Redragon HORUS K618 vs Keychron K5 V2Budget vs Customizable
Choose the Redragon HORUS K618 for its lower price and 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, or the Keychron K5 QMK V2 for its superior build quality, firmware customization, and hot-swap capability.
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No reviews
from$64at Redragon
5.0 (6)5.0 · 6 reviews
from$89at MK
Which one should you get?
Get the
Redragon HORUS K618
Budget
Build quality in the bottom 5% of 100% boards under $100.
- Offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, USB-C wired).
- Includes 4x5 on-the-fly macro keys for quick commands without software.
- Features a dedicated media control function area.
- Switches are soldered. Swapping them means soldering.
- Low-profile switches and keycaps only. Standard MX keycaps will not fit.
- No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.
Get the
Keychron K5 V2
Customizable
Build quality in the top 15% of 100% boards under $100.
- Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive, open-source programmability.
- Available in a hot-swappable version for easy switch changes.
- Case combines an ABS top with an aluminum frame for a sturdier build.
- Low-profile switches and keycaps only. Standard MX keycaps will not fit.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Your budget and need for a 2.4 GHz dongle are the primary decision factors. The Redragon HORUS K618 is the pragmatic choice for gamers and budget-conscious buyers who want versatile wireless connectivity. For users who value long-term customization, a more premium build, and deep programmability for work or hobbies, the Keychron K5 QMK V2 is worth the extra investment.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Redragon HORUS K618
Keychron K5 V2
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Hot-swappable
No
Yes
Switch changes without soldering
Battery
1,900 mAh
2,000 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Case material
Plastic
ABS, Aluminum
Mount style
Bottom Mount
PCB Mount
- Redragon HORUS K618
- Keychron K5 V2
- Performance
- 7182
- Build quality
- 4380
- Productivity
- 4889
- Customizability
- 4488
- Portability
- 4854
- Layout size: 100%
- Low profile
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Tactile
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the more capable keyboard for most professional and enthusiast use cases, particularly programming, modding, and content creation, due to its superior customization tools and build. The Redragon HORUS K618 takes the lead specifically for gaming thanks to its 2.4 GHz wireless dongle and onboard macro keys. For general office use and travel, the choice depends on whether you prioritize budget and connection options (HORUS) or ergonomics and international layout support (K5).
Pick the Redragon HORUS K618
- Includes a dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode for low-latency gaming.
- Lists 4x5 on-the-fly macro keys for quick in-game commands.
- The manufacturer claims a 'no-latency' connection for its 2.4GHz mode.
Redragon HORUS K618 vs Keychron K5 V2 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
15 of 25 specs differ
Redragon HORUS K618
Keychron K5 V2
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Low profile
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
ISO layouts by store
Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.
Redragon HORUS K618
No ISO layout at the stores we track.
Keychron K5 V2
Keychron
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW
In stockShips to you
Keychron (DE)
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-SW
In stockDoes not ship to you
MonacoKeys
ISO-DE
In stockDoes not ship to you
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
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Redragon HORUS K618 vs Keychron K5 V2: your questions
The Redragon HORUS K618 is likely better for competitive gaming due to its dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode, which the manufacturer describes as offering a 'no-latency' connection. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 has a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode but only uses Bluetooth for wireless, which may introduce more latency.
No, the Redragon HORUS K618 does not have hot-swappable sockets. Its low-profile red, blue, or brown switches are soldered onto the PCB, making switch replacement difficult and requiring soldering skills.
QMK is open-source firmware that allows you to reprogram every key on the keyboard, create complex macros, and even modify lighting behaviors. VIA is a graphical interface that makes programming QMK keyboards easier without coding. The Keychron Launcher web app provides a browser-based tool for this customization.
Yes, both keyboards are listed as compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 specifically includes keycaps for both layouts and allows you to configure different keymaps for each OS.
Both keyboards have very similar battery capacities (1900mAh for the HORUS K618 and 2000mAh for the K5 QMK V2). Actual battery life will depend on usage patterns like RGB brightness and connection type. The Redragon vendor page claims up to 30 hours for its keyboard.
The Keychron K5 QMK V2 has several features aimed at typing comfort, including three adjustable typing angles, redesigned stabilizers for less key wobble, and multiple internal foam layers for a more dampened sound. The hot-swappable option also lets you choose your preferred switch type.
According to Keychron, the hot-swappable version of the K5 QMK V2 is compatible with Keychron Milk POM switches or Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches. It is not compatible with low-profile optical switches.
Yes, the Redragon HORUS K618 is listed as having 'Pro Software Customizable' support. The vendor description mentions software for 16.8 million color backlighting, key remapping, and keybindings.
Both are marketed as ultra-slim, low-profile keyboards. The Redragon HORUS K618 claims a '30% cutted ultra-thin' design. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 states its switches are '33% slimmer than conventional normal profile switches.' The actual thickness is very similar.
Yes, the Keychron Launcher web app for configuring the K5 QMK V2 is stated to be compatible with Linux, as it runs in compatible web browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Opera without requiring a dedicated operating system-specific download.
The Redragon HORUS K618 includes the keyboard, a detachable USB Type-C cable, and a user manual. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 listing does not specify the exact contents, but typical Keychron packages include a keyboard, USB-C cable, keycap puller (for hot-swap versions), and switch puller.
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