Compare Keychron K8 V2 vs V8 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's popular wireless TKL and a unique ergonomic wired board. The K8 V2 offers multi-device Bluetooth connectivity and a familiar 80% form factor. The V8 Alice provides a specialized Alice layout for ergonomic comfort and includes a programmable knob. The decision hinges on prioritizing wireless freedom versus a dedicated ergonomic shape.

Model
	83	90	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	5.0 stars (2 reviews)	5.0 stars (4 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2024 Available in a 80% layout Offers Normal ergonomics Provides dedicated media keys Features N-key rollover Uses a PCB Mount mounting style Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 800 g Sized at 22 x 354 x 124 mm Made with a Aluminum, ABS case Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting	Released in 2022 Available in a 65% layout Offers Alice ergonomics Comes with a knob Includes screw-in stabilizers Has built-in sound dampening Uses a Tray Mount mounting style Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Weighs about 945 g Sized at 19 x 138 x 360 mm Made with a Plastic, ABS case Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 82.1 Build Quality: 78.5 Productivity: 80.6 Customizability: 90.1 Portability: 73.6	Scores Performance: 66.6 Build Quality: 85 Productivity: 97.9 Customizability: 97.7 Portability: 70.8
Name	Name Keychron K8 V2	Name Keychron V8
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2022
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 80%	Layout Size 65%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Alice
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style PCB Mount	Mount Style Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, White	Backlight Rgb, South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, ABS	Case Material Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 22 x 354 x 124 mm	Dimensions 19 x 138 x 360 mm
Weight	Weight 800g	Weight 945g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value wireless connectivity, a standard layout, and a lighter build for a cleaner desk or travel, the Keychron K8 V2 is the clear pick. If your priority is ergonomic comfort for long typing sessions, you want a dedicated control knob, and you plan to mod, the wired Keychron V8 Alice offers a compelling and unique package. Consider if the Alice layout's learning curve is a worthwhile trade for its potential comfort benefits.

Keychron K8 V2

+Bluetooth 5.2 and wired connectivity for multi-device use.
+Aluminum frame option for a more premium build feel.
+Includes multiple layers of acoustic foam (IXPE, PET, EPDM) for sound dampening.
+Adjustable typing angle with three height settings.
+Hot-swappable version supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.

−No dedicated knob for media or programmable control.
−Standard TKL layout lacks the ergonomic split of an Alice design.
−Vendor descriptions mention it is frequently out of stock.

Keychron V8

+Ergonomic Alice layout with a split key design.
+Includes a programmable knob for media or macro control.
+Features screw-in PCB stabilizers for better tuning and stability.
+South-facing RGB LEDs prevent keycap interference.
+Offered in both fully assembled and barebones kit versions.

−Wired-only connectivity, no wireless option.
−ABS plastic case, with no aluminum option mentioned.
−Heavier at 945g, and its unique shape may not fit all keyboard bags.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K8 V2 wins for gaming and travel due to its wireless capability and more portable form factor. The V8 Alice is the stronger choice for programming, modding, and content creation, thanks to its ergonomic design, included knob, and mod-friendly features like screw-in stabilizers. For office use, it's a tie, as wireless convenience competes with ergonomic benefits.

GamingKeychron K8 V2

•Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
•The K8 V2's standard TKL layout is more familiar for gaming keybinds.
•Its wireless Bluetooth mode offers cable-free desk setup flexibility.

OfficeTie

•The K8 V2 supports Bluetooth for connecting to multiple devices like a laptop and phone.
•The V8 Alice's ergonomic Alice layout may reduce strain during long typing sessions.
•Both include Mac and Windows keycaps and support QMK/VIA for macros.

ProgrammingKeychron V8

•The V8 Alice's Alice layout can be more comfortable for long coding sessions.
•It includes a programmable knob for quick volume or scroll control.
•Both support extensive key remapping via QMK and VIA.

TravelKeychron K8 V2

•The K8 V2 is lighter at 800g versus the V8 Alice's 945g.
•Its Bluetooth connectivity eliminates the need to carry a cable for use.
•The TKL layout is slightly more compact in width than the Alice's unique footprint.

ModdingKeychron V8

•The V8 Alice is offered in a barebones kit version.
•It features screw-in stabilizers for easier tuning and replacement.
•Both are hot-swappable and support QMK/VIA, but the V8 includes sound dampening and a steel plate.

Content CreationKeychron V8

•The V8 Alice's dedicated knob provides tactile control for timelines or volume.
•Its ergonomic layout may improve comfort during long editing sessions.
•South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps for custom sets.