MCHOSE GX87 SE Keyboard Review: Entry-Level Aluminum Excellence

The MCHOSE GX87 SE delivers an aluminum alloy case, gasket mount, and hotswap PCB for just ¥199 (~$27.64). ✅ Worth Buying — it’s the cheapest way to get a real metal keyboard with enthusiast-grade features, and the typing experience punches well above its weight class.

Introduction

The MCHOSE GX87 SE represents a milestone in the budget keyboard market: a proper aluminum alloy case at a sub-¥200 price point. Previously, aluminum keyboards started at ¥400+, making them inaccessible to most budget-conscious enthusiasts. MCHOSE (a sub-brand of the same group behind VGN) has cracked the code on cost-effective CNC manufacturing.

The GX87 SE uses a standard TKL (tenkeyless) layout with 87 keys, making it ideal for gamers who want a compact form factor without losing function row access. The “SE” designation indicates the budget version of the GX87 series, which trims features like the knob and some internal dampening to hit the ¥199 price target.

Specifications

Spec	MCHOSE GX87 SE	VGN N75 Pro	Keychron K2 Pro	Akko MOD007B
Case Material	Aluminum alloy	ABS plastic	Plastic with aluminum plate	Aluminum alloy
Layout	87-key (TKL)	75% (82-key)	75% (84-key)	75% (81-key)
Mount Style	Gasket mount	Gasket mount	Tray mount	Gasket mount
Connectivity	USB-C only	2.4GHz / BT / USB-C	BT / USB-C	USB-C only
Hotswap	Yes (5-pin)	Yes (5-pin)	Yes (5-pin)	Yes (5-pin)
Keycaps	PBT Double-shot	ABS Double-shot	PBT Double-shot	PBT Double-shot
Plate Material	PC	PC	Steel	PC
Price	¥199 (~$27.64)	¥199 (~$27.64)	¥499 (~$69.31)	¥399 (~$55.42)

Design and Build Quality

The standout feature of the GX87 SE is its aluminum alloy case. At this price point, you typically get plastic — period. MCHOSE has achieved an impressive feat by offering a CNC-machined aluminum case that feels solid, cool to the touch, and premium. The surface has a fine sandblasted finish that resists fingerprints and scratches.

The keyboard is slightly angled for ergonomic typing, with a single typing angle (no adjustable feet). This is a compromise of the aluminum case design — since the case is a single rigid piece, adjustable feet would be complex to implement. Most users will want a wrist rest for extended sessions.

The gasket mount implementation uses silicone gaskets that provide a subtle bounce on keypress. It’s not as flexy as some high-end gasket boards, but the improvement over tray-mounted keyboards is immediately noticeable. The PC plate adds to the flex and produces a pleasant typing sound. The stabilizers are factory-lubed and surprisingly good for the price — minimal rattle on the larger keys.

“I can’t believe this keyboard has an aluminum case for ¥199. It weighs about 1.5kg — feels like a tank on my desk. The typing feel is good, not quite as refined as my friend’s ¥800 board, but 90% of the experience for 25% of the price.” — JD Verified Buyer, rated 4.7/5

Performance

The GX87 SE is a wired-only keyboard (USB-C), which means zero latency concerns for competitive gaming. The polling rate is 1000Hz, and the keyboard supports full NKRO (N-Key Rollover). The hotswap PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin Cherry MX-compatible switches, making it easy to customize.

The stock switches on the SE variant are MCHOSE’s own pre-lubed linear switches. They’re decent but benefit from additional lubrication for a smoother feel. The sound profile is more muted and thocky than you’d expect from an aluminum case — the internal silicone dampening does a good job of eliminating harsh pinging.

For gamers, the TKL layout is ideal — you get the function row for game binds while keeping the compact footprint that leaves more room for mouse movement. The USB-C port is recessed on the back and accommodates most aftermarket cables.

“Wired-only is actually a plus for competitive gaming — no latency worries, no battery to charge. The aluminum case makes it heavy enough to never slide around during intense gaming sessions. Great for FPS and MOBA games.” — JD Keyboard Buyer, rated 4.6/5

What Chinese Users Say

Aluminum Build (铝壳): “The feel of the aluminum case is amazing. It’s heavy, solid, and looks premium on the desk. Nothing at this price point comes close in terms of build material quality.” — JD review, 4.9/5

Typing Sound (声音): “The sound is deeper than I expected from an aluminum board. Good thock on the linear switches. The spacebar sounds especially satisfying — no metallic ping or rattle.” — JD review, 4.7/5

Value at ¥199 (性价比): “¥199 for an aluminum gasket keyboard is insane value. The stabilizers are better than my previous keyboard that cost double. MCHOSE has set a new standard for budget boards.” — JD review, 4.8/5

Missing Features (缺失): “No wireless is a bummer. No knob or screen either. The single typing angle may bother some people. You’re getting an aluminum case but sacrificing features.” — JD review, 4.2/5

Purchase Recommendations

• ✅ Worth Buying — If you want an aluminum keyboard on a budget and don’t need wireless, the GX87 SE is an incredible value. Best build material in its price range by far.
• 💰 Premium Pick — For wireless connectivity and more features, the VGN N75 Pro at the same ¥199 offers tri-mode but a plastic case. Choose your priority.
• ⚠️ Budget Warning — If you must have wireless, the MCHOSE GX87 SE is wired-only. Consider the VGN N75 Pro or save up for the full GX87 (non-SE) with wireless.

Pros and Cons

Pros ✅	Cons ❌
Real aluminum alloy case at ¥199	Wired-only (USB-C), no wireless
Excellent gasket mount typing feel	Single fixed typing angle
Great factory-stock stabilizers	No knob, no screen
Hotswap 5-pin PCB support	No adjustable feet
Heavy, solid, premium feel	Stock switches benefit from re-lubing
PBT double-shot keycaps	Only one colorway option
Compact TKL layout for gaming	No Bluetooth device switching

FAQ

Q: Does the MCHOSE GX87 SE support wireless? A: No. The GX87 SE is a wired-only keyboard using USB-C. If you need wireless, consider the full MCHOSE GX87 (non-SE) or the VGN N75 Pro.

Q: Is the GX87 SE hot-swappable? A: Yes. It supports 3-pin and 5-pin Cherry MX-style switches via hotswap sockets. No soldering required.

Q: What makes the SE version different from the standard GX87? A: The SE drops wireless connectivity, the knob, and some internal dampening layers to achieve the ¥199 price point. The core aluminum case and PCB are the same.

Q: Can I use any standard keycaps on the GX87 SE? A: Yes. The keycaps use standard Cherry MX stems and the layout is standard ANSI TKL, so any standard TKL keycap set will fit.

Q: What switches should I put in the GX87 SE? A: The stock switches are decent, but many users swap to Gateron Cream Yellows, Akko Cream Yellows, or KTT Strawberries for a smoother, deeper sound.

Verdict and Rating

Score: 4.6/5

Category	Score	Notes
Build Quality	5.0/5	Aluminum case at this price is unmatched
Typing Feel	4.5/5	Good gasket mount, slightly stiff
Sound Profile	4.5/5	Deep thock, minimal ping
Features	3.5/5	Wired-only, no extras
Connectivity	3.0/5	USB-C only, no wireless
Value	5.0/5	Best build-per-yuan in the market

The MCHOSE GX87 SE is a landmark product in the budget keyboard space. It brings an aluminum alloy case, gasket mount, and hotswap PCB to a price point previously dominated by plastic boards. The sacrifices (wired-only, no knob, fixed angle) are honest trade-offs, and for users who prioritize build quality and typing feel above all else, this is an easy recommendation. If you want the best-feeling desk anchor under ¥200, look no further.