The Electronic Materials Office Altar II measures just 4.75mm thick, undercutting Apple’s Magic Keyboard while featuring genuine mechanical switches, a 30-day battery life, and a magnetic media dial, according to the London-based design firm. Set for a Kickstarter launch on November 10, 2026, the device challenges the mechanical keyboard hobby’s decade-long trend toward heavier, foam-filled mass.
Altar II Design and Engineering Specifications
For the last decade, the mechanical keyboard hobby has moved in a single direction toward thicker cases, heavier plates, more foam, and more mass, while slim boards remained a compromise of mushy scissor switches, according to Electronic Materials Office. Looking at that trade-off, the London-based firm developed the Altar II to measure 4.75mm thick—thinner than three quarters stacked on a desk—undercutting the tallest point of Apple’s Magic Keyboard.
To achieve a genuine mechanical switch feel within a 4.75mm chassis, Electronic Materials Office flipped the switch’s tension spring on its side, squeezing 1.8mm of tactile travel out of the board. The entire chassis is CNC-machined from a single block of aluminum. A silicone damping membrane and an oversize footpad suspend the typing platform to keep acoustics civilized, earning the hardware the label of the world’s thinnest production mechanical keyboard from its manufacturer.
Connectivity, Power, and Mac-Centric Features
The Altar II is very clearly made for Mac, featuring a haptic engine that hums when users hold a modifier key, a tiny speaker for wake chimes, and a red-only backlight designed to spare night vision. Battery life is rated at up to 30 days, and a two-minute USB-C charge buys two full days of use, according to Electronic Materials Office specifications.
Pro Tip: When packing the keyboard for travel, the M-Dial easily detaches magnetically so it won’t catch on your bag’s interior lining.
Removable M-Dial and Haptic Rotary Controls
The M-Dial, recognized by its orange-capped corner knob, functions as a clickable rotary dial for volume and media control. According to Electronic Materials Office, it easily detaches magnetically whenever users want to slide the board into a bag.
Real-time haptics simulate detents as the dial spins. Furthermore, Electronic Materials Office is publishing the 3D files so users can print custom knob shapes.
Altar II Pricing and Availability Details
The Altar II hits Kickstarter on November 10, 2026, with delivery expected in early summer 2027, according to Electronic Materials Office. A refundable $1 reservation locks in the best price of $249. Early birds pay $279, campaign backers pay $299, and retail buyers pay $349.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact dimensions of the Altar II?
The keyboard measures 299 x 116.5 x 4.75mm, according to the official spec sheet.
What switches does the Altar II use?
It uses dual steel arm scissor mechanical switches with a 40gf actuation force and 1.8mm of travel.
Which operating systems are supported?
The Altar II supports macOS 12+ and Windows 10+, though the Sanctuary app requires macOS 26, according to Electronic Materials Office.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life is rated at up to 30 days, with a fast-charging feature providing two days of use from a two-minute USB-C charge.
What are your thoughts on ultra-slim mechanical keyboards? Do you prefer a heavy, foam-padded desktop board or a portable design like the Altar II? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below!