Vortex Hellcat DIY Keyboard Kit
Best compact barebones kit for custom mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
The Vortex Hellcat is a 65% compact DIY keyboard kit designed for enthusiasts. It features a frosted acrylic CNC case with a tray mount system and a 5-degree typing angle for comfortable use. The kit includes DSA PBT Dye Sub keycaps designed by MiTo, offering a premium feel and durable legends. Enjoy vibrant per-key RGB lighting with underglow. This hotswap board is programmable with QMK, VIA, and VIAL, allowing for extensive customization. Please note that switches are not included, making it a true barebones experience for builders.
$143.65
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
2366
/ 3798
#2366 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+3%
Above average
Size
Compact
/ Compact
Who it's for
- Keyboard enthusiasts seeking a personalized typing experience
- Hobbyists eager to learn mechanical keyboard assembly
- Users prioritizing long-term durability and build quality
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding extra component costs
- Beginners preferring a plug-and-play typing solution
- Power users requiring advanced firmware customization
Performance breakdown
Customization Depth
QMK, VIA, and VIAL support offer near-limitless remapping and macro potential.
Build Versatility
Hotswap sockets make experimenting with different switch types quick and effortless.
Acoustic Performance
Internal silicone dampening effectively minimizes hollow resonance for a cleaner sound.
Keycap Quality
Dye-sub PBT caps by MiTo provide a premium, long-lasting typing surface.
Aesthetic Appeal
Frosted CNC acrylic paired with vibrant underglow creates a stunning desk centerpiece.
Compatibility
South-facing switches ensure broad compatibility with various aftermarket keycap profiles.
Key Specs
Size
Compact
Logical Layout
US QWERTY
Keycap Material
PBT
Color
Clear
Physical Layout
ANSI
Print Method
Dye Sub
Top Material
Plastic
Switch Mount Type
Plate mount
Know before you buy
No, this is a barebones kit. You will need to purchase your own mechanical switches separately to complete the build.
The board features standard hotswap sockets compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, allowing you to swap them without soldering.
The Hellcat is highly customizable and supports QMK, VIA, and VIAL firmware, giving you full control over key remapping and lighting effects.
The south-facing orientation is specifically designed to improve compatibility with Cherry profile keycaps, preventing the common interference issues found on north-facing boards.
Yes, the Vortex Hellcat is fully compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems via its USB-C connection.
The pre-installed silicone dampener helps absorb vibrations and reduce hollow acoustic resonance, resulting in a cleaner, more muted typing sound.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$144