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Compare Keychron K4 HE vs K5 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between Keychron's feature-packed K4 HE and its ultra-slim sibling, the K5 Max. Both offer premium wireless connectivity, QMK/VIA support, and hot-swappable switches, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge magnetic switch technology for gaming or a significantly thinner, low-profile design for a modern aesthetic and potentially faster typing.

91
Keychron K4 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
86
Keychron K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.3 (13)
3.9 (22)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic, ANSI layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1090 g
  • Sized at 41 x 377 x 126 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Aluminum, Wood, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 720 g
  • Sized at 18 x 424 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 92.4
  • Build Quality: 87.1
  • Productivity: 94.2
  • Customizability: 89.8
  • Portability: 56.4
Scores
  • Performance: 82.3
  • Build Quality: 81.9
  • Productivity: 89.6
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 54.7
Name
Keychron K4 HE
Name
Keychron K5 Max
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic, 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, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 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
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Aluminum, Wood, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
41 x 377 x 126 mm
Dimensions
18 x 424 x 119 mm
Weight
1090g
Weight
720g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want the latest in switch technology for gaming customization and a thocky, mod-friendly build, the Keychron K4 HE is the superior investment. If you prioritize a sleek, modern aesthetic, a slimmer profile for ergonomics or travel, and a full-size layout for data entry, the Keychron K5 Max is the more practical daily driver.

Keychron K4 HE

  • +Advanced Gateron Double-Rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm).
  • +Includes gaming features like Rapid Trigger, Analog Mode, and Dynamic Keystrokes.
  • +Robust sound dampening with EVA foam, EPDM foam, a silicone pad, and PET film.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Choice of special edition with wood accents or standard aluminum frame.
  • −Heavier and taller (1090g, 41mm) than the K5 Max.
  • −Compatible only with specific Gateron Double-Rail magnetic switches, limiting hot-swap options.
  • −96% layout has a condensed key arrangement that may require an adjustment period.

Keychron K5 Max

  • +Ultra-slim low-profile design, with a height of just 18mm.
  • +Lighter weight at 720g for better portability.
  • +Full 100% layout includes a numpad and 12 multimedia keys.
  • +Comes with low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps in an LSA profile.
  • +Features a low 3° typing angle for a flatter typing experience.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery compared to the K4 HE.
  • −Low-profile keycaps are not shine-through, limiting RGB visibility according to user reviews.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • −Lacks the advanced magnetic switch features of the K4 HE.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K4 HE is the clear choice for gamers and modders, thanks to its magnetic switches and extensive feature set. The K5 Max wins for office use, travel, and content creation, where its slim form factor, full layout, and multimedia keys are advantageous. For programming, both are excellent due to their shared QMK/VIA support, leaving the choice to layout preference.

GamingKeychron K4 HE
  • •Features adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8mm for per-key customization.
  • •Includes gaming-specific features like Rapid Trigger, Analog Mode, and Last Key Priority.
  • •Uses magnetic switches with TMR sensors for contactless, low-latency input.
OfficeKeychron K5 Max
  • •Ultra-slim low-profile design is 31% slimmer than normal switches, according to the vendor.
  • •Lower 3° typing angle and 18mm height may reduce wrist strain during long sessions.
  • •Includes 12 multimedia keys for quick media and volume control.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support full QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Both offer N-key rollover and hot-swappable PCBs for switch customization.
  • •The K4 HE has a 96% layout saving desk space, while the K5 Max's 100% layout includes a full numpad.
TravelKeychron K5 Max
  • •Significantly lighter at 720g compared to the K4 HE's 1090g.
  • •Thinner profile (18mm height) is easier to pack in a bag.
  • •Lower weight and slimmer design improve portability.
ModdingKeychron K4 HE
  • •Includes multiple foam layers (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad, PET film) for sound customization.
  • •Offers a choice between aluminum and aluminum-with-wood case constructions.
  • •Magnetic switch system allows for adjustable actuation depth and dynamic keystroke programming.
Content CreationKeychron K5 Max
  • •Full 100% layout with dedicated numpad is advantageous for data entry and shortcuts.
  • •Dedicated multimedia keys provide quick access to playback controls.
  • •Low-profile design may allow for a more comfortable hand position when switching between keyboard and tablet or pen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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