Intro: The GMK67 and Keychron are two popular mechanical keyboards known for their quality and customization options. But how do they compare? This article looks at the key differences between the GMK67 and Keychron keyboards to help you decide which is the better option.
GMK67 Overview
The GMK67 is a 65% form factor mechanical keyboard made by GamaKay. It features an aluminum case, hot-swap PCB, RGB backlighting, and support for QMK/VIA for full programmability. Some key specs:
- Compatible with Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh mechanical switches
- Aluminum case with integrated plate and silicone dampener
- RGB backlighting with multiple effects
- QMK/VIA support for macro programming
- USB-C wired connectivity
The GMK67 is a customizable keyboard aimed at mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Its high-quality materials, compact 65% layout, and software customization options make it popular in the hobbyist community.
Keychron Overview
Keychron manufactures a range of wireless and wired mechanical keyboards across full-size, tenkeyless, and compact layouts. Some of their most popular models include:
- Keychron K8 – tenkeyless format with wireless or wired options
- Keychron K2 – 75% layout that’s slim and portable
- Keychron Q1 – premium keyboard with knob and OLED display
Key features across Keychron keyboards:
- Compatible with hot-swap Gateron switches
- White LED backlighting on all models
- Mac and Windows layout support
- USB-C wired and Bluetooth wireless connectivity
Keychron keyboards target productivity and coding use, emphasizing macOS compatibility and cross-platform functionality. Their keyboards offer streamlined functionality rather than extensive customization.
Case and Build Quality
The GMK67 uses a CNC aluminum case with integrated plate, giving it a premium feel and good structural rigidity. Keychron cases vary across models – some use plastic while higher-end models feature aluminum. Both keyboards have decent build quality, but the all-metal construction of the GMK67 gives it an edge.
When it comes to mounting style, the GMK67 uses a top mount while Keychron boards are tray mounted. Top mounting offers a more consistent and responsive key feel that some users prefer.
The GMK67’s silicone dampener also helps reduce pinging noises and makes for a quieter typing experience. It’s a keyboard optimized for enthusiasts while Keychron offers a solid experience at more affordable prices.
Switch Compatibility
The hot-swap PCBs on both the GMK67 and Keychron keyboards allow you to easily swap out mechanical switches. This helps you customize the typing feel and acoustics.
Keychron boards only support Gateron mechanical switches. The GMK67 works with the larger Cherry MX crosspoint as well as clones from Gateron and Kailh. So you get much wider switch compatibility with the GMK67.
Software and Customization
You get extensive software customization options with both brands, but the GMK67 pulls ahead in this regard. Its QMK/VIA support lets you completely reprogram layer functionality, create macros, customize RGB effects, and more.
Most Keychron models allow limited programming of layers and keys using proprietary software. But the capabilities aren’t close to fully programmable firmware like QMK offered by the GMK67.
Connectivity For connectivity, Keychron boards focus on wireless functionality with Bluetooth support on all keyboards. Many models also offer wired USB-C connections.
The GMK67 is wired only using a USB-C connection. So Keychron pulls ahead for wireless connectivity, allowing for flexible use across multiple devices.
Conclusion
Overall, while both keyboards offer quality and customization at reasonable prices, they target slightly different users. Keychron focuses on wireless productivity while GMK67 gives keyboard enthusiasts deeper customization and premium materials.
For software programmability, switch choices, premium case materials, and enthusiast-level tweaking, the GMK67 pulls ahead. But Keychron takes the win for wireless connectivity and cross-device usability.
Your specific keyboard priorities will determine whether the GMK67 or Keychron models better fit your needs. Both present excellent options that showcase the current generation of mechanical keyboard technology with solid quality and full customization potential.