Ajazz AK871 vs Machenike K500Wireless vs Wired 96% Keyboard
Choose the Ajazz AK871 for wireless flexibility or the Machenike K500 for a more compact, wired layout with RGB.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Ajazz AK871
Wireless
Build quality in the bottom 5% of 80% boards under $100.
- Dual-mode wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz.
- Hot-swappable design for easy switch changes.
- Includes a magnetic suction upper cover.
- No numpad.
Get the
Machenike K500
Wired 96% Keyboard
Build quality in the bottom 30% of 96% boards under $100.
- Compact 96% layout retains the numeric keypad in a smaller footprint.
- Features OEM-profile PBT keycaps for better durability.
- Includes RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a cable-free setup for a clean desk or frequent movement, the Ajazz AK871 is the clear option. If you prefer a stationary setup, want a numpad in a compact form, and value durable PBT keycaps with RGB lighting, the Machenike K500 is the better keyboard. Consider the K500's Windows-only support if you use a Mac.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Ajazz AK871
Machenike K500
Layout size
80%
96%
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz
Wired
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Switch options
Clicky, Linear
Linear, Tactile
Weight
970 g
650 g
Heavier boards stay planted and lighter ones travel
Keycaps
ABS
PBT
- Ajazz AK871
- Machenike K500
- Performance
- 3980
- Build quality
- 3954
- Productivity
- 5063
- Customizability
- 4865
- Portability
- 6746
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: ABS
What will you mostly use it for?
The Machenike K500 is the stronger choice for gaming and programming due to its NKRO, programmable keys, and included numpad. The Ajazz AK871 wins for office use and travel, where its wireless modes and TKL form factor are most beneficial. For modding, the K500 has a slight edge with its included tools and internal foam. Content creators face a tie, needing to prioritize wireless convenience against the utility of a numpad.
Pick the Machenike K500
- The Machenike K500 lists N-Key Rollover (NKRO) on all keys, which is beneficial for gaming.
- It includes RGB backlighting with 16.8 million colors, which the Ajazz AK871 lacks.
- Its steel plate and EVA foam, as listed by the manufacturer, may provide a more stable typing feel.
Ajazz AK871 vs Machenike K500 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 17 specs differ
Ajazz AK871
Machenike K500
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Ajazz AK871 vs Machenike K500: your questions
Only the Ajazz AK871 is wireless. It supports both Bluetooth 5.0 and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. The Machenike K500 is a wired-only keyboard that connects via a USB-C cable.
Yes, the Machenike K500 has a 96% layout, which includes a condensed numeric keypad. The Ajazz AK871 is a TKL (87-key) layout and does not have a number pad.
The Ajazz AK871 uses ABS plastic keycaps. The Machenike K500 uses PBT plastic keycaps, which the manufacturer describes as more wear and oil-resistant than ABS.
Yes, both the Ajazz AK871 and the Machenike K500 are hot-swappable mechanical keyboards. This allows you to change the switches without soldering.
The Ajazz AK871 lists explicit Mac/Win support in its features. The Machenike K500's specification lists system compatibility only with Windows, making the Ajazz the safer choice for Mac users.
No, the Ajazz AK871 does not have any backlighting according to its specifications. The Machenike K500 features RGB backlighting with 16.8 million colors.
According to the package contents, the Machenike K500 includes the keyboard, a Type-C USB cable, a keycap puller, and a user manual.
The Ajazz AK871 is powered by two AAA batteries, as stated in its specifications. It does not have an internal rechargeable battery.
The Machenike K500 is more compact by layout, using a 96% design. In physical dimensions, the K500 is also shorter in length (353mm vs 362mm) and significantly lighter (650g vs 970g) than the Ajazz AK871.
The Machenike K500 manufacturer states that all keys support programmable functionality via its software. The Ajazz AK871 product description does not mention key programmability.
Based on the vendor description, the Ajazz AK871 is available with Ajazz Blue (clicky), Ajazz Red (linear), and Ajazz Brown (tactile) switch options.
Not sold on either?
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