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Compare Keychron V5 Max vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a compact, feature-rich 96% layout and a traditional full-size keyboard with unique layout options. Both boards offer tri-mode connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and QMK/VIA programmability, making the choice hinge on form factor, typing feel, and power system. The V5 Max provides a more curated, high-integration build, while the Multix 104 focuses on customization through physical layout support.

97
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
83
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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4.8 (16)
0.0 (0)
  • 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
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 925 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 392 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Split Backspace ergonomics
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.2
  • Build Quality: 86.4
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 53.1
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 87.4
  • Portability: 53.6
Name
Keychron V5 Max
Name
Vortex Multix 104
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Backspace
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
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 392 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
925g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a premium, integrated typing experience with a soft gasket mount, internal battery, and compact form factor, the Keychron V5 Max is the clear winner. If your priority is maximum physical layout flexibility for ergonomics or preference, and you prefer the simplicity of AA batteries, the Vortex Multix 104 is the unique option. Both deliver on core promises of programmability and wireless connectivity.

Keychron V5 Max

  • +Gasket mount design with polycarbonate plate for a softer, more resonant typing feel.
  • +Includes a programmable knob and dedicated multimedia keys.
  • +Available as a barebones kit for ultimate customization from the start.
  • +Features a large 4000mAh internal rechargeable battery.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −96% layout has a non-standard key arrangement that may require an adjustment period.
  • −Heavier weight (925g) due to internal battery and construction.
  • −Limited to the pre-configured compact layout without native support for splits like Backspace.

Vortex Multix 104

  • +Extensive native layout support including ANSI, ISO, split Backspace, split right Shift, and Tsangan.
  • +Uses standard AA batteries, allowing for instant swaps and no charging downtime.
  • +Includes multiple sound-dampening materials: latex foam, IXPE switch pads, PET pad, and silicone.
  • +Cherry-profile double-shot PBT keycaps are a popular and comfortable profile.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs can cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Lacks a knob or dedicated multimedia keys for quick controls.
  • −Full-size layout requires more desk space.
  • −No barebones kit option is listed; it is only sold as a pre-built unit.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V5 Max wins for gaming, travel, modding, and content creation, thanks to its high polling rate, compact size, gasket mount design, and included knob. The Vortex Multix 104 is the stronger pick for programming due to its extensive physical layout support, including split Backspace. For general office use, it's a tie, as both offer robust wireless connectivity and system compatibility.

GamingKeychron V5 Max
  • •The Keychron V5 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Its 96% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements while retaining the numpad.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for gamers.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support tri-mode wireless (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for connecting to multiple devices.
  • •Both are listed as compatible with Windows and macOS.
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 is a standard full-size, which may be preferred for dedicated number entry.
  • •The Keychron V5 Max includes a knob and multimedia keys for quick controls.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 natively supports a split Backspace layout, a popular ergonomic choice for coders.
  • •It also supports split right Shift, Tsangan, and other layouts for personalized key placement.
  • •Its full-size layout provides dedicated navigation keys without layers.
TravelKeychron V5 Max
  • •The Keychron V5 Max has a more compact 96% form factor (392mm length) versus the full-size Vortex.
  • •It features a built-in 4000mAh rechargeable battery, eliminating the need to carry spare AA batteries.
  • •It includes a magnetic storage slot for its wireless dongles.
ModdingKeychron V5 Max
  • •The Keychron V5 Max uses a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a softer, customizable typing feel.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit version, allowing full control over switches and keycaps from the start.
  • •It includes screw-in PCB stabilizers and sound-dampening foam from the factory.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs offer broader keycap compatibility for aftermarket sets.
Content CreationKeychron V5 Max
  • •The Keychron V5 Max includes a programmable knob, useful for scrubbing timelines or adjusting volume.
  • •Its compact layout frees up desk space for graphics tablets or other peripherals.
  • •The manufacturer states it can store separate layouts for macOS and Windows, useful for cross-platform workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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