Compare McHose GX87 Keyboard vs Keychron K2 HE

McHose GX87 Keyboard
Keychron K2 HE

Quick verdict

What each product is best for

Choose McHose GX87 Keyboard for hot-swappable switches and ease of switch replacement.

Choose Keychron K2 HE for cable quality and connectivity.

Comparison Takeaways

McHose GX87 Keyboard

Where It Has the Edge

  • hot-swappable switches is 4.6 vs 2.6. Hot-swappable switches were consistently treated as a benefit because users can replace switches without soldering and personalize the...
  • ease of switch replacement is 4.5 vs 3.8. Switch replacement was mostly easy thanks to tool-free access and hot-swap sockets, though one reviewer found reinstalling switches...
  • ergonomics is 4.0 vs 3.3. Ergonomics received limited but positive evidence because the fixed typing angle was expected to be comfortable for most...
  • switch options is 3.0 vs 2.5. Switch choice was the clearest limitation: one reviewer wanted tactile options at checkout, while another wanted to try...

Keychron K2 HE

Where It Has the Edge

  • cable quality is 3.3 vs 2.0. Cable impressions were mixed: the braided cable was praised, but several reviewers disliked the short length or side-port...
  • connectivity is 4.5 vs 3.3. Connectivity was generally strong across Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired use, though side-port design and occasional wake behavior created...
  • key stability is 4.9 vs 3.9. Key stability was repeatedly praised, with reviewers noting little or no wobble from double-rail switches and stabilized larger...
  • portability is 3.0 vs 2.0. Portability was a weak-to-mixed area because weight and size made the board less travel-friendly despite compact dimensions.
Average score
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.3
Keychron K2 HE
4.4
hot-swappable switches
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.6

Hot-swappable switches were consistently treated as a benefit because users can replace switches without soldering and personalize the board.

Keychron K2 HE
2.6

Hot-swap support was consistently treated as limited because the board only accepts compatible Hall effect double-rail switches.

cable quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
2.0

Cable quality was a weak point in one review, where the included cable was described as cheap and not very good.

Keychron K2 HE
3.3

Cable impressions were mixed: the braided cable was praised, but several reviewers disliked the short length or side-port constraints.

connectivity
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.3

Connectivity was mixed: reviewers liked the wireless and tri-mode feature set, but noted mode-switch delay, visible front controls, and minor connectivity issues.

Keychron K2 HE
4.5

Connectivity was generally strong across Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired use, though side-port design and occasional wake behavior created caveats.

key stability
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.9

Key stability evidence was mixed: one reviewer disliked the plate-mounted stabilizer tradeoff, while another found the installed stabilizers secure and free of ticking.

Keychron K2 HE
4.9

Key stability was repeatedly praised, with reviewers noting little or no wobble from double-rail switches and stabilized larger keys.

portability
McHose GX87 Keyboard
2.0

Portability was a weakness because one reviewer said the heavy aluminum build makes it undesirable to carry to and from an office.

Keychron K2 HE
3.0

Portability was a weak-to-mixed area because weight and size made the board less travel-friendly despite compact dimensions.

design aesthetics
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.2

Design aesthetics were generally positive for clean, premium, and attractive looks, but some reviewers found the styling mundane or noticed mismatched colors.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Design aesthetics earned broad praise for wood accents, a premium office-friendly look, and a less-gamer visual identity.

ease of switch replacement
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Switch replacement was mostly easy thanks to tool-free access and hot-swap sockets, though one reviewer found reinstalling switches harder because the PCB flexes.

Keychron K2 HE
3.8

Switch replacement was possible, but the practical experience was constrained by limited compatible magnetic switch choices.

actuation consistency
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.0

One reviewer found the switch actuation consistent, with only a slight scratchiness detectable during very slow presses.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

The Hall effect switches were repeatedly described as smooth and consistent, with only mild stiffness noted in one review.

ergonomics
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.0

Ergonomics received limited but positive evidence because the fixed typing angle was expected to be comfortable for most people.

Keychron K2 HE
3.3

Ergonomics were mixed: adjustable angles helped some reviewers, but keyboard height caused wrist strain for others.

RGB customization
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.0

RGB customization was broadly useful, especially through VIA, QMK, or the MCHOSE software, though one reviewer found the RGB controls clunky.

Keychron K2 HE
4.6

RGB customization was praised for plentiful modes and settings, even when lighting visibility itself was not always ideal.

desk space efficiency
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.0

Desk space efficiency was positive in one review, which liked that TKL saves space while leaving room for an optional macro pad.

Keychron K2 HE
4.6

The 75% layout was praised for saving desk space while retaining essentials, though some users missed larger layouts.

size and form factor
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.2

Size and form factor earned positive evidence from one reviewer who found TKL a comfortable step down from full-size keyboards.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

The size and form factor were generally viewed as a good 75% balance, but the compact layout and weight were not ideal for every user.

gaming performance
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.2

Gaming performance was viewed as more than adequate for casual or hybrid use, with reviewers reporting competent play across first-person and general gaming sessions.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

Gaming performance was broadly positive, especially for responsiveness, rapid trigger, strafing, and clean repeated inputs, though pure esports comparisons were more guarded.

switch options
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.0

Switch choice was the clearest limitation: one reviewer wanted tactile options at checkout, while another wanted to try tactiles despite liking the included switches.

Keychron K2 HE
2.5

Switch options were the most consistent limitation because compatibility is restricted to a small set of linear Gateron double-rail magnetic switches.

onboard memory
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Onboard memory was positively supported by stored keyboard customizations that persist when moving between devices.

Keychron K2 HE
5.0

Onboard memory was praised because mappings or settings stayed on the keyboard and transferred across devices.

frame rigidity
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.4

Frame rigidity was mostly praised for its solid, flex-free construction, though the quick-release design was seen by one reviewer as less sturdy than screws.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Frame rigidity was praised in the reviews that discussed it, including no deck flex, rigid construction, and ultra-stable typing.

stabilizer quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.7

Stabilizer impressions were mixed: some reviewers found them tuned and issue-free, while others noted plate-mount tradeoffs or a need for more lube.

Keychron K2 HE
4.2

Stabilizer quality was mostly good, with several reviewers noting limited rattle or firm larger keys, but some still heard inconsistency.

battery life
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.8

Battery life was strongly praised, with reviewers emphasizing the large 8,000 mAh capacity and long time between charges.

Keychron K2 HE
4.4

Battery life was generally positive, ranging from several days to multiple weeks depending on RGB and wireless settings, with a few average assessments.

RGB lighting quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.5

RGB lighting quality was acceptable but not class-leading, with one reviewer saying the lighting options do not match bigger keyboard brands.

Keychron K2 HE
3.9

RGB lighting quality ranged from bright and attractive to partially blocked by opaque caps, making it version-dependent.

key responsiveness
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.3

Key response was consistently praised, with reviewers describing the keys or switches as responsive and accurate enough for both typing and gaming.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

Key responsiveness was a major strength, with reviewers repeatedly calling the board fast, highly responsive, or effortless to trigger.

switch feel
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Reviewers generally liked the switch feel, calling the Vintage White or stock linear switches smooth, responsive, crisp, and satisfying, with only mild scratchiness or preference-based caveats.

Keychron K2 HE
4.9

Switch feel was the standout attribute: reviewers repeatedly described the magnetic switches as smooth, stable, satisfying, and highly responsive.

noise level
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Noise level received limited but positive evidence from a reviewer who described the sound as muted and thocky rather than harsh.

Keychron K2 HE
4.2

Noise level was generally acceptable to good, with reviewers describing it as quiet enough or not overly clicky, though not silent.

compatibility
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Compatibility evidence was positive where reviewers connected QMK and VIA support to deep, flexible keyboard customization.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Compatibility was praised for Mac/Windows switching, Linux mentions, and cross-device use, with no major platform problem in scored evidence.

extra gaming features
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Extra gaming features received positive evidence from one reviewer who highlighted the ultra-low-latency mode as a surprise at this price.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Advanced gaming features were praised as serious tools for competitive players, especially actuation tuning and rapid-trigger behaviors.

value for money
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.9

Value for money was one of the strongest areas, with reviewers repeatedly calling the keyboard exceptional for its price and feature set.

Keychron K2 HE
4.6

Value for money was broadly positive because reviewers saw premium Hall effect features and design at a reasonable price, even if not cheap.

reliability
McHose GX87 Keyboard
3.0

Reliability evidence was mixed to negative in one review due to occasional held-input recognition and rare multiple key registrations.

Keychron K2 HE
3.3

Reliability was mixed: some reviewers reported no issues or a reliable experience, while others noted wake or 2.4GHz input issues.

latency
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.2

Latency impressions were positive overall, helped by 1,000 Hz operation and an ultra-low-latency mode, though this is still framed as strong budget performance rather than elite Hall Effect speed.

Keychron K2 HE
4.0

Latency evidence was mixed: several reviewers saw no noticeable lag, while one measured/characterized performance as not top-tier gaming latency.

macro customization
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Macro customization was positively supported by reviewers who noted easy macro setup through VIA or QMK-style customization.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

Macro customization was praised where discussed, especially because macros could be created in Launcher and retained across devices.

typing feel
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.6

Typing feel was one of the strongest areas, with reviewers calling it joyful, great, smooth, and close to ideal.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Typing feel was overwhelmingly praised, often described as cloud-like, fluid, smooth, or among the best experiences reviewers had used.

materials quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Materials quality was praised for the aluminum case, smooth finish, premium feel, and solid components.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

Materials quality came through in praise for aluminum, wood, concrete, PBT, and overall premium-feeling construction.

sound dampening
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.6

Sound dampening was praised for reducing ping, refining the sound, and isolating vibration through the case design and internal layers.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Sound dampening was praised for muted, premium, thocky sound from internal foam, silicone, and dampening layers.

durability
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.7

Durability evidence centered on the solid aluminum build and PBT keycaps, which reviewers linked to lasting use.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Durability was inferred positively from sturdy construction, Hall effect longevity, and even an accidental drop test, with no major durability complaint.

build quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.7

Build quality was a major point of agreement, with every review giving positive evidence around the aluminum body, dense feel, assembly, or lack of flex.

Keychron K2 HE
4.9

Build quality was a consistent strength, with reviewers calling it solid, premium, rigid, and well made across editions.

software quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.3

Software quality was mostly praised for VIA, QMK, and the dedicated MCHOSE software, with caveats around VIA being basic and RGB customization sometimes clunky.

Keychron K2 HE
4.4

Software quality was mostly praised for a web-based Launcher that avoids bulky apps, though some reviewers found it less polished than competitors or dependent on USB/web access.

customization options
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.9

Customization options were a major strength, especially the magnetic or ball-catch quick-disassembly case, hot-swap design, and easy access for mods.

Keychron K2 HE
4.8

Customization was one of the strongest themes, with reviewers praising per-key actuation, remapping, lighting, macros, and Hall effect controls.

profile management
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Profile management was supported by the ability to store customizations on the keyboard so settings persist across devices.

Keychron K2 HE
4.6

Profile management was positive, with reviewers valuing locally stored profiles and separate typing/gaming setups.

acoustics
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Acoustics were a standout strength, with reviewers repeatedly praising the thocky, poppy, solid, and very nice sound.

Keychron K2 HE
4.7

Reviewers frequently liked the K2 HE's deeper, thocky, or satisfying sound, though one called it unadventurous rather than exciting.

typing comfort
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.5

Typing comfort was praised across reviews for its bouncy gasket feel, smooth typing, and balanced flex, though one reviewer found it slightly firm.

Keychron K2 HE
4.3

Typing comfort was usually positive thanks to smooth switches and low fatigue, but height caused discomfort for some reviewers.

wireless performance
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.0

Wireless performance received positive evidence from a reviewer who found the wireless functionality impressive and quick to reconnect.

Keychron K2 HE
3.9

Wireless performance was mixed: many reviewers had flawless Bluetooth/2.4GHz use, while others saw wake delay or 2.4GHz bugginess.

keycap quality
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.4

Keycap quality was praised for PBT material, thickness, durability, and a profile that helped typing accuracy.

Keychron K2 HE
4.3

Keycap quality was mostly praised for PBT, OSA shape, and comfort, though a few reviews noted plain styling or material-saving concerns.

polling rate
McHose GX87 Keyboard
4.2

Reviewers treated the 1,000 Hz polling behavior as a strength, linking it to responsive inputs and low-latency use.

Keychron K2 HE
4.3

Polling rate was considered adequate to good for most users at 1,000Hz, but not class-leading for top competitive gaming.

analog input support
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
4.2

Analog-style depth input was viewed as a useful advanced feature, especially for gamepad-like controls, though one reviewer saw it as more novel than essential.

backlight brightness
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
2.7

Backlight brightness split reviewers: some found it dim or redundant on opaque caps, while others praised brighter implementations.

key spacing
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
3.4

Key spacing was mixed, with smaller or tightly packed keys bothering some reviewers before they adjusted.

layout options
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
3.2

Layout options were mixed: the 75% layout kept useful keys, but missing numpad, print screen, or full-size spacing bothered some users.

legend visibility
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
3.5

Legend visibility depended on version: opaque Special Edition caps drew criticism, while font clarity and shine-through options were praised elsewhere.

media controls
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
2.9

Media controls were a recurring weakness because reviewers wanted a knob or dedicated controls, despite remapping and function-row workarounds.

per-key lighting control
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
2.0

Per-key lighting control was specifically criticized in one review for not supporting individual key color selection.

rapid trigger support
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
4.9

Rapid trigger support was one of the clearest strengths, repeatedly praised for instant reset, gaming movement, and fast repeat inputs.

volume control
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
2.7

Volume control was criticized mainly through the missing knob and reliance on remapping or function-row controls.

wrist rest quality
McHose GX87 KeyboardNo score yet
Keychron K2 HE
5.0

Wrist rest quality was praised when reviewers tried Keychron's optional palm rest, though the need for one also reflected keyboard height.