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Compare Keychron V6 Max vs Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a fully-featured full-size keyboard and a slightly more compact 98% layout. The Keychron V6 Max and Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI are both tri-mode wireless, gasket-mounted boards with hot-swap sockets and knobs, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you need QMK/VIA programming, multiple layout standards, or prefer a specific keycap style and plate material.

96
Keychron V6 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
66
SKYLOONG GK980 JIUWEI Mechanical Knob Keyboard

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4.9 (37)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1110 g
  • Sized at 30 x 149 x 448 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 960 g
  • Sized at 36 x 323 x 141 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 86.4
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 53.3
Scores
  • Performance: 66.9
  • Build Quality: 64.6
  • Productivity: 70.9
  • Customizability: 61.5
  • Portability: 51
Name
Keychron V6 Max
Name
Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO, JIS, 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
-
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
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
30 x 149 x 448 mm
Dimensions
36 x 323 x 141 mm
Weight
1110g
Weight
960g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron V6 Max is the definitive choice for users who value deep customization, need specific regional layouts, or want the assurance of community-vetted QMK firmware. Opt for the Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI if your priority is a more compact desk footprint with shine-through keycaps and you are comfortable with a standard ANSI layout and more basic software.

Keychron V6 Max

  • +Extensive firmware support with open-source QMK and VIA, plus the Keychron Launcher web app.
  • +Wide layout compatibility including ANSI, ISO, JIS, and multiple European ISO variants.
  • +Includes screw-in PCB stabilizers and a polycarbonate plate for a softer typing feel.
  • +Comes with dual Type-C and Type-A 2.4 GHz receivers and a magnetic storage slot.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry or OEM profile keycaps.
  • −Heavier and larger full-size (100%) layout is less portable.
  • −Uses non-shine-through PBT keycaps, which may not appeal to users wanting bright backlighting.
  • −Higher price range compared to the Skyloong GK980.

Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI

  • +More compact 98% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad.
  • +Features shine-through 'pudding' style keycaps with a PBT top and ABS transparent bottom.
  • +Includes a knob module and is hot-swappable for both switches and knobs.
  • +Lighter weight of 960g compared to the V6 Max.
  • −Only supports ANSI layout, with no mention of ISO or other regional layouts.
  • −Lacks mention of advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.
  • −Uses a steel plate, which typically creates a firmer, louder typing sound than polycarbonate.
  • −No user reviews are available to corroborate performance or quality claims.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V6 Max is the stronger choice for gaming, office use, programming, and modding, largely due to its verified high polling rate, extensive layout support, and deep firmware customizability. The Skyloong GK980 JIUWEI wins for travel due to its more compact 98% layout and lighter weight. For content creation, the choice is a tie, as both offer a useful knob and RGB, leaving the decision to layout preference.

GamingKeychron V6 Max
  • •The Keychron V6 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •It features N-key rollover for both wireless and wired modes, according to its specifications.
  • •The manufacturer states its ARM MCU and 1000 Hz polling rate make latency 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.
OfficeKeychron V6 Max
  • •The V6 Max offers extensive layout compatibility, including ISO, JIS, and multiple European ISO layouts.
  • •It includes a system toggle and keycaps for both macOS and Windows, as stated by Keychron.
  • •Its 100% layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry tasks.
ProgrammingKeychron V6 Max
  • •It has open-source QMK and VIA firmware support for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •The Keychron Launcher web app allows for configuration without installed software.
  • •The full 100% layout provides all standard keys without layers for function keys and navigation.
TravelSkyloong GK980 JIUWEI
  • •The Skyloong GK980 has a smaller 98% layout, saving desk space.
  • •It is lighter at 960g compared to the V6 Max's 1110g.
  • •Both have similar 4000mAh batteries and tri-mode wireless connectivity.
ModdingKeychron V6 Max
  • •The V6 Max supports QMK/VIA, allowing firmware-level customization.
  • •It uses screw-in PCB stabilizers, which are generally preferred for modding.
  • •The product listing confirms it has a polycarbonate plate and sound-absorbing foam.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit version without switches or keycaps.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards include a knob for media or parameter control.
  • •Both offer RGB backlighting for aesthetic setups.
  • •The V6 Max's full layout may be preferable for shortcut-heavy software, while the GK980's compact size saves valuable desk space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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