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Compare Qwertykeys QK65 V2 Classic vs QK65 Mk3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between two similar-looking 65% keyboards from Qwertykeys: the V2 Classic and the Mk3. Both share a gasket mount design, tri-mode wireless connectivity, and VIA support. The decision is hard because while the V2 Classic emphasizes a clean, minimalistic aesthetic and assembly simplicity, the Mk3 packs in more features like per-key RGB, a customizable screen, and a pre-built variant. Your choice will depend on whether you value extra features and convenience or a stripped-down, modder-focused kit.

67
QK65 V2 Classic by Qwertykeys - Custom Keyboard Kit
84
Qwertykeys QK65 Mk3 CNC Aluminum Barebones DIY Keyboard Kit

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0.0 (0)
5.0 (1)
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Equipped with a 2200 mAh battery
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes, LED display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Equipped with a 3100 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1471 g
  • Sized at 21 x 345 x 121 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 46.6
  • Build Quality: 72.7
  • Productivity: 59.6
  • Customizability: 69.8
  • Portability: 82.7
Scores
  • Performance: 66.8
  • Build Quality: 78.6
  • Productivity: 84.9
  • Customizability: 87.6
  • Portability: 89
Name
Qwertykeys QK65 V2 Classic
Name
Qwertykeys QK65 Mk3
Release year
2024
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
LED
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
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
2200 mAh
Battery capacity
3100 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
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
21 x 345 x 121 mm
Weight
-
Weight
1471g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Choose the QK65 V2 Classic if you prefer a minimalist, lightweight keyboard focused on a pure typing experience with flexible mounting options. Opt for the QK65 Mk3 if you want a feature-rich keyboard with RGB, a screen, larger battery, and the convenience of a pre-built option. Your decision should hinge on whether extra features or a simpler, more moddable kit matter more to you.

Qwertykeys QK65 V2 Classic

  • +Minimalistic design without LED strip or screen for a clean desk look.
  • +Dual-mounting system supports both top mount and PCB gasket mount for tuning.
  • +Magnetic connectors replace ribbon cables for quicker assembly.
  • +Stores the 2.4GHz dongle under the badge for easy travel.
  • +Includes Poron case foam and a non-flex cut case foam for sound dampening.

  • No per-key RGB or screen, limiting visual customization.
  • Only comes as a DIY kit (barebones), requiring separate purchases of switches and keycaps.
  • Smaller total battery capacity (2200mAh) compared to the Mk3.

Qwertykeys QK65 Mk3

  • +Includes a customizable LED screen with typing animations and a mini-game.
  • +Per-key RGB backlighting for dynamic lighting effects.
  • +Comes pre-built with Keygeek Neo Oat 36g linear switches and Cherry profile keycaps for immediate use.
  • +Larger 6200mAh total battery capacity for extended wireless sessions.
  • +Includes dedicated knobs for Mac/Win switching and connection method changes.

  • Higher price point compared to the V2 Classic.
  • Heavier (1471g) and less portable than the smaller battery V2 Classic.
  • Pre-built variant limits initial part choices compared to a DIY kit.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

Across use cases, the QK65 Mk3 generally wins for gaming, office, and content creation thanks to its RGB, screen, larger battery, and pre-built convenience. The V2 Classic takes the lead for programming and travel due to its simpler, more portable design and focus on typing feel. For modding, both keyboards are equally capable, with the V2 Classic offering mounting flexibility and the Mk3 coming with more included foams.

GamingQwertykeys QK65 Mk3
  • The Mk3 includes per-key RGB backlighting, which adds visual feedback for gaming setups.
  • It ships pre-built with Keygeek Neo Oat 36g linear switches, reducing setup time.
  • The removable USB-C cable with a shield ring may offer more stable wired connectivity.
OfficeQwertykeys QK65 Mk3
  • The Mk3 has a larger 6200mAh total battery capacity for longer wireless sessions.
  • It includes dedicated knobs for Mac/Win switching and connection method changes for easy use.
  • The pre-built variant with Cherry profile keycaps allows for immediate deployment.
ProgrammingQwertykeys QK65 V2 Classic
  • The V2 Classic's minimalistic design avoids distracting lights and screens during focus work.
  • The dual-mounting system (top mount or PCB gasket-mount) allows finer tuning of typing feel.
TravelQwertykeys QK65 V2 Classic
  • The V2 Classic stores the 2.4GHz dongle under the badge, reducing risk of losing it on the go.
  • Its simpler construction (magnetic connectors and clips) makes it quicker to disassemble for packing.
  • The included protective case further supports portability.
ModdingTie
  • Both keyboards support hot-swappable PCBs and VIA programming for firmware tweaks.
  • The V2 Classic offers a dual-mounting system (top mount and PCB gasket-mount) for flexible feel.
  • The Mk3 provides tear-notched plate foam, IXPE sheet, and PET sheet out of the box for tuning.
  • Both come as DIY kits, allowing users to choose switches and keycaps.
Content CreationQwertykeys QK65 Mk3
  • The Mk3's customizable screen with animations (including GIF upload and a mini-game) adds a unique visual element for creators.
  • The per-key RGB allows for customized lighting effects that can match creative setups.
  • It has a larger 6200mAh battery for longer untethered use during editing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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