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Compare Ducky OK M 98 vs Keychron K17 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, compact wireless keyboards. The Ducky OKM 98 and Keychron K17 Max both offer triple-mode connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and programmable knobs, making the choice difficult. The core trade-off is between the OKM 98's traditional gasket-mounted acoustic experience and the K17 Max's unique low-profile, ultra-slim form factor. Your preference for typing height and sound profile will be the deciding factor.

79
Ducky OK-M 98 Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
88
Keychron K17 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
4.5 (2)
  • Released in 2026
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 750 g
  • Sized at 27 x 119 x 387 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 69.6
  • Build Quality: 72.5
  • Productivity: 89
  • Customizability: 78.6
  • Portability: 51.8
Scores
  • Performance: 83.8
  • Build Quality: 81.8
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 93
  • Portability: 54.7
Name
Ducky OK M 98
Name
Keychron K17 Max
Release year
2026
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ANSI
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
27 x 119 x 387 mm
Weight
-
Weight
750g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary typing preference dictates the choice. If you value a traditional, potentially deeper-sounding mechanical keyboard experience with pronounced acoustic tuning, the Ducky OKM 98 is the clear pick. If you prefer a sleek, modern laptop-like typing height with unparalleled firmware customization in a thin package, the Keychron K17 Max is the better investment. Consider the K17 Max if you frequently switch between devices or need deep macro support, and the OKM 98 if your priority is a rich, mod-friendly typing feel.

Ducky OK M 98

  • +Features a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a flexier, potentially more premium typing feel.
  • +Includes five detailed layers of sound dampening: poron foam, IXPE switch pad, PET pad, and silicone pads.
  • +Comes with a comprehensive accessory kit including a USB-C to USB-A adapter, brush, and switch puller.
  • +Has physical switches on the board for toggling between Mac/Windows and connection modes.
  • +Features side RGB lighting on both ends of the keyboard case.
  • −Lacks a stated battery capacity, making wireless runtime difficult to assess compared to the K17 Max.
  • −Does not offer a low-profile switch or keycap option.
  • −The vendor description does not mention adjustable typing angles or feet.

Keychron K17 Max

  • +Offers an ultra-slim, low-profile design with specific switches and keycaps that are 31% slimmer than standard, according to Keychron.
  • +Supports both QMK and VIA firmware for extensive programmability and macro creation.
  • +Built with a hybrid ABS and aluminum frame, providing a solid base.
  • +Includes a 2000mAh battery and three levels of adjustable typing angle (4°).
  • +Explicitly lists N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for both wireless and wired modes.
  • −The hot-swap version is only compatible with Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch options.
  • −Lacks a dedicated storage slot for the 2.4 GHz dongle, a feature present on the Ducky OKM 98.
  • −Its low-profile, non-shine-through PBT keycaps may not showcase RGB backlighting effectively.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K17 Max wins in more categories, particularly where a slim profile, deep programmability, or ergonomic typing angle are priorities, such as for office work, programming, and travel. The Ducky OKM 98 takes the lead for content creation, where its dedicated knob and focus on acoustic tuning are more relevant. For gaming and modding, the choice is nuanced, with the K17 Max having a slight edge in wireless performance for gaming, while both are equally capable platforms for physical modifications.

GamingKeychron K17 Max
  • •The Keychron K17 Max lists a 1000 Hz polling rate specifically for its 2.4 GHz wireless mode, which is a stated advantage for gaming.
  • •Its low-profile switches and keycaps may allow for faster keypress registration due to reduced travel distance.
  • •The manufacturer describes its 2.4 GHz connection as providing 'peak gaming performance'.
OfficeKeychron K17 Max
  • •The Keychron K17 Max's low-profile design and 4° typing angle are described as providing ergonomic wrist support.
  • •It includes 12 multimedia keys for quick control of office applications.
  • •Its ultra-slim form factor, as highlighted by Keychron, may be more suitable for shared or minimalist workspaces.
ProgrammingKeychron K17 Max
  • •The Keychron K17 Max supports QMK firmware, which the manufacturer states offers 'endless possibilities' for key remapping and macros, a significant advantage for custom shortcuts.
  • •It also supports VIA for easier graphical programming.
  • •Its 96% layout retains the numpad, useful for data entry, in a compact form factor.
TravelKeychron K17 Max
  • •The Keychron K17 Max is explicitly marketed as 'ultra-slim' and 'one of the thinnest wireless mechanical keyboards', making it more packable.
  • •It weighs 750g, providing a concrete weight for portability consideration.
  • •Its low-profile design is less likely to snag in a bag.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, supporting switch customization without soldering.
  • •Both support VIA for key remapping.
  • •The Ducky OKM 98 has a gasket mount design and a polycarbonate plate, appealing to those modding for sound. The Keychron K17 Max supports QMK for deeper firmware customization.
Content CreationDucky OK M 98
  • •The Ducky OKM 98 includes a programmable volume knob for quick audio adjustments.
  • •Its gasket mount design with five layers of sound dampening (poron foam, IXPE switch pad, PET pad, silicone pads) is designed for a pleasant, quiet auditory experience during long sessions.
  • •Side RGB lighting on both ends may be preferred for a setup-focused aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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