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Compare Keychron Q5 HE vs Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-performance, full-featured 96% layout and a more compact, builder-focused TKL. The Keychron Q5 HE offers advanced Hall Effect technology for gaming, while the QK80 Mk2 emphasizes material choices and a unique leaf-spring mount. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize rapid trigger functionality and a number pad or prefer a smaller form factor with extensive plate and color options.

96
Keychron Q5 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
87
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Keyboard

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5.0 (3)
1.0 (2)
  • 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
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • 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
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Copper, Aluminum, Steel case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 89
  • Productivity: 97.1
  • Customizability: 97.1
  • Portability: 56.2
Scores
  • Performance: 68.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 84
  • Customizability: 85.5
  • Portability: 87.1
Name
Keychron Q5 HE
Name
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2
Release year
2024
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-CH, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
8000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Copper, Aluminum, Steel
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
32 x 408 x 145 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
2301g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If competitive gaming features, a number pad, and out-of-the-box advanced functionality are critical, the Keychron Q5 HE is the recommended path. If you value a compact form factor, enjoy the building process with extensive material choices, and want a unique screen, the Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 is the better project. Be prepared for a wait with the QK80 Mk2, as it is made to order.

Keychron Q5 HE

  • +Features Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and rapid trigger.
  • +Offers a 96% layout with a number pad and supports multiple ISO and ANSI layouts.
  • +Includes premium build features like a double-gasket design, aluminum case, screw-in stabilizers, and sound dampening foams.
  • +Supports tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) with a 1000 Hz polling rate in two modes.
  • +Fully programmable via open-source QMK firmware and the Keychron Launcher web app.

  • It is very heavy at 2187 grams, limiting portability.
  • Hot-swap compatibility is restricted to Gateron double-rail magnetic switches only.
  • The 96% layout is larger and consumes more desk space than a TKL.

Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2

  • +Offers extensive customization with multiple plate materials and a wide array of case color finishes.
  • +Features a unique leaf-spring mount design for a bouncier typing feel.
  • +Includes a TFT LCD display and dot-matrix LED panel with built-in themes and a game.
  • +Comes as a comprehensive kit with two 4400mAh batteries, a foam set, and a protective case.
  • +Utilizes a convenient ball-catch disassembly mechanism for easier modding.

  • Has a long estimated production and ship time of 12 weeks.
  • The TKL layout lacks a dedicated number pad.
  • Free gifts like the stabilizers and case are complementary and may not be replaced if missing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q5 HE is the clear choice for gaming and office productivity due to its Hall Effect switches and included number pad. For travel and deep customization, the QK80 Mk2 takes the lead with its compact TKL form factor, included case, and extensive material options. Programming is a tie, balancing the Q5 HE's full layout against the QK80's space-saving design. Content creators may favor the Q5 HE for its macro support and number pad.

GamingKeychron Q5 HE
  • The Keychron Q5 HE has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • It features Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality.
  • It supports 4-in-1 dynamic keystrokes per the manufacturer's description.
OfficeKeychron Q5 HE
  • The 96% layout includes a dedicated number pad, which is beneficial for data entry.
  • It offers explicit Mac and Windows support with included keycaps for both systems.
  • Its wireless connectivity allows for connection to multiple devices via Bluetooth.
ProgrammingTie
  • The Keychron Q5 HE offers a full layout with a number pad for shortcuts.
  • Both keyboards support extensive key remapping via QMK/VIA firmware.
  • The QK80 Mk2's TKL layout saves desk space, a common preference for programmers.
TravelQwertykeys QK80 Mk2
  • The QK80 Mk2 is an 80% (TKL) layout, which is more compact than the 96% Q5 HE.
  • It includes a protective carrying case as a free gift, according to the vendor.
  • It has a slightly larger 4400mAh battery compared to the 4000mAh battery in the Q5 HE.
ModdingQwertykeys QK80 Mk2
  • The QK80 Mk2 offers multiple plate material options (FR4, Aluminum, POM, Plastic, Carbon Fiber).
  • It provides a wide selection of anodized and spray-coated case colors.
  • The kit includes a comprehensive foam set (PET, IXPE, PCB, Case foam) and an accessory pack.
Content CreationKeychron Q5 HE
  • The 96% layout's number pad is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical input in creative software.
  • Programmable macros via QMK and the Keychron Launcher can streamline complex workflows.
  • The adjustable actuation points on the Hall Effect switches can be tuned for different editing tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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