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Compare Chilkey ND vs ND104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Chilkey's two wireless aluminum keyboards. The choice is difficult because both offer tri-mode connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and solid aluminum construction. The core trade-off is between the ND's space-saving 80% layout and lower cost, and the ND104's comprehensive full-size layout packed with extra features like a programmable screen, hot-swap knob, and massive battery.

90
Chilkey ND TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard - Image: 5
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100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
5.0 (14)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Equipped with a 3600 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 138 x 357 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Clicky, Silent, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 438 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 85.6
  • Build Quality: 84.3
  • Productivity: 88.1
  • Customizability: 92.1
  • Portability: 75.8
Scores
  • Performance: 81.9
  • Build Quality: 91.9
  • Productivity: 96.7
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.5
Name
Chilkey ND
Name
Chilkey ND104
Release year
2024
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
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
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
3600 mAh
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
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
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
34 x 138 x 357 mm
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad, love tinkering with modular components and a screen, and have the budget, the Chilkey ND104 is a feature-rich powerhouse. If you want a well-built, wireless aluminum keyboard in a space-saving TKL format for less money, the standard Chilkey ND is the pragmatic pick. Prioritize layout and core features over flashy extras if your budget is constrained.

Chilkey ND

  • +More compact 80% (TKL) layout saves desk space.
  • +Offers a choice between aluminum or polycarbonate plates for different typing feels.
  • +Includes unique tritium tubes in the light module that glow without power.
  • +Generally available at a lower price point than the ND104.

  • Smaller 3600mAh battery capacity.
  • Lacks advanced features like a screen, knob, or modular components.
  • The vendor description lists QMK and VIA support, but the characteristics table states it is not compatible with them.

Chilkey ND104

  • +Full-size 106-key layout with numpad and dedicated navigation cluster.
  • +Includes a built-in LCD screen with clock, calculator, and custom background modes.
  • +Features a hot-swappable knob for media and screen control.
  • +Massive 8000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +Modular design allows reconfiguring the numpad module and includes a storage tray.

  • Large full-size footprint is less portable and requires more desk space.
  • Commands a significantly higher price.
  • Some user reviews criticize the companion software's limitations.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Chilkey ND104 is the clear choice for office work, heavy modding, and content creation due to its full feature set and layout. The standard Chilkey ND wins for gaming and travel based on its compact TKL form factor. For programming, the decision is a tie, hinging on whether you prioritize the ND104's VIA software and full layout or the ND's desk space savings.

GamingChilkey ND
  • The TKL layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • Both share the same 1000Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4GHz modes.
  • The smaller, lighter form factor is easier to reposition.
OfficeChilkey ND104
  • The full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry.
  • Includes a built-in screen for clock, calculator, and custom backgrounds.
  • A hot-swap knob provides quick volume and media control.
ProgrammingTie
  • The ND104's VIA compatibility allows for deep key remapping.
  • The ND's TKL layout is compact but lacks dedicated navigation keys.
  • Both are hot-swappable for trying different switch types.
TravelChilkey ND
  • The ND's 80% size is significantly more portable than a full-size board.
  • It has a smaller physical footprint and lower weight.
  • Its 3600mAh battery is adequate for a more compact device.
ModdingChilkey ND104
  • The ND104 features five layers of sound dampening foam, including plate foam, switch foam, PET acoustic pads, and case foam.
  • It supports screw-in stabilizers for more secure modding.
  • The PCB supports both ANSI and ISO layouts for greater flexibility.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • The programmable knob can be mapped to timeline scrubbing or brush size controls.
  • The full-size layout provides direct access to all function and navigation keys.
  • The built-in screen can display system stats or custom graphics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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