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Compare Keychron K13 Pro vs K5 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two of Keychron's low-profile Pro series keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share nearly identical core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swap sockets, and a 1000Hz polling rate. The primary decision hinges on whether you prioritize the space-saving 80% layout with a numpad (K13 Pro) or require a standard full-size 100% layout with a dedicated navigation cluster (K5 Pro). Both are well-regarded, making the layout the definitive differentiator.

87
Keychron K13 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
88
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.5 (8)
4.8 (8)
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • 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
  • Weighs about 720 g
  • Sized at 18 x 120 x 435 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.1
  • Build Quality: 81.4
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89.1
  • Portability: 72.9
Scores
  • Performance: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 79.7
  • Customizability: 88.9
  • Portability: 53.2
Name
Keychron K13 Pro
Name
Keychron K5 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, 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, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
18 x 120 x 435 mm
Weight
580g
Weight
720g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your desk space and need for a numpad dictate the choice here. If you work with numbers frequently but have limited space, the Keychron K13 Pro's innovative 80% layout is the smarter pick. If you require a traditional full-size keyboard with all keys present and have the room for it, the Keychron K5 Pro is the straightforward option. Both deliver excellent low-profile typing with high-end customization features.

Keychron K13 Pro

  • +Space-saving 80% layout with integrated numpad (numpad TKL).
  • +Lighter and more compact, weighing 580g with dimensions of 346mm x 119mm.
  • +Includes multiple ISO layout options (UK, German, Nordic, etc.) according to the vendor.
  • +Features an adjustable typing angle with three levels for ergonomics.
  • +Uses low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −Lacks dedicated navigation cluster keys (like Page Up/Down) found on a full-size board.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch selection.
  • −The vendor description notes keycaps may not allow backlight shine-through on some models.

Keychron K5 Pro

  • +Full-size 100% layout with a numpad and dedicated navigation cluster.
  • +Offers a familiar, standard keyboard footprint for users transitioning from membrane boards.
  • +Includes low-profile LSA profile keycaps for both Windows and macOS.
  • +Features the same QMK/VIA programmability and 1000Hz polling rate as the K13 Pro.
  • +Built with an ABS and aluminum frame for a solid feel.
  • −Larger and heavier at 720g and 435mm wide, requiring more desk space.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch selection.
  • −Some user reviews mention issues with the Keychron Launcher software compared to VIA.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K5 Pro wins for traditional office work and content creation where a full numpad and navigation cluster are non-negotiable. The K13 Pro is the clear choice for portability and space-constrained desks, appealing to programmers and travelers. For gaming and modding, the keyboards are functionally equivalent, sharing their core performance and customization features. Your workflow's dependence on a full-sized layout is the ultimate decider.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for reliable multi-key presses.
  • •Their low-profile design and similar switch options provide comparable responsiveness.
OfficeKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The K5 Pro's 100% layout includes a full numpad and dedicated navigation keys, which are standard for data entry.
  • •Its larger form factor provides a familiar, traditional keyboard footprint.
  • •Both share multi-device Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity for switching between work devices.
ProgrammingKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The K13 Pro's 80% layout with integrated numpad saves desk space while retaining number keys for coding.
  • •Its lighter weight (580g vs 720g) and smaller dimensions make it easier to reposition on a cluttered desk.
  • •Both keyboards offer full QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
TravelKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The K13 Pro is significantly more compact (346mm wide) than the K5 Pro (435mm wide).
  • •It is lighter, weighing 580g compared to the K5 Pro's 720g.
  • •Both have the same 2000mAh battery and wireless capabilities, but the K13 Pro's size is more portable.
ModdingTie
  • •Both offer hot-swappable versions compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • •Both support open-source QMK firmware and the VIA/Keychron Launcher for software customization.
  • •Both feature redesigned stabilizers and come with low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps from the factory.
Content CreationKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The full-size layout of the K5 Pro provides dedicated media keys and a numpad for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts.
  • •The larger frame may offer a more stable typing platform during long editing sessions.
  • •Both have RGB backlighting with multiple effects for working in low-light environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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