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

Compare Keychron K8 V2 vs K8 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two generations of its popular TKL wireless keyboard. The choice is difficult because both share a core 80% form factor, hot-swappable options, and multi-device Bluetooth. The decision hinges on whether the V2's premium features like QMK/VIA support and enhanced acoustics are worth the higher cost over the original K8's proven value and broader layout compatibility.

83
Keychron K8 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 2)
68
Keychron K8 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (2)
4.8 (1554)
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the 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
  • Weighs about 800 g
  • Sized at 22 x 354 x 124 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
  • Released in 2020
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO-ES layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • 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: 82.2
  • Build Quality: 78.4
  • Productivity: 80.5
  • Customizability: 90
  • Portability: 73.6
Scores
  • Performance: 61.1
  • Build Quality: 66.6
  • Productivity: 65.7
  • Customizability: 67.4
  • Portability: 73.3
Name
Keychron K8 V2
Name
Keychron K8
Release year
2024
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
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, 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
-
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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
22 x 354 x 124 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
800g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice depends on how much you value firmware customization and acoustic refinement versus cost and layout options. Invest in the Keychron K8 V2 if you plan to heavily customize your typing experience via QMK or want a better out-of-the-box sound profile. Opt for the original Keychron K8 if you need a specific ISO layout, want a proven wireless TKL, and prefer to keep spending lower, accepting simpler firmware and ABS keycaps.

Keychron K8 V2

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Includes multiple pre-installed acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, EPDM) for sound dampening.
  • +Features Cherry profile, double-shot PBT keycaps for durability and feel.
  • +Uses a PCB mount style and has an adjustable typing angle.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode.
  • −Typically commands a higher price than the original K8.
  • −Available layout standards are not specified, potentially fewer than the original.
  • −The vendor description emphasizes using a web app for configuration, which requires an internet connection.

Keychron K8

  • +Generally available at a lower price point than the K8 V2.
  • +Supports a wide array of layout standards including ISO, JIS, and ANSI variants.
  • +Hot-swappable version is available, allowing for switch changes without soldering.
  • +The non-backlight version is advertised with a battery life of up to 2 months.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which are less resistant to shine over time compared to PBT.
  • −Employs a tray mount style for the case.
  • −Lacks support for QMK or VIA firmware mentioned in its listing.
  • −Does not specify a polling rate in its provided specifications.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K8 V2 is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, whether through firmware (programming, content creation) or internal acoustics (modding). It also holds an edge for gaming due to its specified high polling rate. For general office use and travel, both keyboards are functionally equivalent in their core wireless TKL offering. The original K8 remains a competent option, particularly where budget is a primary concern or specific ISO layouts are required.

GamingKeychron K8 V2
  • •The K8 V2 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the original K8's listing does not mention.
  • •Its manufacturer description highlights the 1000 Hz polling rate for competitive gaming.
  • •The V2's PCB mount style may offer a more consistent typing feel compared to the K8's tray mount.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support Bluetooth for multi-device connectivity and include keycaps for Mac and Windows.
  • •Both have a TKL layout with multimedia keys.
  • •The original K8's non-backlight version is listed with a battery life of up to 2 months, while the V2's battery performance is not detailed beyond its 4000mAh capacity.
ProgrammingKeychron K8 V2
  • •The K8 V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •It can be configured via the Keychron Launcher web app, which the manufacturer states supports all operating systems.
  • •Its PBT keycaps offer better long-term durability than the original K8's ABS keycaps.
TravelTie
  • •Both share the same 80% TKL layout and similar wireless capabilities.
  • •Both have identical 4000mAh battery capacities.
  • •Their weights and dimensions are comparable, with no significant portability differentiator stated.
ModdingKeychron K8 V2
  • •The K8 V2 features multiple layers of acoustic foam (IXPE, PET, EPDM) pre-installed.
  • •It uses a PCB mount style, which is often preferred by modders over tray mount.
  • •Alongside hot-swap, it offers extensive firmware customization via QMK/VIA.
Content CreationKeychron K8 V2
  • •QMK and VIA support on the V2 allow for complex macro programming for editing shortcuts.
  • •The Cherry profile PBT keycaps may provide a more consistent typing feel for long sessions.
  • •The adjustable typing angle (3.5º, 7.7º, 11º) offers ergonomic flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

92
$94
Keychron K8 Max QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K8 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

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

69
$59
Keychron K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 2)
Keychron K2 V2
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

New
$119
Keychron K8 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K8 Ultra
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Metal case,
Plate Mount

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

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

98
$94
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

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

94
$94
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount