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Compare Keychron K4 V2 vs K5 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a compact full-featured keyboard and an ultra-slim low-profile alternative. The K4 V2 packs a 96% layout with a numpad and a 4000mAh battery, while the K5 Max offers a 100% layout in a slimmer design with QMK/VIA support and 2.4 GHz connectivity. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize battery life and standard switch compatibility or a thinner profile and advanced firmware customization.

70
Keychron K4 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (UK ISO Layout) - Version 2
86
Keychron K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.7 (2530)
3.9 (22)
  • Released in 2020
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-Nordic, ISO-ES layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • 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
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • 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
Scores
  • Performance: 63.5
  • Build Quality: 69.9
  • Productivity: 67.5
  • Customizability: 70.4
  • Portability: 55
Scores
  • Performance: 82.3
  • Build Quality: 81.9
  • Productivity: 89.6
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 54.7
Name
Keychron K4 V2
Name
Keychron K5 Max
Release year
2020
Release year
2024
Switch Options
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, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-Nordic, ISO-ES
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
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, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
18 x 424 x 119 mm
Weight
-
Weight
720g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The K5 Max is the better choice for users who want a modern low-profile design with full customization through QMK/VIA, improved gaming latency via 2.4 GHz, and a quieter typing experience. The K4 V2 remains a solid, more affordable option if you prefer standard-profile switches, need a longer battery life, and are okay with less firmware flexibility. Your decision should be based on your tolerance for a thinner chassis versus the freedom of standard switch selection.

Keychron K4 V2

  • +Large 4000mAh battery offers up to 240 hours of typing with backlight off
  • +96% layout includes a numpad in a more compact footprint
  • +Compatible with almost all MX style 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches
  • +Available at a lower starting price point
  • +Hot-swappable option for easy switch customization
  • −No QMK or VIA support, limiting firmware customization
  • −Wireless mode polling rate drops to 90Hz
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which may be less durable than PBT

Keychron K5 Max

  • +Ultra-slim low-profile design with Gateron low-profile switches
  • +Full QMK and VIA support for extensive key mapping and macros
  • +Dual wireless connectivity with 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1
  • +Includes interior IXPE acoustic foam for quieter typing
  • +Double-shot PBT keycaps for better durability and oil resistance
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery compared to the K4 V2
  • −Low-profile switch compatibility is limited to Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches
  • −Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K5 Max wins in four out of six use cases, largely due to its QMK/VIA support, 2.4 GHz connectivity, and low-profile design. The gaming and programming categories favor its lower latency and customization options. The only tie is in the office category, where the K4 V2's larger battery and standard switch feel compete with the K5 Max's quieter acoustics. The K4 V2 does not win any single category but remains a strong contender for users who prioritize battery life.

GamingKeychron K5 Max
  • •Supports 2.4 GHz wireless connection with 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming
  • •Includes N-Key Rollover for both wireless and wired modes
  • •Features an ARM MCU for improved performance
OfficeTie
  • •Both offer multi-media keys and Mac/Win support for productivity
  • •K4 V2 has a larger 4000mAh battery for longer wireless use
  • •K5 Max features interior acoustic foam for quieter keystrokes
ProgrammingKeychron K5 Max
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for extensive key remapping and macros
  • •The Keychron Launcher web app enables easy customization of shortcuts
  • •Low-profile design may reduce wrist strain over long coding sessions
TravelKeychron K5 Max
  • •Ultra-slim low-profile design is easier to pack than a standard-height keyboard
  • •Weighs 720g, which is relatively lightweight for a full-size keyboard
ModdingKeychron K5 Max
  • •QMK and VIA support provide deeper firmware customization
  • •Hot-swappable version allows for switch changes without soldering
  • •Redesigned stabilizers offer potential for further modding
Content CreationKeychron K5 Max
  • •QMK/VIA support enables creation of custom shortcuts for editing software
  • •100% layout with a numpad aids in number-heavy tasks
  • •Interior acoustic foam helps reduce noise during recordings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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