Compare Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo VPT87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-packed 75% keyboard with next-gen magnetic switches and a more traditional tenkeyless wireless model. The Keychron K2 HE offers unparalleled software customization and gaming-specific features, while the Varmilo VPT87 provides a familiar TKL layout with simpler hotswap compatibility. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize innovative performance tuning or a standard layout with reliable wireless connectivity.

Model
	100	67	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.6 stars (76 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Has Linear, Magnetic switch options Available in a 75% layout Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, ANSI, JIS layout standard Comes with a knob Utilizes Hall effect sensors Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Enables rapid trigger functionality Includes screw-in stabilizers Uses a Tray Mount mounting style Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 1743 g Sized at 41 x 127 x 321 mm Made with a Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin case Features PBT, ABS, PC keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting	Has Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky switch options Available in a 80% layout Built with the ANSI layout standard Uses a Plate Mount mounting style Made with a ABS case Features PBT keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 93.3 Build Quality: 90.9 Productivity: 96.8 Customizability: 99.4 Portability: 81.2	Scores Performance: 75.6 Build Quality: 54.2 Productivity: 77.9 Customizability: 71.3 Portability: 74.2
Name	Name Keychron K2 HE	Name Varmilo VPT87
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Magnetic	Switch Options Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 75%	Layout Size 80%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, ANSI, JIS	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Tray Mount	Mount Style Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, North-face, White	Backlight Rgb, South-face, North-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin	Case Material ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS, PC	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 41 x 127 x 321 mm	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight 1743g	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K2 HE is the clear choice for enthusiasts and power users who value cutting-edge technology, deep customization, and gaming performance. Its magnetic switches and software features are in a different league. Opt for the Varmilo VPT87 only if your primary need is a straightforward, wireless TKL keyboard with basic hotswap functionality and you do not require the advanced tuning or layout options of the K2 HE.

Keychron K2 HE

+Advanced Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm).
+Comprehensive sound dampening package includes EVA foam, EPDM foam, a silicone acoustic pad, and PET film.
+Full QMK and VIA support for open-source firmware customization and key remapping.
+Premium construction options with aluminum and wood case materials.
+Extensive layout compatibility including multiple ISO and JIS layouts.

−Magnetic hot-swap socket is only compatible with Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic switches, limiting switch choices.
−Heavier weight (up to 1743g) due to metal and wood construction.
−Some user reviews mention a relatively short included USB-C cable.

Varmilo VPT87

+Familiar TKL (87-key) layout with dedicated arrow and navigation keys.
+Features a 3-way cord channel for flexible cable management.
+Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption according to the vendor description.
+South-facing RGB LEDs ensure compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps.

−Lacks advanced firmware support, with no QMK or VIA compatibility listed.
−Limited to ANSI layout only, with no ISO options mentioned.
−Case is constructed from ABS plastic, lacking premium material options.
−Vendor listings show it is frequently out of stock or available for pre-order.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K2 HE dominates for use cases demanding high performance and customization, such as gaming, programming, and content creation, thanks to its magnetic switch technology and extensive software support. The Varmilo VPT87 is a more suitable choice for travel or for users who strictly prefer a TKL layout with basic hotswap capability and simpler wireless functionality. For office use, the K2 HE's multi-OS and international layout support gives it an edge.

GamingKeychron K2 HE

•Features adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8mm and Rapid Trigger for competitive play.
•Includes gaming-specific modes like Last Key Priority (LKP) and Analog Mode for controller-like input.
•Offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz modes.

OfficeKeychron K2 HE

•Supports extensive layout options including multiple ISO layouts for international users.
•Includes Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggle for multi-OS environments.
•Offers a 4000mAh battery for long wireless use.

ProgrammingKeychron K2 HE

•Features full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
•75% layout retains arrow keys and function row in a compact form factor.
•Hot-swappable for easy switch changes, though limited to specific magnetic switches.

TravelVarmilo VPT87

•TKL (80%) layout is more compact than a full-size but offers dedicated navigation keys.
•Features a 3-way cord channel for flexible cable routing.
•Lighter construction with an all-ABS case compared to the K2 HE's metal and wood options.

ModdingKeychron K2 HE

•Extensive sound dampening with EVA foam, EPDM foam, a silicone pad, and PET film.
•Uses screw-in PCB stabilizers for easier tuning and modification.
•Open-source QMK firmware allows for extensive software-level customization.

Content CreationKeychron K2 HE

•Dynamic Keystrokes feature allows assigning up to 4 actions per key based on press depth.
•Multi-device Bluetooth connectivity supports switching between a computer, phone, and tablet.
•Programmable media keys and knob support for timeline and volume control.