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Compare Chilkey ND104 vs Keychron Q6 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium, feature-rich full-size mechanical keyboards. The choice is difficult because both offer aluminum cases, gasket mounts, triple-mode connectivity, and extensive programmability. The decision hinges on whether you value the Chilkey's innovative screen and modular accessories or the Keychron's wider array of ISO layouts and potentially more mature software ecosystem.

100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
97
Keychron Q6 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (14)
3.8 (62)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Clicky, Silent, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 438 x 140 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO, ANSI, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2184 g
  • Sized at 20 x 137 x 446 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.9
  • Build Quality: 92
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 64.6
Scores
  • Performance: 82.1
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 97.2
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 55.8
Name
Chilkey ND104
Name
Keychron Q6 Max
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO, ANSI, ISO-CH, JIS
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Dimensions
20 x 137 x 446 mm
Weight
-
Weight
2184g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide your choice. If a customizable screen, unique modular features, and maximum battery life are most important, the Chilkey ND104 is the more innovative pick. However, if you require specific international ISO layouts, prefer a potentially more refined acoustic package, and value a brand with a larger user base, the Keychron Q6 Max is the safer, more traditional option. Be aware of the software caveats mentioned for the Chilkey and the potential for long-term reliability issues noted in some Keychron reviews.

Chilkey ND104

  • +Includes a built-in LCD screen with calculator, clock, and dynamic background modes.
  • +Features a modular design with a reconfigurable numpad module and a removable storage tray.
  • +Larger 8000mAh total battery capacity (2x 4000mAh).
  • +Uses a flex cut FR4 plate and includes five layers of sound dampening foam.
  • +Offers a hidden storage slot for the 2.4 GHz receiver on the underside.
  • −Vendor descriptions note user complaints about limited software functionality and multi-zone RGB control.
  • −A user review mentions the screen displays every key press without an option to disable it.
  • −Appears to have more limited immediate ISO layout support, requiring an additional plate.

Keychron Q6 Max

  • +Supports a very wide array of ISO layouts, including German, UK, Nordic, and Swiss.
  • +Features a double-gasket design and a polycarbonate plate for a cushioned typing feel.
  • +Includes multiple layers of enhanced acoustic foams such as IXPE, PET, and Latex.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Offers both KSA and OSA side-printed PBT keycap options in the box.
  • −Smaller 4000mAh battery capacity compared to the Chilkey ND104.
  • −User reviews report issues with key chatter, double typing, and PCB failures after extended use.
  • −Some users note a metallic rattling sound from the mode toggle switches on the back.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The keyboards are closely matched for gaming and modding due to shared high-performance specs. The Chilkey ND104 takes the lead for office use and content creation, thanks to its functional screen and modular accessories. The Keychron Q6 Max is the better choice for programmers needing specific ISO layouts and for those prioritizing a slightly lower typing angle. Neither is suited for frequent travel given their size and weight.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both have hot-swappable PCBs for switch customization.
OfficeChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104's built-in screen can function as a calculator and clock.
  • •Its modular navigation cluster can be replaced with a storage tray for USB drives or receivers.
  • •It can connect to up to three devices wirelessly.
ProgrammingKeychron Q6 Max
  • •The Keychron Q6 Max supports a wider range of ISO layouts, including ISO-DE, ISO-UK, and ISO-Nordic.
  • •It is programmable via the open-source QMK firmware and Keychron's Launcher web app.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs are less likely to interfere with Cherry-profile keycaps.
TravelKeychron Q6 Max
  • •The Keychron Q6 Max has a lower front height of 20.1mm without keycaps, which may be more ergonomic without a wrist rest.
  • •It is lighter, though still substantial at 2184g.
  • •Both are large full-size keyboards, making neither ideal for frequent travel.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
  • •Both feature gasket mount designs and screw-in stabilizers.
  • •Both support programming via VIA and QMK for deep customization.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104 features a hot-swappable knob that controls volume, media, and the integrated screen.
  • •The screen supports dynamic backgrounds and can display custom GIFs.
  • •The module above the numpad is reconfigurable, offering layout flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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