Monsgeek M2 vs M596% vs Full-Size Aluminum DIY Kit Comparison
Choose the M2 for a compact layout with QMK/VIA support, or the M5 if you require a dedicated numpad and full-size form factor.
KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Monsgeek M2
96%
Build quality in the top 5% of 96% boards under $150.
- Compact 96% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow and navigation keys.
- Vendor listing confirms support for QMK and VIA firmware programming.
- Includes modding accessories like Teflon pads and tape in the kit.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Get the
Monsgeek M5
Full-Size Aluminum DIY Kit Comparison
Build quality in the top 10% of 100% boards under $150.
- Full-size 108-key layout includes a dedicated numpad.
- Substantial 2600g aluminum construction for a premium, stable feel.
- South-facing RGB LEDs provide bright backlighting and Cherry keycap compatibility.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
Select the Monsgeek M2 if you want a compact, feature-rich kit for modding and programming with QMK/VIA support. Opt for the Monsgeek M5 if your workflow demands a full-size layout with a numpad and you prioritize that form factor over advanced firmware customization. Both offer a solid aluminum gasket-mount foundation for a custom build.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Monsgeek M2
Monsgeek M5
Layout size
96%
100%
Weight
1,960 g
2,600 g
Heavier boards stay planted and lighter ones travel
QMK
Yes
No
The deep option when you want to remap every key
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
Dimensions
33 x 147 x 380 mm
33 x 146 x 446 mm
- Monsgeek M2
- Monsgeek M5
- Performance
- 8075
- Build quality
- 8779
- Productivity
- 9587
- Customizability
- 9479
- Portability
- 4646
- Connection: Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: Aluminum
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Monsgeek M2 wins for travel, modding, and programming due to its compact size, included modding accessories, and firmware support. The Monsgeek M5 is the choice for office work and content creation where a numpad and full-size layout are essential. For gaming, the M2's space-saving design gives it a slight edge, though both perform the core function equally.
Pick the Monsgeek M2
- The M2's 96% layout provides more mousepad space in a compact footprint.
- South-facing RGB LEDs on both avoid interference with Cherry profile keycaps.
- Both offer N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
Monsgeek M2 vs M5 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
5 of 21 specs differ
Monsgeek M2
Monsgeek M5
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
- Check on Amazon
Amazon
Check price
Monsgeek M2 vs M5: your questions
The Monsgeek M2 is a 96% layout keyboard measuring 380mm in length, while the M5 is a full-size 108-key keyboard measuring 446mm long. The M2 saves desk space by compacting the numpad into a cluster near the arrow keys.
No, both the Monsgeek M2 and M5 are sold as DIY or barebones kits. This means you must purchase your own mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the keyboard.
Based on the vendor specifications, the Monsgeek M2 lists support for QMK and VIA firmware, allowing for deep key remapping and macros. The product description for the Monsgeek M5 does not mention this feature.
Yes, both the Monsgeek M2 and M5 feature hot-swappable sockets. The M5's description specifies support for both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing for easy switch changes without soldering.
The Monsgeek M2 includes a multi-layer setup with Poron plate foam, an IXPE switch pad, and a 3mm Poron bottom case foam. The M5 is described as having a multi-layer sound-absorbing design within its gasket structure, but specific foam materials are not listed.
The Monsgeek M2 is better for a small desk due to its more compact 96% layout. It is 66mm shorter in length and 640g lighter than the full-size M5, freeing up valuable space for your mouse.
No, both the Monsgeek M2 and M5 are wired-only keyboards. They connect via an included USB-C cable and do not offer Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless options.
Both kits include screw-in stabilizers. The M2's listing specifies they are Akko brand stabilizers that are pre-clipped but not pre-installed. The M5 also lists Akko screw-in stabilizers.
Yes, both keyboards feature south-facing RGB LEDs on their PCBs. A south-facing orientation avoids interference with the lower profile of Cherry-style keycaps, making them fully compatible.
According to the vendor, the Monsgeek M2 kit includes the aluminum case, PCB, mounting plate, stabilizers, a coiled USB-C cable, a keycap/switch puller, Teflon pads, tape, and a user manual.
Yes, the Monsgeek M5 is well-suited for data entry due to its full-size 108-key layout which includes a dedicated numpad. This separate numeric cluster is more efficient for frequent number input compared to the M2's compact layout.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.