Compare Keychron Q5 vs V5 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two of Keychron's popular 96% layout keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swappable PCBs, QMK/VIA support, gasket mounts, and knob options. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the premium feel of a full aluminum chassis and steel plate or the convenience of tri-mode wireless connectivity with a plastic case and polycarbonate plate.

Model
	95	98	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.8 stars (49 reviews)	4.8 stars (12 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2022 Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK layout standard Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Weighs about 2310 g Sized at 20 x 145 x 390 mm Made with a Aluminum case	Released in 2023 Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard Features N-key rollover Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 925 g Sized at 22 x 149 x 392 mm Made with a ABS, Plastic case
Score	Scores Performance: 72.4 Build Quality: 89.2 Productivity: 97.1 Customizability: 99.6 Portability: 46	Scores Performance: 83.5 Build Quality: 86.3 Productivity: 97.5 Customizability: 99.5 Portability: 53.1
Name	Name Keychron Q5	Name Keychron V5 Max
Release year	Release year 2022	Release year 2023
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 96%	Layout Size 96%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK	Layout Standard ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
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 Wired, Wired only	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity 4000 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 Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb, South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS
Dimensions	Dimensions 20 x 145 x 390 mm	Dimensions 22 x 149 x 392 mm
Weight	Weight 2310g	Weight 925g

*Something incorrect or missing? Please

let me know

!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority dictates the choice. If you value a premium, stationary centerpiece with an uncompromising metal build, the Keychron Q5 is the clear selection. If you need flexibility to move around, connect to multiple devices wirelessly, or prefer a lighter keyboard, the Keychron V5 Max offers superior functionality despite its plastic construction. Both deliver excellent customization through their shared 96% layout, hot-swap sockets, and QMK/VIA support.

Keychron Q5

+Full CNC machined 6063 aluminum case for a premium, solid feel.
+Steel plate contributes to a sturdy typing experience.
+Heavier weight (2310g) provides exceptional desk stability.
+Double gasket design with silicone pads aims to reduce acoustic resonance.
+According to the manufacturer, the top case has sharper corners for better third-party keycap compatibility.

−Wired-only connectivity limits placement and device switching.
−Very heavy at 2310g, making it difficult to move.
−Steel plate may produce a firmer, less flexible typing feel compared to polycarbonate.

Keychron V5 Max

+Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired operation.
+Includes a 4000mAh rechargeable battery for cordless use.
+Much lighter at 925g, enhancing portability.
+Polycarbonate plate can offer a softer, more flexible typing sound and feel.
+Comes with both Type-C and Type-A 2.4 GHz receivers with magnetic storage.

−ABS plastic case lacks the premium heft and feel of aluminum.
−Bluetooth mode operates at a 90 Hz polling rate, lower than the 1000 Hz of wired/2.4 GHz.
−Battery management is required, unlike a purely wired keyboard.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V5 Max wins for mobile and multi-device scenarios like office work and travel due to its wireless features and lighter weight. For stationary, single-desk use where build material is paramount, the Q5 is the choice. In use cases centered on software customization, programming, or content creation, both keyboards are equally capable due to their shared programmability and layout.

GamingKeychron V5 Max

•Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
•The V5 Max provides a 2.4 GHz wireless mode with its 1000 Hz polling rate, offering cable-free flexibility.
•Its lighter weight (925g) may be preferable for quick desk adjustments.

OfficeKeychron V5 Max

•Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) allows easy switching between multiple devices.
•Includes a 4000mAh battery for cordless use.
•Lighter weight makes it easier to transport between workspaces.

ProgrammingTie

•Both feature the same 96% layout with a numpad and programmable knob.
•Full QMK and VIA support is present on both for deep key remapping and macros.
•Both include Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggles.

TravelKeychron V5 Max

•The V5 Max is significantly lighter at 925g compared to the Q5's 2310g.
•Wireless operation removes the need for a cable on the go.
•Its plastic/ABS case is less prone to showing travel wear than aluminum.

ModdingTie

•Both are hot-swappable for easy switch changes.
•Both support QMK/VIA for firmware customization.
•Both use screw-in PCB stabilizers and are available in barebone kits.

Content CreationTie

•The programmable knob on both can be mapped to media controls or application shortcuts.
•Full layout provides dedicated keys for efficient workflows.
•QMK/VIA support allows for creating complex macros for editing software.