Leobog Hi8 vs Zuoya GMK87Aluminum vs Polycarbonate DIY Kit
Choose the Leobog Hi8 for a premium aluminum build and long battery life, or the Zuoya GMK87 for advanced firmware customization and a programmable screen.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Leobog Hi8
Aluminum
- Aluminum alloy case construction for a premium, durable feel.
- Large 8000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
- Compact 75% layout with 80 keys saves desk space.
- Lacks VIA support for easy key remapping.
- No programmable screen or display.
- Heavier at 1380g, which may be less desirable for some.
Get the
Zuoya GMK87
Polycarbonate DIY Kit
- Native VIA support for real-time, graphical key remapping.
- Features a programmable LCD screen for custom graphics or information.
- Detailed 5-layer foam kit (PORON, IXPE, bottom foam) included for sound modification.
- Smaller 3000mAh battery compared to the Hi8.
- Polycarbonate case may feel less premium than aluminum to some users.
- Larger footprint than a 75% keyboard.
Your priority should guide your choice. If you value a solid metal build, marathon battery life, and a space-saving form factor, the Leobog Hi8 is the clear pick. If your workflow benefits from deep customization via VIA software, a programmable screen, and a well-documented foam modding kit, the Zuoya GMK87 offers more flexibility out of the box. Both are competent gasket-mounted DIY kits, but they serve different enthusiast goals.
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.
Leobog Hi8
Zuoya GMK87
Layout size
75%
80%
Battery
8,000 mAh
3,000 mAh
Case material
Aluminum
ABS
Knob
Yes
No
Display
None
Yes
- Leobog Hi8
- Zuoya GMK87
- Performance
- 8061
- Build quality
- 7671
- Productivity
- 8576
- Customizability
- 7977
- Portability
- 9273
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Leobog Hi8 is the stronger candidate for gaming and travel, thanks to its compact aluminum build and large battery. The Zuoya GMK87 excels in programming, modding, and content creation, where its VIA support, programmable screen, and detailed foam kit add significant value. For general office use, both are capable, leaving the choice to layout preference.
Pick the Leobog Hi8
- The Leobog Hi8 vendor description mentions a 'top-tier gaming chip' for rapid keystroke registration.
- Its 75% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements.
- The aluminum case may provide a more stable, vibration-resistant platform.
Leobog Hi8 vs Zuoya GMK87 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
6 of 19 specs differ
Leobog Hi8
Zuoya GMK87
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Leobog Hi8 vs Zuoya GMK87: your questions
The Leobog Hi8 has a significantly larger 8000mAh battery, while the Zuoya GMK87 has a 3000mAh battery. Based on capacity alone, the Hi8 should offer longer usage between charges, especially with wireless or RGB use.
Yes, the Zuoya GMK87 listing confirms VIA support. This allows for live key remapping and macro creation through a graphical interface without needing to compile firmware.
The Leobog Hi8 uses an aluminum alloy case, which is heavier and offers a metallic, solid feel. The Zuoya GMK87 uses a polycarbonate case, which is lighter and can contribute to a different sound signature and more flex.
The Zuoya GMK87 kit is explicitly listed with a 5-layer foam configuration including PORON, IXPE, and bottom foam, providing more dedicated materials for sound dampening and modification from the start.
No, the Leobog Hi8 does not have a screen. The Zuoya GMK87 is the model that includes a programmable LCD screen.
The Leobog Hi8 uses a 75% layout with 80 keys. It omits the function row and numpad but keeps arrow keys and a compact navigation cluster.
Yes, both the Leobog Hi8 and Zuoya GMK87 are hot-swappable DIY kits. This means you can install and remove switches without soldering.
The Leobog Hi8 is more compact due to its 75% layout, making it easier to fit in a bag. However, it is heavier (1380g) than the GMK87 (1000g). Portability depends on whether you prioritize smaller size or lighter weight.
Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless with a dongle, and Bluetooth. This allows pairing with multiple devices like PCs, Macs, and mobile devices.
Both products are listed as barebones DIY kits. This typically means they include the keyboard case, PCB, plate, and stabilizers, but do not include switches or keycaps. You must purchase those separately.
Both the Leobog Hi8 and Zuoya GMK87 use a gasket mount design. The Hi8 vendor mentions PORON gaskets, while the GMK87 listing specifies a gasket mount with multiple foam layers.
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