What if keys didn’t have to touch anything at all?”

That one question changed everything.

Imagine typing on a keyboard where every key floats. No springs. No rubber domes. No clicky clacks. Just magnetic levitation—letting your fingers glide over keys suspended in mid-air.

That keyboard now exists. It’s called the Magnetic Levitation Keyboard (MLK), and it might be the most futuristic piece of hardware you’ve never heard of.

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🔧 How It Works

The MLK doesn’t rely on traditional mechanics. Instead, it re-engineers the entire typing experience using magnetism, proximity sensors, and smart firmware.

🧲 Magnetic Levitation

• Each key is embedded with a neodymium magnet, repelling a matching magnet in the chassis.

• The result? The keys float, held in stable suspension.

• A low-friction guide ensures they move straight up and down, no wobble.

👁️ Sensor-Based Actuation

• Instead of clicking switches, each key is detected by a Hall effect or infrared sensor.

• These sensors read how far each key has moved—down to the millimeter.

• Press detection is based on magnetic field changes or proximity, not physical contact.

🧠 Smart Firmware

• Fully programmable via open-source firmware (QMK compatible)

• Real-time key height calibration

• Adjustable sensitivity and actuation depth

• Developer API for custom interactions

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💡 Why It Matters

• Silent typing with no mechanical wear

• Zero contact means keys won’t wear out

• Modular keycaps make it easy to upgrade or replace

• Feels like magic—because it kind of is

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🧪 What It Took to Build This

Getting to a working prototype wasn’t easy. Here’s what we learned along the way:

• Gen 1 had key wobble issues due to unbalanced magnet placement

• Gen 2 introduced key guides and stable IR sensors

• Gen 3 added calibration software and a polished aluminum case

Each version brought us closer to a device that feels truly next-gen.

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💰 The Financial Side

Here’s a transparent look at what one unit costs us:

Component Breakdown (USD):

• Magnets (84 keys): $12.60

• Sensors (Hall/IR): $18.48

• Custom PCB + Logic: $14.00

• Microcontroller: $3.50

• CNC Aluminum Case + Cover: $47.00

• RGB Lighting + Power Mgmt: $5.00

• Misc (fasteners, pads): $4.00

Total Estimated Cost: $104.58

Target Retail Price: $189 – $229

That makes MLK competitive with high-end mechanical keyboards like Keychron, GMMK Pro, and RAMA Works—but with a completely different typing experience.

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🎨 Aesthetic Appeal

• Transparent top lets you see floating keys in action

• RGB underglow highlights the keys’ elevation

• Futuristic, cyberpunk vibes that look as cool as they feel

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🛠️ Developer & Maker Friendly

MLK is more than a product—it’s a platform.

• Fully open-source firmware

• Access to raw key height data for gesture input

• Build your own keycaps with our 3D print files

Whether you’re a keyboard enthusiast or a DIY hacker, you can take this even further.

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🚀 Coming Soon: Pre-Order & Crowdfunding

We’re getting ready for a limited pre-release—and you can be part of it.

• Join our early access list

• Get behind-the-scenes updates and demo footage

• Vote on features, case colors, and layout options

If we hit 1,000 orders, we can cut costs by 25% and bring this tech to more hands—literally.

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👋 Final Thoughts

The Magnetic Levitation Keyboard is more than a bold experiment.

It’s proof that innovation still lives in everyday devices.

This is the keyboard of the future—designed to float into the present.