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

Compare Keychron K5 QMK V2 vs Keycool 108 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a modern, feature-packed full-size keyboard and a basic, traditional one. The Keychron K5 QMK V2 offers advanced wireless operation and deep customization, while the Keycool 108 is a straightforward wired board. The decision hinges on whether you value cutting-edge features and flexibility or a simple, plug-and-play experience at a potentially lower cost.

84
Keychron K5 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2
Keycool 108 Green LED Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (2)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.8
  • Build Quality: 78.3
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 89.6
  • Portability: 53.9
Scores
  • Performance: 55.6
  • Build Quality: 44.7
  • Productivity: 46.7
  • Customizability: 42.3
  • Portability: 40.2
Name
Keychron K5 QMK V2
Name
Keycool 108
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
2000 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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the clear recommendation for most users seeking a full-size mechanical keyboard, given its modern wireless features, exceptional customizability, and cross-platform support. Only consider the Keycool 108 if your budget is strictly limited and you have no need for wireless operation, Mac support, or future modifications.

Keychron K5 QMK V2

  • +Wireless Bluetooth 5.2 and wired connectivity with multi-device pairing.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB option and extensive QMK/VIA firmware customization.
  • +Low-profile design with adjustable feet and enhanced IXPE, EPDM, and latex foam.
  • +Full RGB backlighting with shine-through keycaps and Mac/Windows compatibility.
  • +Aluminum frame construction combined with ABS for added rigidity.
  • −Low-profile switch compatibility is limited to specific Keychron or Gateron models.
  • −Wireless polling rate is reduced to 125Hz compared to the 1000Hz wired rate.
  • −The vendor description indicates frequent stock shortages.

Keycool 108

  • +Simple, plug-and-play wired USB operation.
  • +Available with PBT keycap material option according to the metadata.
  • +Includes blue LED backlighting with shine-through legends.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −No hot-swap capability, requiring soldering for switch changes.
  • −Vendor listing states no Mac compatibility, limiting it to Windows.
  • −Plate mount design and plastic plate may offer less typing stability.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K5 QMK V2 is the decisive winner across all defined use cases due to its superior feature set. Its wireless capability, deep programmability, and modern construction make it versatile for gaming, productivity, and customization. The Keycool 108 serves a narrower role as a basic, wired-only keyboard for users who need a simple full-size layout without any advanced features.

GamingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The Keychron K5 offers a 1000Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •Its QMK firmware supports extensive macro programming for complex commands.
  • •It features N-key rollover in both wireless and wired modes.
OfficeKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 supports Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting to multiple devices, enhancing multitasking.
  • •It is explicitly compatible with both Windows and macOS, including specific Mac keycaps.
  • •Its low-profile design and adjustable typing angles are noted for ergonomic support.
ProgrammingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5's QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and layer creation.
  • •Its hot-swappable version enables easy switch changes to tailor the typing feel.
  • •The Keychron Launcher web app provides platform-agnostic customization from any browser.
TravelKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 is wireless, eliminating the need for a cable when on the go.
  • •Its ultra-slim, low-profile design makes it more portable than standard-height boards.
  • •It has a built-in 2000mAh battery for cordless operation.
ModdingKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 has a hot-swappable PCB option for solder-free switch changes.
  • •It features multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for sound customization.
  • •Its open-source QMK firmware allows for community-driven firmware modifications.
Content CreationKeychron K5 QMK V2
  • •The K5 offers extensive RGB backlighting with over 22 dynamic modes for stream aesthetics.
  • •Programmable macros via QMK can streamline editing software shortcuts.
  • •Multi-device Bluetooth switching is useful for managing a production and personal device.

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

96
$89
Keychron V6 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket 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

97
$99
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V5 Max
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket 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

93
$84
Keychron K10 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 2
Keychron K10 V2
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

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

91
$84
Keychron K4 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K4 V3
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray 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
$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