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Levitating globes as functional office decor
The idea with floating globes is to take a small globe, usually 3 to 6 inches in diameter, and place it on a platform or between two pillars while using magnetism to make it float. The concept is simple, but the result appears quite high-tech. Floating globes are the perfect office upgrade to replace a boring paperweight or outdated desk tchotchke. The best floating globe we came across is the Gresus Magnetic Levitation Floating Globe, which boasts an ultra-modern aesthetic and three LED light settings for extra visual appeal.
Shop this article: Gresus Magnetic Levitation Floating Globe, Yanghx Levitation Floating Globe and Rtosy Magnetic Levitation Floating Globe
What to know before you buy a floating globe
Magnetism
Floating globes use magnetism to keep them afloat. For some globes, there’s a C-shaped apparatus that holds two different magnets — one above or below the globe and one inside the globe. The magnet within the globe is a regular run-of-the-mill magnet. Its purpose is to hold the globe up and also keep the mechanism hidden so it appears to float.
The other magnet, whether on the top or bottom of the globe, is an electromagnet. Unsurprisingly, this is a magnet made with electricity. This is where the delicate magnet dance begins. The electromagnet creates a force between the standard magnet just enough so that it holds it in place. The globe floats because the two forces are equal and opposite.
Globe size and material
Most levitating globes are between three and six inches in diameter. This is just the right size to fit in between the apparatus or above the platform. It’s also lightweight enough that magnets can hold it in place without it causing it to fall. The globes are always made with a plastic material because it’s the most affordable and lightweight. Also, plastic doesn’t interfere with magnetism.
Apparatus
The apparatus refers to the holder or platform that surrounds the levitating globe. Usually, they come in c-shapes so the designer can add a magnet above the globe, and it leaves plenty of open space to appear like it’s floating in mid-air. Others use flat platforms that leave as much space around the globe as possible. There are also circle holders that have the magnet at the top and show the globe floating in the center without touching the sides.
What to look for in a quality floating globe
Color-changing lights
Most floating globes come with LED lights. This brings attention to the globe itself and adds an extra element of technology to these office decorations. While white LED lights are appealing, adding color can take things to the next level. Levitating globes with color-changing lights usually have three to six different colors that can be adjusted to your liking. Some lights can be controlled while others move at random patterns.
Light on/off switch
Depending on where you place your globe, you may not want to constantly be plugging and unplugging the device. Most globes won’t stay afloat without a power source, so you’ll need to make sure it stays plugged in. Otherwise, you’ll have to reattach the globe using the delicate magnet system every time you unplug it. Higher quality floating globes will include an on/off switch that allows you to keep the globe floating while the light is turned off. This is ideal for office décor since you likely won’t want a light on all night on your desk.
Detailed globe
Because the focus is usually on the apparatus, the LED lights and the floating orb, some manufactures neglect the detail of the globe itself. Low-quality floating globes will have globes that show illegible countries and states. Part of the fun of a levitating globe is that you can enjoy the high-tech nature of the device while also appreciating the world you. High-quality levitating globes will include detailed drawings of each country with legible names and clear lines.
How much you can expect to spend on a floating globe
Floating globes can cost anywhere from $26 to $96.
Floating globe FAQ
Do floating globes spin?
A. There are none that spin on their own. However, some floating globes use a strong enough magnet that it can be very gently spun with your finger and still stay floating. Be careful though. Most levitating globes are very delicate and can fall off the stand if the table is bumped.
How do you hang a floating globe?
A. Levitating globes can be very delicate, so hanging the globe will take a lot of care and attention. Once the device is plugged in, take the globe and move it into the center directly below or above the magnet. Carefully move the globe close to the magnet until you feel it connect with the electromagnet. Once connected, slowly remove your hands and watch the globe float in mid-air!
Best floating globes for your office space
Gresus Magnetic Levitation Floating Globe
What you need to know: This stunning levitating globe uses magnets that keep the 3.35-inch globe rotating in midair inside a black C-shape device.
What you’ll love: The Gresus floating globe is ultra modern-looking making it a great choice for an office desk. It comes with three different LED light variations to add extra appeal to this already creative office decoration.
What you should consider: This globe must be plugged into an outlet.
Yanghx Levitation Floating Globe
What you need to know: This unique take on a levitating globe comes with a complete circle with a 4-inch globe floating in the center.
What you’ll love: The circle can be purchased in both black and white and features a bright LED light surrounding the globe. The globe floats and rotates via magnets on the top and bottom. It’s simple to set up and take down.
What you should consider: The globe must be plugged into an outlet.
Rtosy Magnetic Levitation Floating Globe
What you need to know: This 3.35-inch globe rotates in mid-air using magnets on the top and bottom of a C-shaped frame.
What you’ll love: This design offers more style choices; the globe itself comes in four color schemes: black/green, blue/green, black/gold and black/silver. It’s also equipped with an LED light.
What you should consider: This globe must be plugged into an outlet.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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