Keychron B33 vs B36Low-Profile TKL vs Full-Size Layout
Choose the B33 for a compact, portable desk, or the B36 for a full-size layout with a dedicated number pad.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron B33
Low-Profile TKL
- More compact 80% TKL layout saves desk space.
- Lighter weight (1977g per metadata, vendor lists 550g) enhances portability.
- Includes a magnetic storage slot for the 2.4 GHz receiver.
- Lacks a dedicated number pad, which may hinder data entry tasks.
- The vendor description states it does not support N-Key Rollover (NKRO).
- Non-backlit keycaps may be less usable in low-light conditions.
Get the
Keychron B36
Full-Size Layout
- Full-size 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad.
- Includes media shortcut keys and function row for direct control.
- Supports tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4 GHz, wired).
- Larger and heavier (650g) footprint is less portable.
- The vendor description states it does not support N-Key Rollover (NKRO).
- Non-backlit keycaps limit visibility in dark environments.
Your need for a number pad dictates the choice. If your workflow involves frequent numerical input, spreadsheets, or accounting, the Keychron B36's full-size layout is the practical pick. If desk space is at a premium, you travel often, or you prefer a larger mouse area for gaming, the Keychron B33's TKL form factor is the better option. Both deliver the same core typing experience and connectivity.
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.
Keychron B33
Keychron B36
Layout size
80%
100%
Battery
4,000 mAh
800 mAh
Case material
ABS, Metal
ABS, Plastic
Weight
1,977 g
650 g
Keycaps
ABS, PBT
ABS
- Keychron B33
- Keychron B36
- Performance
- 5855
- Build quality
- 6748
- Productivity
- 8680
- Customizability
- 5354
- Portability
- 7453
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Low profile
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Tactile
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The B36 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a number pad is non-negotiable. The B33 wins for gaming and travel due to its space-efficient TKL form factor. For programming, the decision is a tie and comes down to personal preference for an integrated number pad versus a more compact main board. Both are equally capable for modding, which is limited to software, and both provide a quiet, ergonomic typing experience.
Pick the Keychron B33
- The B33's 80% TKL layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
- Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate over 2.4 GHz and wired connections for responsive input.
- The B33's lower weight and smaller footprint can be advantageous for flexible desk setups.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Keychron B33
3 owner reviews
“I switch between my laptop and tablet throughout the day and Bluetooth pairing has been seamless. Typing is nearly silent, which is great for shared spaces.”
Keychron B36
6 owner reviews
“The battery life easily lasts weeks for me. Bluetooth and 2.4GHz both feel stable, and the adjustable angles help reduce wrist strain.”
Keychron B33 vs B36 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 24 specs differ
Keychron B33
Keychron B36
Switch options
Mount style
Low profile
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Keychron B33 vs B36: your questions
The primary difference is the layout size. The B33 is an 80% TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard, meaning it lacks a number pad. The B36 is a 100% full-size keyboard that includes a dedicated number pad and navigation cluster.
No. Both the B33 and B36 are pre-built keyboards featuring a scissor switch mechanism. The vendor descriptions and metadata do not mention hot-swap sockets, indicating the switches are not user-replaceable.
No. According to the product metadata, both the B33 and B36 are listed as non-backlit. The vendor specifications also confirm the backlight is listed as 'Non-backlit' for both models.
The vendor descriptions for both models claim up to 320 hours of wireless working time from their 800mAh rechargeable batteries. The metadata for the B33 lists a 4000mAh battery, but the official vendor page should be considered the source of truth for this spec.
Yes. Both keyboards are programmable using the Keychron Launcher, a web-based configuration tool. This allows for key remapping, macro creation, and setting shortcuts without needing installed software.
The Keychron B33 is better for a small desk. Its 80% TKL layout measures 370mm in length, which is significantly shorter than the B36's 437mm length. This saves considerable desk space for your mouse or other items.
Yes. Both the B33 and B36 have a system toggle switch to change between macOS and Windows layouts. The Keychron Launcher programming software also supports both operating systems.
Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity. This includes a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate, Bluetooth 5.2 for multi-device pairing, and a wired USB-C connection for charging and a stable link.
Yes. Both models are marketed for silent typing. Their vendor descriptions highlight fully pre-lubed scissor switches designed for an ultra-quiet experience, making them suitable for offices or shared spaces.
The Keychron B33 is more portable. It is not only shorter in length but also listed as lighter in the vendor description (550g vs. the B36's 650g). The TKL layout is easier to pack in a laptop bag or use on a confined space like a coffee shop table.
No. According to the detailed specifications on the official vendor pages, both the B33 and B36 list 'NKRO Support' as 'No'. This means they may have limitations with registering many simultaneous key presses.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.