I sometimes ran into an issue where the keyboard would stop recognizing input when holding a certain key (usually Shift + w during game) for a long time (more than 20 seconds). However, this issue was not constant, and I was able to always release the key and reissue it. It only appeared in the case of fringes where I was moving in one direction or performing one action over a long period of time.
I have had several instances where keypresses register multiple times, but they were rare in my tests, only happened two or three times on more than 10 hours of testing. That said, I’m worried that this problem will get worse over time.
Quick Access Customization
Photo: Henri Robbins
Overall, the assembly and design of this keyboard is impressive. An outstanding feature is the quick disassembly system. It consists of four snap-release mechanisms with ball bearings and springs that break up the top and bottom cases without tools. This makes customization and modification of this keyboard very easy.
All the components used feel high quality and solid. Both the top and bottom cases are made of aluminum and the snap release mechanism is also metal. This case does not have any defects that cannot be visited externally, and everything appears to be well assembled.
The biggest drawback of metal cases is the fixed typing angle. Most plastic keyboards have your legs stretched to adjust the angle of the keyboard, but the GX87 has a permanent 6-degree angle. This is a fairly standard angle (most keyboards are between 5-7 degrees) and you don’t have to create problems for the average person when typing.
Photo: Henri Robbins
There is a slight color mismatch between the keycap and the case of the all-white unit. The difference is enough to bother me, but realistically, this issue can be ignored without any problems. Alternatively, you can fix it with aftermarket keycaps or choose different color combinations to avoid it completely.
Flexcut on the PCB improves typing feeling, but when you try to install the switch, the hot swap socket bends downwards, making it difficult to remove and reinstall the switch. This issue is alleviated by disassembling the keyboard, as it can support the bottom of the PCB when installing a new switch, but customization is slightly boring.
Overall, for $140, you get a fully built keyboard that you find good to type, which is good to perform and easy to customize. The switch feels good, and the gasket mount system is well designed and is fun to use. It’s not necessarily one thing and the best, but it’s well balanced.