For professionals and enthusiasts who prioritize typing feel without sacrificing desk space, Colorful’s new Magnex XC87 series introduces a refined approach to premium keyboards. The XC87 and its variant, the XC87 Lila, combine an 80% tenkeyless layout with chamberless magnetic switches—technology that promises responsiveness typically reserved for mechanical designs but with quieter operation.
The Magnex XC87 stands out with its aluminum body and custom Rainstar magnetic switches, delivering a feedback profile that Colorful markets as both tactile and smooth. The Lila version takes this further with Jadeite switches and purple-themed keycaps, catering to those who prefer a bolder aesthetic without compromising on performance.
- Layout: 80% TKL (tenkeyless)
- Switches: Rainstar (XC87) / Jadeite (XC87 Lila), magnetic
- Keycaps: PC-style, purple-themed (Lila variant)
- Build: Aluminum body with MCL chamberless mount structure
- Polling rate: 8,000 Hz
- Display: Small OLED screen
- Connectivity: Wired (no Bluetooth or wireless options)
The lack of wireless connectivity is a notable omission, especially for users who prefer the flexibility of Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4 GHz wired setups seen in Colorful’s other recent models like the Mech QY98 Pro and QY98. Those keyboards, also on display, feature 98% layouts with leaf-spring mounts and larger batteries (8,000 mAh for the Pro, 4,000 mAh for the non-Pro), catering to gamers who need both endurance and high-precision input.
Who should consider these keyboards? The Magnex XC87 series is ideal for those who want a compact, durable keyboard with magnetic switches but don’t need wireless features. However, users who rely on Bluetooth connectivity or longer battery life will likely find the QY98 Pro more suitable. For now, availability and pricing remain unconfirmed, leaving buyers to weigh whether Colorful’s magnetic switch technology justifies an upgrade over traditional mechanical options.
