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Compare Zerodate K61 vs K87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for budget-conscious buyers deciding between two wired, QMK/VIA-compatible mechanical keyboards from Zerodate. The choice is difficult because both share core features like RGB lighting, doubleshot ABS keycaps, and similar pricing, but diverge sharply on layout and switch technology. The K61 offers a compact 60% form with advanced Hall Effect switches and hot-swap, while the K87 provides a more familiar 80% TKL layout with standard linear switches.

77
[In Stock] Zerodate K61 60% Wired Full RGB Mechanical Keyboard
70
[In Stock] Zerodate K87 Full RGB Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Linear, Magnetic switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 60% layout
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Weighs about 480 g
  • Sized at 40 x 290 x 101 mm
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Weighs about 560 g
  • Sized at 35 x 350 x 130 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 83.4
  • Build Quality: 74.9
  • Productivity: 63.4
  • Customizability: 86.7
  • Portability: 66.3
Scores
  • Performance: 67.4
  • Build Quality: 70.3
  • Productivity: 63.7
  • Customizability: 75.6
  • Portability: 51.9
Name
Zerodate K61
Name
Zerodate K87
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear, Magnetic
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
60%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
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
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
-
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
40 x 290 x 101 mm
Dimensions
35 x 350 x 130 mm
Weight
480g
Weight
560g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value cutting-edge switch technology, plan to mod your keyboard, or need maximum desk space, the Zerodate K61 is the clear pick. If you cannot work without dedicated arrow and navigation keys for office tasks, programming, or content creation, the Zerodate K87's TKL layout is the more practical daily driver, despite its lack of hot-swap.

Zerodate K61

  • +Features Hall Effect magnetic switches for a unique typing experience.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch replacement.
  • +More compact 60% layout saves desk space.
  • +Lighter weight at 480g for better portability.
  • +Includes N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for gaming.
  • −60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster, requiring key layers.
  • −Vendor description indicates some configurations use clicky blue switches, which can be loud.
  • −Smaller size may not be suitable for users who rely heavily on function keys.

Zerodate K87

  • +80% TKL layout includes dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster.
  • +Larger form factor may offer more typing stability.
  • +Vendor lists a standard linear switch option, which is typically quieter than clicky switches.
  • +Shares QMK and VIA support for deep customization.
  • −Lacks hot-swap capability, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Uses standard linear switches instead of the more advanced Hall Effect type.
  • −Larger and heavier (560g) than the K61, making it less portable.
  • −Vendor description does not mention N-Key Rollover (NKRO).

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K61 wins for gaming, travel, and modding due to its Hall Effect switches, compact size, and hot-swap socket. The K87 is the better choice for office work, programming, and content creation, where its TKL layout with dedicated arrow and navigation keys provides tangible efficiency. The decision is primarily a trade-off between advanced switch technology in a compact form and a more practical, familiar layout for productivity tasks.

GamingZerodate K61
  • •The K61 features Hall Effect magnetic switches, which are often associated with rapid actuation.
  • •It supports N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Its lighter 480g weight and smaller 60% footprint free up more desk space for mouse movement.
OfficeZerodate K87
  • •The K87's 80% TKL layout retains dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster, which are frequently used in spreadsheets and documents.
  • •Its larger size and 560g weight may feel more stable on a desk.
  • •The vendor description lists a standard linear switch option, which may be quieter than the clicky switch options listed for the K61.
ProgrammingZerodate K87
  • •The K87's dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster (Home, End, etc.) are crucial for efficient code navigation.
  • •The TKL layout provides immediate access to function keys without layers.
  • •The standard linear switch option may be preferred for long typing sessions.
TravelZerodate K61
  • •The K61 is significantly more compact, with dimensions of 290 x 101 mm versus the K87's 350 x 130 mm.
  • •It is lighter at 480g compared to the K87's 560g.
  • •The 60% size is easier to fit into a backpack or laptop bag.
ModdingZerodate K61
  • •The K61 is explicitly listed as hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch changes without soldering.
  • •It uses Hall Effect magnetic switches, which are a niche and moddable technology.
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for firmware customization, but the K61's hot-swap adds a major hardware modding advantage.
Content CreationZerodate K87
  • •The K87's TKL layout provides dedicated arrow keys for precise timeline scrubbing in video and audio software.
  • •The navigation cluster (Page Up/Down, etc.) is useful for navigating long documents or layers.
  • •The larger layout may accommodate macro key mapping to the function row more intuitively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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