What is a Magnetic Mechanical Keyboard? Advantages and Disadvantages
The magnetic mechanical keyboard is attracting attention as a new form of mechanical keyboard. Here, we summarize how the magnetic mechanism works, along with its advantages and disadvantages.
Modified at: 2025.6.24Posted at: 2023.2.17
Keyboards with Separated Base PCB and Switches
In mechanical keyboards, key switches are usually soldered onto the base PCB, or, in the case of hot-swappable types, inserted into the PCB, allowing the switches to communicate with a PC or other devices.
On the other hand, with magnetic keyboards, the key switches and the base parts are integrated and attached to the base PCB using magnets.
Advantages of Magnetic Mechanical Keyboards
Flexible Layout
With magnetic keyboards, the base to which the key switches are attached can detect key input anywhere on the PCB, allowing for a freely customizable layout.
You can change the layout to match the size of your hands or adjust it according to your environment. This makes it possible to freely switch between work mode, game mode, and more—all with a single keyboard.
Easy Key Switch Repair
With magnetic mechanical keyboards, the key switches are completely independent, so if any switch malfunctions, you only need to repair that individual switch.
Depending on the product, many key switch bases use a socket design, making it easy to replace the key switches.
Disadvantages of Magnetic Mechanical Keyboards
Limited Usage Options
Because magnetic mechanical keyboards are a new type of keyboard, there may be limitations regarding supported operating systems and the layouts that can be recognized.
This disadvantage may be resolved as compatible software continues to be developed, but for now, it might still be difficult to use them in the same way as regular mechanical keyboards.
High Price
Magnetic mechanical keyboards are made up of specialized parts, so their prices are higher compared to regular mechanical keyboards.
While high-end mechanical keyboards can cost up to around $300, some magnetic mechanical keyboards can cost as much as $500.
Considering that you could buy a PC or tablet for the price of a single keyboard, this can be seen as a disadvantage.
Specialized Repair Parts Required
With generic mechanical keyboards, you can obtain Cherry MX key switches and repair or modify them yourself by soldering, but magnetic mechanical keyboards require special bases and key switch mounts, so dedicated repair parts are essential.
If the manufacturer continues to provide replacement parts for a long time, this won’t be an issue, but if those parts become unavailable, there is a risk that you won’t be able to use the keyboard anymore.