MIT Student Develops Magnetic Modular Keyboard Built Like Lego Sets

An MIT student has created an open-source keyboard project that lets users snap individual keys together using magnets. The system allows builders to arrange their keys in custom layouts rather than following a fixed design.

Nathan Alspaugh developed the project, called Keybytes, to give users more control over their hardware. The keyboard is built from two main parts: a central controller and individual key modules. Every individual key module measures 19.05 by 19.05 millimeters, which matches a standard keyboard unit.

Unlike traditional keyboards that rely on one central processor, each individual key contains its own small micro-controller to operate independently. These keys attach to each other and to the central controller using four-sided magnetic connections that carry both power and data. Each key module also holds a standard mechanical switch, letting builders choose their preferred typing feel.

The central controller features two stacked circuit boards. The top board holds a micro-controller, a Bluetooth antenna, and memory, while the bottom board handles USB-C connections, battery charging, and power management.

Building a full keyboard could cost $900

The project remains an early-stage design, and Alspaugh notes that a basic working system was only recently achieved. Public project documents currently show only small combinations of modules rather than a complete, full-size keyboard layout.

Alspaugh estimates that assembling a full-size version with two central controllers and 110 individual keys would cost about $900. That high price comes from the cost of giving every single key its own circuit board and micro-controller. Builders must also handle printed circuit board production, buying components, soldering, and making custom 3D-printed cases.

The current design also has basic lighting limits, as only the central controller has a status indicator while individual keys lack built-in lights. Future versions might add colorful lighting, knobs, fingerprint readers, or touchpads, though those ideas are still just proposals.

To let others examine and change the hardware, Alspaugh has published all the project files, design assets, and building details on GitHub under a permissive MIT license.

Summary

The Keybytes project offers a glimpse into ultra-customizable computer hardware where users can build a keyboard to fit their exact physical needs. However, the high estimated cost and early stage of development show that truly modular hardware remains an expensive and complex hobbyist endeavor.