KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Odin Gaming Nova 65 vs Vortex Hellcat Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers choosing between two similarly priced 65% hotswap barebones kits. The decision is difficult because both offer extensive customization via VIA, south-facing RGB, and screw-in stabilizers. The core trade-off is between the Nova 65's aluminum construction and gasket mount versus the Hellcat's included PBT keycaps, sound-dampening materials, and broader firmware support.

68
Odin Gaming Nova 65 Black Aluminum Barebones 65% Hotswap RGB Mechanical Keyboard
77
Vortex Hellcat 65% Hotswap RGB Dye Sub PBT DIY Keyboard Kit

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2024
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Plastic, Acrylic case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 52.5
  • Build Quality: 68.6
  • Productivity: 53.9
  • Customizability: 80
  • Portability: 70.1
Scores
  • Performance: 54.7
  • Build Quality: 77.1
  • Productivity: 68.8
  • Customizability: 85.7
  • Portability: 69.2
Name
Odin Gaming Nova 65
Name
Vortex Hellcat
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
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
Connection
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
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
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, Acrylic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide your choice. If you value a premium metal build, a gasket mount, and are willing to source all keycaps and switches separately, the Odin Gaming Nova 65 is the clear pick. If you prefer a more complete kit that includes quality keycaps, sound-dampening materials, a carrying case, and broader firmware support, the Vortex Hellcat offers greater immediate value and customization depth for a similar price.

Odin Gaming Nova 65

  • +Constructed with a high-quality aluminum case and thick bezel design.
  • +Features a gasket-mounted plate design for a potentially more flexible typing feel.
  • +Includes Durock v2 screw-in stabilizers stock, according to the vendor.
  • +Has a unique sandblasted polycarbonate bottom for enhanced RGB underglow.
  • −Does not include keycaps or switches, requiring a larger additional purchase.
  • −Lacks the explicit sound-dampening materials included with the Hellcat.
  • −Software customization is listed specifically for VIA, without mention of QMK or VIAL support.

Vortex Hellcat

  • +The kit includes DSA profile PBT dye-sub keycaps designed by MiTo.
  • +Comes with multiple sound-dampening components: an internal silicone dampener and a silicone switch pad.
  • +Offers extensive programmability support for QMK, VIA, and VIAL firmware.
  • +Includes a carrying case and an FR4 plate in the package.
  • −The tray mount with a plastic/acrylic case may feel less premium than an aluminum build.
  • −Requires full assembly as a DIY kit, which may be challenging for beginners.
  • −A customer review noted that mounting posts can be fragile, citing cracked threads in plastic.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Hellcat wins in more categories, particularly where included accessories, quiet typing, and advanced programmability are valued, such as for office work, programming, and travel. The Odin Gaming Nova 65 takes the lead for content creation, where its aluminum build and gasket mount may offer a more premium feel. For gaming, the boards are evenly matched on core specs, making the choice more about aesthetic and material preference.

GamingTie
  • •Both use a 65% ANSI layout, saving desk space for mouse movement.
  • •Both feature south-facing RGB LEDs and per-key RGB lighting.
  • •Both are hotswap, allowing for quick switch changes to personal preference.
OfficeVortex Hellcat
  • •The Vortex Hellcat kit includes PBT dye-sub keycaps, which are more durable than the none included with the Nova 65.
  • •The Hellcat's listing mentions an internal silicone dampener and silicone switch pad for a quieter typing experience.
  • •Both support Mac and Windows, but the Hellcat's included carrying case aids in transport between workspaces.
ProgrammingVortex Hellcat
  • •The Vortex Hellcat supports programming with QMK, VIA, and VIAL, offering more firmware options than the Nova 65's listed VIA support.
  • •The included DSA profile keycaps on the Hellcat provide a uniform typing surface.
  • •Both have a compact 65% layout, but the programmer must supply their own switches for either board.
TravelVortex Hellcat
  • •The Vortex Hellcat includes a carrying case, according to its vendor description.
  • •The acrylic/plastic construction of the Hellcat may be lighter than the Nova 65's aluminum case, though specific weights are not provided.
  • •Both are compact 65% layouts, which are inherently portable.
ModdingVortex Hellcat
  • •The Vortex Hellcat explicitly supports VIAL in addition to QMK and VIA, offering advanced real-time configuration.
  • •It comes with more included modding accessories like a silicone switch pad, internal dampener, and FR4 plate.
  • •While both are hotswap, the Hellcat's tray mount with acrylic case offers a different acoustic profile to modify compared to the Nova's gasket mount.
Content CreationOdin Gaming Nova 65
  • •The Odin Gaming Nova 65 features a gasket-mounted plate design, which its vendor page states is for an enhanced typing experience.
  • •Its aluminum case with a thick bezel design may provide a more premium, stable base for long sessions.
  • •The unique sandblasted polycarbonate bottom contributes to RGB underglow effects, which can be customized via VIA software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

99
$129
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
Keychron K2 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

95
$149
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$119
Rainy 75 WOBKey Keyboard Kit
WOBKEY Rainy75
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

95
$159
Keychron Q10 Pro (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q10 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

90
$139
Luminkey65 65% Keyboard
LUMINKEY Luminkey65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$169
Lemokey P1 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron LemoKey P1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

90
$143
Keychron Q4 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q4 Pro
60%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$149
Keychron Q2 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard (US Layout)
Keychron Q2 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

New
$149
Pixtendo x Keykobo Pixel67 Keyboard - Barebone
Keykobo Pixel67
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount