Compare
Pick two boards from the directory and see how they differ.
Shaded rows are where they differ.
| Spec |  Keychron Keychron V3 $60–$70 “QMK support under $100 is absurd” Budget King |  Keychron Keychron J2 $60–$70 “Wireless 75% with hot-swap, QMK and a knob in an ABS case” |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $60–$70 | $60–$70 |
| Size , different | TKL | 75% |
| Type , different | Pre-built | Barebones |
| Connectivity , different | Wired | Wireless + Wired |
| Released , different | 2022 | 2025 |
| Mounting , different | Tray Mount | Integrated Plate |
| Case , different | ABS Plastic | Not listed |
| Colors , different | Frosted Black, Carbon Black | Black, White, Dark Blue |
| Weight , different | 966g | 808 g / 1.78 lbs |
| Dimensions , different | 359 x 138.5 x 31mm | 332.3 x 139.92 mm |
| Typing angle , different | 5.2° | Not listed |
| Front height , different | 22mm | Not listed |
| Switches | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Profile | Standard | Standard |
| Keycaps , different | Double-shot PBT, OSA Profile | Double-shot PBT |
| PCB , different | Hot-swap, South-facing RGB | Hot-swap |
| Plates , different | Steel | Not listed |
| Battery , different | — | 4000 mAh, up to 300 hours |
| Compatible switches , different | MX-style 3-pin and 5-pin | MX-style |
| Software , different | QMK, VIA | QMK, Keychron Launcher |
| NKRO | Yes | Yes |
| RGB , different | Yes | No |
| Features , different | QMK/VIA, 80% TKL with Knob, Hot-swap, Screw-in Stabs, Double-shot PBT, South-facing LEDs, 1000Hz Polling | 75% layout, Tri-mode, Hot-swap, QMK/VIA |
| Good for , different | A first QMK/VIA keyboard on a small budget Learning switch swapping without soldering Desk or office use where wireless is not needed TKL fans who want arrow keys and a nav cluster | People who want a compact wireless QMK board with a knob Multi-device desks |
| Skip if , different | Anyone who needs wireless Buyers who want an aluminum case People who want a soft, flexy gasket-style feel Buyers who need a guaranteed in-stock listing | Anyone who wants a metal case Buyers who need a review-backed purchase |
| Pros , different | QMK firmware with the Keychron Launcher web app for remapping and macros Hot-swap sockets, so switches can be changed without soldering Screw-in PCB stabilizers; Keychron says third-party screw-in stabilizers also fit Double-shot PBT keycaps and K Pro switches on the assembled version (pre-lubed except the clicky Blue) Steel plate with a tray mount, which reviewers of the V3 8K found stable and firm TKL layout with arrow keys and navigation keys, and an optional knob | Tri-mode connection with QMK and Launcher Multi-layer foam gives a damped sound (GamepadSquire, Keeb-finder) Hot-swap sockets, a knob and three typing angles 4000 mAh battery rated at up to 300 hours (Keychron) |
| Cons , different | Wired only; the V3 Max is the wireless version ABS plastic case rather than aluminum Tray mount feels stiffer than a gasket-mounted board (APH Networks, on the V3 8K) Keychron's page lists it as sold out, so availability is uncertain Little independent review coverage of this exact model | ABS case with some cheaper-feeling parts and a slightly hollow spacebar (GamepadSquire) Tall profile; wrist rest recommended (GamepadSquire) No physical Mac and Windows toggle (GamepadSquire) Not every version is hot-swap; the GamepadSquire reviewer suggests avoiding the soldered one |
| Research take , different | A plain wired TKL that, on Keychron's specs, gives QMK/VIA, hot-swap and screw-in stabilizers in a plastic case. Its trade-offs are the plastic build, a stiffer tray-mount feel and no wireless. Because reviews of this exact model are scarce and Keychron lists it as sold out, the V3 Max or V3 8K may be the more practical buy. | A well-specified wireless 75% with hot-swap and QMK. Evidence is Keychron's specs and one review, so check the build in person. |