Compare Keychron Q5 HE vs Qwertykeys QK101 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for enthusiasts deciding between a pre-built performance powerhouse and a versatile DIY kit. The Keychron Q5 HE offers advanced magnetic switch technology and an 8K polling rate out of the box, while the Qwertykeys QK101 provides extensive build choices and a unique screen in a full-size layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize high-end gaming specs or a deeper, more personalized building experience.

Model
	96	90	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	5.0 stars (4 reviews)	5.0 stars (2 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2024 Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic switch options Available in a 96% layout Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ANSI layout standard Comes with a knob Includes a No display Compatible with both Mac and Windows Utilizes Hall effect sensors Supports QMK firmware Features N-key rollover Enables rapid trigger functionality Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 2301 g Sized at 32 x 408 x 145 mm Made with a Aluminum case Features PBT keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting	Released in 2025 Available in a 100% layout Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard Includes a Yes, TFT, OLED display Uses a Top Mount mounting style Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Runs at a 4000 Hz polling rate Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery Weighs about 2000 g Sized at 50 x 440 x 140 mm Made with a Copper, Aluminum case Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 100 Build Quality: 88.7 Productivity: 97.3 Customizability: 97.5 Portability: 55.4	Scores Performance: 78 Build Quality: 90.5 Productivity: 83 Customizability: 84.7 Portability: 62.2
Name	Name Keychron Q5 HE	Name Qwertykeys QK101
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2025
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 96%	Layout Size 100%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support TFT, OLED
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz;8000 Hz	Polling Rate 4000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity 8000 mAh
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 Gasket Mount	Mount Style Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material Copper, Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions 32 x 408 x 145 mm	Dimensions 50 x 440 x 140 mm
Weight	Weight 2301g	Weight 2000g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a ready-to-use keyboard with top-tier gaming specifications like an 8K polling rate, magnetic switches, and rapid trigger, the Keychron Q5 HE is the logical pick. If you desire a project-focused, fully customizable full-size keyboard with a unique screen and wireless freedom, the Qwertykeys QK101 kit is the more suitable canvas. Consider your willingness to build and your need for a number pad or cutting-edge latency performance.

Keychron Q5 HE

+Features an 8000 Hz polling rate and adjustable actuation point magnetic switches for high-performance gaming.
+Comes fully assembled with double-shot PBT keycaps, pre-lubed switches, and screw-in stabilizers.
+Includes a double-gasket mount design with multiple sound-dampening foams for a refined typing feel.
+Supports advanced features like rapid trigger, analog mode, and dynamic keystrokes via the Keychron Launcher.
+Offers south-facing RGB lighting that is compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps.

−Is wired-only for its highest 8000 Hz polling rate, lacking wireless functionality for that mode.
−Uses a 96% layout which omits some navigation keys compared to a full-size board.
−Has a smaller 4000mAh battery compared to the QK101, though it is a wired-focused board.

Qwertykeys QK101

+Sold as a versatile barebones DIY kit with extensive customization options for plates, PCBs, and case colors.
+Includes a customizable TFT/OLED screen with themes and GIF support.
+Offers a dual-mount design (gasket and top-mount) for different typing feels.
+Features a large 8000mAh battery and full wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz).
+Has a full 100% layout with a number pad and includes a protective travel case.

−Requires assembly and the separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
−The manufacturer notes that the RGB PCB option significantly increases power consumption, impacting wireless battery life.
−Lacks the advanced magnetic switch features and ultra-high polling rates of the Keychron Q5 HE.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q5 HE is the clear choice for competitive gaming due to its high polling rate and magnetic switch features. For office work, programming, and content creation, the Qwertykeys QK101's full layout and screen offer distinct advantages. Travelers might prefer the Q5 HE's slightly smaller footprint, while modders will be drawn to the QK101's extensive barebones kit and build options.

GamingKeychron Q5 HE

•Features an 8000 Hz polling rate for ultra-low latency.
•Includes adjustable actuation point magnetic switches with rapid trigger and analog mode.
•Comes pre-built with gaming-optimized switches and keycaps.

OfficeQwertykeys QK101

•Offers a full 100% layout with a dedicated number pad.
•Includes a large 8000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
•Features a customizable screen that can display information or media.

ProgrammingTie

•Both support VIA for key remapping and macros.
•Both are hot-swappable for switch preference customization.
•Keychron Q5 HE has a 96% layout saving desk space, QK101 offers a full layout with all keys.

TravelKeychron Q5 HE

•Has a more compact 96% layout (408mm wide) versus the QK101's full-size 440mm width.
•Is slightly heavier but offers a more contained footprint for transport.
•Available in a pre-built configuration, requiring no assembly on the go.

ModdingQwertykeys QK101

•Sold as a barebones DIY kit, designed for custom assembly from the ground up.
•Offers a dual-mount design (gasket and top-mount) and multiple plate material choices.
•Includes a customizable TFT/OLED screen and magnetic interchangeable badges.

Content CreationQwertykeys QK101

•The full-size layout includes a number pad for data entry and shortcuts.
•The customizable screen can be used for media controls, system stats, or custom graphics.
•Wireless connectivity allows for a cleaner desk setup for filming or photography.