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Compare Keychron K4 HE vs V4 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's feature-rich premium model and its value-focused compact offering. The K4 HE offers cutting-edge magnetic switch technology and wireless connectivity in a 96% form factor, while the V4 provides a classic 60% wired build with extensive customization support. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize advanced gaming features and a full layout or extreme portability and a lower cost of entry for modding.

91
Keychron K4 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
91
Keychron V4 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.3 (13)
5.0 (18)
  • 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
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • 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 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 60% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 730 g
  • Sized at 20 x 117 x 304 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 92.4
  • Build Quality: 87.1
  • Productivity: 94.2
  • Customizability: 89.8
  • Portability: 56.4
Scores
  • Performance: 66.5
  • Build Quality: 86
  • Productivity: 94.7
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 74.8
Name
Keychron K4 HE
Name
Keychron V4
Release year
2025
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic, ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Aluminum, Wood, ABS
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT,
Dimensions
41 x 377 x 126 mm
Dimensions
20 x 117 x 304 mm
Weight
1090g
Weight
730g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want the latest in switch technology for gaming, need wireless convenience, and prefer a layout with a numpad, the Keychron K4 HE is the justified investment. If your priority is a compact, cost-effective foundation for customization and modding, or you need a highly portable keyboard, the Keychron V4 delivers exceptional value and flexibility.

Keychron K4 HE

  • +Advanced Gateron Double-Rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points and Rapid Trigger.
  • +Triple-mode connectivity: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C.
  • +96% layout includes a numpad and navigation cluster in a compact form.
  • +Premium build with an aluminum and wood case option and multiple sound-dampening foams.
  • +Supports QMK/VIA for customization and includes Mac/Windows keycaps.
  • −Magnetic hot-swap sockets are compatible only with specific Gateron Double-Rail switches, limiting switch choices.
  • −Heavier and larger than the V4, making it less portable.
  • −More expensive than the V4.

Keychron V4

  • +Highly affordable entry point for a customizable mechanical keyboard.
  • +Available as a barebones kit and supports a wide range of 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • +Compact 60% layout saves significant desk space.
  • +Features screw-in PCB stabilizers and south-facing RGB LEDs for broad keycap compatibility.
  • +Supports QMK and VIA for extensive firmware customization.
  • −Wired-only connectivity lacks wireless options.
  • −60% layout requires using layers for arrows, function keys, and a numpad, which has a learning curve.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS plastic, not aluminum.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K4 HE is the clear choice for gaming and office productivity, thanks to its magnetic switch features, wireless flexibility, and inclusive 96% layout. The V4 wins for travel due to its compact size and for modding due to its barebones availability and broad switch compatibility. For programming, it's a tie, as both offer deep firmware customization, with the choice boiling down to layout preference versus portability.

GamingKeychron K4 HE
  • •The K4 HE features magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm and Rapid Trigger support.
  • •It offers a 1000 Hz polling rate over both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless connections.
  • •Features like Last Key Priority (LKP) and Analog Mode are listed for enhanced game control.
OfficeKeychron K4 HE
  • •The K4 HE's 96% layout includes a numpad and navigation keys, which are useful for data entry.
  • •It connects to up to three devices via Bluetooth for easy switching between workstations.
  • •Its 4000mAh battery provides long wireless working time, reducing cable clutter.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The K4 HE offers more dedicated keys in its 96% layout, which can be beneficial for shortcuts.
  • •The V4's 60% layout requires heavy use of layers, which can be fully customized via QMK/VIA.
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
TravelKeychron V4
  • •The V4 is significantly smaller (117 x 304 mm) and lighter (730g) than the K4 HE.
  • •Its 60% layout takes up minimal desk or bag space.
  • •As a wired-only keyboard, it requires no charging, simplifying travel logistics.
ModdingKeychron V4
  • •The V4 is available as a barebones kit and supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches.
  • •It features screw-in PCB stabilizers that support third-party replacements.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry or OEM profile keycaps.
Content CreationKeychron K4 HE
  • •The K4 HE's full set of keys, including a numpad, is advantageous for video editing shortcuts and numerical input.
  • •Features like Dynamic Keystrokes allow assigning multiple actions to a single key based on press depth.
  • •Wireless connectivity offers a cleaner setup for filming or streaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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