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Compare Keychron V5 Max vs Yunzii AL98 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, 96% layout wireless keyboards that support QMK/VIA firmware. The Keychron V5 Max offers a lighter plastic build with extensive international layout options and a barebones kit. The Yunzii AL98 provides a heavier, full aluminum case and a much larger battery. The decision hinges on prioritizing material feel and battery life against layout flexibility and a lower weight.

97
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
88
YUNZII AL98 QMK/VIA Full Aluminum Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

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4.8 (21)
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
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • 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
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2175 g
  • Sized at 44 x 407 x 137 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 53.2
Scores
  • Performance: 74.9
  • Build Quality: 79.3
  • Productivity: 94
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 64.9
Name
Keychron V5 Max
Name
Yunzii AL98
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
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
8000 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
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 392 mm
Dimensions
44 x 407 x 137 mm
Weight
925g
Weight
2175g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron V5 Max if you need specific international layouts, value a lighter keyboard for travel, or want the option to build from a barebones kit. Opt for the Yunzii AL98 if a solid aluminum build and extremely long battery life are your top priorities, and you only require a standard ANSI layout. Both deliver core features like gasket mounts, QMK/VIA, and tri-mode wireless effectively.

Keychron V5 Max

  • +Extensive layout support including multiple ISO variants (DE, Nordic, UK, ES, FR, SW).
  • +Available as a barebones DIY kit for full customization from the ground up.
  • +Includes both Type-C and Type-A 2.4 GHz receivers with magnetic storage.
  • +Lighter weight (925g) and more compact dimensions for easier portability.
  • +Comes with Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for dual OS use.

  • Plastic (ABS) case construction compared to the aluminum alternative.
  • Smaller 4000mAh battery capacity.
  • Shallower 4° typing angle.

Yunzii AL98

  • +Full CNC aluminum case construction for a premium, durable feel.
  • +Substantially larger 8000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Higher 7° typing angle for a more aggressive typing posture.
  • +Includes Hall effect switches according to its listed features.

  • Much heavier at 2175g, limiting portability.
  • Only supports ANSI layout, lacking ISO options.
  • Vendor descriptions only mention pre-lubed linear switch options.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V5 Max wins in most categories due to its layout flexibility, lighter weight, and strong modding foundation with its barebones kit option. It is the clear choice for international users, travelers, and tinkerers. The Yunzii AL98 takes the lead for content creation primarily due to its massive battery capacity, and its aluminum construction appeals to those seeking a heftier, premium feel. For gaming and programming, both are capable, but Keychron's switch variety and customization edge give it an advantage.

GamingKeychron V5 Max
  • Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate for responsive input.
  • The Keychron V5 Max is significantly lighter at 925g, making it easier to reposition.
  • Keychron's listing mentions a 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes for low latency.
OfficeKeychron V5 Max
  • The Keychron V5 Max supports multiple ISO layouts (DE, Nordic, UK, ES, FR, SW), crucial for European users.
  • It includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for seamless switching.
  • Its lighter weight of 925g may be preferable for a cleaner desk setup.
ProgrammingKeychron V5 Max
  • Keychron supports a wider variety of switch types (Linear, Tactile, Clicky) for personalized feel.
  • It is available as a DIY barebones kit, allowing programmers to choose their exact switches and keycaps.
  • Both keyboards feature full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro creation.
TravelKeychron V5 Max
  • The Keychron V5 Max is less than half the weight of the Yunzii AL98 (925g vs 2175g).
  • It has smaller dimensions (392mm length vs 407mm), making it slightly more compact.
  • Both have tri-mode wireless connectivity, but the lighter Keychron is more portable.
ModdingKeychron V5 Max
  • The Keychron V5 Max is explicitly sold as a barebones DIY kit, designed for customization.
  • Keychron's vendor page details components like the PC plate, screw-in stabilizers, and sound-absorbing foam.
  • It supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches and offers knob support as a configurable option.
Content CreationYunzii AL98
  • The Yunzii AL98 has a larger 8000mAh battery, reducing charging frequency during long sessions.
  • Its 7° typing angle is more pronounced than the Keychron's 4°, which some may find more comfortable.
  • The aluminum case may provide a more premium, stable base for desk setups shown on camera.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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