Hellcat KIT
Best compact mechanical keyboard kit for enthusiasts seeking custom aesthetics.
The Vortex Hellcat KIT is a 65% mechanical keyboard kit designed for a customizable and visually appealing typing experience. It features a translucent CNC'ed acrylic case with a blasted finish, offering a modern aesthetic and allowing the RGB underglow to shine through. The kit includes a FR-4 mounting plate, PCB, USB daughterboard, silicone switch dampener, DSA profile PBT dye-sub keycaps designed by MiTo, gold screw-in PCB stabilizers, and a carrying case. It supports QMK, Vial, and VIA (version 1.3.1 only) for extensive programmability and N-Key Rollover for seamless gaming and typing. The typing angle is set at 5 degrees.
$109.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1053
/ 3658
#1053 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-22%
Below average
Product Size
31.010.52.70.3
/ L*W*H : ** cm ±
Who it's for
- Keyboard enthusiasts seeking a fully personalized typing experience
- Builders prioritizing a durable and high-quality foundation
- Tinkerers who enjoy the rewarding process of custom assembly
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of additional component costs
- Beginners lacking the technical skills for manual assembly
- Users needing an immediate plug-and-play typing solution
Performance breakdown
Aesthetic Appeal
Blasted translucent acrylic creates a stunning, modern glow for any desk.
Customization Depth
QMK and Vial support offer near-limitless control over your keymap.
Build Quality
Solid CNC construction provides a premium, heavy-duty feel during use.
Typing Experience
DSA profile keycaps offer a uniform, retro feel for consistent typing.
Assembly Ease
Straightforward tray mount design makes the build process approachable for beginners.
Software Compatibility
Restricted to specific VIA versions, which may frustrate advanced power users.
Key Specs
Product Size
L*W*H : 31.0*10.5*2.7 cm ± 0.3
Product Weight
1898(g) ± 10
Backlit
RGB
System Requirement
Supports Vial and VIA version 1.3.1 only
Typing Angle
5°
Connection
Wired USB-C
Keycap Profile
DSA
Keycap Material
PBT Dye-sub
Features
- CNC'ed Acrylic Case with a translucent, blasted finish for a unique look and RGB underglow.
- Includes a comprehensive kit with PCB, plate, stabilizers, and a carrying case.
- DSA profile PBT dye-sub keycaps designed by MiTo for durability and comfort.
- Customizable RGB lighting effects controllable via VIA/Vial software.
- Programmable with QMK, Vial, and VIA (version 1.3.1 only) for personalized keymaps and macros.
- N-Key Rollover prevents key blocking during intense typing or gaming.
- Stable 1.6 mm thick PCB and tray mount structure for easy assembly.
- Compact 65% layout balances functionality and space-saving design.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Hellcat KIT by Vortex Keyboard for its exceptional build quality and thoughtful design. Enthusiasts frequently highlight the robust construction and premium materials, noting a satisfying weight and feel that elevates the typing experience. The aesthetic appeal, often described as sleek and modern, resonates well with users seeking a sophisticated desktop setup. While assembly is required, the straightforward process contributes to a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the kit's overall positive reception. This combination of superior craftsmanship and appealing aesthetics makes it a standout choice for custom keyboard builders.
Know before you buy
No, the Hellcat KIT is a barebones mechanical keyboard kit. You will need to purchase and install your own mechanical switches to complete the build.
The Hellcat KIT supports QMK, Vial, and VIA. Please note that if you choose to use VIA, you must use version 1.3.1 to ensure full compatibility with the board.
The board features a tray mount structure with a silicone switch dampener, providing a consistent feel. The 5-degree typing angle is designed for ergonomic comfort during long typing or gaming sessions.
Yes, the included PBT dye-sub keycaps feature a standard DSA profile. They are durable and high-quality, making them a great option for use on other compatible mechanical keyboard layouts.
The CNC'ed acrylic case is quite robust and substantial, weighing nearly 1.9kg. The kit also includes a dedicated carrying case, which provides excellent protection if you plan to take your keyboard on the go.
No, the Hellcat KIT is a wired-only keyboard that connects via a USB-C port. This ensures a stable, low-latency connection ideal for gaming and professional use.
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$109