HP Class 1800 Southpaw vs Velocifire Virtual 87Layout vs Connectivity
Choose the HP Class 1800 Southpaw for its unique left-handed layout, or the Velocifire Virtual 87 for its versatile connectivity and extensive modding features.
![[Extras] Class 1800 Southpaw Keyboard Kit](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0607/5351/0626/files/class-1800-barebone-kit-754652.jpg?v=1727321750&width=3840&quality=75)
![[In Stock] Virtual 87 80% Mechanical Barebone Keyboard Kit](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0549/0262/0278/files/10_14bb0130-90bb-4fcc-be2e-c4203e171f93.jpg?v=1756892707&width=3840&quality=75)
Which one should you get?
Get the
HP Class 1800 Southpaw
Layout
- Unique southpaw (left-handed) 1800 layout with integrated numpad.
- Extremely heavy 4200g aluminum and brass construction for unmatched stability.
- Offers both top mount and silicone bottom with gasket mounting options.
- Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
- Extremely heavy at 4200g, limiting portability.
- Vendor description notes it is a prototype unit, and functions may vary.
Get the
Velocifire Virtual 87
Connectivity
- Dual-mode connectivity with both wired and Bluetooth.
- Hot-swappable PCB supports easy switch changes.
- Extensive firmware support via both QMK and VIA.
- The vendor's refund policy is restrictive, especially for assembled keyboards.
- Bluetooth polling rate is listed at 124 Hz, which is lower than the wired 1000 Hz rate.
- Does not include a full numpad, which some users may require.
Your choice fundamentally comes down to layout versus features. If a left-handed numpad layout is a non-negotiable ergonomic requirement, the HP Class 1800 Southpaw is your only option. For virtually every other user, the Velocifire Virtual 87 is the more practical and versatile choice, offering wireless freedom, superior modding features, and a more standard form factor at a similar price.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
HP Class 1800 Southpaw
Velocifire Virtual 87
Connection
Wired
Bluetooth, Wired
Hot-swappable
No
Yes
Ergonomics
Southpaw
Standard
Mount style
Top Mount
Gasket Mount
Weight
4,200 g
1,700 g
- HP Class 1800 Southpaw
- Velocifire Virtual 87
- Performance
- 4872
- Build quality
- 6682
- Productivity
- 4977
- Customizability
- 5991
- Portability
- 4071
- Case material: Aluminum
- QMK
What will you mostly use it for?
The Velocifire Virtual 87 wins in more general-use categories like Gaming, Office, Travel, and Modding due to its wireless features, lighter weight, and extensive customization tools. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw is a specialist choice, winning decisively for Programming where its left-handed numpad layout offers a unique ergonomic advantage. For Content Creation, the decision hinges on whether a numpad or RGB aesthetics are more valuable.
Pick the Velocifire Virtual 87
- The Velocifire Virtual 87 has a specified 1000 Hz wired polling rate.
- Its lighter 1700g weight is more practical for desk adjustments.
- The standard 80% layout is widely compatible with gaming keycap sets.
HP Class 1800 Southpaw vs Velocifire Virtual 87 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 18 specs differ
HP Class 1800 Southpaw
Velocifire Virtual 87
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
Case material
Plate material
Weight
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
Released
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HP Class 1800 Southpaw vs Velocifire Virtual 87: your questions
Only the Velocifire Virtual 87 offers wireless connectivity. It features Bluetooth in addition to a wired USB connection. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw is a wired-only keyboard.
For the HP Class 1800 Southpaw, 'southpaw' refers to its left-handed layout. The integrated numpad is positioned on the left side of the keyboard, keeping the mouse closer for right-handed users while retaining numpad functionality.
Yes, but only on the Velocifire Virtual 87. It comes with a hot-swappable PCB. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw requires soldering to change switches, as its product data does not mention hot-swap sockets.
The HP Class 1800 Southpaw is better suited for programmers who value a numpad for data entry and prefer its unique ergonomic layout. Its heavy build also provides stability for long typing sessions. The Velocifire lacks a numpad.
Yes, both support extensive key remapping via QMK firmware. The Velocifire Virtual 87 additionally supports VIA/Vial for real-time, GUI-based remapping without flashing firmware.
The weight difference is substantial. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw weighs 4200g (approx. 9.26 lbs), while the Velocifire Virtual 87 weighs 1700g (approx. 3.75 lbs). The HP is over twice as heavy.
The HP Class 1800 Southpaw uses a top mount or a silicone bottom with gasket mount, according to its vendor page. The Velocifire Virtual 87 offers gasket mount, top mount, and spring mount options.
Yes, the Velocifire Virtual 87 features full south-facing RGB backlighting. South-facing LEDs are often preferred as they improve compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw does not have RGB lighting.
According to the vendor specifications, the Velocifire Virtual 87 kit includes the aluminum case, PCB, FR4 plate, a foam bag, and a keyboard carrying bag. Switches and keycaps are not included, as it is a barebones kit.
The typing angles are very similar. The HP Class 1800 Southpaw has a 7-degree angle, and the Velocifire Virtual 87 has a 6-degree angle.
The Velocifire Virtual 87 is significantly more portable. It is lighter (1700g vs 4200g), has a more compact 80% form factor, and offers Bluetooth connectivity, eliminating the need for a cable in many situations.
Based on the provided vendor data, the Velocifire Virtual 87 is listed as 'In stock and ready for shipping.' The HP Class 1800 Southpaw's vendor page shows it as 'Sold out,' indicating it may not be immediately available.
Not sold on either?
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