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Compare Chilkey ND104 vs Keychron K5 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-end, feature-packed full-size keyboard and a more affordable, ultra-slim alternative. The decision is difficult because both offer hot-swappable switches, multi-device wireless, and programmability, but they target different priorities. The Chilkey ND104 invests in premium materials and unique features like a built-in screen, while the Keychron K5 Pro focuses on a low-profile form factor and broader layout support.

100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
88
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (14)
4.8 (8)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Clicky, Silent, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 438 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 720 g
  • Sized at 18 x 120 x 435 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 92
  • Productivity: 96.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 80.8
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89
  • Portability: 53.2
Name
Chilkey ND104
Name
Keychron K5 Pro
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
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, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Dimensions
18 x 120 x 435 mm
Weight
-
Weight
720g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and primary use case dictate the choice. Invest in the Chilkey ND104 if you want a flagship desktop keyboard for modding, premium acoustics, and unique features like its screen. Opt for the Keychron K5 Pro if you need a sleek, low-profile keyboard for a clean office setup or frequent travel, and prefer to spend less while still getting core features like programmability and wireless connectivity.

Chilkey ND104

  • +CNC machined 6063 aluminum case with a gasket mount design for a premium, customizable feel.
  • +Includes a built-in LCD screen with calculator, clock, and dynamic background modes, plus a configurable hotswap knob.
  • +Extensive sound dampening with five layers of foam, including plate foam, switch foam, PET acoustic pads, and case foam.
  • +High-capacity dual 4000mAh batteries (8000mAh total) for extended wireless use.
  • +Modular design allows reconfiguring the numpad module and replacing the nav cluster with a storage tray.
  • −Substantially more expensive than the Keychron K5 Pro.
  • −Much thicker and heavier, making it less portable.
  • −A user review cited software limitations, including a lack of multi-zone RGB control and issues with the web UI.

Keychron K5 Pro

  • +Ultra-slim low-profile design with a 3° typing angle, described as ergonomic and space-saving.
  • +Offers a wide array of layout standards including ANSI, ISO, JIS, and multiple European ISO variants.
  • +Includes keycaps for both macOS and Windows layouts in the box.
  • +More affordable price point while still offering hot-swappable switches and QMK/VIA programmability.
  • −Uses a tray mount system, which typically offers less typing flex and a different sound profile compared to gasket mount.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery, which may require more frequent charging, especially with RGB use.
  • −Officially compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch selection for hot-swapping.
  • −Some user reviews mention the Keychron Launcher software being less capable than VIA for certain customizations.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Chilkey ND104 dominates for users who value deep customization, premium acoustics, and unique multimedia features like its screen and knob. The Keychron K5 Pro wins for office and travel scenarios where a slim, lightweight, and ergonomic low-profile design is paramount. For programming, both are strong contenders due to their full layouts and programmability, making the choice more about preferred typing height and feel.

GamingChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104 offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • •Its gasket mount design and five layers of sound dampening foam may provide a more stable, consistent typing feel.
  • •The vendor description notes a 1000 Hz polling rate is engineered for competitive gaming on the K5 Pro, but only in wired mode.
OfficeKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The Keychron K5 Pro's low-profile design and 3° typing angle are described as providing ergonomic wrist support.
  • •It includes specific keycaps for both macOS and Windows layouts out of the box.
  • •Its thinner, lighter form factor may be less obtrusive on a shared or compact desk.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards are fully programmable via QMK/VIA support.
  • •Both offer a full-size layout with a numpad, useful for data entry and shortcuts.
  • •The Chilkey's F13 and numpad control key add extra macro potential, while the K5 Pro's low-profile switches may reduce finger travel.
TravelKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The Keychron K5 Pro is significantly thinner (18mm vs 34mm) and lighter (720g weight specified).
  • •Its low-profile design is more packable.
  • •The Chilkey ND104 is heavier and bulkier due to its aluminum case and dual batteries.
ModdingChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104 features a gasket mount, a flex-cut FR4 plate, and screw-in stabilizers for a customizable typing feel.
  • •It includes five layers of sound dampening foam (plate foam, switch foam, PET pads, case foam).
  • •The module above the numpad can be reconfigured between a screen/knob, keys/knob, or just keys.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104 includes a hotswap knob for controlling volume and media, and a built-in LCD screen for clocks or calculators.
  • •Its massive 8000mAh battery capacity supports long wireless use with RGB lighting.
  • •The removable navigation cluster can be replaced with a storage tray for small accessories like USB drives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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