The flux Keyboard, a transparent keyboard with a full display panel mounted underneath its clear keycaps, has been shown off in a recent video by Linus Tech Tips. The keyboard uses magnetic levitation switches rather than traditional mechanical contacts, and it includes modular components that let users rearrange sections of the board. According to the source material, the Flux is described as "a keyboard yet transparent and underneath IS a display featuring nearly any glyph or function you can imagine."

A viewer by the name FranciumGoesBom lent the keyboard to Linus Media Group for review. The exact manufacturer of the Flux Keyboard is not identified in the source material, but the product name is given as "Flux Keyboard."

What makes it different

The most obvious feature of the Flux Keyboard is its transparency. The keycaps are clear, which lets you see the LCD screen that sits beneath them. The display can show virtually any symbol, character, or function. That means the legends on the keys are not printed on the caps themselves but are instead rendered on the screen below. When you change layouts or switch to a different language, the display updates automatically. The same screen can also show animations, patterns, or information like system monitoring data.

The keyboard uses what the source calls "maglev switches" – a reference to magnetic levitation. These switches rely on magnets to register keystrokes instead of the metal leaf spring contacts found in standard mechanical switches. This change in mechanism gives the Flux a different typing feel, as noted in the video. The source states that "it does type a bit differently than your typical mechanical switches."

Modular design

The Flux Keyboard incorporates interchangeable modules. The video description mentions "The Modules" as a distinct segment, and the board can apparently be reconfigured to some degree. A part called "The Keyframe" is also mentioned, though the source does not clarify exactly what that refers to. It may be the base or mounting system for the switches and display.

The keyboard appears to be designed for both gaming and productivity. The source lists a Counter-Strike 2 gaming segment and a section on "Productivity features." Without more detailed specs, it is hard to know exactly what productivity enhancements are included, but the ability to program glyphs and layout options on the fly likely plays a role.

First impressions and limitations

The source indicates that the keyboard was handled and typed on during the video. First impressions are covered in a segment, but specific praise or criticism was not provided in the written materials. What is clear is that the mar switches do create a unique tactile experience. Users accustomed to Cherry MX or other common mechanical switch feel will notice a difference.

Because the entire keycap surface is transparent and the display sits directly underneath, the keyboard has a distinctive look that stands out from even the most elaborate RGB-lit boards. But the same design choice means the keycaps themselves are simple, clear plastic shells. If you prefer textured or sculpted keycap profiles, the Flux may require some adjustment.

Who would want this

Enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their keyboard's appearance without buying new keycaps sets will find the Flux attractive, because changing what each key shows is as simple as updating the display graphics. Programmers working with multiple keyboard layouts, video editors with custom macros, or gamers who want context-sensitive function labels could all benefit from the dynamic legends.

The mar system also promises durability, since there is no physical contact to wear down over time. However, the source does not provide any data on lifespan or reliability.

What comes next

No release date, price, or purchase link for the Flux Keyboard is included in the source material. The keyboard appears to be a working prototype or a small production unit loaned by a community member. The lack of manufacturer information suggests it may not yet be widely available. Those interested will need to follow online keyboard enthusiast communities or the Linus Tech Tips forum thread linked in the description to find more details.

The broader keyboard market

Transparent keyboards are not entirely new – companies like Ducky and some custom builders have made clear-housing mechs for years. But integrating a full, pixel-addressable display beneath the keys is far less common. Most keyboard screens are limited to a small window near the function row or a single LCD embedded in the case. The Flux puts the display everywhere.

Magnetic switches are also gaining traction. Brands like Wooting use Hall effect sensors to measure analog input. The Flux appears to use a similar magnetic principle, though the source does not specify whether it supports analog or rapid-trigger features. If it does, it could compete with high-performance gaming keyboards.

The combination of full-key display, mar switches, and modularity makes the Flux Keyboard an ambitious product. Whether it delivers on its potential will depend on build quality, software support, and pricing – none of which is known yet. For now, it remains one of the more visually striking keyboards to appear in a tech review this year.