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Compare Gamakay K87 vs Keychron K2 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a budget-friendly, visually distinct wired keyboard and a more premium, feature-rich wireless model. The Gamakay K87 offers a unique acrylic case for RGB diffusion at a lower price, but is wired-only. The Keychron K2 Pro provides tri-mode connectivity, extensive programmability, and a more robust build, often at a higher cost. The decision hinges on whether wireless freedom and firmware support are worth the investment over a striking wired design.

GAMAKAY K87 80% TKL Mechanical keyboard
94
Keychron K2 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
4.9 (15)
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 810 g
  • Made with a Acrylic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1070 g
  • Sized at 25 x 317 x 122 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 76.5
  • Build Quality: 48.4
  • Productivity: 54.5
  • Customizability: 63.3
  • Portability: 56.2
Scores
  • Performance: 81.6
  • Build Quality: 89.6
  • Productivity: 94.8
  • Customizability: 97.4
  • Portability: 80.1
Name
Gamakay K87
Name
Keychron K2 Pro
Release year
2022
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-UK
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, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 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
-
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Acrylic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
25 x 317 x 122 mm
Weight
810g
Weight
1070g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should dictate the choice. If you need wireless connectivity, deep software customization, and a robust build for multi-device workflows, the Keychron K2 Pro is the clear and justifiable investment. If your budget is strict, you prefer a wired setup, and you value a distinctive acrylic light-show aesthetic above all else, the Gamakay K87 serves that specific purpose.

Gamakay K87

  • +Unique full acrylic case for 360-degree RGB light diffusion.
  • +Lower starting price point for a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard.
  • +Wired-only design ensures consistent connection without battery management.
  • +Includes a full set of 87 keys in a TKL layout.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and device switching.
  • Acrylic case material may be less durable than aluminum over time.
  • Lacks advanced programmability features like QMK/VIA support.
  • No confirmed details on included sound-dampening materials.

Keychron K2 Pro

  • +Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, wired) for use with multiple devices.
  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for unlimited key remapping.
  • +Superior build with optional aluminum frame, steel plate, and sound-dampening foam.
  • +Available in a hot-swappable barebones kit for full customization.

  • Generally commands a higher price than the K87.
  • Heavier weight (1070g) may reduce portability despite wireless feature.
  • The non-hot-swappable 'Fully Assembled' version lacks sound-dampening foam.
  • 75% layout has fewer dedicated keys than a TKL, requiring more layers.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K2 Pro is the more versatile choice, winning in five of six categories. Its strengths in wireless connectivity, programmability, and modding support make it superior for office work, programming, and travel. The Gamakay K87's primary advantage is its unique acrylic aesthetic, which may appeal to users prioritizing a specific visual style for content creation or gaming setups on a tighter budget, provided they don't need wireless functionality.

GamingKeychron K2 Pro
  • The Keychron K2 Pro has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for potentially lower latency.
  • Its wired mode offers a reliable connection, while Bluetooth provides cable-free flexibility.
  • The K2 Pro's N-key rollover ensures all key presses are registered simultaneously.
OfficeKeychron K2 Pro
  • The K2 Pro's wireless Bluetooth connectivity allows easy switching between multiple devices like a laptop and tablet.
  • It includes Mac and Windows keycaps and support out of the box.
  • Its 75% layout saves desk space while retaining essential function keys.
ProgrammingKeychron K2 Pro
  • Native QMK and VIA firmware support on the K2 Pro allows for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • The hot-swappable PCB (on specific versions) supports a wide range of switches for personalized feel.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a popular choice among enthusiasts.
TravelKeychron K2 Pro
  • The Keychron K2 Pro is wireless with a 4000mAh battery, eliminating the need for a constant cable connection.
  • Its 75% layout is more compact than the K87's 80% TKL layout.
  • Despite being heavier (1070g vs 810g), the lack of a required cable can simplify a mobile setup.
ModdingKeychron K2 Pro
  • The K2 Pro offers a barebones kit option and hot-swappable sockets for easy switch changes.
  • It features screw-in PCB stabilizers and includes sound-dampening foam and a silicone pad for acoustic tuning.
  • QMK/VIA firmware provides open-source programming for advanced customization beyond lighting.
Content CreationTie
  • Both keyboards have multimedia keys for controlling media playback.
  • The K87's acrylic case offers a distinctive, translucent look for streaming setups.
  • The K2 Pro's programmable layers via QMK can be used for application-specific shortcuts and macros.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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