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.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2023 Has Linear switch options Offers Normal ergonomics Features N-key rollover Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Made with a Aluminum, ABS case Features PBT keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting	Released in 2024 Has Clicky, Linear, Tactile switch options Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics Connects via USB-C Weighs about 700 g Sized at 40 x 104 x 292 mm Made with a Aluminum case Offers No RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 77.9 Build Quality: 77.1 Productivity: 69.5 Customizability: 89.2 Portability: 84	Scores Performance: 52.4 Build Quality: 77.8 Productivity: 81.2 Customizability: 84.7 Portability: 87.4
Name	Name Skyloong GK61 Pro	Name Skyloong GK61 QMK/VIA
Release year	Release year 2023	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear	Switch Options Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 60%	Layout Size 60%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Split Spacebar
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style -	Mount Style -
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, North-face	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, ABS	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions 40 x 104 x 292 mm
Weight	Weight -	Weight 700g

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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.