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Compare Gopolar Tai Chi GG86 vs Tai Chi GG87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers choosing between two nearly identical 80% TKL keyboards from Gopolar, the Tai Chi GG86 and GG87. The decision is tricky because both share the same case material, gasket mount design, QMK/VIA support, OLED screen, and wired-only connectivity. The fundamental split is that the GG86 is sold as a DIY barebones kit with an FR4 plate and unlubed PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers, while the GG87 comes as a pre-built with a polycarbonate (PC) plate and unlubed plate-mounted stabilizers. Your choice depends on whether you want to build from scratch or use the keyboard straight out of the box.

75
Gopolar Tai-Chi GG86 Keyboard Kit
70
Gopolar Tai-Chi GG87 Mechanical Keyboard

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  • No unique differences found
  • Features ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 41.8
  • Build Quality: 73.9
  • Productivity: 81.5
  • Customizability: 79.5
  • Portability: 52.8
Scores
  • Performance: 41.9
  • Build Quality: 70.1
  • Productivity: 81.6
  • Customizability: 69.3
  • Portability: 52.9
Name
Gopolar Tai Chi GG86
Name
Gopolar Tai Chi GG87
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
OLED
Display Support
 
OLED
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
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
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
2000g
Weight
2000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Gopolar Tai Chi GG86 and GG87 are nearly identical siblings split by build approach. Go with the GG86 if you enjoy assembling your keyboard and prefer the firmer feel of an FR4 plate with screw-in stabilizers. Choose the GG87 if you want a ready-to-type experience with a softer PC plate and don't plan to mod heavily. Both offer the same gasket mount, QMK/VIA support, and OLED screen.

Gopolar Tai Chi GG86

  • +FR4 (fiberglass) plate provides a stiffer typing feel.
  • +Comes with PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers for better large key stability.
  • +Sold as a DIY kit, allowing full freedom in switch and keycap selection.
  • +Unlubed stabilizers give modders a fresh base for tuning.

  • No keycaps or switches included, requiring additional purchase and assembly.
  • ABS case may exhibit slight warpage before assembly as noted by the vendor.

Gopolar Tai Chi GG87

  • +Comes as a pre-built keyboard, ready for immediate use.
  • +Polycarbonate (PC) plate offers a softer, more flexible typing feel.
  • +Includes all necessary components out of the box.

  • Plate-mounted stabilizers may be less stable than PCB-mounted alternatives.
  • Less customization freedom as it is a pre-built unit.
  • ABS keycaps may wear faster compared to PBT options.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gaming, the GG86's stiffer FR4 plate and PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers give a slight edge in responsiveness. Office and programming users may prefer the softer PC plate of the GG87 and its ready-to-use nature. Both are equally unsuitable for travel due to heavy weight and wired-only connectivity. Modding enthusiasts will lean toward the GG86 DIY kit for greater customization freedom. Content creators can pick either, as both offer the same OLED screen and QMK/VIA programmability.

GamingGopolar Tai Chi GG86
  • GG86's FR4 plate offers a stiffer, more responsive feel for fast key presses.
  • PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers provide more stable support for large keys like the spacebar.
OfficeGopolar Tai Chi GG87
  • GG87's polycarbonate (PC) plate delivers a softer, more cushioned typing feel suitable for long sessions.
  • Comes pre-built so you can start typing immediately without assembly.
ProgrammingGopolar Tai Chi GG87
  • The PC plate's flexibility can reduce finger fatigue during extended coding.
  • Pre-built convenience allows for immediate setup and use.
TravelTie
  • Both weigh 2000g, making them heavy for travel.
  • Both are wired-only with no wireless or battery options.
  • Both share the same 80% ABS case size.
ModdingGopolar Tai Chi GG86
  • GG86 is a DIY kit, giving you full control over switch and keycap choices.
  • FR4 plate offers a different sound profile that modders may prefer.
  • PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers are a better base for tuning and lubrication.
Content CreationTie
  • Both feature a customizable OLED screen for showing media info or graphics.
  • Both are fully programmable with QMK and VIA for custom macros and layers.
  • Neither has dedicated media keys, relying on software layers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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