Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo VPT87Magnetic Tech vs TKL Wireless
Choose the Keychron K2 HE for cutting-edge magnetic switch features and deep customization, or the Varmilo VPT87 for a straightforward TKL layout with basic wireless functionality.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron K2 HE
Magnetic Tech
- 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.
- 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.
Get the
Varmilo VPT87
TKL Wireless
- 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.
- 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.
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.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Keychron K2 HE
Varmilo VPT87
Layout size
75%
80%
Hall effect (magnetic)
Yes
No
Rapid trigger
Yes
No
Case material
ABS, Aluminum, Resin, Wood
ABS
Switch options
Linear, Magnetic
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Keychron K2 HE
- Varmilo VPT87
- Performance
- 9376
- Build quality
- 9154
- Productivity
- 9778
- Customizability
- 9871
- Portability
- 8174
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Sound dampening
- Plate material: Aluminum
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Keychron 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.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Keychron K2 HE
53 owner reviews
“Lowering the actuation depth improved my reaction time in competitive games. Analog mode in racing titles feels surprisingly natural. The mouse glide is smooth.”
“I thought the macro didn't have infinite repetitions, but there are no helpful images anywhere on the internet. I still haven't found the answer.”
Varmilo VPT87
No owner reviews collected yet.
Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo VPT87 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
13 of 29 specs differ
Keychron K2 HE
Varmilo VPT87
Switch options
Hall effect (magnetic)
Rapid trigger
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo VPT87: your questions
The Keychron K2 HE uses Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Switches. These are Hall effect switches that use TMR sensors and allow for adjustable actuation points from 0.2mm to 3.8mm. The keyboard is only hot-swappable with this specific type of magnetic switch.
Yes, the Varmilo VPT87 has a hot-swappable PCB. The vendor description lists compatibility with Cherry MX Red, Brown, and Silent Red switches, as well as Kailh and Varmilo's own MX-style switches, indicating standard 3-pin/5-pin MX stem compatibility.
Both keyboards are compatible with macOS. The Keychron K2 HE has a stronger focus on Mac users, as noted in its description, and includes a system toggle plus an extra set of keycaps specifically for macOS. The Varmilo VPT87 also lists Mac compatibility.
The vendor information for the Varmilo VPT87 does not mention support for QMK, VIA, or any other programmable software. Its customization appears limited to the physical hot-swapping of switches.
The Keychron K2 HE is equipped with a 4000mAh rechargeable battery. The manufacturer states a wireless working time of up to 110 hours based on lab tests, though actual use may vary.
On the Keychron K2 HE, it depends on the version. The Standard Version has shine-through Cherry profile keycaps, while the Special Edition has non-shine-through OSA profile keycaps. The Varmilo VPT87 uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, and with south-facing LEDs, backlighting may not shine through legends as brightly.
The Keychron K2 HE uses a 75% layout, which is more compact than a TKL as it integrates the function row and navigation keys closer together. The Varmilo VPT87 is a Tenkeyless (TKL or 80%) layout, which is smaller than a full-size but larger than a 75% board.
Yes, both offer adjustability. The Keychron K2 HE has a listed typing angle of 5°, 9.34°, or 12.43°. The Varmilo VPT87 features a 2-step kickstand for adjustability, according to its vendor description.
Only the Keychron K2 HE lists Rapid Trigger as a feature. This is a function of its magnetic switch technology that allows a key to reset as soon as it is released slightly, regardless of a predefined actuation point.
The Keychron K2 HE offers premium materials, with a Standard Version using an aluminum case and Special Editions combining aluminum with wood accents. The Varmilo VPT87 uses an ABS plastic case for both the top and bottom.
The Keychron K2 HE includes multiple layers of sound-dampening material, such as 3.5mm thick EVA foam, EPDM foam, a silicone pad, and PET film. The Varmilo VPT87 is described as having double-layer silicone sound absorption. The K2 HE's package is more comprehensive.
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