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Compare Ganss HELLOGANSS HS98T Pro vs Keychron K5 QMK V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich compact layout and a highly programmable low-profile board. The Ganss HS98T Pro offers a 98% layout with triple-mode connectivity, while the Keychron K5 QMK V2 provides a 100% low-profile form factor with QMK/VIA support. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a dedicated wireless dongle and a numpad in a smaller frame, or extensive key remapping capabilities and a slimmer typing experience.

60
HELLOGANSS HS98T PRO Mechanical Keyboard
84
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2

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0.0 (0)
5.0 (2)
  • Released in 2026
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Sandwich Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 51.7
  • Build Quality: 45.3
  • Productivity: 71.6
  • Customizability: 69.8
  • Portability: 49.5
Scores
  • Performance: 81.6
  • Build Quality: 78.4
  • Productivity: 80.2
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 53.9
Name
Ganss HELLOGANSS HS98T Pro
Name
Keychron K5 QMK V2
Release year
2026
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, 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, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
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
Sandwich Mount
Mount Style
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If deep programmability via QMK/VIA, a thin low-profile typing experience, and superior wired performance are your goals, the Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the clear candidate. If you require a dedicated 2.4GHz wireless dongle for reliable connectivity, prefer a knob for media control, and want a numpad in a more compact footprint, the Ganss HS98T Pro is the better fit.

Ganss HELLOGANSS HS98T Pro

  • +Includes a 2.4GHz wireless connection mode alongside Bluetooth and wired.
  • +Features a dedicated multi-function volume knob and multimedia keys.
  • +Uses a sandwich cotton-padded structure with a silicon layer for sound dampening.
  • +Comes with PBT keycaps, which are generally more resistant to shine than ABS.
  • +Offers a compact 98% layout that includes a numpad.

  • Relies on AA batteries for wireless operation, according to the vendor description.
  • Lacks explicit support for advanced programming platforms like QMK or VIA.
  • Uses a normal profile design, which is not as slim as a low-profile keyboard.

Keychron K5 QMK V2

  • +Features full QMK and VIA support for unparalleled key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Built with an ultra-slim, low-profile design using specialized Keychron Milk POM switches.
  • +Includes multiple layers of acoustic foam (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for a tuned typing sound.
  • +Offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for responsive performance.
  • +Has a dual-material case constructed from ABS and aluminum.

  • Does not offer a 2.4GHz wireless connection mode, only Bluetooth and wired.
  • Is only compatible with specific low-profile mechanical switches, limiting hot-swap options.
  • Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time more quickly than PBT.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K5 QMK V2 wins in categories demanding high customizability and a portable form factor, such as programming, modding, and travel, thanks to its QMK support and low-profile design. It also has an edge for gaming due to its specified high polling rate. The Ganss HS98T Pro is the better choice for content creation, leveraging its dedicated multimedia knob. For office use, both are capable, offering similar wireless flexibility and multimedia controls.

GamingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • The Keychron K5 lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which can offer lower latency.
  • Its manufacturer states the latency is hardly noticeable in competitive games.
  • The Ganss HS98T Pro's vendor description does not specify a polling rate.
OfficeTie
  • Both offer multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between computers.
  • Both include multimedia keys for productivity controls.
  • The Keychron K5 has explicit Mac/Win support with included keycaps, while the Ganss supports seamless device switching.
ProgrammingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • The Keychron K5 has native QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macros.
  • Its Keychron Launcher web app allows for online customization without downloads.
  • The Ganss HS98T Pro is listed as 'easily programmable', but does not specify QMK or VIA.
TravelKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • The Keychron K5 is an ultra-slim, low-profile keyboard, described as one of the thinnest wireless mechanical keyboards.
  • Its low-profile switches are 33% slimmer than conventional switches.
  • The Ganss HS98T Pro has a normal profile and a larger 98% layout, making it less slim.
ModdingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • The Keychron K5 supports QMK open-source firmware, allowing for extensive community-driven customization.
  • It features multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for sound modding.
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, but the Keychron's programmability offers deeper firmware-level modding.
Content CreationGanss HELLOGANSS HS98T Pro
  • The Ganss HS98T Pro includes a dedicated multi-function knob, ideal for quick volume or timeline scrubbing.
  • Its 98% layout retains a numpad for numerical input while saving desk space.
  • The knob is placed alongside page up/down keys, which can be useful for editing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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