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Head to head · Prices checked Nov 7, 2026

Leopold FC900RBT vs Vortex Multix 104Hotswap vs Simplicity

Choose the Vortex Multix 104 for its extensive customization and layout support, or the Leopold FC900RBT for a simpler, ready-to-use full-size board.

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Quick verdict

Which one should you get?

Get the

Leopold FC900RBT

Hotswap

Build quality in the bottom 30% of 100% boards under $150.

If you want

  • Includes dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.
  • Features 1.5mm thick PBT double-shot keycaps for durability.
  • Uses genuine Cherry MX switches in its pre-built configurations.

Rules this board out

  • Switches are soldered. Swapping them means soldering.
  • No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.

Get the

Vortex Multix 104

Simplicity

Build quality in the top 20% of 100% boards under $150.

If you want

  • Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • Fully programmable with VIA and QMK for deep customization.
  • Supports multiple layouts: ANSI, ISO, split Backspace, and split right Shift.

Rules this board out

  • North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.

Bottom line

For most buyers, the Vortex Multix 104 is the more compelling option, delivering superior value through its hotswap capability, extensive programmability, and layout flexibility at a potentially lower price. Only choose the Leopold FC900RBT if you specifically want a no-fuss, pre-built keyboard with Cherry MX switches and multimedia keys, and have no plans to modify your keyboard beyond switch selection at purchase.

What actually differs

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.

Leopold FC900RBT

Vortex Multix 104

  • Connection

    Bluetooth, Wired

    Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired

    Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency

  • Hot-swappable

    No

    Yes

    Switch changes without soldering

  • Ergonomics

    Standard

    Split Backspace

  • Case material

    Plastic

    ABS

  • QMK

    No

    Yes

    The deep option when you want to remap every key

KeebFinder scores

How we score
  • Leopold FC900RBT
  • Vortex Multix 104
Performance
57
73
Build quality
47
71
Productivity
69
89
Customizability
45
86
Portability
50
53

What they share

  • Layout size: 100%
  • Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
  • Mount style: Plate Mount
  • Sound dampening
See every spec side by side

Best for

What will you mostly use it for?

The Vortex Multix 104 is the clear choice for users who value customization, whether for gaming with a 2.4 GHz dongle, programming with flexible layouts, or modding with its hotswap design and acoustic foams. The Leopold FC900RBT holds its own in straightforward office use with its included multimedia keys and sound dampening, but it cannot match the Vortex's adaptability. For travel, neither board has an advantage due to their identical full-size form factor.

For gaming

Pick the Vortex Multix 104

  • The Vortex Multix 104 offers a 2.4 GHz wireless connection for potentially lower latency gaming, a mode the Leopold lacks.
  • It features a hotswap PCB, allowing quick switch changes for different gaming preferences.
  • The listing mentions support for a wide variety of switch types, including speed-oriented options like Cherry MX Speed Silver.

Full specs

Leopold FC900RBT vs Vortex Multix 104 specs

Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.

11 of 21 specs differ

Leopold FC900RBT

Vortex Multix 104

Typing & switches

Switch options

Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile

Hot-swappable

No
Yes

Mount style

Plate Mount
Plate Mount

Sound dampening

Yes
Yes

Layout

Layout size

100%
100%

Layout standard

ANSI
ANSI, ISO

Ergonomics

Standard
Split Backspace

Display

None
None

Media keys

Yes
Yes

Connectivity & battery

Connection

Bluetooth, Wired
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired

USB-C

Yes
Yes

Build & materials

Case material

Plastic
ABS

Plate material

Plastic
FR4

Keycaps

ABS, PBT
PBT

Weight

1,000 g
—

Backlight

None
Yes, north-facing

Firmware & software

QMK

No
Yes

VIA

No
Yes

N-key rollover

Yes
Yes

Mac & Windows

Yes
Yes

Extras

Released

2023
2024

For EU buyers

ISO layouts by store

Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.

Leopold FC900RBT

No ISO layout at the stores we track.

Vortex Multix 104

Listed on the product, not split by store: ISO.

Where to buy

Compare prices

Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.

Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.

FAQ

Leopold FC900RBT vs Vortex Multix 104: your questions

The Vortex Multix 104 may offer a more refined typing experience out of the box due to its detailed acoustic package, including latex plate foam and IXPE switch pads. Its FR4 plate and Cherry profile keycaps also contribute to a specific sound and feel. The Leopold provides a good typing experience with its sound-absorbing pad and thick PBT keycaps, but with less focus on tuned acoustics.

No, the Leopold FC900RBT is not hot-swappable. According to the vendor page, its hotswap field is listed as 'No'. Changing switches would require desoldering the existing switches and soldering in new ones.

Yes, the Vortex Multix 104 is listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its programmability via VIA and QMK allows for creating separate keymaps for different operating systems.

The Vortex Multix 104 offers more wireless options, with Bluetooth 5.0 and a dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless connection. The Leopold FC900RBT offers only Bluetooth 5.1. The 2.4 GHz mode on the Vortex is often preferred for gaming due to its lower latency and stronger connection.

Yes, both keyboards use standard MX-style switches, meaning their keycaps are removable with a keycap puller. The Leopold features 1.5mm thick PBT double-shot keycaps, while the Vortex uses Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps.

Both the Leopold FC900RBT and the Vortex Multix 104 are powered by 2x AA batteries for their wireless modes. Neither keyboard includes a built-in rechargeable lithium battery.

Yes. The Vortex Multix 104 supports VIA and QMK, which are powerful, open-source tools that allow you to reprogram every key, create layers, and design complex macros directly from a graphical interface or code.

The Leopold offers limited customization via physical DIP switches on the keyboard. These allow you to change certain key functions, like swapping the Caps Lock and Ctrl keys, but it does not support full software-based reprogramming like VIA.

The Leopold FC900RBT is listed at 1000g. A specific weight is not provided for the Vortex Multix 104, so a direct comparison cannot be made. Both are full-size boards and will be relatively heavy.

The Leopold FC900RBT uses a plastic case, as listed in its metadata. The Vortex Multix 104 uses an ABS plastic case and frame, according to its vendor description. The Vortex also uses an FR4 material for its plate, while the Leopold uses a plastic plate.

Yes, especially if they are interested in learning about customization. Its hotswap feature makes trying new switches risk-free and tool-free. The pre-built nature means it works immediately, while VIA offers an accessible way to explore key remapping without coding.

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