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Compare Keychron K4 HE vs K5 QMK V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's high-performance magnetic switch keyboard and its low-profile, full-size sibling. The K4 HE offers cutting-edge magnetic switch technology with features like adjustable actuation and rapid trigger, while the K5 QMK V2 provides a sleek, low-profile typing experience with a traditional 100% layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize advanced gaming features and a compact layout or prefer a slimmer, full-size keyboard for general use.

92
Keychron K4 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
84
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2

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4.3 (13)
5.0 (2)
  • 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
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • 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 Linear, Tactile, 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, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 92.4
  • Build Quality: 87.2
  • Productivity: 94.2
  • Customizability: 89.8
  • Portability: 56.3
Scores
  • Performance: 81.8
  • Build Quality: 78.3
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 89.6
  • Portability: 53.9
Name
Keychron K4 HE
Name
Keychron K5 QMK V2
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, 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, 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
ABS
Dimensions
41 x 377 x 126 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1090g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron K4 HE if you are a gamer or enthusiast who values cutting-edge magnetic switch technology, deep customization of actuation points, and a premium typing sound. Opt for the Keychron K5 QMK V2 if you prefer a traditional, low-profile typing feel on a full-size keyboard, need a number pad for work, and want to spend less. Both are excellent choices for programmability via QMK/VIA.

Keychron K4 HE

  • +Advanced Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic switches with adjustable actuation and TMR sensors.
  • +Includes multiple sound-dampening foams (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad) for a thocky typing sound.
  • +Offers triple connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps in Cherry or OSA profile.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery promises longer wireless use.
  • −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.
  • −Heavier at approximately 1090g, making it less portable.

Keychron K5 QMK V2

  • +Low-profile design with Keychron Milk POM switches for a slimmer typing experience.
  • +Full 100% layout includes a number pad and dedicated media keys.
  • +Generally available at a lower price point than the K4 HE.
  • +Hot-swappable with compatible Keychron Milk POM or Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • +Features redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on large keys.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which are more prone to shine over time compared to PBT.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery compared to the K4 HE.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection option, offering only Bluetooth and wired.
  • −Does not feature magnetic switches or associated gaming features like rapid trigger.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K4 HE is the clear choice for gamers seeking the latest magnetic switch technology and customizable performance. For office work and content creation, the K5 QMK V2's low-profile, full-size layout offers practical advantages. Programmers will find both keyboards equally capable due to their QMK/VIA support, while the K5 V2 is better suited for travel. Modders will appreciate the K4 HE's superior internal foams and PBT keycaps.

GamingKeychron K4 HE
  • •Features Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm.
  • •Includes gaming-specific features like Rapid Trigger, Last Key Priority (LKP), and Analog Mode.
  • •Offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
OfficeKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •Low-profile design and slimmer switches may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions.
  • •Full 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad for data entry.
  • •Manufacturer states it connects to up to 3 devices via Bluetooth for multitasking.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •K4 HE has a 96% layout saving desk space, K5 V2 has a full layout with all keys present.
  • •Both are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
TravelKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •Low-profile design is inherently slimmer, though specific dimensions are not provided for the K5 V2.
  • •Lighter weight is typical for low-profile keyboards, though exact weight is not stated.
  • •Lacks the 2.4 GHz dongle, simplifying travel with just Bluetooth and wired options.
ModdingKeychron K4 HE
  • •Features multiple internal foam layers (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad) for sound customization.
  • •Comes with PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to shine than the K5 V2's ABS keycaps.
  • •Offers case material options including aluminum and wood accents.
Content CreationKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •Full 100% layout provides dedicated media keys and a number pad for shortcuts and numerical input.
  • •Low-profile switches may allow for faster, lighter keystrokes during repetitive editing tasks.
  • •Includes 12 multimedia keys according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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