Vortex Core vs Core PlusWired RGB vs Wireless Low-Profile
Choose the Vortex Core for a traditional, wired RGB experience, or the Core Plus for wireless flexibility and a low-profile design.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Vortex Core
Wired RGB
Build quality in the top 40% of 60% boards under $100.
- Includes RGB backlighting for customization and low-light visibility.
- Features dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.
- Uses standard Cherry MX switches (including Silent Red) for broad compatibility.
- Compact layout only. No function row, dedicated arrow keys, or numpad.
Get the
Vortex Core Plus
Wireless Low-Profile
Build quality in the top 50% of 40% boards under $150.
- Provides tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired.
- Fully programmable with user-friendly VIA 3.0 software.
- Low-profile design with a 5-degree typing angle for ergonomics.
- Low-profile switches and keycaps only. Standard MX keycaps will not fit.
- Compact layout only. No function row, dedicated arrow keys, or numpad.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require wireless freedom, easy software programming (VIA), and a sleek low-profile build, the Vortex Core Plus is worth the higher cost. If you prefer a traditional mechanical feel with RGB lighting and will use it primarily in a single, wired setup, the original Vortex Core is the more straightforward option. Consider your switch preference carefully, as the two boards use different mechanical families.
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.
Vortex Core
Vortex Core Plus
Layout size
60%
40%
Connection
Wired
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Low profile
No
Yes
Switch options
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
VIA
No
Yes
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
- Vortex Core
- Vortex Core Plus
- Performance
- 7046
- Build quality
- 6169
- Productivity
- 4775
- Customizability
- 6360
- Portability
- 6687
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: Aluminum
- Mount style: Plate Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The Vortex Core Plus is the more versatile choice for mobile and multi-device users, winning in Office, Programming, and Travel scenarios due to its wireless connectivity, VIA support, and low-profile ergonomics. The original Vortex Core holds an edge for Gaming and Content Creation where its wired reliability, RGB lighting, and multimedia keys are more relevant. For modding, both are capable but cater to different switch ecosystems.
Pick the Vortex Core
- Wired-only connection of the Core may offer more consistent latency for competitive play.
- Full N-key rollover is listed for the Core, ensuring all key presses are registered.
- The Core includes multimedia keys, which can be useful for in-game controls or audio.
Vortex Core vs Core Plus specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
12 of 21 specs differ
Vortex Core
Vortex Core Plus
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Low profile
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Typing angle
Backlight
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Vortex Core vs Core Plus: your questions
The Core is a wired-only, standard-height 40% keyboard with RGB lighting. The Core Plus adds tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth/2.4GHz/USB-C), a low-profile design, VIA programming support, and sound-dampening foam, but removes the RGB backlighting.
Yes, according to the vendor specifications, the Vortex Core Plus is listed as compatible with both Mac and Windows. The original Vortex Core is listed as Windows compatible only, with no Mac or Linux support mentioned.
No. The vendor description states the Core Plus hotswap PCB is designed specifically for Gateron low-profile switches. It is not compatible with standard Cherry MX or other traditional MX-style switches due to the low-profile design.
Yes. The vendor description for the Vortex Core mentions it has 4 layers for programming and split programmable space bars. However, it does not support the VIA/QMK software that the Core Plus uses for programming.
The Vortex Core Plus uses 2 AAA batteries to power its wireless modes, as stated in the product description. These batteries are not included with the keyboard. It does not have a built-in rechargeable lithium battery.
The Vortex Core Plus has design features aimed at comfort, including a low-profile keycap set, a 5-degree typing angle, and sound-dampening foam. The standard Vortex Core uses traditional DSA profile keycaps and a normal profile without a specified angle.
The Vortex Core uses DSA profile keycaps. The Vortex Core Plus uses low-profile VTG profile keycaps, which are dye-sublimated, to match its low-profile switch design.
According to the listing, the Vortex Core Plus includes a USB to USB-C cable and a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle. The required AAA batteries for wireless operation are not included.
The wired Vortex Core may have an edge for gaming due to its guaranteed wired connection, full N-key rollover, and multimedia keys. The Core Plus's wireless modes could introduce latency, though its 2.4GHz dongle may be suitable for casual gaming.
Yes, both the Vortex Core and the Vortex Core Plus feature hot-swappable PCBs. However, they are not cross-compatible. The Core accepts standard MX switches, while the Core Plus accepts Gateron low-profile switches.
Both keyboards feature a CNC aluminum case and plate mount stabilizers. The Core has an aluminum plate, while the Core Plus uses an FR4 plate. Both use PBT keycaps, with the Core's being DSA and the Core Plus's being low-profile VTG.
Yes. The vendor description for the Core Plus explicitly states it has bottom case foam and foam between the plate and the PCB installed from the factory to dampen sound.
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