Compare Keychron V5 QMK vs V6 QMK Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two wired, QMK-compatible workhorses. The choice is difficult because both share identical core features like hot-swap sockets, screw-in stabilizers, and south-facing RGB. The decision hinges entirely on whether you prioritize a space-saving 96% layout or a traditional full-size layout with a numpad. Both are similarly priced and built for customization.

Model
	79	79	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Available in a 96% layout Weighs about 1170 g Sized at 19 x 142 x 389 mm	Available in a 100% layout Weighs about 1350 g Sized at 19 x 141 x 448 mm
Score	Scores Performance: 71.5 Build Quality: 71.5 Productivity: 89.5 Customizability: 83.3 Portability: 46.4	Scores Performance: 71.3 Build Quality: 71.4 Productivity: 89.5 Customizability: 83.2 Portability: 46.4
Name	Name Keychron V5 QMK	Name Keychron V6 QMK
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 96%	Layout Size 100%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Tray Mount	Mount Style Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb, South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material ABS	Case Material ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 19 x 142 x 389 mm	Dimensions 19 x 141 x 448 mm
Weight	Weight 1170g	Weight 1350g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice between the Keychron V5 and V6 is a straightforward trade-off between size and a numpad. If your workflow relies heavily on number entry or you prefer a traditional full-size keyboard, the V6 is the logical pick. If you want to maximize desk space for your mouse or need a slightly more portable wired board, the V5 delivers the same high-end customization features in a more compact form. Consider your daily tasks to make the final call.

Keychron V5 QMK

+More compact 96% layout saves desk space while keeping function keys.
+Lighter weight at 1170 grams.
+Shorter length (389mm) for easier transport or small desks.
+Includes all the same premium features as the V6 (QMK, hot-swap, screw-in stabs).

−Lacks a dedicated numpad, which some users require.
−The condensed layout may have a learning curve for finding navigation keys.
−Wired-only connectivity.

Keychron V6 QMK

+Full-size layout with a dedicated numpad for data entry.
+Traditional navigation cluster placement may be preferred.
+Includes all the same premium features as the V5 (QMK, hot-swap, screw-in stabs).

−Larger and heavier (1350g, 448mm length), requiring more desk space.
−Less portable than the V5.
−Wired-only connectivity.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V6 wins for office and content creation primarily due to its dedicated numpad. The V5 is the clear choice for travel due to its smaller size and lower weight. For gaming, programming, and modding, the keyboards are functionally identical, making the decision purely about layout preference. The shared QMK support and hot-swap capability make both highly versatile.

GamingTie

•Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
•Both have south-facing RGB LEDs and hot-swappable PCBs for switch customization.
•The V5's compact 96% layout may free up more mouse space.

OfficeKeychron V6 QMK