Keychron R5 vs V4 Max96% Full Layout vs 60% Custom Build
Choose the Keychron R5 for a full-size layout with a numpad, or the V4 Max for a compact, highly customizable gasket-mount build.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron R5
96% Full Layout
- 96% layout includes a numpad, arrow keys, and navigation cluster.
- Includes an enhanced acoustic foam package with IXPE, EPDM, silicone, and PET layers.
- Comes with Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps for Windows and Mac.
- Uses a plate mount design, which is typically less flexible than a gasket mount.
- Larger 96% footprint is less portable and takes up more desk space.
- Does not support VIA firmware, only QMK and Keychron Launcher.
Get the
Keychron V4 Max
60% Custom Build
- Gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a softer, more customizable typing feel.
- Supports both QMK and VIA firmware for extensive programming.
- Compact 60% layout saves considerable desk space.
- 60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys, numpad, and function row, requiring the use of layers.
- The listed OSA profile keycaps are not shine-through, which may limit RGB effects.
- May be more expensive, especially when configured from a barebones state.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad for data entry, finance, or content creation, the Keychron R5 is the logical pick. If you value desk space, a premium typing feel, and deep hardware and software customization, the Keychron V4 Max is the superior board. Consider the V4 Max's layers a worthwhile trade-off for its portability and modding potential.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Keychron R5
Keychron V4 Max
Layout size
96%
60%
Case material
ABS
ABS, Plastic
Switch options
Linear, Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Mount style
Plate Mount
Gasket Mount
Knob
No
Yes
- Keychron R5
- Keychron V4 Max
- Performance
- 7979
- Build quality
- 6386
- Productivity
- 8495
- Customizability
- 7996
- Portability
- 5488
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- QMK
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron V4 Max wins for programming, travel, and modding due to its compact size, superior firmware support, and gasket-mount construction. The Keychron R5 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a numpad and full navigation cluster are non-negotiable. For gaming, the boards are evenly matched on core performance specs, leaving the choice to layout preference.
It's a tie
- Both offer a 1000Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4GHz modes.
- Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- The V4 Max's gasket mount may offer a softer typing feel, while the R5's larger layout provides dedicated macro keys.
Keychron R5 vs V4 Max specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 27 specs differ
Keychron R5
Keychron V4 Max
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Keychron R5 vs V4 Max: your questions
Only the Keychron R5 has a numpad. It uses a 96% layout that integrates a numpad, arrow keys, and a navigation cluster into a compact form factor. The V4 Max is a 60% keyboard and does not include a numpad or dedicated arrow keys.
The Keychron V4 Max uses a gasket mount, where the plate is suspended on rubber or silicone gaskets to absorb vibration and create a softer typing feel. The Keychron R5 uses a plate mount, where the plate is fixed directly to the case, resulting in a firmer and more direct feedback.
Yes, both keyboards are programmable. The Keychron R5 supports programming via QMK and the Keychron Launcher app. The Keychron V4 Max supports both QMK and VIA, with VIA offering a more user-friendly graphical interface for real-time remapping.
Yes, both the Keychron R5 and V4 Max are compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux. According to their listings, they include keycap sets for both Mac and Windows layouts and have a toggle to switch between operating systems.
The Keychron V4 Max is better for travel. Its 60% layout is much smaller and lighter (645g) than the 96% R5. The V4 Max also has a magnetic slot to store its wireless dongle, making it easier to transport without losing the receiver.
No, according to the Keychron V4 Max specifications, its included double-shot PBT keycaps are listed as 'not shine-through'. The south-facing RGB LEDs will provide underglow lighting, but the legends on the keycaps themselves will not be illuminated.
The Keychron V4 Max uses screw-in PCB stabilizers, which are generally considered more stable and rattle-free. The vendor description for the Keychron R5 does not specify the stabilizer type, but its plate-mount design typically uses plate-mounted stabilizers.
Yes. The Keychron V4 Max is offered in a 'Barebone' kit version, which does not include switches or keycaps. This allows you to install your own preferred components from the start.
Both keyboards have a 4000mAh rechargeable battery. Keychron's lab test for the V4 Max estimates up to 190 hours with backlighting off and up to 100 hours with RGB on at its lowest brightness. Specific battery life for the R5 in wireless mode is not provided in the given data.
The Keychron R5 vendor description specifically lists an 'enhanced acoustic foam package' that includes IXPE foam, EPDM foam, a silicone bottom pad, and PET film. The V4 Max description mentions 'sound-absorbing foam' but does not detail the specific layers.
Yes, both keyboards offer a 1000Hz polling rate when using their 2.4GHz wireless connection or in wired mode. The V4 Max specification notes its Bluetooth polling rate is 90Hz.
The pre-built Keychron R5 comes with Keychron Super switches (Red, Brown, or Banana). The fully assembled Keychron V4 Max comes with Gateron Jupiter switches (Red, Brown, or Banana), which are described as pre-lubed with an LED diffuser.
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