![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.]](https://i.rtings.com/assets/products/kzTRGbUy/keychron-k5-max-k1-max-k3-max-etc/design-medium.jpg?format=auto)
The Keychron K5 Max is a full-size, low-profile wireless mechanical keyboard in Keychron's broader K Max series. While this model features a low-profile design, the lineup also includes standard profile variants, such as the Keychron K8 Max, which we've reviewed separately. All low-profile K Max models feature an aluminum case and support wireless connectivity via the included USB receiver or Bluetooth, with multi-device pairing for up to three devices simultaneously. They're available with Gateron Low Profile 2.0 mechanical switches—either tactile Browns or linear Reds—and offer a choice between white-only or full RGB backlighting. There's also an option for a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to easily change switches without soldering. Like most recent Keychron releases, these models have robust software for key remapping, macro recording, and customization.
We bought and tested the full-size K5 Max model with Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical Red switches. For comparisons between other size variants and assembly options in the wider K Max series, see the Differences Between Sizes and Variants section below.
Our Verdict
The Keychron K Max keyboards are great for gaming at a casual or competitive level. They have amazing build quality and offer excellent all-around latency performance over a 2.4GHz connection. These keyboards also have full RGB backlighting that you can adjust along with various other settings using the web-based or downloadable configuration software. Just note that the keycaps aren't easy to read in darker rooms, as the stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends.
- Excellent build quality.
- Excellent overall latency performance.
- True 1000Hz polling rate using a wired or 2.4GHz wireless connection.
Stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends, so you can't read legends in darker rooms.
The Keychron K Max keyboards are great office keyboards. They have excellent build quality, and their low-profile design makes them comfortable to type on without a wrist rest. They're also very quiet, and the stabilizers and switches are pre-lubed from the factory and offer an impressive and fairly consistent typing feel overall. You can connect them wirelessly with an included 2.4GHz receiver or via Bluetooth with up to three devices simultaneously. You can also remap keys, change backlighting settings, and create custom profiles using web-based or downloadable configuration software.
- Excellent build quality.
- Quiet typing noise.
The Keychron K Max keyboards are decent for use with tablets and mobile devices. They have excellent build quality and can connect wirelessly either with a USB receiver or with up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth. They also provide an excellent overall typing experience and are comfortable to use without a wrist rest due to their low-profile design. We bought and tested the full-size K5 Max variant in the wider K Max series, but there are several much smaller and more portable models available, including the TKL (80%) Keychron K1 Max and the compact (75%) Keychron K3 Max.
- Excellent build quality.
- Quite large and bulky, depending on the size variant you buy.
The Keychron K Max keyboards have excellent build quality and connect wirelessly either with their USB receiver or with up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth. They also deliver excellent typing quality, and their low-profile design makes them comfortable to use without a wrist rest. We bought and tested the full-size K5 Max, which has a set of dedicated macro keys, but you can also program macros to any key yourself and make other adjustments using the configuration software. These keyboards also have full backlighting. The stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends, so you can't read them in the dark.
- Excellent build quality.
- Quiet typing noise.
Stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends, so you can't read legends in darker rooms.
The Keychron K Max keyboards are generally sub-par for an entertainment or home theater setup. They have impressive build quality and connect wirelessly with a USB receiver or via Bluetooth with up to three devices simultaneously. Unfortunately, there aren't any dedicated media keys, and while these keyboards have full RGB backlighting, the keycaps aren't easy to read in the dark, as the stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends.
- Excellent build quality.
- Quite large and bulky, depending on the size variant you buy.
Stock keycaps don't have shine-through legends, so you can't read legends in darker rooms.
- No dedicated media keys.
The Keychron K Max keyboards provide excellent raw performance, making them well-suited for playing games at a casual or competitive level. They offer outstanding single-key latency and excellent multi-key latency. Using this keyboard wired or connected wirelessly with an included 2.4GHz provides an effective update rate of 1000Hz that isn't bottlenecked by other latency elements.
- Excellent overall latency performance.
- True 1000Hz polling rate using a wired or 2.4GHz wireless connection.
Changelog
- Updated Mar 17, 2026: Our Test Bench 1.4.3 update adds clearer terminology and new measurements to our Keystrokes test group. For more details, see the full changelog.
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Updated Apr 24, 2025:
We've updated this review in several places, adding information about the standard profile models within the wider Keychron K Max lineup, which we've tested separately.
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Updated Dec 09, 2024:
We've added a link to the Logitech G915 X LIGHTSPEED to the Backlight Clarity section.
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Updated Nov 12, 2024:
We've added a link to the newly-reviewed Logitech G915 X to the Macro Keys and Programming section.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
The Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] series are low-profile keyboards available in several assembly configurations with White or full RGB Backlighting and an optional Hot-Swappable PCB. Each model comes with Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical switches.
We bought and tested the full-size (100%) Keychron K5 Max with RGB backlighting and Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical Red switches. You can see the label for our unit. We expect our results in the table below to apply broadly to all current size variants in this series.
| Name | Size | Assembly Options | Switch Type | Switch Options | Knob | Dedicated Macro Keys |
| Keychron K1 Max | TKL (80%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown | No | No |
| Keychron K3 Max | Compact (75%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown, Blue | No | No |
| Keychron K5 Max | Full-size (100%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown | No | 4 |
| Keychron K7 Max | Compact (65%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown | No | No |
| Keychron K13 Max | (80%) + Numpad | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown | No | No |
| Keychron K17 Max | Compact (96%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown, Blue | Yes | 3 |
Models in the table below have special layouts, which means their case designs differ significantly from those of the unit we bought and tested. While we expect most of our tests will remain broadly applicable, these additional elements may produce differences in build and typing quality.
| Name | Size | Assembly Options | Switch Type | Switch Options | Knob | Dedicated Macro Keys |
| Keychron K11 Max | Compact Alice (65%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown | Yes | No |
| Keychron K15 Max | Compact Alice (75%) | White Backlight, RGB Backlight, RGB Backlight (Hot-Swappable) | Gateron Low Profile 2.0 Mechanical | Red, Brown, Blue | Yes | 5 |
If you have a variant within this series that isn't listed in one of the tables above or feel there are other differences or issues to mention regarding variants in our review, reach out to us in the comments, and we'll update our review.
Note: that all odd-number models (K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.) in the wider K Max lineup are low-profile models. There are also standard profile models with even-number names, such as the Keychron K8 Max [K2 Max, K10 Max, etc.], which we've reviewed separately. The low-profile variants support both VIA software and Keychron Launcher, while the standard profile models exclusively use Keychron Launcher. For more details, see the Configuration Software section.
Popular Keyboard Comparisons
The Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] models are low-profile wireless mechanical keyboards available in several layout options. They're part of the broader K Max series, which also includes standard profile variants, including the Keychron K8 Max [K2 Max, K10 Max, etc.], which we've reviewed separately.
The K Max lineup builds on the foundation of Keychron's earlier K and K Pro series. The most notable upgrade is the addition of 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, which delivers significantly improved performance for gaming. These boards also feature extra layers of acoustic-dampening material inside the case, enhancing both sound and typing feel.
The K Max boards offer an impressive number of variants with many different layout options available compared to similarly priced low-profile competitors such as the NuPhy Air75 V2 [Air60 V2, Air96 V2] or the Logitech MX Mechanical. However, they don't offer quite the same level of hardware customizability as some of Keychron's other lineups, like the Keychron V Max or the more premium Keychron Q Max series keyboards.
For more options, you can see our recommendations for the best keyboards, the best wireless keyboards, and the best low-profile keyboards. For more options from Keychron, see our picks for the best Keychron keyboards.
The Logitech MX Mechanical and the Keychron K5 Max are wireless mechanical keyboards with low-profile designs. The Logitech has keycaps with shine-through legends, making them much easier to read in darker rooms. On the other hand, the Keychron has significantly better latency performance for gaming and has expanded wireless versatility with an option for 2.4GHz connectivity, which the Logitech lacks. You can also buy the Keychron with a hot-swappable PCB, an option that isn't available for the Logitech.
The Keychron K5 Max is a low-profile model, while the Keychron K8 Max is a standard-profile model, but they both belong to the same lineup. There are a few other minor differences: the K5 Max has somewhat better latency performance, likely due to its matrix design or firmware implementation. It's also compatible with VIA software as well as Keychron's new web-based software. Comparatively, the K8 Max is only compatible with Keychron's web-based software and is somewhat louder to type on, but it also delivers a slightly improved typing quality with better-tuned stabilizers.
The Keychron K5 Max and the NuPhy Air75 V2 are wireless mechanical keyboards with low-profile designs. Both also belong to wider lineups with other size variants available. The NuPhy keyboards have more switch options available and better overall hardware customizability, while the Keychron offers slightly better overall latency performance.
The Keychron K5 Max and the NuPhy Air75 V3 are wireless mechanical keyboards with low-profile designs. Overall, these two keyboards are very comparable in terms of features and are very well-built. The NuPhy, however, includes an optional knob and clearer backlighting and should last longer on a single charge. Its newer Gateron Low-Profile 3.0 switches also provide a full 3.5 mm of travel, which is longer than the Keychron's maximum of 3.0 mm.
Test Results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Top Picture Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/dimensions-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Build Quality Close Up Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/build-quality-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Side Picture Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/ergonomics-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Customizability Overview Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/custom-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Backlighting Picture Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/backlight-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Brightness Max Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/brightness-max-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Brightness Min Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/brightness-min-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] White Shot Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/whiteshot-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Extra Features Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/features-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Bundle Picture Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/in-the-box-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Typing Sample Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/typing-sample-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Key Switch Actuation Graph Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/feel-graph-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Input Linearity Graph Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/keyboard-input-granularity-graph-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Wobble Video Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/wobble-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Single-Key Latency Graph Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/latency-single-graph-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Multi-Key Latency Graph Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/latency-multi-graph-small.jpg?format=auto)
for pictures & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Multi-Key Raw USB Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/rollover-small.jpg?format=auto)
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Chord Split Graph Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/keyboard-chordsplit-graph-small.jpg?format=auto)
for videos & test results
![Keychron K5 Max [K1 Max, K3 Max, etc.] Software Tour Sample](https://i.rtings.com/assets/sample-images/keyboard/software-tour-small.jpg?format=auto)