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Compare Keychron Q4 HE vs Q4 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two compact 60% keyboards from Keychron that share the same Q-series aluminum construction but differ fundamentally in switch technology and connectivity. The Q4 HE is a newer model that introduces Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation, rapid trigger, and wireless modes, while the standard Q4 sticks with traditional mechanical switches and a wired-only connection. The decision is hard because both boards offer excellent build quality and full QMK/VIA customization, but the HE variant commands a higher price for its performance-focused features, and the standard Q4 offers a wider variety of switch choices and layout options.

90
Keychron Q4 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard
92
Keychron Q4 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
4.8 (18)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1415 g
  • Sized at 33 x 121 x 303 mm
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1500 g
  • Sized at 20 x 121 x 303 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 90.7
  • Build Quality: 85.1
  • Productivity: 94.3
  • Customizability: 92.2
  • Portability: 90.3
Scores
  • Performance: 67.4
  • Build Quality: 89.7
  • Productivity: 95.3
  • Customizability: 100
  • Portability: 71.5
Name
Keychron Q4 HE
Name
Keychron Q4
Release year
2025
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
60%
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
33 x 121 x 303 mm
Dimensions
20 x 121 x 303 mm
Weight
1415g
Weight
1500g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

If gaming performance and wireless flexibility are your priorities, the Keychron Q4 HE is the obvious choice with its Hall Effect switches and 2.4 GHz mode. However, if you value broad switch compatibility, a fraction of the cost, and the option to build your own keyboard from scratch, the standard Keychron Q4 delivers the same solid aluminum body and QMK programming without the magnetic switch premium.

Keychron Q4 HE

  • +Hall Effect Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with 0.1 mm sensitivity and adjustable actuation from 0.2 to 3.8 mm.
  • +Wireless connectivity options: 2.4 GHz (1000 Hz polling) and Bluetooth 5.2, with a 4000mAh battery.
  • +Aluminum plate and double-gasket design for enhanced acoustics and typing feel.
  • +Features rapid trigger, 4-in-1 dynamic keystrokes, and analog mode for advanced gaming input.
  • +QMK/VIA support via the Keychron Launcher web app for full key and magnetic switch customization.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, limiting hot-swap options.
  • −Higher price point compared to the standard Q4.
  • −No screen and limited layout options (ANSI only, no ISO).

Keychron Q4

  • +Compatible with standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches, offering a massive range of hot-swappable switches.
  • +Available in a barebones kit for builders and supports multiple layout standards including ANSI, ISO, and JIS.
  • +Steel plate construction, which may offer a different typing feel and sound profile.
  • +Lower price makes it an accessible entry into the premium Q-series line.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, no wireless or Bluetooth option.
  • −Uses traditional mechanical switches without rapid trigger or adjustable actuation features.
  • −The steel plate may be heavier and less flexible in feel compared to the HE's aluminum plate.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q4 HE takes a clear lead in gaming, travel, and content creation thanks to its Hall Effect switches and wireless capabilities. For programming, the HE's adjustable actuation and multi-device connectivity edge out the standard Q4, though both are fine for office use. The standard Q4 wins for modding enthusiasts due to its broad MX switch compatibility and barebones availability, making it the more versatile foundation for custom builds.

GamingKeychron Q4 HE
  • •Hall Effect switches with adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm and rapid trigger for faster response.
  • •Supports 2.4 GHz wireless mode with a 1000 Hz polling rate, reducing input lag.
  • •Includes dynamic keystrokes and analog mode for controller-like precision in compatible games.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards share the same 60% layout with QMK/VIA support for efficient key remapping and macros.
  • •Both feature a premium all-aluminum body and double-gasket design for a solid typing experience.
  • •The Q4 HE offers wireless connectivity, which may suit a cleaner desk setup, while the Q4 offers a wider choice of standard switch types.
ProgrammingKeychron Q4 HE
  • •HE's 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.2 modes allow for cable-free coding on multiple devices.
  • •The adjustable actuation can be tuned for lighter presses, potentially reducing fatigue during long typing sessions.
  • •Both support QMK/VIA, but the HE adds software control for magnetic switch settings.
TravelKeychron Q4 HE
  • •The Q4 HE has a 4000mAh battery and wireless modes (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) for use on the go.
  • •Both are 60% keyboards with similar dimensions, but the HE is slightly lighter at 1415g versus the Q4's 1500g.
ModdingKeychron Q4
  • •The standard Q4 supports standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches, giving access to a huge range of aftermarket options.
  • •The Q4 is available as a barebones kit, allowing builders to source their own switches and keycaps.
  • •The standard Q4 has a steel plate, while the HE uses an aluminum plate, offering different material options for modding.
Content CreationKeychron Q4 HE
  • •The Q4 HE offers versatile connectivity including 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth for pairing with multiple devices like tablets or laptops.
  • •Both keyboards have excellent productivity scores, but the HE's customizable actuation can be fine-tuned for specific software shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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