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Compare Epomaker HE80 vs Keychron Q3 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-value entry and a top-tier investment in the hall effect keyboard market. Both the Epomaker HE80 and Keychron Q3 HE offer 8K polling, rapid trigger, and adjustable actuation, making the core performance features similar. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a lower-cost, wired-only plastic build or a significantly more expensive, wireless-capable, all-metal construction with extensive modding support.

68
EPOMAKER HE80
98
Keychron Q3 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.8 (41)
5.0 (18)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 830 g
  • Sized at 42 x 332 x 146 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features PBT, PC keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1775 g
  • Sized at 23 x 137 x 365 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Metal case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 97.7
  • Build Quality: 60.4
  • Productivity: 76.3
  • Customizability: 59.5
  • Portability: 57.6
Scores
  • Performance: 99.9
  • Build Quality: 88.2
  • Productivity: 96.7
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 77.9
Name
Epomaker HE80
Name
Keychron Q3 HE
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Magnetic
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Metal
Keycaps Material
PBT, PC
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
42 x 332 x 146 mm
Dimensions
23 x 137 x 365 mm
Weight
830g
Weight
1775g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for wireless flexibility are the primary deciders. The Epomaker HE80 delivers exceptional core gaming performance—8K polling, rapid trigger, hall effect switches—at an accessible price, making it a standout for cost-conscious gamers. The Keychron Q3 HE commands a premium for its all-metal build, wireless freedom, and unparalleled customization through QMK/VIA, ideal for users who want a versatile, high-end keyboard for work and play.

Epomaker HE80

  • +Extremely competitive price for an 8K polling hall effect keyboard.
  • +Includes four layers of sound dampening: latex sandwich foam, IXPE switch pad, bottom silicone, and bottom foam.
  • +Comes with extra PBT keycaps, PC transparent keycaps, and three spare magnetic switches.
  • +Web-based driver allows for actuation adjustment and macro programming without a dedicated app.
  • +Lightweight plastic construction at 830g.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and device switching.
  • −Plastic case construction may feel less premium than metal alternatives.
  • −Compatibility is limited to other south-facing magnetic switches for hot-swapping.
  • −Lacks advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.

Keychron Q3 HE

  • +Premium full aluminum case construction for durability and acoustics.
  • +Triple-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired operation.
  • +Extensive software support via QMK, VIA, and the Keychron Launcher web app.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh battery for cordless use and features a double-gasket mount design.
  • +Comes with screw-in PCB stabilizers and supports a wide variety of switch types.
  • −Significantly higher price point.
  • −Very heavy at 1775g, limiting portability.
  • −The Q3 HE 8K model is listed as compatible only with Keychron's Ultra-fast Lime Magnetic Switches for hot-swapping.
  • −No included information on accessory items like a keycap puller in the provided description.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q3 HE is the more versatile choice, winning in office, programming, modding, and content creation due to its wireless options, extensive software support, and premium build. The Epomaker HE80 ties for pure gaming performance and wins for travel due to its light weight. For users who need a dedicated, high-performance gaming keyboard on a budget or for portable setups, the HE80 is compelling, but the Q3 HE's broader feature set justifies its higher cost for multi-purpose use.

GamingTie
  • •Both feature an 8000 Hz polling rate for minimal latency.
  • •Both support rapid trigger and adjustable actuation points for precise control.
  • •Both use hall effect magnetic switches for consistent, contactless input.
OfficeKeychron Q3 HE
  • •Keychron Q3 HE offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for device switching.
  • •Its 4000mAh battery enables cord-free use.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle.
ProgrammingKeychron Q3 HE
  • •Keychron Q3 HE supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source firmware customization.
  • •The aluminum case and screw-in stabilizers may offer a more stable typing platform.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on the desk.
TravelEpomaker HE80
  • •Epomaker HE80 is significantly lighter at 830g versus the Keychron's 1775g.
  • •Its smaller dimensions (332mm long) may fit more easily in a bag.
  • •As a wired-only board, it requires no charging, simplifying use on the go.
ModdingKeychron Q3 HE
  • •Keychron Q3 HE has a hot-swappable PCB compatible with a wide range of linear, tactile, clicky, and magnetic switches.
  • •It features a double-gasket mount design and multiple internal foam layers for acoustic tuning.
  • •The all-aluminum case and screw-in PCB stabilizers are premium modding foundations.
Content CreationKeychron Q3 HE
  • •Keychron Q3 HE offers knob support for media control or parameter adjustment.
  • •Wireless connectivity provides a cleaner setup for filming or streaming.
  • •The premium aluminum build contributes to a more professional aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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