KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron Q5 Max vs K5 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's high-end custom series and its budget low-profile line. The Q5 Max offers a premium metal build and extensive customization, while the K5 SE provides a slimmer, more affordable full-size form factor. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize build quality and modding potential or a lower cost and low-profile design.

96
Keychron Q5 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
69
Keychron K5 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (9)
4.8 (60)
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2215 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 408 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82.4
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 56
Scores
  • Performance: 63.2
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.1
  • Portability: 55
Name
Keychron Q5 Max
Name
Keychron K5 SE
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ISO-SW
Layout Standard
ANSI, JIS
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
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
-
Battery capacity
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 408 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
2215g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and primary use case dictate the choice. Invest in the Keychron Q5 Max if you want a durable, customizable keyboard for gaming, typing, and modding. Opt for the Keychron K5 SE if you need a cost-effective, low-profile keyboard for office work or travel, and do not require advanced programmability.

Keychron Q5 Max

  • +Full CNC aluminum case for a premium, solid feel.
  • +Extensive modding support with gasket mount, hot-swap PCB, and multiple foam layers.
  • +High 1000 Hz polling rate on 2.4 GHz and wired connections.
  • +Open-source QMK and VIA firmware for unlimited key remapping.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • −Very heavy at over 2.2 kilograms, limiting portability.
  • −Higher price tier compared to the K5 SE.
  • −96% layout has a learning curve for users accustomed to full-size spacing.

Keychron K5 SE

  • +Low-profile switch design, described as 40% slimmer than standard switches.
  • +Typically more affordable than the Q5 Max series.
  • +Full 100% layout with a number pad included.
  • +Hot-swappable option available for its specific low-profile switches.
  • +Hybrid aluminum top and plastic bottom case for a balanced build.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which are more prone to shine than PBT.
  • −Tray mount design offers less typing flex and acoustic potential than gasket mounts.
  • −Lower 2000mAh battery capacity compared to the Q5 Max.
  • −Lacks advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q5 Max is the clear choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its high-performance specs and customization ecosystem. The K5 SE wins for office use and travel, where its low-profile design and full layout offer practical benefits. For content creation, both keyboards have strengths, with the Q5 Max offering premium controls and the K5 SE providing a complete key set.

GamingKeychron Q5 Max
  • •The Q5 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for its 2.4 GHz and wired modes, which the K5 SE's listing does not mention.
  • •Its gasket mount and polycarbonate plate, according to the vendor, are designed for a flexible, cushioned feel during rapid key presses.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs on the Q5 Max avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for gamers.
OfficeKeychron K5 SE
  • •The K5 SE's low-profile design and slim switches, described as 40% slimmer, may be more comfortable for long typing sessions without a wrist rest.
  • •Its full 100% layout with a dedicated number pad is standard for office data entry.
  • •It is typically available at a lower price point, making it a cost-effective choice for a workplace.
ProgrammingKeychron Q5 Max
  • •The Q5 Max supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming, which the K5 SE does not offer.
  • •Its 96% layout saves desk space while retaining the number pad, useful for coding shortcuts.
  • •PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to shine over long-term use compared to the K5 SE's ABS keycaps.
TravelKeychron K5 SE
  • •The K5 SE's low-profile construction is inherently slimmer and likely lighter, though its exact weight is not specified.
  • •Its hybrid aluminum and plastic case may be less dense than the Q5 Max's full CNC aluminum body, which weighs over 2.2 kg.
  • •The vendor describes its design as 'ultra-slim' and optimized for reduced finger travel.
ModdingKeychron Q5 Max
  • •The Q5 Max is hot-swappable, has a gasket mount, a polycarbonate plate, and screw-in stabilizers for extensive modifications.
  • •Its vendor description details multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, Latex) for sound tuning.
  • •It is available as a DIY barebones kit, and the PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Q5 Max's knob support and multimedia keys offer direct control for editing software.
  • •The K5 SE's full-size layout provides easy access to all function keys and a number pad for shortcuts.
  • •Both offer wireless connectivity for a clean desk setup, though the Q5 Max includes a 2.4 GHz dongle for a stable connection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

95
$90
Keychron Q5 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q5
96%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

88
$69
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K5 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

97
$199
Keychron Q6 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q6 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

86
$94
Keychron K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K5 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

98
$219
Keychron Q3 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 HE
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

73
$115
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2
Keychron K5 V2
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
QMK,
Alu case

97
$229
Keychron Q6 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q6 HE
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

68
$74
Keychron K5 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K5
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

98
$186
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

88
$69
Keychron K17 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K17 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount