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Compare Keychron K17 Max vs K5 QMK V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two of Keychron's premium low-profile QMK keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swappable options, QMK/VIA support, and multi-device Bluetooth. The decision ultimately hinges on your need for a space-saving 96% layout with a dedicated 2.4 GHz dongle versus a traditional full-size layout with potentially better backlight visibility.

88
Keychron K17 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
84
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2

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4.5 (2)
5.0 (2)
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 750 g
  • Sized at 27 x 119 x 387 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • 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-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.8
  • Build Quality: 81.8
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 93
  • Portability: 54.7
Scores
  • Performance: 81.8
  • Build Quality: 78.3
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 89.6
  • Portability: 53.9
Name
Keychron K17 Max
Name
Keychron K5 QMK V2
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO, 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
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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
27 x 119 x 387 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
750g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If low-latency wireless performance and a space-efficient layout are critical, the Keychron K17 Max is the clear option. If you require a full number pad and prioritize visible RGB backlighting over wireless latency, the Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the better fit. Both are excellent, customizable low-profile boards for their respective layouts.

Keychron K17 Max

  • +Includes a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming.
  • +Compact 96% layout saves desk space while retaining most keys.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps for better long-term durability.
  • +Features internal IXPE and latex acoustic foam for sound dampening.
  • +Offers a wide range of ISO layout options including German and UK.
  • −Lacks a dedicated storage compartment for its 2.4 GHz USB receiver.
  • −Its low-profile switches are only compatible with specific Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • −The non-shine-through PBT keycaps may limit RGB backlight visibility.

Keychron K5 QMK V2

  • +Full 100% layout includes a number pad for data entry and specific workflows.
  • +Features shine-through ABS keycaps for better backlight illumination.
  • +Vendor description mentions enhanced acoustic foams including IXPE, EPDM, and latex.
  • +Offers a broad selection of ISO layouts including Nordic, German, UK, and Swiss.
  • −Wireless mode operates at a 125 Hz polling rate, compared to the K17 Max's 2.4 GHz 1000 Hz.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time faster than PBT.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection option, relying solely on Bluetooth and wired modes.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K17 Max wins for gaming and travel due to its 2.4 GHz wireless and compact form. The K5 QMK V2 is the pick for content creation where a number pad is essential. For office work, programming, and modding, the keyboards are closely matched, with the tiebreaker being preference for keycap material (PBT vs shine-through ABS) and layout size.

GamingKeychron K17 Max
  • •The K17 Max offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz wireless mode, while the K5 V2's wireless polling is listed at 125 Hz.
  • •Its 96% layout provides more desk space for mouse movement compared to the full-size K5 V2.
  • •Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support Bluetooth for connecting to multiple devices and include dedicated multimedia keys.
  • •Both are listed with Mac and Windows support and offer adjustable typing angles for ergonomics.
  • •The K5 V2's full-size layout includes a number pad, while the K17 Max's 96% layout saves space without sacrificing key functionality.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Both are hot-swappable (in specific versions) for customizing switch feel.
  • •The K17 Max uses PBT keycaps for durability, while the K5 V2 uses shine-through ABS keycaps for better backlight visibility.
TravelKeychron K17 Max
  • •The K17 Max has a smaller 96% form factor (387mm wide) compared to the full-size K5 V2.
  • •It includes a 2.4 GHz wireless option for reliable use where Bluetooth interference might be an issue.
  • •Both share the same 2000mAh battery capacity.
ModdingKeychron K17 Max
  • •The K17 Max comes with PBT keycaps, which are generally more durable and resistant to shine than the K5 V2's ABS keycaps.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and support QMK/VIA for firmware customization.
  • •The K17 Max vendor description mentions specific internal foams (IXPE and latex) for sound dampening.
Content CreationKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 QMK V2's full 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad, useful for data entry and shortcuts in editing software.
  • •Its shine-through ABS keycaps may be preferable for working in low-light environments.
  • •Both support extensive macro programming via QMK for streamlining workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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