Mchose GX87 Ultra Review: Bringing the Custom Keyboard Experience to Everyone

Tired of the same old clickety-clack of your generic keyboard? Longing for the satisfying feel and customization options of a high-end mechanical keyboard, but balking at the price tag? Then the Mchose GX87 Ultra might just be the answer to your prayers. This keyboard aims to bridge the gap between the aspirational world of custom keyboards and the everyday practicality of a budget-conscious buy. We've spent some quality time with the GX87 Ultra, and here's our in-depth review, breaking down its features, performance, and whether it lives up to the hype.

1. The Unboxing and First Impressions: A Premium Feel at a Reasonable Price

Right out of the box, the Mchose GX87 Ultra makes a good impression. The packaging is clean and professional, hinting at the quality within. The keyboard itself feels surprisingly solid for its price point. The plastic case is well-constructed, and the weight gives it a reassuring heft. The keycaps feel premium, with a smooth, slightly textured surface that's a pleasure to type on. Our initial impression? This doesn't feel like a budget keyboard.

2. Layout and Design: 80% Perfection

The GX87 Ultra sports an 80% layout (also known as TKL or Tenkeyless), meaning it ditches the number pad while retaining the arrow keys and navigation cluster. This design offers a great balance between functionality and desk space efficiency. The keycaps are sculpted in a comfortable profile, and the legends are clearly visible. The overall aesthetic is clean and modern, making it suitable for both gaming and productivity.

Example: Comparing the GX87 Ultra to a full-size keyboard, you immediately notice the space savings. This allows for more mouse movement, a crucial advantage for gamers. The absence of the number pad also makes it a more compact keyboard, easily fitting into a backpack for on-the-go use.

3. The Switches: Your Choice of Tactile, Linear, or Clicky (and Hot-Swappable!)

One of the biggest highlights of the GX87 Ultra is its hot-swappable switch sockets. This means you can easily swap out the pre-installed switches for any other compatible mechanical switches without soldering. This level of customization is usually found on much more expensive keyboards. Mchose offers the GX87 Ultra with a variety of pre-installed switches, catering to different preferences:

  • Linear: For smooth, consistent keystrokes, ideal for gaming and fast typing.
  • Tactile: Provide a noticeable bump when the key is activated, offering tactile feedback for typists.
  • Clicky: Offer both a tactile bump and an audible click, providing the most feedback.

The hot-swappable feature is a game-changer. It allows you to experiment with different switches to find the perfect feel and sound for your typing style. It also extends the lifespan of the keyboard, as you can easily replace a faulty switch without replacing the entire unit.

4. Keycaps and Stabilizers: Attention to Detail Matters

The GX87 Ultra comes equipped with high-quality keycaps. The keycaps are made of durable PBT plastic, known for its resistance to shine and wear, ensuring they'll last for years. The stabilizers, which are responsible for preventing key wobble on larger keys like the spacebar and shift keys, are pre-lubed, resulting in a smoother and quieter typing experience right out of the box. This attention to detail is a hallmark of the custom keyboard world and it's great to see it in this more affordable offering.

5. Connectivity and Software: Versatile and User-Friendly

The GX87 Ultra offers both wired and wireless connectivity options. You can connect it via USB-C for a stable and reliable connection or use Bluetooth for a clutter-free setup. The keyboard also supports multi-device pairing, allowing you to switch between your computer, tablet, and phone with ease. The included software allows you to remap keys, create custom macros, and customize the RGB lighting. The software is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to personalize your keyboard to your liking.

Case Study: A freelance writer found the multi-device pairing feature incredibly useful. They could seamlessly switch between writing on their laptop and responding to emails on their tablet, all with the same keyboard.

6. RGB Lighting: Adding Some Flair

The GX87 Ultra features per-key RGB lighting, adding a touch of visual flair to your setup. The lighting is vibrant and customizable, with various pre-set modes and the ability to create your own custom effects. You can adjust the brightness, color, and animation speed to match your preferences. The RGB lighting is a nice touch that enhances the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.

7. Performance: Typing and Gaming Experience

The GX87 Ultra delivers a fantastic typing experience. The switches feel responsive and tactile, and the pre-lubed stabilizers contribute to a smooth and quiet typing experience. The keyboard is also excellent for gaming. The fast response times and customizable macros give you a competitive edge. Whether you're typing emails or fragging opponents, the GX87 Ultra performs admirably.

8. Value for Money: The Verdict

The Mchose GX87 Ultra offers exceptional value for money. It packs in features typically found on much more expensive keyboards, including hot-swappable switches, high-quality keycaps, pre-lubed stabilizers, and both wired and wireless connectivity. The build quality is excellent, and the performance is top-notch. If you're looking for a mechanical keyboard that offers a premium experience without breaking the bank, the GX87 Ultra is an excellent choice.

Conclusion: A New Champion in the Budget Keyboard Arena

The Mchose GX87 Ultra is a compelling keyboard that successfully brings the customization and quality of the custom keyboard scene to a more accessible price point. Its hot-swappable switches, excellent build quality, and versatile features make it a standout choice in the crowded budget mechanical keyboard market. While there are other good options, the GX87 Ultra's combination of features, performance, and price makes it a clear winner. If you're ready to upgrade your typing experience without emptying your wallet, the Mchose GX87 Ultra is a keyboard you should seriously consider.

Key Takeaways:

  • Offers a premium feel and build quality at a budget-friendly price.
  • Features hot-swappable switches for easy customization.
  • Provides a comfortable and enjoyable typing and gaming experience.
  • Offers both wired and wireless connectivity.
  • Delivers exceptional value for money.

This post was published as part of my automated content series.