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Compare Epomaker TH40 vs Keychron K5 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a minimalist, portable keyboard and a full-featured, low-profile one. The Epomaker TH40 offers a radical 40% layout with a gasket mount, while the Keychron K5 Pro provides a complete 100% layout in a slim form factor. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize saving desk space and portability or need dedicated keys and a specific typing height. Both support deep customization via QMK/VIA and offer wireless connectivity.

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Epomaker TH40
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Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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3.9 (52)
4.8 (8)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 500 g
  • Sized at 35 x 258 x 97 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • 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: 73.9
  • Build Quality: 75.3
  • Productivity: 62.5
  • Customizability: 86
  • Portability: 84.1
Scores
  • Performance: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 79.7
  • Customizability: 88.9
  • Portability: 53.2
Name
Epomaker TH40
Name
Keychron K5 Pro
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
40%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
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
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
3000 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, North-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
35 x 258 x 97 mm
Dimensions
18 x 120 x 435 mm
Weight
500g
Weight
720g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If your priority is maximum portability, a unique typing project with gasket-mounted acoustics, and you are comfortable with a layer-based workflow, the Epomaker TH40 is the clear candidate. If you require a full set of keys for office tasks, gaming, or content creation in a sleek, low-profile form factor with ergonomic adjustments, the Keychron K5 Pro is the more practical daily driver. Both are competent, customizable boards on opposite ends of the layout spectrum.

Epomaker TH40

  • +Extremely compact 40% layout with split spacebar for portability and minimized finger travel.
  • +Gasket mount design with Poron plate foam and bottom foam for a dampened acoustic signature.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs ensure compatibility with most aftermarket keycap sets.
  • +Larger 3000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity in addition to Bluetooth and wired.

  • Ultra-compact 44-key layout lacks dedicated arrow, number, and function keys, requiring heavy reliance on layers.
  • ABS plastic case may feel less premium compared to aluminum constructions.
  • Some user reviews mention difficulties with VIA software recognition and firmware updates.

Keychron K5 Pro

  • +Full 100% layout with numpad, arrow keys, function row, and 12 multimedia keys for complete functionality.
  • +Low-profile design with Gateron low-profile switches and an aluminum frame for a slim, sleek build.
  • +Offers adjustable typing angles for ergonomic support.
  • +Includes keycaps for both macOS and Windows layouts.
  • +Vendor states it uses a powerful ARM MCU with 128K Flash for QMK customization.

  • North-facing RGB LEDs can cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • Heavier and much larger than a 40% keyboard, reducing portability.
  • According to the vendor, the hot-swappable version is only compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch options.
  • Some user reviews indicate the K5 Pro requires the Keychron Launcher web app instead of standard VIA for programming.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K5 Pro is the more versatile choice for traditional use cases like office work, gaming, and content creation due to its complete key set and low-profile ergonomics. The Epomaker TH40 dominates for travel and offers a compelling project for keyboard modding enthusiasts with its gasket mount and sound-dampening foams. For programming, the choice is a draw, hinging entirely on the user's preference for a minimalist or full-size layout, as both support deep software customization.

GamingKeychron K5 Pro
  • The K5 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the manufacturer states is engineered for competitive gaming.
  • Its full layout includes dedicated arrow and function keys, which are often used in game controls and macros.
  • The TH40's 40% layout requires heavy layer use for gaming commands, which can be less intuitive.
OfficeKeychron K5 Pro
  • The K5 Pro's 100% layout includes a numpad, function row, and 12 multimedia keys, streamlining data entry and system controls.
  • Its low-profile design and adjustable typing angle, according to the listing, provide ergonomic wrist support.
  • It includes keycaps for both macOS and Windows, easing cross-platform office use.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards are fully programmable via QMK and VIA software for creating custom layers and macros.
  • The TH40's compact size saves desk space, but its lack of dedicated keys requires heavy layer memorization.
  • The K5 Pro provides all standard keys but uses north-facing RGB LEDs, which can interfere with some aftermarket keycap profiles.
TravelEpomaker TH40
  • The TH40 is significantly smaller (258 x 97 mm) and lighter (500g) than the K5 Pro (435 x 120 mm, 720g).
  • Its 40% layout is designed for portability, as noted in the vendor description.
  • It includes a 3000mAh battery, which is larger than the K5 Pro's 2000mAh battery for longer wireless use.
ModdingEpomaker TH40
  • The TH40 features a gasket mount design with Poron plate foam and bottom foam, offering a specific acoustic profile for modders.
  • It uses south-facing RGB LEDs, which are compatible with a wider range of aftermarket keycaps.
  • Both are hot-swappable, but the TH40's gasket construction may appeal more to enthusiasts seeking a specific typing feel.
Content CreationKeychron K5 Pro
  • The K5 Pro's full layout with multimedia keys allows for direct shortcuts in editing software without relying on function layers.
  • Its low-profile switches may facilitate faster key presses for shortcut-heavy workflows.
  • The TH40's minimal layout would require extensive layer programming to replicate similar shortcut access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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