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Compare KBDFans Athena 1800 vs Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich full-size board and a modern wireless TKL. The KBDFans Athena 1800 offers a 96% layout with a dedicated numpad and a wired-only connection. The Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 provides a more compact 80% form factor with tri-mode wireless connectivity. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize a complete key set or the freedom of wireless use in a smaller package.

84
Athena 1800
87
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Keyboard

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4.7 (17)
1.0 (2)
  • Available in a 95% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 3000 g
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Copper, Aluminum, Steel case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 77.6
  • Build Quality: 78.3
  • Productivity: 83.5
  • Customizability: 82.6
  • Portability: 43.6
Scores
  • Performance: 68.4
  • Build Quality: 89.3
  • Productivity: 84
  • Customizability: 85.6
  • Portability: 87.1
Name
KBDFans Athena 1800
Name
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
95%, 100%, 96%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Display Support
 
TFT
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
8000 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
Top Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Copper, Aluminum, Steel
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
3000g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad, extensive acoustic modding options, and a stationary, wired setup, the KBDFans Athena 1800 is the logical pick. If wireless freedom, a smaller desk footprint, and portability are higher priorities, the Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 is the better option, despite its lack of a numpad and longer wait time.

KBDFans Athena 1800

  • +Comprehensive 96% layout includes a numpad and supports both ANSI and ISO standards.
  • +Extensive customization with multiple plate materials (Alu, FR4, PC, Carbon Fiber) and internal cover plates (Stainless Steel, Brass, Carbon Fiber).
  • +Includes a detailed foam kit, force break tape, and silicone gaskets for sound tuning.
  • +Features a customizable LCD screen with support for user GIFs, per the vendor's firmware notes.
  • +Substantial build with a stainless steel weight bar, contributing to a 3kg weight for premium stability.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and cable management options.
  • −Very heavy at approximately 3kg, making it difficult to move.
  • −The large 96% footprint requires significant desk space.

Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, Wired) offers flexible usage.
  • +Compact 80% (TKL) form factor saves considerable desk space.
  • +Includes two 4400mAh batteries for extended wireless use.
  • +Comes with a protective keyboard case and a full accessory pack, as listed by the vendor.
  • +Features a TFT LCD display and a dot-matrix LED panel with built-in themes and a game.
  • −Lacks a numpad and dedicated function row, which may hinder productivity for some users.
  • −Only supports the ANSI layout, limiting regional compatibility.
  • −Made-to-order nature results in a long estimated production and ship time of 12 weeks.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Athena 1800 is the clear choice for office work, content creation, and serious modding due to its full-size layout and extensive customization options. The QK80 Mk2 wins for travel and any scenario where wireless connectivity or a smaller desk footprint is paramount. For gaming and programming, the decision is closer and depends on the user's preference for a wired numpad board versus a wireless TKL.

GamingKBDFans Athena 1800
  • •The Athena 1800 is a wired-only keyboard, which can offer a more stable connection for competitive gaming.
  • •Its 96% layout includes a numpad, which can be useful for macros or certain game genres.
  • •The manufacturer's firmware update notes mention improved button response speed.
OfficeKBDFans Athena 1800
  • •The Athena 1800's 96% layout includes a full numpad, which is essential for data entry and spreadsheet work.
  • •It supports both ANSI and ISO layouts, offering broader regional compatibility.
  • •The included foam kit and sound dampening features can help reduce noise in shared spaces.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The Athena 1800's 96% layout provides arrow keys and a numpad without the full footprint.
  • •The QK80 Mk2's TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
  • •Both keyboards support extensive firmware customization via VIAL or VIA for key remapping.
TravelQwertykeys QK80 Mk2
  • •The QK80 Mk2 is an 80% keyboard, making it significantly more compact and portable.
  • •It features tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, Wired), allowing cable-free use on the go.
  • •It includes a 4400mAh battery and a protective keyboard case, as noted in the vendor description.
ModdingKBDFans Athena 1800
  • •The Athena 1800 offers a wide array of plate material choices: Aluminum, FR4, Polycarbonate, and Carbon Fiber.
  • •It includes multiple internal cover plate options (Stainless Steel, Brass, Carbon Fiber) for tuning acoustics and weight.
  • •The kit includes a comprehensive foam kit, force break tape, and a silicone gasket set for sound modification.
Content CreationKBDFans Athena 1800
  • •The full 96% layout with numpad is advantageous for video editing shortcuts and numerical input.
  • •The customizable LCD screen can display system info, custom GIFs, or keyboard status, according to the vendor.
  • •The substantial 3kg weight provides a stable, non-slip typing platform.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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