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Compare Ajazz AK980 vs Keychron V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two popular 96% layout mechanical keyboards. The Ajazz AK980 offers tri-mode wireless connectivity and a unique TFT screen, while the Keychron V5 is a wired-only board focused on extensive programmability and a robust custom build. The choice is difficult because both pack significant value but prioritize fundamentally different user experiences: wireless versatility versus wired customization potential.

68
Ajazz AK980 TFT Display Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
96
Keychron V5 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
3.4 (6)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1140 g
  • Sized at 19 x 148 x 417 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1170 g
  • Sized at 19 x 142 x 389 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 50.5
  • Build Quality: 54.8
  • Productivity: 74.1
  • Customizability: 73
  • Portability: 64.4
Scores
  • Performance: 91.1
  • Build Quality: 89.4
  • Productivity: 98.1
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 47.2
Name
Ajazz AK980
Name
Keychron V5
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
19 x 148 x 417 mm
Dimensions
19 x 142 x 389 mm
Weight
1140g
Weight
1170g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your decision hinges on connectivity versus customization. For a wireless daily driver with a useful screen and solid out-of-box experience, the Ajazz AK980 is compelling. If you prioritize a wired, moddable platform with unmatched firmware customization for a tailored setup, the Keychron V5 is the superior tool. Consider if cutting the cord or diving into QMK is more important to your workflow.

Ajazz AK980

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4Ghz, wired).
  • +1.14-inch TFT color screen for displaying time, battery, and custom GIFs.
  • +Large 8000mAh lithium battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Five-layer gasket mount structure with an FR4 plate for a dampened typing feel.
  • +Side-mounted keys for quick wireless and system switching.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, no wireless option.
  • −Tray mount design, which is typically less premium than gasket mount.
  • −No built-in screen or display functionality.

Keychron V5

  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for deep programmability.
  • +Available in multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, French, Spanish, etc.).
  • +Features screw-in PCB stabilizers for a more stable modding platform.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs to avoid keycap interference.
  • +Offers a barebones kit version and knob-equipped variants.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, no wireless option.
  • −Tray mount design, which is typically less premium than gasket mount.
  • −No built-in screen or display functionality.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V5 is the clear choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its high polling rate, extensive firmware support, and enthusiast-friendly construction. The Ajazz AK980 wins for office use and travel, leveraging its wireless modes and large battery. For content creation, it's a tie, with each offering unique features like a screen or knob support. Your primary activity dictates the winner.

GamingKeychron V5
  • •The Keychron V5 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs are designed to avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for gamers.
  • •The manufacturer states its latency is hardly noticeable in competitive games.
OfficeAjazz AK980
  • •The Ajazz AK980 offers tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4Ghz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •It includes an 8000mAh battery for long cord-free use.
  • •Side function keys allow easy switching between Windows and Mac systems without flipping the keyboard.
ProgrammingKeychron V5
  • •The Keychron V5 supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • •It offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, German, Nordic, etc.) for international users.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps for seamless cross-platform use.
TravelAjazz AK980
  • •The Ajazz AK980 is wireless, eliminating the need to carry a cable for basic use.
  • •Its 8000mAh battery supports extended use away from an outlet.
  • •It is slightly lighter at 1140g compared to the V5's 1170g.
ModdingKeychron V5
  • •The Keychron V5 supports QMK/VIA, allowing deep firmware-level customization.
  • •It features screw-in PCB stabilizers, which are preferred for modding over clip-in types.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit version without switches or keycaps.
  • •The hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Ajazz AK980's TFT screen can display time, battery level, and custom GIFs, useful for tracking session time.
  • •The Keychron V5 supports knob versions for precise media or parameter control.
  • •Both feature a 96% layout with a numpad, beneficial for data entry and shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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