If youre considering entering the world of mechanical keyboards, my typical advice is to pause and reflect.

The hobbyist community surrounding mechanical keyboards is not what one might typically anticipate. Enthusiast-grade keyboards and keycaps are often sold through limited group buys or raffles, and even if you find a design that piques your interest, theres a substantial chance it may be out of stock. This can lead to extended waiting periods, sometimes stretching for months or even up to a year before you finally receive your purchase. On top of this, the costs can be quite high.

This is where brands like Keychron become invaluable.

If you rewind a few years, I would have suggested avoiding mainstream brands altogether. Many of them were notorious for being poorly constructed and producing subpar sounds compared to enthusiast boards. However, the launch of Keychrons Q-series marked a significant turning point in this narrative. They have evidently taken the time to listen to feedback from the community, and this commitment culminates in the impressive Q5 Max.

Quick disclaimer: Keychron graciously provided me with the Q5 Max for this review. They have not compensated me for my thoughts, nor did they have access to this article before it was published. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Build Quality: Solid, Heavy, and Premium

Lets start with my first impression: this keyboard has an impressively robust build. Weighing in at approximately 2.2kg when fully assembled, the Keychron Q5 Max exudes a reassuring heft. This weight can be attributed to its full metal construction (with the exception of the keycaps, of course). Unlike the plastic-heavy offerings from many mainstream brands, the metal used in this keyboard is not merely for aesthetics; it significantly enhances the overall density, acoustic quality, and tactile feel of the device.

In short, it feels premiumcomparable to a custom keyboard build but available at a more accessible price point.

Typing Feel: Gateron Jupiter Banana Switches Shine

The unit I received for review features Gateron Jupiter Banana switches, which are tactile in nature and provide a satisfying bump while typing. This is in contrast to linear switches, which press smoothly without any feedback. Tactile switches like these offer a more engaging typing experience, but which type is better is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

What truly amazed me was the quality of these factory pre-lubed switches. Gone are the days when stock switches would feel scratchy and uncomfortable. Gateron has excelled in this areathe switches feel remarkably smooth, as though I had personally hand-lubed them. Theres no annoying pinging sound, and the auditory feedback is pleasantly muted: crisp yet controlled.

The Gateron Jupiter Banana switches also stand out due to their unique design compared to many switches in prebuilt keyboards. They feature a two-stage spring, which allows for a lower initial force when pressed, followed by a snappy return upon release.

Sound and Gasket Mount Design

Switches are merely one facet of the typing experience. Keychron enhances this experience further with a double gasket mount design complemented by acoustic foam padding.

Personally, I usually find foam unnecessaryits akin to stuffing a cloth into the body of a classical guitar. While foam can dampen sound, it often sacrifices some of the natural resonance and character in the process.

However, for those seeking a quieter typing experience, the Q5 Max delivers. If you prefer a more open sound profile, you can easily access the inside of the case and remove the foam.

Moreover, the hot-swappable PCB allows for convenient switch swappingno soldering skills required. You can simply use the tool included in the package to pop out the switches and install your favorites.

Another area where mainstream keyboards tend to fall short is in the quality of stabilizers, the components used to stabilize larger keys such as the spacebar, Enter, and Backspace keys. While Keychron does not explicitly state whether the stabilizers in the Q5 Max are lubricated, they sound pleasantly solid. These stabilizers are typical screw-in types, so if youre inclined, you can remove them and add your own lubricant or opt for a different set altogether.

Layout and Customization

The Q5 Max features a quasi-full-sized layout. It includes the alphanumeric keys, function row, and a number pad, though the navigation cluster is slightly more compact than traditional layouts. This design makes the keyboard more space-efficient without sacrificing essential functionality.

Customization options are facilitated through the Keychron Launcher, their web-based configurator. Officially, the keyboard claims compatibility with VIA, but during my testing, it did not recognize the keyboard, which is worth noting but not a deal-breaker.

Another thoughtful addition is the rotary knob, which is a fantastic feature. By default, it controls system volume, but users can remap it according to their workflow needs. As someone who typically uses a compact 60% layout, having a dedicated knob for volume control feels like an indulgent luxury.

Additionally, the Q5 Max supports both wired and wireless connections, and it operates in both Mac and Windows modes, making it versatile and accommodating for a variety of users.

Keycaps: Tall, Textured, and Grippy

Included with the Q5 Max are Keychrons KSA-profile keycaps, which are noticeably taller than standard keycaps. They represent a hybrid between SA and MT3 profiles, so if youre transitioning from traditional layouts, be prepared for a bit of an adjustment period.

Crafted from PBT plastic, these keycaps have a slightly textured and grippy feel that I find quite appealing. Furthermore, they are thicker than conventional ABS caps, contributing to the overall sound profile of the keyboard, producing a deeper, more satisfying tone.

Best of all, since the Q5 Max utilizes Cherry MX-style switches, you have the freedom to swap in any aftermarket keycap set you desire.

Final Thoughts: A Fantastic Value for Custom Feel

All in all, the Keychron Q5 Max provides a nearly custom keyboard experience right out of the box. Priced at $239.99, it may seem more expensive than a typical office keyboard, but when you compare it to genuine custom buildsmany of which start at $350 for just the chassisthis keyboard is an absolute bargain.

If youve been eyeing the mechanical keyboard scene but have been deterred by the complications of group buys, lengthy wait times, or the DIY hassle, the Keychron Q5 Max stands out as an excellent choice.

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