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Compare Nuphy Gem80 vs Gopolar Tai Chi GG87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two 80% custom mechanical keyboards with QMK/VIA support. The choice is difficult because both target the enthusiast market but take divergent paths. The Nuphy Gem80 offers extensive wireless connectivity and a modular design, while the Gopolar TaiChi GG87 focuses on a substantial wired experience with an integrated OLED display. Your priority for flexibility versus a specific feature set will determine the winner.

96
Nuphy GEM80 Barebones Keyboard Kit
70
Gopolar Tai-Chi GG87 Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Features N-key rollover
  • 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 1120 g
  • Sized at 37 x 358 x 141 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, OLED display
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 79.9
  • Build Quality: 87
  • Productivity: 93.7
  • Customizability: 97.2
  • Portability: 75.9
Scores
  • Performance: 41.9
  • Build Quality: 70
  • Productivity: 81.6
  • Customizability: 69.3
  • Portability: 53
Name
Nuphy Gem80
Name
Gopolar Tai Chi GG87
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Mechanical
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
OLED
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
37 x 358 x 141 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1120g
Weight
2000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Nuphy Gem80 is the recommended choice due to its wireless versatility, superior customizability, and proven user reception. Its ability to function as a high-performance wireless board sets it apart. Only consider the Gopolar TaiChi GG87 if your setup is permanently wired, you specifically desire the OLED screen functionality, and you prefer a heavier keyboard. The Gem80's broader feature set justifies its slightly higher price range for the vast majority of buyers.

Nuphy Gem80

  • +Tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0) with a 1000Hz wireless polling rate.
  • +Highly modular 'omni-mount' design and extensive official modding parts (plates, foams, wrist rests).
  • +Aluminum top case and polycarbonate bottom case construction.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh battery for long wireless runtime.
  • +South-facing RGB backlighting with PBT keycap options.
  • −Sold primarily as a barebones kit, requiring separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
  • −The vendor notes that tri-mode and wired-only version PCBs are not cross-compatible.
  • −Some user reviews mention challenges with the included assembly tools.

Gopolar Tai Chi GG87

  • +Features a customizable OLED screen, as stated in the vendor description.
  • +Built with screw-in stabilizers for potentially more stable large keys.
  • +Heavier 2000g construction may provide a more solid, desk-bound feel.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Constructed with an ABS case, which may feel less premium than metal alternatives.
  • −No backlighting or RGB is specified in the provided features.
  • −Lacks hot-swappable switch support according to the metadata.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Gem80 is the more versatile choice, winning in five of six categories. Its strengths in wireless performance, battery life, and extensive modding ecosystem make it superior for gaming, office use, programming, and travel. For content creation, both boards offer strong macro support, with the Gem80 providing RGB lighting and the TaiChi GG87 offering a unique OLED screen for personalized displays. The TaiChi GG87's primary advantage is its integrated screen within a heavier, wired-only construction.

GamingNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80 offers a 1000Hz polling rate for both wired and 2.4GHz wireless connections.
  • •Its tri-mode connectivity allows for a clutter-free wireless gaming setup.
  • •The vendor description highlights latency optimization with an STM32F072 MCU and Nordic wireless chip.
OfficeNuphy Gem80
  • •Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity allows easy switching between multiple devices like Mac, Windows, and iOS.
  • •A 4000mAh battery provides extended wireless use, with lab tests showing up to 330 hours with lights off.
  • •The silent switch option (Cherry Silent Red Clear-Top) is available for quieter environments.
ProgrammingNuphy Gem80
  • •Full QMK/VIA support enables deep key remapping and macro creation for workflow optimization.
  • •The TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB allows easy switch experimentation for optimal typing feel.
TravelNuphy Gem80
  • •At 1120g, it is significantly lighter than the 2000g TaiChi GG87.
  • •Wireless operation removes the need to carry or connect a cable.
  • •The 80% form factor is more portable than a full-size board.
ModdingNuphy Gem80
  • •Features an 'omni-mount' design allowing top, gasket, or bottom mount styles.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Extensive official mod support includes multiple plate materials (FR4, PC, POM, Aluminum), various sound dampening foams, and themed accessories.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both boards support QMK/VIA for assigning macros and shortcuts.
  • •The Gem80's south-facing RGB backlighting and themed keycap options offer visual customization for streams.
  • •The TaiChi GG87's OLED screen can be customized to display system info or artwork, per the vendor description.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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