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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: MILKYWAY KEYS on Mon, 30 June 2025, 05:08:50

Title: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: MILKYWAY KEYS on Mon, 30 June 2025, 05:08:50
MW MASS 80 
Backgrand

Hello everyone, this is MW~
Milkyway known for keycaps, now stepping into kits with MASS 80. After 2+ years of R&D, we present a TKL engineered around keycap-centric innovation, redefining modularity and interactivity.
(https://imgur.com/GtA2xRM.jpg)

The name MASS 80 represents

The name "MASS 80" represents Modular, Adaptive, Smart System in an 80-TKL form factor.
This name directly conveys the kit's positioning and core customization features. Below we'll detail the kit's specific functionalities~
(https://imgur.com/9U14FRr.jpg)

Core Innovations

M-Panel Modular System
Magnetic Swappable Top Panels: Instantly reconfigure aesthetics (5s swap).
Multi-Layout Support: WK/WKL/HHKB via hotswap sockets.
(https://imgur.com/UXQl1Uo.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/lqUBtv4.jpg)


Keycaps Synergy: Panels designed to match Milkyway keycap sets (e.g., MW Eyeball Collector, MW Asuka R2). Future collabs: MW Lilith R2, Alhambra R2, MW Reel to Reel.
(https://imgur.com/5bCIajS.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/VamItve.jpg)


Theme Sync Ecosystem

Auto-Detection: Screen dynamically loads wallpapers/RGB themes matching installed panel.
Designer Forward: Expands creative canvas for keycap artists to integrate panel+screen+lighting.
(https://imgur.com/Q5XJ39j.jpg)

Detachable IPS Touchscreen

Purpose-Built UI:
Double-tap: Toggle mute
(https://imgur.com/JdEwT61.jpg)

Swipe up/down: Volume control
(https://imgur.com/euSkaRi.jpg)

Dual-swipe: Music track skip
(https://imgur.com/D5j2VlE.jpg)

Pomodoro timer
(https://imgur.com/kHLjk1Z.jpg)

Screen-Free Option: Replace with physical buttons.
Absolutely! To accommodate players who prefer no screen and enhance versatility, the display module is designed to be detachable and replaceable with dedicated physical keys.
(https://imgur.com/KX8KGZB.jpg)

Future OTA updates

Seamless RGB Halo

360°light band with dedicated PCB for uniform glow.
Syncs with active panel theme (keycap + panel + lighting harmony).
(https://imgur.com/E2RSQwl.jpg)


Back Design

The chassis features a 360°RGB light strip wrapping around its perimeter. Beyond standard lighting effects, it can also synchronize with the installed M-Panel for exclusive coordinated lighting—syncing keycaps, panel, and ambient glow.
(https://imgur.com/1Npu9mh.jpg)

Stable Internal Structure

Utilizes a proven Gasket mounted design for consistent typing feel.
Supports multiple layouts: TKL, WKL, HHKB, and ISO — catering to diverse customization preferences.
(Internal structure diagram will be updated later)
(https://imgur.com/8gUtiTB.jpg)

Technical Specs

Structure: Gasket mount (ISO support)
Material: Full CNC 6063   aluminum + acrylic
Finishes: Anodized/spray dual-process (7 launch colors)
e.g., Sparkle Black + Anodized Black, Almond White + Champagne Gold
Connectivity: Wired (Type-C)
Front Height: 20mm | Angle: 7°
Hall Effect Option: Under discussion (update in GB phase)
(https://imgur.com/fVolbCl.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/6sdccKr.jpg)

Timeline

GB : October 2025 (tentative)
Color Voting: Via official Discord/QQ groups

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to:
@BOHEMIA LAB for visionary design
@Jingvv & @kenny42 for structural engineering
All community advisors

Vendors
TBD  (Feel free to contact us!) :D

Join the IC

We want your feedback!
Which feature excites you most?
Colorway preferences?
Beta testers will be prioritized from active IC participants.
Instagram: @milkywaykeys (https://www.instagram.com/milkywaykeys/)
Discord Server: Milkyway keys (https://discord.gg/fUduE533KA)
Title: Re: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: ivanh98 on Mon, 30 June 2025, 07:00:28
very interesting. I'd prefer if a traditional nav cluster was possible.

On another note: @keepoto can finally celebrate the release of HHKB TKL LOL
Title: Re: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: Sm0k3d0uT on Mon, 30 June 2025, 11:26:13
are you able to display and control your music apps from the screen?
Title: Re: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: keepoto on Mon, 30 June 2025, 12:02:26
very interesting. I'd prefer if a traditional nav cluster was possible.

On another note: @keepoto can finally celebrate the release of HHKB TKL LOL

yea I'll buy just for HHKB top
Title: Re: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: Surefoot on Mon, 30 June 2025, 17:31:46
I like the design. To get a big screen and save the useful keys I'd have used a 75% layout and put the screen on the right side. Here I would only get the keys and not the screen, so the added value of that keyboard is lost.
Title: Re: [IC] MASS 80: The First Keyboard Kit Revolutionizing Keycaps Playabilit
Post by: TheManicGeek on Mon, 30 June 2025, 18:08:23
OK this is hot. Also that HHKB layout was NOT something I was expecting to see... I kinda... like it? GLWIC, would love to build with one of these!