Vortex Model M vs MultixGasket Mount vs Layout Flexibility
Choose the Model M for a premium typing feel and firmware flexibility, or the Multix for a lower cost and more physical layout options.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Vortex Model M
Gasket Mount
Build quality in the top 20% of 80% boards under $150.
- Gasket mount structure with an FR4 plate for a potentially more flexible typing feel.
- Includes Poron plate foam and IXPE switch pad foam for sound dampening.
- Supports both QMK and VIA for extensive firmware reprogramming.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
- No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.
Get the
Vortex Multix
Layout Flexibility
Build quality in the top 35% of 80% boards under $150.
- Generally available at a more affordable price point.
- PCB supports multiple layout options including ISO, 6.25U/7U spacebar, and split Backspace.
- Includes a silicone sound dampening pad and comes with extra keycaps, a keycap puller, and switch puller.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Your priority should guide this choice. If you value a potentially more refined, customizable typing experience and plan to dive deep into firmware tweaks, the Vortex Model M is worth its higher cost. If your budget is tighter, you need ISO or other layout support, or you prefer a straightforward VIA-based tool, the Vortex Multix delivers excellent core features for less.
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 Model M
Vortex Multix
QMK
Yes
No
The deep option when you want to remap every key
Layout standard
ANSI
ANSI, ISO
ISO and JIS exist so regional layouts fit
Plate material
FR4
Steel
- Vortex Model M
- Vortex Multix
- Performance
- 7371
- Build quality
- 7164
- Productivity
- 9085
- Customizability
- 8471
- Portability
- 7574
- Layout size: 80%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: ABS
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Mount style: Plate Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The Vortex Model M takes the lead for programming and modding due to its QMK support and gasket-mounted construction. The Vortex Multix is a stronger pick for budget-conscious office use. For gaming, the Model M's build may offer a slight edge, while travel and content creation are effectively ties, leaving the decision to budget and preference for typing feel versus layout flexibility.
Pick the Vortex Model M
- The gasket mount structure with FR4 plate and foam layers may offer a more consistent typing feel during extended sessions.
- Both offer N-key rollover and similar wireless connectivity, putting them on equal footing for core gaming features.
Vortex Model M vs Multix specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
3 of 20 specs differ
Vortex Model M
Vortex Multix
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
ISO layouts by store
Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.
Vortex Model M
No ISO layout at the stores we track.
Vortex Multix
Listed on the product, not split by store: ISO.
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
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Vortex Model M vs Multix: your questions
The core difference is the mounting style and firmware support. The Model M uses a gasket mount with an FR4 plate and foam layers, and supports both QMK and VIA. The Multix uses a stack mount with a steel plate and a silicone pad, supports multiple physical layouts on its PCB, and is programmable via VIA only.
The Vortex Model M is likely to offer a more nuanced typing feel. Its gasket mount structure, FR4 plate, and inclusion of both Poron plate foam and IXPE switch pad foam are design choices aimed at improving sound and flex. The Multix's steel plate and stack mount will provide a firmer, more direct feedback.
No. According to their vendor descriptions, both the Vortex Model M and Multix are listed with 'Blank / None LED' for backlighting. They have north-facing RGB LEDs in their specifications, but the product pages indicate they ship without per-key lighting effects.
The Vortex Multix explicitly supports an ISO layout through its PCB, though the vendor notes it may not include all keycaps for that layout. The Vortex Model M is specified as ANSI-only in its description and does not mention ISO support.
Yes, both the Vortex Model M and Vortex Multix feature hot-swap sockets. Their product listings confirm the sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing for easy switch replacement without soldering.
Both keyboards offer triple-mode connectivity. You can use them with a wired USB-C connection, Bluetooth, or a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle. The Model M's description specifies Bluetooth 5.1 and the ability to connect to four devices wirelessly.
No. Both the Vortex Model M and Multix use standard, user-replaceable batteries for wireless operation. The Model M is powered by 2x AA batteries, while the Multix uses 2x AAA batteries.
The Vortex Model M offers broader customization. It supports the powerful, open-source QMK firmware in addition to VIA, allowing for nearly limitless key remapping and macro programming. The Multix is limited to VIA for software customization, though its PCB offers more physical layout flexibility.
According to the vendor page, the Vortex Multix includes a user manual, a USB-C cable, additional keycaps for layout options, a keycap puller, and a switch puller. The Model M's listing mentions a USB-C cable and a 2.4 GHz dongle.
Yes. The Vortex Model M is described as having an 'ANSI layout without Windows keys,' which is known as a WKL (Windows-key-less) layout. The bottom row modifiers are different as a result. The Vortex Multix uses a standard layout that includes Windows keys.
Both can be suitable. They are both available with silent switch options (like Cherry MX Silent Red) and feature sound-dampening materials—foam in the Model M and a silicone pad in the Multix. The final sound profile will depend heavily on the specific switches installed.
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