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Compare Keychron V4 Max vs V5 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two highly customizable, wireless Keychron keyboards that share core features but differ drastically in size. The V4 Max uses a 60% layout, while the V5 Max uses a 96% (1800 compact) layout. Both offer QMK/VIA support, gasket mounts, and tri-mode connectivity, making the choice a matter of layout preference and workspace needs.

92
Keychron V4 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
97
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.8 (21)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 60% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 645 g
  • Sized at 28 x 123 x 305 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Weighs about 925 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 392 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 78.6
  • Build Quality: 85.7
  • Productivity: 94.7
  • Customizability: 97.4
  • Portability: 88.4
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 53.2
Name
Keychron V4 Max
Name
Keychron V5 Max
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
60%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
28 x 123 x 305 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 392 mm
Weight
645g
Weight
925g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad for data entry, finance, or content creation but want to save space versus a full-size board, the Keychron V5 Max is the logical pick. If maximizing desk space, portability, and a minimalist setup are your goals, the Keychron V4 Max is the better option. Both deliver excellent customizability and wireless performance.

Keychron V4 Max

  • +Extremely portable 60% layout measuring 305mm in length.
  • +Lighter weight of 645g for easy repositioning.
  • +Frees up substantial desk space for mouse movement.
  • +Includes dual 2.4GHz receivers (Type-A and Type-C) with magnetic storage.
  • +Offers a choice of polycarbonate or steel plate options.
  • −Lacks a numpad and dedicated arrow keys, requiring layers or adaptation.
  • −Does not have dedicated multi-media keys listed in its features.
  • −Limited to ANSI layout, with no ISO options mentioned.

Keychron V5 Max

  • +96% layout includes a full numpad and navigation cluster in a compact form factor.
  • +Includes dedicated multi-media keys for quick audio and playback control.
  • +Supports a wide range of ISO layouts including UK, German, Nordic, and more.
  • +Heavier 925g construction provides a very stable typing base.
  • +Customer reviews highlight its comfortable typing experience and build quality.
  • −Significantly larger and heavier, making it less portable at 925g and 392mm long.
  • −Occupies more desk space, which can limit mouse area.
  • −The vendor description lists ABS as a possible keycap material, which may show shine faster than PBT.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V5 Max is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a numpad is non-negotiable. The V4 Max wins for gaming and travel due to its compact, lightweight form. For programming and modding, the decision is a tie, as both offer identical core customization features, leaving the choice purely to layout preference.

GamingKeychron V4 Max
  • •The 60% layout of the V4 Max frees up more desk space for large mouse movements.
  • •Its lighter weight of 645g makes it easier to reposition on a desk or carry to LAN events.
  • •Both share the same 1000Hz polling rate for low-latency performance.
OfficeKeychron V5 Max
  • •The V5 Max's 96% layout includes a full numpad, which is essential for data entry and accounting.
  • •Its listed multi-media keys provide quick access to volume and playback controls.
  • •The larger, 925g weight provides a more stable, planted feel on a desk.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and support screw-in stabilizers for easy switch and stabilizer tuning.
  • •Choice depends on personal preference for a compact board (V4) or one with a numpad for numerical input (V5).
TravelKeychron V4 Max
  • •The V4 Max is significantly smaller (305mm long) and lighter (645g) than the V5 Max.
  • •Its 60% form factor fits more easily into laptop bags and uses less space on cramped surfaces like coffee shop tables.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery for long wireless use.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are available as barebone kits and feature hot-swappable PCBs for 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •Both use a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate and screw-in PCB stabilizers for acoustic and feel customization.
  • •Both are fully compatible with the open-source QMK firmware and VIA software for deep customization.
Content CreationKeychron V5 Max
  • •The V5 Max's dedicated numpad allows for efficient numerical input in video editing timelines or graphic design software.
  • •Its listed multi-media keys offer tactile control for scrubbing and playback.
  • •The larger layout provides more room for dedicated macro keys when programmed via QMK/VIA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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