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Compare Keychron LemoKey P1 HE vs Vortex Hellcat Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for keyboard buyers deciding between a high-performance, pre-built option and a hands-on, barebones kit. The decision is difficult because both offer hot-swappable PCBs and programmability, but they target completely different users. The P1 HE is a fully-loaded, wireless-ready board with advanced gaming features, while the Hellcat is a minimalist DIY kit focused on a specific translucent look and feel.

96
Lemokey P1 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Gaming Keyboard
77
Vortex Hellcat 65% Hotswap RGB Dye Sub PBT DIY Keyboard Kit

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5.0 (3)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1630 g
  • Sized at 32 x 140 x 322 mm
  • Made with a Metal, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Plastic, Acrylic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 93.3
  • Build Quality: 88.2
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 97.4
  • Portability: 81.6
Scores
  • Performance: 54.7
  • Build Quality: 77.1
  • Productivity: 68.8
  • Customizability: 85.7
  • Portability: 69.2
Name
Keychron LemoKey P1 HE
Name
Vortex Hellcat
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE
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
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Metal, Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, Acrylic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
32 x 140 x 322 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1630g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a premium, out-of-the-box experience with cutting-edge gaming features, wireless freedom, and a robust metal build, the Keychron P1 HE is worth the higher cost. If you prefer a hands-on project, want a distinctive translucent aesthetic, and prioritize a compact, affordable kit, the Vortex Hellcat is a compelling starting point. Consider if you value advanced features or a foundational DIY build more.

Keychron LemoKey P1 HE

  • +Advanced magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger.
  • +Triple connectivity: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C.
  • +Full aluminum metal case with gasket mount design and multiple acoustic foams.
  • +Includes a programmable knob and supports QMK/VIA firmware.
  • +Comes fully assembled with keycaps, switches, and a 4000mAh battery.
  • −Hot-swap sockets are only compatible with Gateron double-rail magnetic switches.
  • −The full metal construction makes it heavy at approximately 1800g.
  • −More expensive than the Hellcat kit.

Vortex Hellcat

  • +Unique frosted acrylic CNC case allows for RGB underglow effects.
  • +Comes as a complete DIY kit with keycaps, stabilizers, and a carrying case.
  • +South-facing RGB switch orientation avoids interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Hot-swap sockets support standard 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
  • +Programmable with QMK, VIA, and VIAL firmware.
  • −Requires assembly and the purchase of switches separately.
  • −Tray mount design may offer a less consistent typing feel than gasket mount.
  • −Lacks wireless connectivity and a battery.
  • −Only available in a 65% ANSI layout.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron P1 HE is the clear choice for gaming, office work, programming, and content creation due to its wireless versatility, gaming-focused features, and more functional layout. The Vortex Hellcat wins for travel primarily due to its smaller size and included case. For modding, it's a tie; the Hellcat offers a blank-slate DIY kit, while the P1 HE provides a high-quality, moddable foundation with premium materials.

GamingKeychron LemoKey P1 HE
  • •The P1 HE has a specified 1000Hz polling rate for low-latency response.
  • •It features adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality via its magnetic switches.
  • •It offers a 2.4 GHz wireless connection for cable-free gaming.
OfficeKeychron LemoKey P1 HE
  • •The P1 HE's 75% layout retains dedicated function and navigation keys.
  • •It supports multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between computers.
  • •Its included 4000mAh battery and wireless modes reduce desk clutter.
ProgrammingKeychron LemoKey P1 HE
  • •The P1 HE offers ISO layout support, beneficial for international programmers.
  • •Its 75% layout provides arrow keys and a column of nav keys without a full-size footprint.
  • •It supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
TravelVortex Hellcat
  • •The Vortex Hellcat's 65% layout is more compact than the P1 HE's 75%.
  • •The Hellcat kit includes a carrying case, according to its listing.
  • •Its acrylic case is likely lighter than the P1 HE's full metal construction.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, though the P1 HE is limited to specific magnetic switches.
  • •Both support open-source firmware (QMK/VIA/VIAL) for software customization.
  • •The Hellcat is a DIY kit requiring assembly, offering a foundational modding experience.
  • •The P1 HE features a gasket mount design and multiple foam layers for sound modding out of the box.
Content CreationKeychron LemoKey P1 HE
  • •The P1 HE includes a programmable knob for controlling volume, zoom, or brush size.
  • •Its ability to assign multiple actions to a single key based on press depth can streamline workflows.
  • •The wireless connectivity allows for a cleaner desk setup for filming or photography.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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