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Keychron’s new keyboard is small but still fits a numpad

It uses the lesser-known 1800 layout to fit everything on the keyboard.

by
Joe Rice-Jones
June 15, 2022

keychron q5 mechanical keyboard on yellow desk

Image: Keychron

Keychron has been doing well lately, with multiple in-stock releases in the often-sold-out mechanical keyboard market. Its latest offering is the Keychron Q5, which uses the 1800 layout, the first “stock, full-metal 1800 layout mechanical keyboard on the market.”

Starting at $185 fully assembled with your choice of Gateron G Pro Red (linear), Pro Blue (clicky), or Pro Brown (tactile) mechanical switches, it’s a slightly-more-compact version of a normal 104-key keyboard.

It comes in blue, gray, and black, and has an all-aluminum case.

Many mechanical keyboard fans prefer to add their own switches and keycaps. Keychron knows this and also sells a barebones version for $165. A programmable volume knob costs another $10 on top.

The rest of the Keychron Q5 draws on the company’s successful prior releases, like the $169 Q1 and Q2. The PCB is hot-swappable, which lets you add your choice of switches without a soldering iron.

Keychron also used a double-gasket construction, which enables the keyboard to flex slightly when you type. This makes it more enjoyable to use for extended periods of time.

If you don’t like its layout, you can reprogram what every single key does in either QMK or VIA, the most popular mechanical keyboard firmware types.

READ MORE: Review: Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard

Keycaps for both Windows and Mac users are included, as well. And the cable is a detachable USB-C, so you can swap to any cable you like.

The Keychron Q5 is available now, from $165 for a barebones model, or $175 for a fully built version. We suggest getting the fully built option, you can always keep the switches and keycaps for spares if you prefer another type.

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