KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61 QMK/VIA Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers looking at two very similar 60% keyboards from Skyloong: the GK61 Pro and the standard GK61 QMK/VIA. Both are hot-swappable, wireless, and support QMK/VIA firmware, making the decision surprisingly tough. The Pro model stands out with its RGB lighting, larger battery, and sound dampening, while the standard GK61 is available at a lower price point. The core trade-off is whether you want to pay more for a feature-rich board or save money with a simpler, yet fully capable, option.

89
SKYLOONG GK61 Pro Aluminum Mechanical Keyboard With Split Spacebar
78
SKYLOONG GK61 QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 50 x 320 x 140 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Sized at 40 x 104 x 292 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 77.9
  • Build Quality: 83.8
  • Productivity: 88.5
  • Customizability: 89.1
  • Portability: 88
Scores
  • Performance: 52.2
  • Build Quality: 77.5
  • Productivity: 81.2
  • Customizability: 84.3
  • Portability: 87.5
Name
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Name
Skyloong GK61 QMK/VIA
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
60%
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
50 x 320 x 140 mm
Dimensions
40 x 104 x 292 mm
Weight
700g
Weight
700g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Skyloong GK61 Pro is the better investment due to its RGB, larger battery, gasket mount, and sound dampening. The only reason to choose the standard GK61 QMK/VIA is if its lower price is your top priority and you are willing to forgo lighting and advanced sound dampening features. If you plan to use QMK/VIA primarily over a wired connection and value a feature-rich keyboard, the Pro is the clear choice.

Skyloong GK61 Pro

  • +Features 16.8 million RGB with north-facing LEDs for customizable lighting.
  • +Includes sound dampening with a silicone sandwich pad and switch pads.
  • +Equipped with a hot-swappable, programmable knob for added functionality.
  • +Offers a large 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Uses PBT double-shot keycaps, which are more durable than standard ABS keycaps.
  • −Command a higher price than the standard GK61 QMK/VIA.
  • −QMK and VIA support is noted to be for the wired version only, limiting firmware customization when using wireless modes.

Skyloong GK61 QMK/VIA

  • +Typically priced lower than the GK61 Pro, making it a more budget-friendly option.
  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for full remapping and macro support.
  • +Offers a selection of switches including a lightweight linear (Pink) and a tactile (Blue) option.
  • +Uses an aluminum case for a solid build.
  • −Does not have any RGB lighting, which may be a deal-breaker for some users.
  • −No sound dampening or specific padding mentioned in the specifications.
  • −Is listed as sold out in the vendor description, indicating availability issues.
  • −Battery capacity is not stated in the provided information.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Skyloong GK61 Pro wins in five of six categories, largely due to its RGB lighting, larger battery, gasket mount, and sound dampening. It is a stronger choice for gaming, office work, modding, content creation, and travel. The two keyboards tie only for programming, as both offer the same QMK/VIA firmware, hot-swap sockets, and compact layout which are the key requirements for that use case.

GamingSkyloong GK61 Pro
  • •The GK61 Pro supports N-Key Rollover, which is a spec important for gaming.
  • •The GK61 Pro offers 16.8 million RGB lighting, which some gamers prefer.
  • •The vendor suggests Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow linear switches on the Pro are suitable for gaming.
OfficeSkyloong GK61 Pro
  • •The GK61 Pro includes sound dampening, which can reduce noise in an open office.
  • •The GK61 Pro has a larger 4000mAh battery, reducing the need for frequent charging.
  • •The vendor describes the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switches on the Pro as suitable for office work.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA firmware, allowing for full remapping and complex macros.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, letting you choose your preferred switches for long typing sessions.
  • •Both have a compact 60% layout, which some programmers like for ergonomics and desk space.
TravelSkyloong GK61 Pro
  • •The GK61 Pro has a significantly larger 4000mAh battery, which is a major advantage for extended wireless use away from a charger.
  • •While both are 60% and weigh 700g, the Pro's battery life offers better travel flexibility.
ModdingSkyloong GK61 Pro
  • •The GK61 Pro features a gasket mount with a silicone sandwich pad and sound dampening, providing a better modding base out of the box.
  • •The GK61 Pro already includes O-ring gaskets and switch pads, which are popular mods.
  • •The GK61 Pro has a higher customizability score based on provided specs.
Content CreationSkyloong GK61 Pro
  • •The GK61 Pro includes a programmable knob, which is useful for tasks like zooming in Photoshop or adjusting video progress bars, as described in the product listing.
  • •Both keyboards support macros via VIA, but the Pro has the added control of a knob.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

86
$70
Akko 5075B Plus 75% Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Akko 5075B Plus
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
Gasket Mount

93
$59
Keychron Q2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

92
$59
Keychron Q4 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q4
60%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

92
$59
Keychron Q7 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q7
70%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$59
Keychron Q8 (Alice Layout) QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q8
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

85
$64
YUNZII AL68 QMK/VIA Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Yunzii AL68
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$62
Keychron K6 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K6 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

92
$59
Keychron V10 (Alice Layout) QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V10
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

81
$79
[In Stock] Lucky65 V2 65% Mechanical Keyboard
Weikav Lucky65 V2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

97
$59
Keychron Q3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q3
80%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount