Altar II squeezes a mechanical keyboard and detachable dial into a 4.75mm body
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The November 10 crowdfunding launch brings EMO's unusually thin keyboard closer to production, though hands-on performance remains unverified.
A mechanical keyboard need not be a brick. EMO says Altar II is 4.75mm thick with 1.8mm key travel. Its protruding dial detaches magnetically for packing. The Kickstarter campaign launched November 10.
The clickable M-Dial uses haptic feedback to simulate rotary steps. Removing a raised component is a practical design change for people who travel with their keyboard.
Daring Fireball's John Gruber highlighted the launch, saying it addresses complaints about his first-generation keyboard. He explicitly has not tested Altar II. The design favors a portable finished product over a thick customizable kit.
EMO announced a regular campaign price of $299 and delivery in early summer 2027. Dimensions and performance remain manufacturer claims; the product is in development and specifications or timing may change. Crowdfunding is not a store, and delivery or promised functionality is not guaranteed.
Source times: EMO announcement, August 6, 2026, 21:00 Beijing / August 6, 9:00 AM EDT; Daring Fireball launch coverage, November 11, 04:59:25 Beijing / November 10, 3:59:25 PM EST.
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