Keychron Q5 Wired Custom Mechanical - Review

Keychron Q5 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum Barebone Version Review

Are you in need of a customizable mechanical keyboard that suits your preferences and needs? Look no further as Keychron introduces their Q5 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum Barebone Version. In this review, we will dive deep into the features, pros, and cons of this keyboard.

Keychron Q5 Barebone version is designed for those who want to have full control over their keyboard's features. The package only includes the body of the keyboard, without switches and keycaps. This allows the user to choose and customize every component, including switches, keycaps, plate, and case foam. The CNC machined full aluminum body provides a durable and premium-looking keyboard that would fit in any workspace, whether it’s at home or in the office.

The Q5 comes in a 96% layout, which means it’s compact, but still includes all the necessary keys you need for typing and gaming. Thanks to the double-gasket design, the keyboard maintains the flexibility of the gasket structure that improves the overall typing sound. The added silicone pads between the top and bottom cases significantly reduce the sound resonance between the metals, which results in a quieter typing experience.

The hot-swappable sockets in the Q5 are compatible with almost all MX style 3pin and 5pin mechanical switches, like Gateron, Cherry, and Kailh. This feature allows users to replace or try out different switches on their keyboard without soldering. The Q5 also comes with screw-In PCB stabilizers for the big keys, which improves the typing experience, making it more stable and smooth.

One of the best features of the Q5 is its compatibility with full QMK and VIA support. This means that users can easily program and remap every key on the keyboard. The open-source firmware provides endless possibilities for keyboard layouts, shortcuts, backlight effects, and more. This feature is especially useful for developers, programmers, and gamers who want to customize their keyboard to suit their needs.

The south-facing RGB LED lights are designed to better illuminate the keyboard backlight from the typist's angle. The keyboard is also free from interference when users install OEM or Cherry-profile alternative keycaps on it. Note that users need to buy switches and keycaps separately to start typing on their Q5 Barebone version.

Pros:

- Fully customizable keyboard with hot-swappable sockets

- Full QMK and VIA support for easy programming and remapping

- South-facing RGB LED lights that illuminate the keyboard backlight

- Durable and premium-looking full aluminum CNC machined body

- Double-gasket design that improves the overall typing sound

Cons:

- The package only includes the barebone version, switches and keycaps must be purchased separately

- Only one customer review available with a 3-star rating

Overall, the Keychron Q5 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum Barebone Version is an excellent choice for those who want to have full control over their keyboard's features and want to customize it to suit their needs. The keyboard is durable, has a premium-looking design, and features hot-swappable sockets, full QMK and VIA support, double-gasket design, and south-facing RGB LED lights. The only downside is that the package only includes the barebone version, and switches and keycaps must be purchased separately. Nonetheless, the Keychron Q5 is definitely worth considering for anyone looking for a top-quality customizable mechanical keyboard.

Keychron Q5 Wired Custom Mechanical

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