Hardware Hacks '26
PLEASE NOTE: While currently exclusive to King's students, we intend to open this to other universities in the future.
Hardware Hacks '26: Build Beyond the Screen
NO SLIDES. NO FIGMA. NO WAFFLE.
Hardware Hacks '26 is a first-of-its-kind, pure hardware hackathon hosted at King's College London by the KCL Electronics and Robotics societies.
Backed by Professor Kawal Rhode, Head of Engineering Education at KCL, and esteemed members of the KCL Engineers Alumni Association who will serve as judges.
Sponsored by KCL NMES, KCLEA, Espressif, Corsair, iFixit and Qualcomm.
Over 24 hours, teams will design, prototype, and demo real, physical systems. If it doesn't plug in, move, sense, or interact with the physical world... IT DOESN'T QUALIFY.
The Challenge:
Scavenge to Build: Teams will be given a household appliance. You have further access to a heap of miscellaneous e-waste as well.
Reverse-Engineer: You must strip and scavenge its components to build an interesting invention within a time limit.
Solve the Problem: Your hacked creations will be designed around a specific problem statement that will be revealed on the day.
Be Resourceful: While brand-new kits and components are at your disposal, true glory (and points) comes from maximising the use of your salvaged e-waste.
What We Provide
The Arsenal: Components, micro-controllers, 3D printers, and fabrication tools are available at your disposal.
The Fuel: The event is entirely free and fully catered around the clock with high-quality meals, drinks, and snacks.
The Glory: Rest assured, grandiose prizes await the winning teams.
The Gimmicks: We’re also dishing out curveball awards for the most chaotic and creative hacks - think 'Most Repairable' or 'Maximum Jank'.
Who Can Apply?
You must be a King's College London student. Undergraduates, Postgraduates and PhDs are all accepted. Applications are NOT first-come, first-serve.
Candidates will be selected based on their demonstrated enthusiasm and experience (and don't worry, you aren't strictly limited to electronics experience!).
All we need is you and your creativity. Apply now to secure your spot.