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Compare Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo VPT87 Moonlight Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-packed 75% keyboard with magnetic switches and a more traditional tenkeyless wireless model. The Keychron K2 HE offers extensive firmware and performance tuning, while the Varmilo VPT87 provides a straightforward, space-saving layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge adjustability or a reliable, compact form factor.

99
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
69
Varmilo VPT87 Moonlight TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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4.6 (69)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear, Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • 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 30 x 127 x 41 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 Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent 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 RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 93.3
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 81.3
Scores
  • Performance: 83.6
  • Build Quality: 56
  • Productivity: 79.6
  • Customizability: 72.5
  • Portability: 75.2
Name
Keychron K2 HE
Name
Varmilo VPT87 Moonlight
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Magnetic
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS, PC
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
30 x 127 x 41 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1743g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K2 HE is the clear choice for enthusiasts and competitive gamers who value deep customization, cutting-edge magnetic switch performance, and robust build materials. Opt for the Varmilo VPT87 Moonlight if you prefer a simpler, more portable tenkeyless keyboard with reliable wireless connectivity and straightforward hot-swap functionality, without the need for extensive software tweaking.

Keychron K2 HE

  • +Advanced Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm).
  • +Extensive customization via QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Premium build with aluminum plate, optional wood accents, and multiple sound-dampening foams (EVA, EPDM, silicone).
  • +Feature-rich for gaming with Rapid Trigger, Analog Mode, and Last Key Priority.
  • +Wide layout support including multiple ISO variants and JIS.
  • −Heavier weight (1743g) may reduce portability.
  • −Magnetic hot-swap compatibility is limited to specific Gateron double-rail switches only.
  • −Higher price point compared to many standard mechanical keyboards.

Varmilo VPT87 Moonlight

  • +Space-saving tenkeyless (TKL) form factor.
  • +Includes practical features like a 3-way cord channel and a 2-step kickstand.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports a variety of Cherry MX and Kailh switches.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Lacks advanced firmware customization (no QMK or VIA support).
  • −Limited to ANSI layout only.
  • −Case material is ABS plastic, lacking the premium options of the K2 HE.
  • −Wireless polling rate for 2.4 GHz is specified as 250 Hz, lower than the K2 HE's 1000 Hz.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K2 HE dominates in scenarios demanding high customization, such as gaming, programming, and modding, thanks to its magnetic switch technology and open-source firmware. The Varmilo VPT87 is a competent choice for office use and travel due to its TKL form factor and wireless flexibility. For content creation, the K2 HE's macro capabilities give it an edge, making the final choice a matter of prioritizing advanced features versus straightforward utility.

GamingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE features adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm and Rapid Trigger for competitive play.
  • •It includes gaming-specific features like Last Key Priority (LKP) and Analog Mode for variable input control.
  • •Its 1000 Hz polling rate is consistent across both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows compatibility with multimedia keys.
  • •The K2 HE's 75% layout saves desk space, while the VPT87's TKL layout retains the function row for productivity shortcuts.
ProgrammingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •It offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, DE, Nordic, etc.) for international users.
  • •Its 75% layout includes arrow keys and a compact navigation cluster.
TravelVarmilo VPT87 Moonlight
  • •The VPT87 is a tenkeyless (80%) layout, which is generally more compact than a 75% with a similar key count.
  • •Its vendor description highlights a 3-way cord channel for flexible cable routing in tight spaces.
  • •The K2 HE is notably heavier at 1743g, while the VPT87's weight is not specified but its TKL form suggests greater portability.
ModdingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE is hot-swappable with Gateron double-rail magnetic switches and includes multiple internal foam layers (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad) for sound tuning.
  • •It features screw-in PCB stabilizers and supports knob installation.
  • •It is available as a DIY kit/barebones option and offers a wider variety of case materials like resin, aluminum, and wood.
Content CreationKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE's Dynamic Keystrokes feature allows assigning up to 4 actions per key based on press depth for complex shortcuts.
  • •Programmable layers via QMK/VIA support extensive macro creation for editing software.
  • •Its adjustable typing angles (4°, 5°, 12°) provide ergonomic flexibility for long sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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