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Compare Keychron V3 vs V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two highly customizable, wired Keychron V-series keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swap sockets, and screw-in stabilizers. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the space-saving TKL layout of the V3 or the integrated numpad and function keys of the compact 96% V5.

96
Keychron V3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
96
Keychron V5 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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2.4 (16)
3.4 (8)
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ISO-CH layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Weighs about 1360 g
  • Sized at 19 x 141 x 367 mm
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1170 g
  • Sized at 19 x 142 x 389 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 91
  • Build Quality: 88.5
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 57.6
Scores
  • Performance: 90.9
  • Build Quality: 89.4
  • Productivity: 98.1
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 47.2
Name
Keychron V3
Name
Keychron V5
Release year
2022
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ISO-CH
Layout Standard
ISO, ANSI, ISO-DE, 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
Wired, Wired only,
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
19 x 141 x 367 mm
Dimensions
19 x 142 x 389 mm
Weight
1360g
Weight
1170g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice between the Keychron V3 and V5 is a direct trade-off between space and functionality. If you need a numpad and full navigation keys but want to save some space over a full-size board, the V5 is the logical pick. If you prefer a more traditional TKL layout that maximizes mouse real estate and can live without a numpad, the V3 is the better option. Both are excellent platforms for customization.

Keychron V3

  • +More compact TKL (80%) layout frees up desk space for mouse movement.
  • +Slightly lighter weight (1120g) and shorter length (367mm).
  • +Includes sound dampening foam, according to the vendor description.
  • +Supports JIS layout in addition to ANSI and multiple ISO layouts.
  • −Lacks a dedicated numpad, which is essential for some users.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement options.
  • −Non-shine-through PBT keycaps may make legends hard to see in low light.

Keychron V5

  • +96% layout includes a numpad and function keys in a condensed form factor.
  • +Retains all primary keys for data entry and spreadsheet work.
  • +Available with a programmable aluminum rotary encoder (knob version).
  • +Offers multiple ISO layout options including UK, German, and Nordic.
  • −Larger footprint (389mm long) than the V3, taking up more desk space.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −The vendor description does not mention included sound dampening foam.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V5 is the clear choice for office work and data-heavy tasks due to its numpad, while the V3 wins for gaming and travel due to its smaller footprint. For programming and modding, the keyboards are functionally identical beyond layout. Content creators may lean towards the V5, especially the knob version, for its macro and control potential.

GamingKeychron V3
  • •The V3's TKL layout provides more mouse space for low-sensitivity gaming.
  • •Both share the same 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
  • •The slightly smaller and lighter V3 may be easier to reposition on a desk.
OfficeKeychron V5
  • •The V5's 96% layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry.
  • •It retains all function keys for spreadsheet and software shortcuts.
  • •Both offer Mac and Windows compatibility with included keycaps.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • •Both have south-facing RGB compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •Choice depends on personal preference for arrow key placement and desk space.
TravelKeychron V3
  • •The V3 is more compact (367mm long) than the V5 (389mm long).
  • •The V3 is slightly lighter at 1120g versus the V5's 1170g.
  • •Both are wired-only, but the smaller V3 fits more easily in a bag.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable for 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Both feature screw-in PCB stabilizers for easy upgrades.
  • •Both have a steel plate and tray mount design for modding.
Content CreationKeychron V5
  • •The V5's knob version offers programmable control for timeline scrubbing or brush size.
  • •The integrated numpad can be programmed for application-specific macros.
  • •The full set of function keys provides quick access to editing software shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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