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Compare Keychron K4 Pro vs K4 V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two generations of Keychron's popular 96% layout keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a compact form factor with a number pad, wireless connectivity, and hot-swappable options. The decision hinges on whether you value advanced firmware customization and upgraded acoustics or a lower-cost model with core functionality.

92
Keychron K4 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
69
Keychron K4 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (UK ISO Layout) - Version 2

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4.7 (7)
4.7 (2530)
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Weighs about 1280 g
  • Sized at 31 x 391 x 139 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, South-face, Rgb South-face, White South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2020
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-Nordic, ISO-ES layout standard
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.2
  • Build Quality: 83.9
  • Productivity: 94.6
  • Customizability: 97.2
  • Portability: 53.5
Scores
  • Performance: 63.4
  • Build Quality: 69.6
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.1
  • Portability: 55.1
Name
Keychron K4 Pro
Name
Keychron K4 V2
Release year
2022
Release year
2020
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-Nordic, ISO-ES
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
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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, South-face, White South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
31 x 391 x 139 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1280g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

If your priority is extensive customization through programmable firmware, a premium typing sound, and future-proofing for keycap sets, the Keychron K4 Pro is worth the extra investment. If you simply need a reliable, compact wireless keyboard with a number pad and hot-swappable potential at a more accessible price, the Keychron K4 V2 remains a solid choice. The core decision rests on the value you place on advanced software features versus initial cost.

Keychron K4 Pro

  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Includes sound-absorbing foam and a silicone dampening pad for improved acoustics.
  • +Features screw-in PCB stabilizers and a steel plate for a more stable typing feel.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps in an OSA profile for better durability.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Tends to be more expensive than the K4 V2.
  • −The vendor description highlights a barebone kit option, suggesting the fully assembled version may command a premium.
  • −Weighs 1280g, which is on the heavier side for its size class.

Keychron K4 V2

  • +Generally available at a lower price point than the K4 Pro.
  • +Offers an optional aluminum frame version for increased rigidity.
  • +Includes an inclined bottom frame design for a more comfortable typing angle.
  • +Has a proven track record with a high number of user reviews.
  • −Lacks support for QMK or VIA firmware, limiting software customization.
  • −Uses north-facing RGB LEDs, which can interfere with some Cherry-profile keycap sets.
  • −Comes with standard ABS keycaps, which are more prone to shine over time compared to PBT.
  • −The vendor specifications note a 90Hz polling rate in wireless mode, which is lower than its wired performance.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K4 Pro is the clear winner for use cases demanding customization, such as programming, modding, and content creation, thanks to its QMK/VIA support and upgraded build. For office work and general travel, both keyboards are functionally similar. Gamers may lean toward the K4 Pro for its south-facing LEDs and sturdier plate, though both offer the same high wired polling rate.

GamingKeychron K4 Pro
  • •Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, but the K4 Pro's south-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for gamers.
  • •The K4 Pro's steel plate and sound-dampening foam may provide a more consistent, solid feel during rapid key presses.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity for up to 3 devices and include Mac/Windows keycaps.
  • •Both feature a 96% layout that includes a number pad in a space-saving design.
  • •They share the same large 4000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
ProgrammingKeychron K4 Pro
  • •The K4 Pro supports QMK and VIA firmware for unlimited key remapping and macro creation, which is highly valuable for coding shortcuts.
  • •It comes with double-shot PBT keycaps for better long-term durability against shine.
  • •Screw-in PCB stabilizers, as listed for the K4 Pro, typically offer a more stable and consistent feel on large keys like Enter and Shift.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards share the same 96% layout size and wireless functionality.
  • •The K4 V2 vendor page mentions an 'inclined bottom frame' for comfort, but no specific weight advantage is stated for either model.
  • •Both require a carrying case for true portability, which is not included.
ModdingKeychron K4 Pro
  • •The K4 Pro explicitly supports QMK/VIA open-source firmware and has a published source code, allowing for deep software customization.
  • •Its construction includes sound-absorbing foam and a silicone dampening pad, providing a better acoustic base for modifications.
  • •It features screw-in PCB stabilizers which are generally preferred by modders over plate-mounted ones for ease of tuning.
Content CreationKeychron K4 Pro
  • •The K4 Pro's programmable layers via QMK/VIA are ideal for assigning complex shortcuts for video or photo editing software.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs ensure compatibility with a wider range of aftermarket keycap sets without interference.
  • •The included double-shot PBT keycaps offer a more premium texture for long typing or editing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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