KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron K5 Pro vs K5 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two full-size, low-profile wireless keyboards from Keychron. The choice is difficult because both share a core feature set like hot-swap capability and a slim design. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize extensive firmware programmability and PBT keycaps, or require a specific JIS layout and a simpler feature set.

88
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
69
Keychron K5 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

4.8 (8)
4.8 (60)
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 720 g
  • Sized at 18 x 120 x 435 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 79.7
  • Customizability: 88.9
  • Portability: 53.2
Scores
  • Performance: 63.2
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.1
  • Portability: 55
Name
Keychron K5 Pro
Name
Keychron K5 SE
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, JIS
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
-
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
18 x 120 x 435 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
720g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your need for customization dictates the choice. The Keychron K5 Pro is the definitive pick for users who want to program their keyboard deeply with QMK/VIA, value PBT keycap material, and need a high polling rate for gaming. Opt for the Keychron K5 SE if your primary requirement is its JIS layout, you prefer a simpler setup, and you are seeking a potentially more budget-friendly option with a still-capable hot-swap feature.

Keychron K5 Pro

  • +Offers QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Includes double-shot PBT keycaps for better durability and feel.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for responsive gaming.
  • +Features redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on large keys.
  • +Supports a wider array of international ISO layouts.
  • −Uses a tray mount style, which can lead to less consistent typing feel across the board.
  • −The vendor description notes QMK does not support low-profile optical switches, limiting hot-swap options.
  • −May be priced higher than the K5 SE based on listed price ranges.

Keychron K5 SE

  • +Available in a JIS layout, catering to a specific regional market.
  • +Vendor description mentions a reinforced aluminum top case and steel plate for structure.
  • +Offers a hot-swappable version compatible with both Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical switches.
  • +May be available at a lower price point than the K5 Pro.
  • −Lacks QMK and VIA firmware support for advanced customization.
  • −Keycaps are listed as ABS, which may develop shine faster than PBT.
  • −The vendor description does not specify a polling rate for gaming performance.
  • −Offers fewer international layout options (ANSI and JIS only).

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K5 Pro is the stronger choice for gaming, programming, modding, and content creation due to its high polling rate, programmable firmware, and PBT keycaps. For office use and travel, the keyboards are closely matched, sharing core wireless and ergonomic features. The K5 SE's primary advantage is its availability in a JIS layout, which is a specific regional requirement rather than a general performance benefit.

GamingKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The K5 Pro specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •Its vendor description states the 1000 Hz polling rate is engineered for competitive gaming.
  • •The K5 SE's description does not mention a specific polling rate for gaming.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support Bluetooth 5.1 for connecting to multiple devices.
  • •Both are listed with Mac and Windows support and include multimedia keys.
  • •Both have a 100% layout with a number pad for data entry.
ProgrammingKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The K5 Pro offers QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •It includes double-shot PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to shine.
  • •The vendor description highlights its use for coding and the ability to configure different keymaps for Mac and Windows.
TravelTie
  • •Both have identical 2000mAh batteries and similar low-profile form factors.
  • •Both offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity to reduce cable clutter.
  • •Neither has a carrying case mentioned in the provided specifications.
ModdingKeychron K5 Pro
  • •The K5 Pro supports QMK and VIA open-source firmware for extensive software customization.
  • •It comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, a premium material favored by modders.
  • •The vendor description mentions redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on large keys.
Content CreationKeychron K5 Pro
  • •QMK/VIA support on the K5 Pro allows for complex macros useful in editing software.
  • •The vendor description for the K5 Pro notes a dedicated screenshot key.
  • •The inclusion of PBT keycaps provides a more consistent typing feel over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

86
$67
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

92
$69
Keychron K4 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K4 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

86
$94
Keychron K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K5 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

73
$115
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2
Keychron K5 V2
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
QMK,
Alu case

94
$59
Keychron K8 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K8 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

68
$74
Keychron K5 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K5
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

88
$69
Keychron K17 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K17 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

94
$79
Keychron K10 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K10 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

87
$67
Keychron K13 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K13 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

93
$59
Keychron Q2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount