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

Compare Keychron K5 QMK V2 vs K5 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two of Keychron's full-size, low-profile wireless keyboards. The choice hinges on whether you value advanced programmability and sound-dampening materials or a lower-cost model with core hot-swap functionality. Both share a 100% layout, low-profile switches, and wireless connectivity, making the decision a matter of prioritizing firmware features versus budget.

84
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2
69
Keychron K5 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (2)
4.8 (60)
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.8
  • Build Quality: 78.3
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 89.6
  • Portability: 53.9
Scores
  • Performance: 63.2
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.1
  • Portability: 55
Name
Keychron K5 QMK V2
Name
Keychron K5 SE
Release year
2024
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-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, 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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
Tray 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
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for customization should guide your choice. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the superior tool for enthusiasts who will leverage its programmable firmware, acoustic foams, and high-performance specs. The Keychron K5 SE is a practical, cost-effective alternative that retains core features like hot-swappability and a low-profile form factor for everyday use.

Keychron K5 QMK V2

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Includes multiple acoustic foams (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for improved sound and feel.
  • +Features a 1000Hz polling rate in wired mode for responsive input.
  • +Offers a wider range of layout standards, including multiple ISO options.
  • +Uses a PCB mount style which can provide a more consistent typing experience.
  • −Full-size layout is not portable.
  • −Compatible only with specific low-profile mechanical switches, not optical ones.
  • −Likely commands a higher price than the K5 SE model.

Keychron K5 SE

  • +Generally more affordable than the K5 QMK V2.
  • +Hot-swappable versions support both low-profile Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical switches.
  • +Features a reinforced aluminum top case with a plastic bottom.
  • +Includes two-level adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic support.
  • −Lacks advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.
  • −Uses a tray mount style which can feel less consistent than PCB mount.
  • −Polling rate is not specified in the available description.
  • −Layout options are limited to ANSI and JIS, with no ISO variants listed.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K5 QMK V2 is the clear choice for gaming, programming, modding, and content creation due to its high polling rate, extensive firmware support, and acoustic enhancements. For general office use, both keyboards are equally capable with their shared low-profile design and wireless features. Neither keyboard has a distinct advantage for travel due to their shared full-size form factor.

GamingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 QMK V2 lists a 1000Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the K5 SE's description does not mention.
  • •The K5 QMK V2 vendor page states its latency is hardly noticeable in competitive games.
  • •Its PCB mount style may offer a more consistent typing feel compared to the K5 SE's tray mount.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between computers.
  • •Both are low-profile keyboards, which can be ergonomic for extended typing.
  • •Both offer multimedia keys and Mac/Windows compatibility.
ProgrammingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 QMK V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for limitless key remapping and macros.
  • •It offers ISO layout options including UK and Nordic, which the K5 SE lacks in its listed specs.
  • •The vendor description highlights using the web-based Keychron Launcher for customization in office or lab environments.
TravelTie
  • •Both are full-size keyboards, which are large for travel.
  • •They have similar 2000mAh battery capacities.
  • •Both are low-profile and relatively slim by design.
ModdingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 QMK V2 features multiple acoustic foams (IXPE, EPDM, latex) according to its vendor page.
  • •It uses a PCB mount style, often preferred by modders for a more uniform feel.
  • •While both are hot-swappable, the K5 QMK V2's QMK support allows for deeper firmware-level modifications.
Content CreationKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •Advanced macro programming via QMK/VIA can streamline editing workflows.
  • •The vendor page mentions 22+ dynamic RGB backlight settings customizable via the Launcher app.
  • •Three adjustable typing angles may provide better ergonomic support for long sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

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

88
$69
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K5 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

85
$106
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

84
$94
Keychron K1 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 6
Keychron K1 V6
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top 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

84
$109
Keychron K13 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K13 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB 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

83
$94
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K3 V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top 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